Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Aurora, IL

Photo of Courtney M DeCarlo, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Courtney M DeCarlo
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and am particularly interested in treating OCD and related anxiety disorders.
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and am particularly interested in treating OCD and related anxiety disorders.
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
(773) 313-3212 View (773) 313-3212
Photo of Samantha Zurek, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Samantha Zurek
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502
I assist individuals of all ages in overcoming symptoms related to OCD, anxiety, perinatal stressors, depression, major life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
It takes a great amount of strength and courage to reach out and ask for help, or even explore that option. We can all use extra support at times throughout our life, whether we are experiencing high levels of stress, symptoms, or have been going through major adjustments in life. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who believes therapy is a collaborative relationship that assists individuals in building their tool box, instills hope, and helps them overcome obstacles that create difficulty in their life.
I assist individuals of all ages in overcoming symptoms related to OCD, anxiety, perinatal stressors, depression, major life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
It takes a great amount of strength and courage to reach out and ask for help, or even explore that option. We can all use extra support at times throughout our life, whether we are experiencing high levels of stress, symptoms, or have been going through major adjustments in life. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who believes therapy is a collaborative relationship that assists individuals in building their tool box, instills hope, and helps them overcome obstacles that create difficulty in their life.
(847) 282-4303 View (847) 282-4303
Photo of Stephanie Samudio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Samudio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60503
I specialize in treating stress, anxiety and OCD. If you find yourself strugging - I'd love to help!
I specialize in treating stress, anxiety and OCD. If you find yourself strugging - I'd love to help!
(331) 246-0740 View (331) 246-0740
Photo of Jennifer Dote, MEd, LCPC
Jennifer Dote
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
I've completed extensive training for OCD Related Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and Parent Coaching.
Welcome to Resilient Growth Therapy and thank you for taking an interest in my profile! I am a Clinical Therapist specializing in treatment with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with OCD & related disorders such as Trichotillomania (hair-pulling) and Excoriation Disorder ( skin picking). Furthermore, I also specialize in Anxiety & Specific Phobias, such as Emetophobia (fear of vomiting). I provide support and treatment to help those heal from PTSD/trauma-related symptoms. I believe an essential part of treatment is developing a therapeutic relationship that establishes a safe space with trust and empathy.
I've completed extensive training for OCD Related Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and Parent Coaching.
Welcome to Resilient Growth Therapy and thank you for taking an interest in my profile! I am a Clinical Therapist specializing in treatment with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with OCD & related disorders such as Trichotillomania (hair-pulling) and Excoriation Disorder ( skin picking). Furthermore, I also specialize in Anxiety & Specific Phobias, such as Emetophobia (fear of vomiting). I provide support and treatment to help those heal from PTSD/trauma-related symptoms. I believe an essential part of treatment is developing a therapeutic relationship that establishes a safe space with trust and empathy.
(779) 345-2391 View (779) 345-2391
Photo of Maria Lopez-Boada, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Lopez-Boada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502  (Online Only)
As a therapist with 12 years of experience, I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, shame, intergenerational trauma, body focused repetitive behaviors. I especially love to work with first generation professionals and other helping professionals (especially other therapists!) . I value humor, compassion, shared humanity, and committed action toward change. I work to continuously learn and improve through professional learning and my own personal healing. Together we will explore your unique values, utilize mindfulness &somatic practice in session, and set action oriented goals that move you toward your values.
As a therapist with 12 years of experience, I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, shame, intergenerational trauma, body focused repetitive behaviors. I especially love to work with first generation professionals and other helping professionals (especially other therapists!) . I value humor, compassion, shared humanity, and committed action toward change. I work to continuously learn and improve through professional learning and my own personal healing. Together we will explore your unique values, utilize mindfulness &somatic practice in session, and set action oriented goals that move you toward your values.
