Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Donna Massey - Donna Massey LMHC, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, Counselor
Donna Massey LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience treating individuals with anxiety and OCD.
"Happiness is not a destination, it is a journey” (Aristotle). If you have found yourself questioning your own happiness, you may be questioning your journey. Asking for help along the way can sometimes be difficult; however, I can offer you comfort in making that decision and help guide you. Healing takes time, but you don't have to do it alone. If you are looking for growth and deliverance of new and innovative interventions through compassion and understanding, you have found the beginning of a new journey.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience treating individuals with anxiety and OCD.
"Happiness is not a destination, it is a journey” (Aristotle). If you have found yourself questioning your own happiness, you may be questioning your journey. Asking for help along the way can sometimes be difficult; however, I can offer you comfort in making that decision and help guide you. Healing takes time, but you don't have to do it alone. If you are looking for growth and deliverance of new and innovative interventions through compassion and understanding, you have found the beginning of a new journey.
(508) 466-6331 View (508) 466-6331
Photo of Elana Kagan, PhD, Psychologist
Elana Kagan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am a child psychologist specializing in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and OCD. Outside of my private practice, I am also on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work in the Child Cognitive Behavioral Therapy clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital. I work with children, teenagers, and young adults. I also work with parents of children with anxiety and OCD to help them learn how to support their child. Please reach out for a free phone consultation and we can determine if your child would be a good fit for my practice.
I am a child psychologist specializing in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and OCD. Outside of my private practice, I am also on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work in the Child Cognitive Behavioral Therapy clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital. I work with children, teenagers, and young adults. I also work with parents of children with anxiety and OCD to help them learn how to support their child. Please reach out for a free phone consultation and we can determine if your child would be a good fit for my practice.
(781) 517-9763 View (781) 517-9763
Photo of Alec J Lotstein, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alec J Lotstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping adults with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, substance use, and other addictions. I also bring warmth and acceptance in supporting clients with the various pressures of life, such as work, relationships, family, school, health, and finances. Whether you are looking for a place to vent your frustrations, someone to bounce ideas off of, or specific tools and strategies to manage symptoms or difficult situations, I am here to listen, to support you with empathy and compassion, and to collaborate together to build upon your strengths.
I specialize in helping adults with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, substance use, and other addictions. I also bring warmth and acceptance in supporting clients with the various pressures of life, such as work, relationships, family, school, health, and finances. Whether you are looking for a place to vent your frustrations, someone to bounce ideas off of, or specific tools and strategies to manage symptoms or difficult situations, I am here to listen, to support you with empathy and compassion, and to collaborate together to build upon your strengths.
(508) 906-7220 View (508) 906-7220
Photo of Berta Jane Summers, PhD, Psychologist
Berta Jane Summers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I received my training at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital and specialize in the assessment and treatment of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders.
Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts, chronic distress anchored to "what if..." scenarios, or crippled by daily uncertainty? Do you find yourself engaging in time-consuming rituals, mental compulsions, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance behaviors in order to ward off feared consequences or make things 'just right'? You may be experiencing symptoms of OCD and might greatly benefit from exposure and response prevention (ERP) techniques aimed at conquering the obsessive-compulsive cycle that is keeping you from living your life flexibly and joyfully!
I received my training at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital and specialize in the assessment and treatment of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders.
Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts, chronic distress anchored to "what if..." scenarios, or crippled by daily uncertainty? Do you find yourself engaging in time-consuming rituals, mental compulsions, reassurance-seeking, or avoidance behaviors in order to ward off feared consequences or make things 'just right'? You may be experiencing symptoms of OCD and might greatly benefit from exposure and response prevention (ERP) techniques aimed at conquering the obsessive-compulsive cycle that is keeping you from living your life flexibly and joyfully!
View
Photo of Katie Lee Loatman, PhD, Psychologist
Katie Lee Loatman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, and substance use issues. Using research-based techniques, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration and growth. I completed my training at Harvard Medical School, and serve both Massachusetts and New York State
I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, and substance use issues. Using research-based techniques, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration and growth. I completed my training at Harvard Medical School, and serve both Massachusetts and New York State
(914) 229-9738 View (914) 229-9738
Photo of Tracy Mowles - Tracy Mowles - NOCD, LPC, Counselor
Tracy Mowles - NOCD
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
A strong relationship is the backbone of treatment success, and I'm here to connect with you so we can build trust between us. You'll find a safe setting that provides support and guidance on your journey toward freedom from OCD's anxiety. Members describe me as an encouraging therapist who will push you out of your comfort zone when the time is right. I'm here to support your progress and ensure that you don't spend years in treatment. Let's work together so that you can conquer your OCD. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD.
Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
A strong relationship is the backbone of treatment success, and I'm here to connect with you so we can build trust between us. You'll find a safe setting that provides support and guidance on your journey toward freedom from OCD's anxiety. Members describe me as an encouraging therapist who will push you out of your comfort zone when the time is right. I'm here to support your progress and ensure that you don't spend years in treatment. Let's work together so that you can conquer your OCD. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD.
(857) 766-0314 View (857) 766-0314
Photo of Shane MacDonald - OCD Specialist, Shane MacDonald, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
OCD Specialist, Shane MacDonald, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
(617) 675-2000 View (617) 675-2000
Photo of Rebecca La Prade, PhD, Psychologist
Rebecca La Prade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and adults who struggle with anxiety spectrum disorders (including OCD), perfectionism, SI, self-injurious behavior, substance use, depression, relationship difficulties, and who want to build a life worth living.
Does it feel like anxiety or other emotions hold you hostage? Or do you, your teen, or your college-aged child struggle to make sense of your emotions or feel like emotions (or running from emotions) drive your decisions? Emotions are beautiful and challenging, and I love helping teens, young adults, and adults navigate the storm. I completed my post-doc training at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School in the 3East Intensive Program providing adherent DBT therapy to adolescents. I have experience in a range of settings including community mental health, IOP, PHP, and Residential Treatment.
I have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and adults who struggle with anxiety spectrum disorders (including OCD), perfectionism, SI, self-injurious behavior, substance use, depression, relationship difficulties, and who want to build a life worth living.
Does it feel like anxiety or other emotions hold you hostage? Or do you, your teen, or your college-aged child struggle to make sense of your emotions or feel like emotions (or running from emotions) drive your decisions? Emotions are beautiful and challenging, and I love helping teens, young adults, and adults navigate the storm. I completed my post-doc training at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School in the 3East Intensive Program providing adherent DBT therapy to adolescents. I have experience in a range of settings including community mental health, IOP, PHP, and Residential Treatment.
(617) 410-5538 View (617) 410-5538
Photo of Angela Ficken, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ficken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
(617) 936-8311 View (617) 936-8311
Photo of Sam Sullivan - Sam Sullivan - NOCD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sam Sullivan - NOCD
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
First and foremost, I like to stay curious. I want to learn about you and your obsessions and compulsions. We will start slow. There isn't any pressure to get things right the first time; we can take things as slow as you're willing to push yourself. I want to help others and am fascinated by the way the human brain works. I love being able to support someone going through a difficult time and enjoy watching them overcome their challenges. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
First and foremost, I like to stay curious. I want to learn about you and your obsessions and compulsions. We will start slow. There isn't any pressure to get things right the first time; we can take things as slow as you're willing to push yourself. I want to help others and am fascinated by the way the human brain works. I love being able to support someone going through a difficult time and enjoy watching them overcome their challenges. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
(857) 367-1415 View (857) 367-1415
Photo of Esther Tung, PhD, Psychologist
Esther Tung
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist at McLean Hospital and a Lecturer of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. I have worked as a staff psychologist at McLean Hospital’s Anxiety Mastery Program with children and adolescents (and their families) with anxiety disorders in an intensive outpatient setting. Additionally, I completed my postdoctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital’s 3East DBT programs. I earned my PhD at Boston University. I have expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, panic disorder, AR/FID, school avoidance, and borderline personality disorder.
I am a psychologist at McLean Hospital and a Lecturer of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. I have worked as a staff psychologist at McLean Hospital’s Anxiety Mastery Program with children and adolescents (and their families) with anxiety disorders in an intensive outpatient setting. Additionally, I completed my postdoctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital’s 3East DBT programs. I earned my PhD at Boston University. I have expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, panic disorder, AR/FID, school avoidance, and borderline personality disorder.
