Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Arvada, CO
![Photo of Ryan Balke, MA, MTh, NCC, ACS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25ee5946-e6b3-464f-a9e2-da77d1a80477/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Balke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTh, NCC, ACS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Are you feeling stuck? Burdened? Weighed down? I am an experienced counselor with over 10,000 hours of supporting people with a variety of issues. I can help with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, grief, religious distress, feelings of meaninglessness, and more. Whether you're looking for help as an individual, couple or group, let's consider journeying together.
Are you feeling stuck? Burdened? Weighed down? I am an experienced counselor with over 10,000 hours of supporting people with a variety of issues. I can help with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, grief, religious distress, feelings of meaninglessness, and more. Whether you're looking for help as an individual, couple or group, let's consider journeying together.
![Photo of Kristen Bredar, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a26b1293-1bbc-403e-8581-bc950bc8475b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, nervous system dysregulation, OCD, anxiety and panic, chronic illness, and life transitions.
I believe suffering and symptoms come from unprocessed painful and traumatic experiences from the past and living a life out of alignment with our true selves. When we are brought to our knees in suffering, life demands us to meet ourselves in a new way, leading us on a path towards healing and wholeness. In our work together, you will experience safety and compassion where all “parts” of you are heard and honored. I will deeply listen to you, provide unconditional positive regard, guide and support as we unearth and work through painful experiences, offer encouragement and regulation tools, and ultimately empower you.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, nervous system dysregulation, OCD, anxiety and panic, chronic illness, and life transitions.
I believe suffering and symptoms come from unprocessed painful and traumatic experiences from the past and living a life out of alignment with our true selves. When we are brought to our knees in suffering, life demands us to meet ourselves in a new way, leading us on a path towards healing and wholeness. In our work together, you will experience safety and compassion where all “parts” of you are heard and honored. I will deeply listen to you, provide unconditional positive regard, guide and support as we unearth and work through painful experiences, offer encouragement and regulation tools, and ultimately empower you.
![Photo of James Milton, LCSW, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9194a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Once treatment goals have been established, in home behavior therapy sessions for OCD and hoarding are available.
If you have been struggling with unwanted thoughts and behaviors with little relief, please contact me. Take back contol over your life! I specialize in cognitive-behavioral and exposure-response prevention therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and I have worked with the field’s recognized leaders in this treatment. I use a variety of traditional and evidence-based approaches to treatment. I will treat you with respect, dignity and support while we explore the range of treatment options that are available to you. I also specialize in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, using EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Once treatment goals have been established, in home behavior therapy sessions for OCD and hoarding are available.
If you have been struggling with unwanted thoughts and behaviors with little relief, please contact me. Take back contol over your life! I specialize in cognitive-behavioral and exposure-response prevention therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and I have worked with the field’s recognized leaders in this treatment. I use a variety of traditional and evidence-based approaches to treatment. I will treat you with respect, dignity and support while we explore the range of treatment options that are available to you. I also specialize in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, using EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
![Photo of Lori Johnson - In Focus Counseling , MA, LAC, LPC, ACS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a58afe8b-f9ea-4d08-b79a-3dacb185abeb/1/320x400.jpeg)
In Focus Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80403
With many profiles, it's hard to find one you can trust and who knows the in's and out's of your suffering. Our team treats addiction, anxiety, OCD, and BFRB's for CO, MT, & KS . Does addiction and/or OCD impede what you want? We know that a life is tough to manage. It is isolating, scary, full of doubt , embarrassing, and confusing for others to understand why you just, "can't stop". We know you are having a hard time resisting the compulsions to appease OCD. Often, OCD spirals suffers into addiction. There is a way out. Together, our team will explore reducing your suffering of OCD and addiction and focus on what's important.
