Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Smyrna, GA

Photo of Kelley Delchamps, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Delchamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I'm also trained in ERP, a helpful approach for anxiety and OCD.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
I'm also trained in ERP, a helpful approach for anxiety and OCD.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
(404) 974-3676 View (404) 974-3676
Photo of Alexandra Gray, APC, Counselor
Alexandra Gray
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082
Alexandra Gray is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who began practicing in Georgia in 2022. Her main focus areas are Autism, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, and the LGBTQIA community. A significant portion of her practice deals with navigating complexities and liminal spaces around neurodivergence and alternative lifestyles (the “Standard Issue Model Society vs. Specialty Model Human” conundrum); the road from religious trauma to found family; OCD; Shame and Self-Esteem; and the yearning to chase Emotionally Unavailable Families. She is also a Kink-affirming therapist who recognizes that normalcy is diverse.
Alexandra Gray is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who began practicing in Georgia in 2022. Her main focus areas are Autism, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, and the LGBTQIA community. A significant portion of her practice deals with navigating complexities and liminal spaces around neurodivergence and alternative lifestyles (the “Standard Issue Model Society vs. Specialty Model Human” conundrum); the road from religious trauma to found family; OCD; Shame and Self-Esteem; and the yearning to chase Emotionally Unavailable Families. She is also a Kink-affirming therapist who recognizes that normalcy is diverse.
(404) 418-4112 View (404) 418-4112
Photo of Caroline Hamner, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Hamner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy (EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy (EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
(404) 882-7830 x207 View (404) 882-7830 x207
Photo of Christi Bartolomucci, PhD, LPC, CPCS, Psychologist
Christi Bartolomucci
Psychologist, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
With a therapeutic relationship filled with nurturing and collaboration, along with a bit of humor and playfulness, we can explore dynamics, improve skills, and overcome barriers. Together, we identify and utilize strengths in the process of facing more challenging emotional and relational struggles. My clients, which include children, adolescents, and adults, frequently address issues such as anxieties, OCD, ADHD, trauma, negative self-worth, school/work-based challenges, perfectionism, emotional regulation, preparation/adjustment to divorce, parenting, bullying, and the overall desire to improve key relationships.
(770) 450-5288 x104 View (770) 450-5288 x104
Photo of Leigh Swanson, LPC, Counselor
Leigh Swanson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082
As a therapist, I primarily work with clients who experience a range of emotional and psychological difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and relationship problems.
I am Leigh Swanson, Licensed Professional Counselor, and I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to empower clients and families in overcoming emotional and behavioral challenges. By identifying and re-evaluating negative thought and relationship patterns, I guide individuals toward healthier, more adaptive perspectives. This collaborative approach promotes lasting change and self-improvement, equipping clients with the tools needed to navigate life's complexities with resilience and confidence.
As a therapist, I primarily work with clients who experience a range of emotional and psychological difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and relationship problems.
I am Leigh Swanson, Licensed Professional Counselor, and I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to empower clients and families in overcoming emotional and behavioral challenges. By identifying and re-evaluating negative thought and relationship patterns, I guide individuals toward healthier, more adaptive perspectives. This collaborative approach promotes lasting change and self-improvement, equipping clients with the tools needed to navigate life's complexities with resilience and confidence.
(470) 801-4156 View (470) 801-4156
Photo of Noelle Jozefowicz, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Noelle Jozefowicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
My specialties include depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, codependency, healing from abuse, self-esteem, self-defeating thought patterns, and OCD.
Life experiences can often bring us pain, cause us to question our world, and create obstacles that feel overwhelming and overpowering. Having someone to talk to who you can feel safe to share your story with, someone who will join you and help you understand your experiences and their meaning, can make a valuable difference. I help my clients process their past experiences, challenge defeating thought patterns, uncover their natural strengths, find self-acceptance and healing, make choices they can take pride in, and discover connection in a world that can feel isolating.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, codependency, healing from abuse, self-esteem, self-defeating thought patterns, and OCD.
Life experiences can often bring us pain, cause us to question our world, and create obstacles that feel overwhelming and overpowering. Having someone to talk to who you can feel safe to share your story with, someone who will join you and help you understand your experiences and their meaning, can make a valuable difference. I help my clients process their past experiences, challenge defeating thought patterns, uncover their natural strengths, find self-acceptance and healing, make choices they can take pride in, and discover connection in a world that can feel isolating.