(773) 832-5323 View (773) 832-5323
Photo of Sidney Bobo, MEd, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sidney Bobo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and ERP, I help clients manage the weight of anxiety and OCD while building a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Navigating anxiety, OCD, or struggles with self-esteem can feel isolating and overwhelming. I work closely with children, teens and young adults who feel weighed down by complex anxiety, obsessive thoughts, or feelings of self-doubt and criticism. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can feel heard and understood, allowing them to work through their challenges at their own pace.
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and ERP, I help clients manage the weight of anxiety and OCD while building a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Navigating anxiety, OCD, or struggles with self-esteem can feel isolating and overwhelming. I work closely with children, teens and young adults who feel weighed down by complex anxiety, obsessive thoughts, or feelings of self-doubt and criticism. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can feel heard and understood, allowing them to work through their challenges at their own pace.
(312) 313-8285 View (312) 313-8285
Photo of Josh Kaplan - Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502
In my practice, I specialize in treating these conditions using both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
In my practice, I specialize in treating these conditions using both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
(331) 259-8463 View (331) 259-8463
Photo of Kate Penkethman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Penkethman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, gender, sexuality, OCD, spirituality issues, and relationships of all forms.
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, gender, sexuality, OCD, spirituality issues, and relationships of all forms.
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
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Photo of Katherine Harris, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Katherine Harris
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Psychologist who specializes in OCD and Anxiety including panic, worry, social anxiety, health anxiety, and agoraphobia . I use highly effective treatments such as Exposure and Response Prevention and Panic Control Treatment. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). I completed my Doctoral Degree at Northern Illinois University, my Clinical Psychology Internship at the Ann Arbor VA, and my Postdoctoral Residency at the University of Michigan Consortium. I am a proud co-owner of OakHeart, Center for Counseling.
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Psychologist who specializes in OCD and Anxiety including panic, worry, social anxiety, health anxiety, and agoraphobia . I use highly effective treatments such as Exposure and Response Prevention and Panic Control Treatment. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). I completed my Doctoral Degree at Northern Illinois University, my Clinical Psychology Internship at the Ann Arbor VA, and my Postdoctoral Residency at the University of Michigan Consortium. I am a proud co-owner of OakHeart, Center for Counseling.
(331) 256-2138 View (331) 256-2138
Photo of Marcia Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health diagnoses to include: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Grief, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder to name a few.
My therapeutic approach focuses on the whole person. I look at the individual, their environment, and the many factors that make up who they are. By focusing on their strengths, I work with the individual to discover the person they are meant to be. My experience includes training in Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. I have previous clinical experience with children and adolescents, in a child welfare capacity, as well as inpatient behavioral health. I was also licensed as a foster parent in 2005; I have both worked with children who are in the foster care system and children who were adopted.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health diagnoses to include: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Grief, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder to name a few.
My therapeutic approach focuses on the whole person. I look at the individual, their environment, and the many factors that make up who they are. By focusing on their strengths, I work with the individual to discover the person they are meant to be. My experience includes training in Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. I have previous clinical experience with children and adolescents, in a child welfare capacity, as well as inpatient behavioral health. I was also licensed as a foster parent in 2005; I have both worked with children who are in the foster care system and children who were adopted.
(855) 969-4187 View (855) 969-4187
Photo of Dr. Jolene Catherine Harbaugh - Dr. Jolene Harbaugh, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Jolene Harbaugh
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling heard, cared for, and understood are some of my greatest values in building a relationship with you. By listening to you and all that you have overcome, I strive to help you identify and build on your strengths as well as heal from your past. Being a part of your growth is a privilege and I respect how hard it is to let someone in. Whether you have problems with anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, grief or perhaps stress related to school, relationships, or work, I will be here to help.
Feeling heard, cared for, and understood are some of my greatest values in building a relationship with you. By listening to you and all that you have overcome, I strive to help you identify and build on your strengths as well as heal from your past. Being a part of your growth is a privilege and I respect how hard it is to let someone in. Whether you have problems with anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, grief or perhaps stress related to school, relationships, or work, I will be here to help.