With many profiles, it's hard to find one you can trust and who knows the in's and out's of your suffering. Our team treats addiction, anxiety, OCD, and BFRB's for CO, MT, & KS . Does addiction and/or OCD impede what you want? We know that a life is tough to manage. It is isolating, scary, full of doubt , embarrassing, and confusing for others to understand why you just, "can't stop". We know you are having a hard time resisting the compulsions to appease OCD. Often, OCD spirals suffers into addiction. There is a way out. Together, our team will explore reducing your suffering of OCD and addiction and focus on what's important.
![Photo of Carla D’Agostino-Vigil - Ignite Counseling Colorado PLLC, MA, LPC, LAC, MAHRLR, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3e9ab43-09da-4aa5-bd96-93421c8eb7a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ignite Counseling Colorado PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, MAHRLR, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80003
If you are seeking expert care in Trauma, OCD and addictions, you have come to the right place. Everyone deserves to be seen as a whole person, appreciated for who they are and where they happen to be on the road to well being.
If you are seeking expert care in Trauma, OCD and addictions, you have come to the right place. Everyone deserves to be seen as a whole person, appreciated for who they are and where they happen to be on the road to well being.
![Photo of Ana Winter, LPC, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e21c4fc5-40d6-4993-a475-5ffc1ddfd8c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ana Winter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Anastacia (Ana) Winter is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor and is EMDR trained. She received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University in 2019. Ana therapeutically supports adults, adolescents, and children 10 and older who are facing various presenting challenges. She specializes in trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues/co-dependent relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), life transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and is an LGBTQ + ally.
Anastacia (Ana) Winter is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor and is EMDR trained. She received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University in 2019. Ana therapeutically supports adults, adolescents, and children 10 and older who are facing various presenting challenges. She specializes in trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues/co-dependent relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), life transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and is an LGBTQ + ally.
![Photo of Dana McDowell - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, MA, LPC, CEDS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f139b6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dana McDowell - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80005
Studies are showing that KAP is helpful for individuals struggling w/eating disorders, anxiety, depressive disorders, OCD, trauma (PTSD, etc), and addiction.
I am a holistic psychotherapist & eating psychology coach - utilizing Ketamine & Eastern and Western approaches to help clients heal. I specialize in working with eating disorders and also work with both men and women on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress management, and transitions. I especially love supporting busy professionals to regain control of their lives and their relationship to food so that they can focus on rising to the top of their profession. I complement Cognitive Behavioral type therapy with the use of Somatic therapy to help clients connect with their inner wisdom.
Studies are showing that KAP is helpful for individuals struggling w/eating disorders, anxiety, depressive disorders, OCD, trauma (PTSD, etc), and addiction.
I am a holistic psychotherapist & eating psychology coach - utilizing Ketamine & Eastern and Western approaches to help clients heal. I specialize in working with eating disorders and also work with both men and women on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress management, and transitions. I especially love supporting busy professionals to regain control of their lives and their relationship to food so that they can focus on rising to the top of their profession. I complement Cognitive Behavioral type therapy with the use of Somatic therapy to help clients connect with their inner wisdom.
![Photo of Elena Woughter, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/245a68d2-3b47-4d0a-88fb-ad5b61992631/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elena Woughter
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80003
My therapeutic approach is one led by compassion, deep listening, and a belief in the inherent goodness of people. At Kairos Wellness Collective, I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating OCD, Anxiety disorders, and ADHD. As a Nature-Based therapist, I work with those longing to incorporate nature into their therapeutic process and those who seek to reconnect to nature after trauma or adverse experiences. I also work with survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry and abusive wilderness programs. I bring a warmth and openness to counseling sessions. I love to laugh with my clients and celebrate their victories!
My therapeutic approach is one led by compassion, deep listening, and a belief in the inherent goodness of people. At Kairos Wellness Collective, I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating OCD, Anxiety disorders, and ADHD. As a Nature-Based therapist, I work with those longing to incorporate nature into their therapeutic process and those who seek to reconnect to nature after trauma or adverse experiences. I also work with survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry and abusive wilderness programs. I bring a warmth and openness to counseling sessions. I love to laugh with my clients and celebrate their victories!