(470) 299-7916 View (470) 299-7916
Photo of Counseling Services Of Atlanta - Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30082
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Elaine A Thomas, PsyD, Psychologist
Elaine A Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
Anxiety conditions I work with include: separation anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, post-traumatic stress disorder, child traumatic grief, distress following single incident traumas such as car accidents and natural disasters, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
(770) 790-0773 View (770) 790-0773
Photo of Karen Elizabeth Demski, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Elizabeth Demski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082  (Online Only)
Hey you! Yes you! Out there scrolling through this website looking for a therapist and feeling overwhelmed by the choice. I am an autistic, fat, queer and chronically ill therapist who loves to help other similar individuals. I find I fit best with other ND clients. Most of my clients are queer, trans, ADHD, autistic and/or Audhd and OCD. I utilize talk therapy (psychotherapy and psychodynamic) so being able to verbally process would be highly beneficial. I speak sarcasm and memes fluently. If I haven't mentioned something please ask- I'm always up for learning.
Hey you! Yes you! Out there scrolling through this website looking for a therapist and feeling overwhelmed by the choice. I am an autistic, fat, queer and chronically ill therapist who loves to help other similar individuals. I find I fit best with other ND clients. Most of my clients are queer, trans, ADHD, autistic and/or Audhd and OCD. I utilize talk therapy (psychotherapy and psychodynamic) so being able to verbally process would be highly beneficial. I speak sarcasm and memes fluently. If I haven't mentioned something please ask- I'm always up for learning.
(678) 820-4839 View (678) 820-4839
Photo of Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers, LAPC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Imagine you grew up in a house filled with ghosts. Their presence was palpable and they inconsistently, yet consistently, came out to scare you. You worry they followed you out of your childhood and into your adult world because you just can't stop trying to find them before they get you first. You still see them sometimes, but you can't name them, and you fear no one else will believe you if you tell them they exist. If your stomach just dropped or you felt vaguely seen in this analogy, you may know the experience of living with complex trauma. If you are looking for a ghostbuster, I am your clinician.
Imagine you grew up in a house filled with ghosts. Their presence was palpable and they inconsistently, yet consistently, came out to scare you. You worry they followed you out of your childhood and into your adult world because you just can't stop trying to find them before they get you first. You still see them sometimes, but you can't name them, and you fear no one else will believe you if you tell them they exist. If your stomach just dropped or you felt vaguely seen in this analogy, you may know the experience of living with complex trauma. If you are looking for a ghostbuster, I am your clinician.
(404) 738-9623 View (404) 738-9623
Photo of Ben Heath, MA, APC, Counselor
Ben Heath
Counselor, MA, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I specialize in working with people who are experiencing increased anxiety and stress, struggling with panic and responses to past trauma, and navigating daily-life with obsessions and compulsions. I know that awareness brings change. One of the greatest tasks then for therapy is to gain insight and understanding as to what leads to feeling sad, anxious, and panicked. So often our first desire is to get rid of these experiences, but as we demonstrate the courage to understand and accept all parts of ourselves, we gain access to balance, self-guidance, and peace that is often missing in life.
I specialize in working with people who are experiencing increased anxiety and stress, struggling with panic and responses to past trauma, and navigating daily-life with obsessions and compulsions. I know that awareness brings change. One of the greatest tasks then for therapy is to gain insight and understanding as to what leads to feeling sad, anxious, and panicked. So often our first desire is to get rid of these experiences, but as we demonstrate the courage to understand and accept all parts of ourselves, we gain access to balance, self-guidance, and peace that is often missing in life.
(678) 403-6872 View (678) 403-6872
Photo of Johanna Wendell, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Johanna Wendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Do you feel like you are stuck in a vicious cycle and can't make it stop? This can happen to the best of us and lead to us feeling discouraged, hopeless, and helpless. I promise you, there is hope and help. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance use, relationship issues or other problems and could use some help, I would love to help. Together, we can work to get to the root of the problem, resolve any unhealed wounds, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately overcome the issues you've been battling. You deserve to live free of these burdens, and you absolutely can!
Do you feel like you are stuck in a vicious cycle and can't make it stop? This can happen to the best of us and lead to us feeling discouraged, hopeless, and helpless. I promise you, there is hope and help. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance use, relationship issues or other problems and could use some help, I would love to help. Together, we can work to get to the root of the problem, resolve any unhealed wounds, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately overcome the issues you've been battling. You deserve to live free of these burdens, and you absolutely can!
(678) 730-2653 View (678) 730-2653
Photo of Allison Arbelaez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Arbelaez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
I’m glad you’ve made your way here. I understand that you may feel scared and uncertain about taking the step to seek therapy. Whether you are hoping to manage anxiety, or a mood disorder, work through conflict, or address the challenges that have arisen in your life, I will guide you in attaining your goals. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to feel the difficult emotions that may emerge, and I help you navigate the next steps.
I’m glad you’ve made your way here. I understand that you may feel scared and uncertain about taking the step to seek therapy. Whether you are hoping to manage anxiety, or a mood disorder, work through conflict, or address the challenges that have arisen in your life, I will guide you in attaining your goals. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to feel the difficult emotions that may emerge, and I help you navigate the next steps.