(630) 394-8708 View (630) 394-8708
Photo of Gary R Dec, PsyD, CSAT, CMAT, Psychologist
Gary R Dec
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506  (Online Only)
I have been in practice in the Chicago suburbs for years experience serving individuals from adolescence through adulthood in individual psychotherapy couples therapy. Although my practice is a general psychological practice, I maintain specialties in the areas of anxiety disorders including phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions including process addictions and sexual addiction, and attention-deficit disorder in adolescents and adults. I am a licensed psychologist in Illinois, and hold certifications in the treatment of sexual addiction (CSAT) and multiple addictions (CMAT). For more information, please visit my website at http://www.garydecpsyd.com.
I have been in practice in the Chicago suburbs for years experience serving individuals from adolescence through adulthood in individual psychotherapy couples therapy. Although my practice is a general psychological practice, I maintain specialties in the areas of anxiety disorders including phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions including process addictions and sexual addiction, and attention-deficit disorder in adolescents and adults. I am a licensed psychologist in Illinois, and hold certifications in the treatment of sexual addiction (CSAT) and multiple addictions (CMAT). For more information, please visit my website at http://www.garydecpsyd.com.
(630) 426-3436 View (630) 426-3436
Photo of Kimberly Ann Lemke, PsyD, Psychologist
Kimberly Ann Lemke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
I am a licensed child/adolescent/adult clinical psychologist & Sleep Science Coach trained in CBT-I for insomnia. I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, behavior change and parenting issues. I use research based methods that allow people to function at their highest potential. I earned my Master's & Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, and have worked in multiple settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, private practice, and as the director of a behavioral/emotional school for children. I am the author of the online sleep course “Drift” and the children’s book, "I Just Don't Get My Parents' Rules!"
I am a licensed child/adolescent/adult clinical psychologist & Sleep Science Coach trained in CBT-I for insomnia. I specialize in anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, behavior change and parenting issues. I use research based methods that allow people to function at their highest potential. I earned my Master's & Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, and have worked in multiple settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, private practice, and as the director of a behavioral/emotional school for children. I am the author of the online sleep course “Drift” and the children’s book, "I Just Don't Get My Parents' Rules!"
(847) 868-3315 View (847) 868-3315
Photo of Kathleen Gould Richardson, LPC, Counselor
Kathleen Gould Richardson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping people find their purpose and creating a life that they are excited to live. I work with clients through a variety of life's issues, including major life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I also work with individuals to address executive functioning concerns and emerging or ongoing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, body image distress and OCD.
With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping people find their purpose and creating a life that they are excited to live. I work with clients through a variety of life's issues, including major life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I also work with individuals to address executive functioning concerns and emerging or ongoing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, body image distress and OCD.
(331) 267-5671 View (331) 267-5671
Photo of Katie Andersen, LSW, CADC, CIP, CAI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Andersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC, CIP, CAI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
Accepting NEW Clients! I work with teens 16+, adults, and families. My passion for athletics and wellness led me to work in collegiate athletics and coaching prior to entering into the mental health and addiction field. I'm passionate about helping people and guiding them to overcome their most challenging situations and supporting them until they make their lives happier and healthier. I'm looking forward to educate individuals about anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD and trauma, women's issues, life transitions, co-parenting, marital problems, addiction and behavioral/addiction interventions.
Accepting NEW Clients! I work with teens 16+, adults, and families. My passion for athletics and wellness led me to work in collegiate athletics and coaching prior to entering into the mental health and addiction field. I'm passionate about helping people and guiding them to overcome their most challenging situations and supporting them until they make their lives happier and healthier. I'm looking forward to educate individuals about anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD and trauma, women's issues, life transitions, co-parenting, marital problems, addiction and behavioral/addiction interventions.
(630) 552-6066 View (630) 552-6066
Photo of Emily Boothe, MA, LCPC, LLC
Emily Boothe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I enjoy working with young adults and adults in individual and couples therapy. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy and understand that effective therapy cannot be achieved without an understanding and trusting relationship between therapist and client. Treatment often includes cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches. Each client is unique and these treatments alone may not work for every client, therefore, treatment options are altered based on client need and preference.