(781) 653-6692 View (781) 653-6692
Photo of Dr. Brittany Mathes Winnicki, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Brittany Mathes Winnicki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have particular expertise working with individuals with anxiety, OCD, and trauma-related conditions, including college students, parents/caregivers, first responders, and Veterans.
I am currently accepting new clients. As humans, we can often feel stuck, whether it’s in our thoughts, habits, relationships, or life altogether. We end up spending more time in our own heads and less time being truly present in the things that matter to us most. I view therapy as a space where we can work together to openly explore what's keeping you stuck and make meaningful changes to help you get unstuck. My goal is to ultimately help you feel more present and connected so you can live the life you want.
I have particular expertise working with individuals with anxiety, OCD, and trauma-related conditions, including college students, parents/caregivers, first responders, and Veterans.
I am currently accepting new clients. As humans, we can often feel stuck, whether it’s in our thoughts, habits, relationships, or life altogether. We end up spending more time in our own heads and less time being truly present in the things that matter to us most. I view therapy as a space where we can work together to openly explore what's keeping you stuck and make meaningful changes to help you get unstuck. My goal is to ultimately help you feel more present and connected so you can live the life you want.
(617) 671-0839 View (617) 671-0839
Photo of Samuel Skeen, PsyD, Psychologist
Samuel Skeen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
My practice focuses on treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety/Depression, and Substance Use. With any and all presenting concerns, I provide a warm, non-judgmental environment. I have an integrative approach, focusing on research backed treatments that are proven to be effective for symptom improvement. I also deeply value insight oriented discussions of past experiences and relevant interpersonal concerns. I am careful to use these methods in the context of a client centered and welcoming environment which accounts for an individual's particular needs and experiences.
My practice focuses on treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety/Depression, and Substance Use. With any and all presenting concerns, I provide a warm, non-judgmental environment. I have an integrative approach, focusing on research backed treatments that are proven to be effective for symptom improvement. I also deeply value insight oriented discussions of past experiences and relevant interpersonal concerns. I am careful to use these methods in the context of a client centered and welcoming environment which accounts for an individual's particular needs and experiences.
(781) 556-6138 View (781) 556-6138
Photo of Charlotte Lewis, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlotte Lewis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a provisionally licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist at And Still We Rise, LLC. I received my B.S. in Counseling Psychology and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Trauma Specialization Studies from Lesley University. I am committed to multicultural competence and anti-racist practices. I provide individual psychotherapy for a range of presenting concerns, including trauma work, grief and loss, disordered eating, and domestic violence, with additional experience in, OCD work, anxiety/depression, and substance abuse.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a provisionally licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist at And Still We Rise, LLC. I received my B.S. in Counseling Psychology and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Trauma Specialization Studies from Lesley University. I am committed to multicultural competence and anti-racist practices. I provide individual psychotherapy for a range of presenting concerns, including trauma work, grief and loss, disordered eating, and domestic violence, with additional experience in, OCD work, anxiety/depression, and substance abuse.
(888) 572-0795 View (888) 572-0795
Photo of Skye Walker - Skye Walker - NOCD, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Skye Walker - NOCD
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
We have intensive training in ERP therapy, the gold standard for OCD treatment, which helps individuals regain control of their lives.
As someone who went to therapy a lot as a kid for anxiety and various other concerns, I became a therapist to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Human connection is so valuable, and I want my clients to feel heard, seen, and understood. In addition to OCD, I focus on working with transitional-aged youth from 16 to 25, particularly within the queer community, and have extensive experience in trauma work, processing, and healing. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD's nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
We have intensive training in ERP therapy, the gold standard for OCD treatment, which helps individuals regain control of their lives.
As someone who went to therapy a lot as a kid for anxiety and various other concerns, I became a therapist to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Human connection is so valuable, and I want my clients to feel heard, seen, and understood. In addition to OCD, I focus on working with transitional-aged youth from 16 to 25, particularly within the queer community, and have extensive experience in trauma work, processing, and healing. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD's nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
(312) 766-6780 View (312) 766-6780
Photo of Letitia Diane Tayeby, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Letitia Diane Tayeby
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I have spent the past several years specializing in OCD treatment. I work with adults and children and families to learn skills to manage their symptoms and return to a normal level of functionality. I have spent much of my adult life overseas and work with a broad understanding of cultural diversity. My ideal client has insight into the goals they wish to achieve and is willing to work between sessions to ensure their success. When working with children with Anxiety, Phobias or OCD, I include parents in the work whenever appropriate.