![Photo of Deana Beth Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ca52c03-6d45-4196-9844-98da8159c64e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deana Beth Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80003 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief / bereavement, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), intimate / romantic relationships, trauma and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAS). I consider myself as a therapist that can meet a person where they are in life and wherever someone wants to explore a draft of themselves they want to add to, improve or change. I can explore the past, work with someone in the here or now or explore who someone wants to be in the future.
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief / bereavement, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), intimate / romantic relationships, trauma and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAS). I consider myself as a therapist that can meet a person where they are in life and wherever someone wants to explore a draft of themselves they want to add to, improve or change. I can explore the past, work with someone in the here or now or explore who someone wants to be in the future.
![Photo of Jennifer Nelson - Jen Nelson Therapy, MEd, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c17846d-7b6a-48e2-bed0-fb2fae55561a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Nelson Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80007 (Online Only)
Do you want to strengthen your relationships? Deepen your connection with your partner and/or children? I work with couples, families and individuals who seek support on issues such as: improving communication, sexual issues, OCD, attachment, parenting, conflict resolution, anxiety and/or depression, infidelity and creating healthy boundaries. Also thoughtful separation/divorce and co-parenting. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Do you want to strengthen your relationships? Deepen your connection with your partner and/or children? I work with couples, families and individuals who seek support on issues such as: improving communication, sexual issues, OCD, attachment, parenting, conflict resolution, anxiety and/or depression, infidelity and creating healthy boundaries. Also thoughtful separation/divorce and co-parenting. LGBTQ+ friendly.
![Photo of Dr. Bert Pace, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0055b3ee-cf0d-4c4c-842c-00780d3eb16c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Looking for a good psychologist is hard and actually finding one is even harder. This is probably because understanding people, why they are struggling, and how to help takes hard work. Real change requires more than any quick fix or simple solution can offer. If you’re continually struggling in life, it might be time to look beyond the surface and explore the root of things. I will work with you in a depth-oriented manner that aims to deepen your self-understanding and create important and lasting change.
Looking for a good psychologist is hard and actually finding one is even harder. This is probably because understanding people, why they are struggling, and how to help takes hard work. Real change requires more than any quick fix or simple solution can offer. If you’re continually struggling in life, it might be time to look beyond the surface and explore the root of things. I will work with you in a depth-oriented manner that aims to deepen your self-understanding and create important and lasting change.
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![Photo of Kris Eldridge, MEd, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0758e3fb-3775-4320-a2cd-bf4ad1e807b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Eldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80001 (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience working with individuals, families and groups. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but I have a special affinity for early adolescents and teenagers. My experiences as an educator serve as the foundation for working with these clients and their families. I use a client-centered approach and believe my clients are experts in their own lives. I view my role as therapist as a facilitator who assists clients in discovering their own truths and gaining a deeper sense of themselves.
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience working with individuals, families and groups. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but I have a special affinity for early adolescents and teenagers. My experiences as an educator serve as the foundation for working with these clients and their families. I use a client-centered approach and believe my clients are experts in their own lives. I view my role as therapist as a facilitator who assists clients in discovering their own truths and gaining a deeper sense of themselves.
![Photo of Summer Rippe, MA, LPCC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe368c39-d6b7-4f38-ad96-831b732ad80f/1/320x400.jpeg)
As someone who is compassionate and empathic to those who struggle in life, I hope to give my clients a safe space to disclose their experiences without fear of judgment. I believe people can grow in skills and resiliency from the strength within themselves and lead productive and happy lives. I love working collaboratively with my clients to help them meet their goals, empowering them toward growth and change, and providing a supportive and caring therapeutic relationship.