I enjoy working with young adults and adults in individual and couples therapy. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy and understand that effective therapy cannot be achieved without an understanding and trusting relationship between therapist and client. Treatment often includes cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches. Each client is unique and these treatments alone may not work for every client, therefore, treatment options are altered based on client need and preference.
(630) 324-4325 View (630) 324-4325
Photo of Benjamin Pyykkonen, PhD, Psychologist
Benjamin Pyykkonen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502  (Online Only)
At Hesed Psychological Services we provide excellent neuropsychological assessment and therapy services across the lifespan. We strive to help each client understand the implications of the neuropsychological test data in each particular life situation (work, school, home). We have years of experience not only in the work of clinical neuropsychology but also in the training of others in this work. Our areas of competence/specialization include learning disability, autism, dyslexia, ADHD, academic concerns, memory concerns, dementia (including Alzheimer's disease), stroke, epilepsy, TBI, depression, and anxiety.
At Hesed Psychological Services we provide excellent neuropsychological assessment and therapy services across the lifespan. We strive to help each client understand the implications of the neuropsychological test data in each particular life situation (work, school, home). We have years of experience not only in the work of clinical neuropsychology but also in the training of others in this work. Our areas of competence/specialization include learning disability, autism, dyslexia, ADHD, academic concerns, memory concerns, dementia (including Alzheimer's disease), stroke, epilepsy, TBI, depression, and anxiety.
(331) 210-9029 View (331) 210-9029
Photo of Aileen Mena, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aileen Mena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
Aileen is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor with over 4 years of clinical experience providing counseling to diverse populations. She primarily works with adults with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders seeking compassionate and personalized care. These individuals understand the importance of mental health and are committed to navigating the intricate journey towards healing. With a genuine desire for personal growth, they seek a therapist who can provide empathic support, practical coping strategies, and a safe space for exploration.
Aileen is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor with over 4 years of clinical experience providing counseling to diverse populations. She primarily works with adults with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders seeking compassionate and personalized care. These individuals understand the importance of mental health and are committed to navigating the intricate journey towards healing. With a genuine desire for personal growth, they seek a therapist who can provide empathic support, practical coping strategies, and a safe space for exploration.
(312) 465-4642 View (312) 465-4642
Photo of Dr. Aubrey Bornhoff, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Aubrey Bornhoff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Have you begun to feel that no matter what you do, you continue to struggle with the same issues? It's likely you're simply treating symptoms, instead of the underlying cause. As a neuropsychologist, my aim is to help you solve that mystery - to not only help uncover the reason(s) you are struggling, but also to discover your strengths. This comprehensive process will result in attaining diagnostic clarity, aiding in formulating an effective treatment plan. I will also provide a comprehensive report detailing results, impressions, and recommendations for medical/psych treatment, work/school accommodations, and holistic alternatives.
Have you begun to feel that no matter what you do, you continue to struggle with the same issues? It's likely you're simply treating symptoms, instead of the underlying cause. As a neuropsychologist, my aim is to help you solve that mystery - to not only help uncover the reason(s) you are struggling, but also to discover your strengths. This comprehensive process will result in attaining diagnostic clarity, aiding in formulating an effective treatment plan. I will also provide a comprehensive report detailing results, impressions, and recommendations for medical/psych treatment, work/school accommodations, and holistic alternatives.
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000
Photo of JoLeann Trine, LCPC
JoLeann Trine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
Joey Trine is a Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC-BC) a member of the Illinois Association of Adult Development and Aging (IAADA), and former program development chair for IAADA. She has more than 6 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are experiencing variations of grief, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, depression, impulse control, trauma, and issues in effective communication & boundaries.
Joey Trine is a Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC-BC) a member of the Illinois Association of Adult Development and Aging (IAADA), and former program development chair for IAADA. She has more than 6 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are experiencing variations of grief, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, depression, impulse control, trauma, and issues in effective communication & boundaries.
(630) 949-3565 View (630) 949-3565
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.