I have spent the past several years specializing in OCD treatment. I work with adults and children and families to learn skills to manage their symptoms and return to a normal level of functionality. I have spent much of my adult life overseas and work with a broad understanding of cultural diversity. My ideal client has insight into the goals they wish to achieve and is willing to work between sessions to ensure their success. When working with children with Anxiety, Phobias or OCD, I include parents in the work whenever appropriate.
(508) 500-8188 View (508) 500-8188
Photo of Jen Locke - Jen Locke - NOCD, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Locke - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
As a therapist, I prioritize being a non-judgmental listener. Sitting with me should feel like sitting with a friend or a coach who can help by listening and providing feedback. However, this is your therapy, and you will decide what you're going to do in your life. Showing up is the hardest part, but we can work on the rest together. I will offer feedback that might be challenging at times, but I will always respect your boundaries. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
As a therapist, I prioritize being a non-judgmental listener. Sitting with me should feel like sitting with a friend or a coach who can help by listening and providing feedback. However, this is your therapy, and you will decide what you're going to do in your life. Showing up is the hardest part, but we can work on the rest together. I will offer feedback that might be challenging at times, but I will always respect your boundaries. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
(857) 626-9049 View (857) 626-9049
Photo of Regine Thiam-Kindler, LMHC, Counselor
Regine Thiam-Kindler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with ASD, OCD, eating disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, stress related to chronic pain and medical conditions, and trauma informed care.
Dear Reader, You deserve credit for taking this important step by searching for a provider who can support you on your journey of healing and growth. You might be anxious about making the right choice because you don’t want to waste your time and money. Know that I aim for my clients to experience therapy as a worthy investment. I am a licensed mental health counselor and former dietitian. I offer the perspective of someone who has lived, studied, and worked in two different countries, and who has served people from diverse backgrounds in various settings including inpatient, residential and outpatient care.
I have extensive experience with ASD, OCD, eating disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, stress related to chronic pain and medical conditions, and trauma informed care.
Dear Reader, You deserve credit for taking this important step by searching for a provider who can support you on your journey of healing and growth. You might be anxious about making the right choice because you don’t want to waste your time and money. Know that I aim for my clients to experience therapy as a worthy investment. I am a licensed mental health counselor and former dietitian. I offer the perspective of someone who has lived, studied, and worked in two different countries, and who has served people from diverse backgrounds in various settings including inpatient, residential and outpatient care.
(339) 220-5981 View (339) 220-5981
Photo of Marissa Friedberg - Marissa Friedberg - NOCD, MS, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Friedberg - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Starting therapy can be difficult, and finding the right therapist is essential. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nurturing space to help you reach your goals. Treating OCD is collaborative, and we will take this journey together. Understand that treating OCD is a process. It's important to trust that process. There will be good days and bad days, but I will be here for you every step of the way. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling).
Starting therapy can be difficult, and finding the right therapist is essential. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nurturing space to help you reach your goals. Treating OCD is collaborative, and we will take this journey together. Understand that treating OCD is a process. It's important to trust that process. There will be good days and bad days, but I will be here for you every step of the way. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling).
(857) 367-4341 View (857) 367-4341
Photo of Dr. Natasha H. Bailen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Natasha H. Bailen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I specialize in evidence-based treatments for OCD and anxiety. Outside of my private practice, I am also on faculty at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. Anxiety and fear can limit our lives in a number of ways, leading us to withdraw from people and activities we care about. In therapy, we will use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, mindfulness techniques, and emotion regulation skills to work toward approaching difficult situations, changing unhelpful behaviors, and building a life worth living.
Hello and welcome! I specialize in evidence-based treatments for OCD and anxiety. Outside of my private practice, I am also on faculty at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. Anxiety and fear can limit our lives in a number of ways, leading us to withdraw from people and activities we care about. In therapy, we will use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, mindfulness techniques, and emotion regulation skills to work toward approaching difficult situations, changing unhelpful behaviors, and building a life worth living.
(617) 249-6309 View (617) 249-6309
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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.