As someone who is compassionate and empathic to those who struggle in life, I hope to give my clients a safe space to disclose their experiences without fear of judgment. I believe people can grow in skills and resiliency from the strength within themselves and lead productive and happy lives. I love working collaboratively with my clients to help them meet their goals, empowering them toward growth and change, and providing a supportive and caring therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Molly Kosar, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2ef7944-b720-4208-8c5f-32d70bc1232d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding balance between happiness, boredom, and exhaustion can feel like a mystery. Inwardly, we are constantly striving. Outwardly, we appear to "have it all together" and fear dropping our "mask." When it gets to be too much, we may shutdown or avoid. We may feel unappreciated, misunderstood, or lonely. I help adults and teens fill their "toolbox" to escape from this trap. Together, we use RO DBT as detectives in your own life to understand what triggers unwanted feelings, unhelpful thoughts, and ineffective behaviors. Discovering balance begins with assess core values, motivations for change, and awareness of our own behaviors.
Finding balance between happiness, boredom, and exhaustion can feel like a mystery. Inwardly, we are constantly striving. Outwardly, we appear to "have it all together" and fear dropping our "mask." When it gets to be too much, we may shutdown or avoid. We may feel unappreciated, misunderstood, or lonely. I help adults and teens fill their "toolbox" to escape from this trap. Together, we use RO DBT as detectives in your own life to understand what triggers unwanted feelings, unhelpful thoughts, and ineffective behaviors. Discovering balance begins with assess core values, motivations for change, and awareness of our own behaviors.
![Photo of Sybil Cummin, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e10e85-5e7c-46c0-ba80-2b79a66f81b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sybil Cummin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Do you feel like your family is living in chaos? Is your child or teen struggling with school? Peers? With anxiety? I offer a strength-based and collaborative approach while working with children, teens, adults, and families. I would be honored to help you and your family learn the tools to make and maintain the changes needed to live the life you want to live. Although many therapists, including myself have a reduced fee, services are still not financially accessible for many families. I supervise Master's level interns with a sliding scale between $65-$25 per session. Everyone should be able to access mental health care.
Do you feel like your family is living in chaos? Is your child or teen struggling with school? Peers? With anxiety? I offer a strength-based and collaborative approach while working with children, teens, adults, and families. I would be honored to help you and your family learn the tools to make and maintain the changes needed to live the life you want to live. Although many therapists, including myself have a reduced fee, services are still not financially accessible for many families. I supervise Master's level interns with a sliding scale between $65-$25 per session. Everyone should be able to access mental health care.
![Photo of Kathy Sterling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb336fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stressed out? Not getting along with others? Is your mind super busy or is it hard to think at all? Are you having trouble calming down and finding rest? Or are you shut down, stuck, unable to move? Every minute our internal experience is changing. Our nervous system is constantly moving up and down. We can feel worried, afraid, anxious one day, and isolated, sad, and exhausted the next. It’s totally normal for our system to fluctuate, but if we spend long periods in one state or another it can take a toll on our body, mind, and spirit.
Are you feeling stressed out? Not getting along with others? Is your mind super busy or is it hard to think at all? Are you having trouble calming down and finding rest? Or are you shut down, stuck, unable to move? Every minute our internal experience is changing. Our nervous system is constantly moving up and down. We can feel worried, afraid, anxious one day, and isolated, sad, and exhausted the next. It’s totally normal for our system to fluctuate, but if we spend long periods in one state or another it can take a toll on our body, mind, and spirit.
![Photo of Sara J Runge, MA, CHT, RScP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2b0ae2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara J Runge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CHT, RScP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
I am a transpersonal psychotherapist and I specialize in PTSD and trauma. The body and nervous system is where trauma gets "stuck" and stored. Therefore, in order for healing to occur, we must work with the body as well as the mind! Through awareness of limiting beliefs and unhealthy thoughts, coupled with the wisdom of the body, healing happens! No matter what, I believe that Healing Is Always Possible!