(470) 517-8255 View (470) 517-8255
Photo of Brenda Maureen Romanchik, LCSW, ACSW, CTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Maureen Romanchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
(469) 203-4030 View (469) 203-4030
Photo of Lauren Skelton Baird - Wellness Without Walls, LLC, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wellness Without Walls, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
I meet every individual where they are in their personal journey to improve their mental health. My goal is to help my clients meet their goals by focusing on developing a relationship and creating personalized treatment plans. There is not a one size fits all approach to mental health care. I look forward to meeting and learning about each and every individual I work with.
(404) 738-8781 View (404) 738-8781
Photo of Simona Cohen, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simona Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
Hi. I am so glad you are here. Life’s circumstances and challenges can really wear on our resiliency and ability to cope effectively. Our past can also shape our current beliefs about the world and how we show up in it. Many clients who come to work with me often struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, and interpersonal challenges. I use different modalities to help clients explore emotions, gain understanding and self compassion, build courage, and learn & apply new skills to make positive desired changes. My goal is to help empower clients to create a more meaningful life aligned with their personal values.
(470) 339-4199 x109 View (470) 339-4199 x109
Photo of Katelyn Slominski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katelyn Slominski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082
I continue to work in the mental health field because I love seeing my clients’ transformations. I hope to provide a safe space for clients to share their authentic self and unearth their strengths to reach their goals. I believe the client is the expert and as a therapist I am there to walk alongside them. Instead of a “one size fits all” approach, I learn about the client and their history so we can form a treatment plan together. As I’ve grown professionally, I’ve learned that my client’s needs are dynamic, and my approach should adjust accordingly.
I continue to work in the mental health field because I love seeing my clients’ transformations. I hope to provide a safe space for clients to share their authentic self and unearth their strengths to reach their goals. I believe the client is the expert and as a therapist I am there to walk alongside them. Instead of a “one size fits all” approach, I learn about the client and their history so we can form a treatment plan together. As I’ve grown professionally, I’ve learned that my client’s needs are dynamic, and my approach should adjust accordingly.
(470) 712-2058 View (470) 712-2058
Photo of Christine Stoutenburg, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Stoutenburg
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years’ experience working with others on issues such as anxiety, depression, grieving, daily life, PTSD, parenting, relationship issues, postpartum, divorce, self-esteem and trauma. My goal in therapy is to help you identify your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, triggers, and past traumas. I understand that Life may be stressful and overwhelming but there is nothing wrong with getting help. I am able to help you learn to enjoy your life more
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years’ experience working with others on issues such as anxiety, depression, grieving, daily life, PTSD, parenting, relationship issues, postpartum, divorce, self-esteem and trauma. My goal in therapy is to help you identify your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, triggers, and past traumas. I understand that Life may be stressful and overwhelming but there is nothing wrong with getting help. I am able to help you learn to enjoy your life more
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Tess Havash, LAPC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Tess Havash
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
It can be difficult to be human at times. Life can be full of so many losses and challenges, and with busy and demanding schedules, it may not feel like there's any time to process what you’ve gone through. Maybe you’ve found yourself masking and suppressing your real feelings, and as a result, you don’t feel as connected and fulfilled with yourself and your world. In our work together, you're free to explore your emotions and seek deeper insight into who you are. I prefer to think of my role as that of a lantern, bringing to light aspects that you may not have realized and that may be limiting you from leading the life you desire.
It can be difficult to be human at times. Life can be full of so many losses and challenges, and with busy and demanding schedules, it may not feel like there's any time to process what you’ve gone through. Maybe you’ve found yourself masking and suppressing your real feelings, and as a result, you don’t feel as connected and fulfilled with yourself and your world. In our work together, you're free to explore your emotions and seek deeper insight into who you are. I prefer to think of my role as that of a lantern, bringing to light aspects that you may not have realized and that may be limiting you from leading the life you desire.
(404) 689-9056 x454 View (404) 689-9056 x454
Photo of Eric Brown, APC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eric Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, APC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082
Eric Brown is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2022. He has a B.S. from Georgia State University and an M.S. from Mercer University Clinical Mental Health Program. As a therapist who embodies a multifaceted identity as a Black male with humor, intelligence, emotional intelligence, and articulate communication, Eric can offer a unique and empathetic approach to therapy. Eric includes relatability and understanding, empathy, cultural competence, guidance, and psychoeducation in his practice.
Eric Brown is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2022. He has a B.S. from Georgia State University and an M.S. from Mercer University Clinical Mental Health Program. As a therapist who embodies a multifaceted identity as a Black male with humor, intelligence, emotional intelligence, and articulate communication, Eric can offer a unique and empathetic approach to therapy. Eric includes relatability and understanding, empathy, cultural competence, guidance, and psychoeducation in his practice.
(470) 745-2811 View (470) 745-2811
1
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.