I am a transpersonal psychotherapist and I specialize in PTSD and trauma. The body and nervous system is where trauma gets "stuck" and stored. Therefore, in order for healing to occur, we must work with the body as well as the mind! Through awareness of limiting beliefs and unhealthy thoughts, coupled with the wisdom of the body, healing happens! No matter what, I believe that Healing Is Always Possible!
![Photo of Carol O'Dowd, MDiv, MPA, MI, CAS, NLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90f1e1f1-8d2f-4f11-b5c6-e79f94e5a7fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, addiction, stress, grief, or loss? Do you want peace of mind and to enjoy success? I help individuals realign with their integrity and strength to make the changes they want. Using Eastern and Western techniques I help clients 're-story' traumas and anxieties that allow them to achieve their goals. As an ordained Buddhist priest and former Chaplain, I also offer spiritual counseling. My experience training/counseling prisoners in the United States and Indonesia taught me how often we imprison ourselves with our own emotions.
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, addiction, stress, grief, or loss? Do you want peace of mind and to enjoy success? I help individuals realign with their integrity and strength to make the changes they want. Using Eastern and Western techniques I help clients 're-story' traumas and anxieties that allow them to achieve their goals. As an ordained Buddhist priest and former Chaplain, I also offer spiritual counseling. My experience training/counseling prisoners in the United States and Indonesia taught me how often we imprison ourselves with our own emotions.
![Photo of Chelsie Danette Hopperstad - Alpine Lakes Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center, LCSW, MSW, LPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db02d98f-1f31-4a1d-946a-fa28528810a5/1/320x400.png)
Alpine Lakes Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Welcome to Alpine Lakes Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center! You may still be impacted by a traumatic event that happened years ago if you are struggling to find joy in life, feeling stuck, often in toxic or unhealthy relationships, and/or experiencing depression, or anxiety. Using evidenced based approaches including EMDR, ACT, Mindfulness and somatic modalities fused with holistic approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, essential oils, etc., we offer a unique blend of trauma-focused holistic outpatient counseling for adolescents, women, and men experiencing a range of symptoms due to difficult experiences, trauma and/or loss.
Welcome to Alpine Lakes Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center! You may still be impacted by a traumatic event that happened years ago if you are struggling to find joy in life, feeling stuck, often in toxic or unhealthy relationships, and/or experiencing depression, or anxiety. Using evidenced based approaches including EMDR, ACT, Mindfulness and somatic modalities fused with holistic approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, essential oils, etc., we offer a unique blend of trauma-focused holistic outpatient counseling for adolescents, women, and men experiencing a range of symptoms due to difficult experiences, trauma and/or loss.
![Photo of Kira Brissenden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530e3cd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kira Brissenden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80002 (Online Only)
It isn't easy to begin therapy, to go to a person you don't know and trust that they will understand and can help. My approach is to provide a safe and accepting space; not to judge or presume I know what you need. Together we can try to understand and adjust what may be getting in the way of feeling happier, more confident, and achieving your goals. There may be patterns you've noticed that aren't working well for you; or intense feelings you don't understand; or act in ways that may be harmful to you or others. You may have negative thoughts or chatter in your brain you can't shut off.
It isn't easy to begin therapy, to go to a person you don't know and trust that they will understand and can help. My approach is to provide a safe and accepting space; not to judge or presume I know what you need. Together we can try to understand and adjust what may be getting in the way of feeling happier, more confident, and achieving your goals. There may be patterns you've noticed that aren't working well for you; or intense feelings you don't understand; or act in ways that may be harmful to you or others. You may have negative thoughts or chatter in your brain you can't shut off.
See more therapy options for Arvada
Nearby Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists Searches for Arvada
- Broomfield
- Commerce City
- Denver
- Edgewater
- Golden
- Lakewood
- Louisville
- Northglenn
- Superior
- Thornton
- Westminster
- Wheat Ridge
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists
How long does OCD treatment take?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.
What happens if OCD is not treated?
Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.
Are there medications for OCD?
Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.
Can OCD come back after treatment?
Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.