Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Kansas City, MO

Photo of Brian Hill, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64138  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people with anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobias) as well as depression, and have clients who have been successful with each of them.
I have had the pleasure of working as a therapist since 2001 and have been helpful to people struggling with a variety of difficulties. My clients generally describe me as kind, gentle, calm, and humorous. I practice primarily from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, but also incorporate other models to augment cognitive therapy.
I enjoy working with people with anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobias) as well as depression, and have clients who have been successful with each of them.
I have had the pleasure of working as a therapist since 2001 and have been helpful to people struggling with a variety of difficulties. My clients generally describe me as kind, gentle, calm, and humorous. I practice primarily from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, but also incorporate other models to augment cognitive therapy.
(785) 543-0671 View (785) 543-0671
Photo of Tanner Edwards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanner Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
Having a specialist to help you untangle yourself from obsessive thoughts and compulsions can be essential.
I provide a therapy called ERP (exposure and response prevention) for people with OCD. If you’re reading this, you probably know that OCD can take on a life of its own. My clients are trying their best to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, yet OCD can become incredibly time consuming and take attention away from the very activities and people that matter most. With treatment, my clients are increasingly able to feel a sense of safety in their lives and join others instead of needing to control the moment.
Having a specialist to help you untangle yourself from obsessive thoughts and compulsions can be essential.
I provide a therapy called ERP (exposure and response prevention) for people with OCD. If you’re reading this, you probably know that OCD can take on a life of its own. My clients are trying their best to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, yet OCD can become incredibly time consuming and take attention away from the very activities and people that matter most. With treatment, my clients are increasingly able to feel a sense of safety in their lives and join others instead of needing to control the moment.
(816) 227-6894 View (816) 227-6894
Photo of Ryan Wilderman, MA, LPC, Counselor
Ryan Wilderman
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
(314) 208-3477 View (314) 208-3477
Photo of Meredith Beard, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I work with people who have anxiety and OCD and are understandably nervous about what they have read about exposure therapy (or ERP).
A little about me... I couldn’t survive without my assortment of To Do lists. Somehow I manage to surprise myself again and again by not completing the lengthy tasks I hoped to cross off my lists. I wish I prioritized time in nature, self-care, and getting together with friends. The frenetic pace of our modern “grind culture” is a force I find challenging to resist. Despite having book knowledge on anxiety, I still have panicky moments. Through my own therapy, I am unlearning the message of hustling for my worth and aiming to embrace my limitations. I have come to learn that my triggers often end up being my best teachers.
I work with people who have anxiety and OCD and are understandably nervous about what they have read about exposure therapy (or ERP).
A little about me... I couldn’t survive without my assortment of To Do lists. Somehow I manage to surprise myself again and again by not completing the lengthy tasks I hoped to cross off my lists. I wish I prioritized time in nature, self-care, and getting together with friends. The frenetic pace of our modern “grind culture” is a force I find challenging to resist. Despite having book knowledge on anxiety, I still have panicky moments. Through my own therapy, I am unlearning the message of hustling for my worth and aiming to embrace my limitations. I have come to learn that my triggers often end up being my best teachers.
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Photo of Dr. Sarah Kertz, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Kertz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
If you are a therapist looking for consultation on cases with OCD or feel you're struggling with ERP, I can help. I'm a clinical psychologist with extensive experience. As the owner and director of Anxiety Specialists of St. Louis, I work with clients and also mentor emerging therapists in advanced therapeutic techniques. I completed my internship and postdoctoral training at McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, where I also trained at the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Institute (OCDI). I then taught and supervised doctoral clinical psychology students for 8 years in a university psychology department.
If you are a therapist looking for consultation on cases with OCD or feel you're struggling with ERP, I can help. I'm a clinical psychologist with extensive experience. As the owner and director of Anxiety Specialists of St. Louis, I work with clients and also mentor emerging therapists in advanced therapeutic techniques. I completed my internship and postdoctoral training at McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, where I also trained at the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Institute (OCDI). I then taught and supervised doctoral clinical psychology students for 8 years in a university psychology department.
(314) 907-2206 View (314) 907-2206
Photo of Sarah Burns - Sarah Burns, LMSW, MSW, LMSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Burns, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109  (Online Only)
I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and related anxiety disorders. Has the need for control taken control over your life? Have avoidance, distraction, or other strategies you use to ease your anxiety created problems in the long run?  Therapy can provide you with the tools to not only reduce your suffering, but produce a life better than you ever imagined. Working together, I will help you face irrational fears, challenge ingrained thoughts and behaviors, and find more effective ways to cope.
I specialize in eating disorders, OCD, and related anxiety disorders. Has the need for control taken control over your life? Have avoidance, distraction, or other strategies you use to ease your anxiety created problems in the long run?  Therapy can provide you with the tools to not only reduce your suffering, but produce a life better than you ever imagined. Working together, I will help you face irrational fears, challenge ingrained thoughts and behaviors, and find more effective ways to cope.
(314) 794-7370 View (314) 794-7370
Photo of Joanna Brodersen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Brodersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110  (Online Only)
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I work primarily with individuals struggling with OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I work primarily with individuals struggling with OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself.
(314) 648-3745 View (314) 648-3745
Photo of Leigh Anne Randa, PhD, Psychologist
Leigh Anne Randa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64151
With regard to diagnosed mental health issues, I specialize in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD and related trauma disorders, grief, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
With regard to diagnosed mental health issues, I specialize in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD and related trauma disorders, grief, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
(314) 408-6299 View (314) 408-6299
Lavender Springs Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CCTII
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64117  (Online Only)
Additionally, they have an exceptional track record in helping clients who are managing attention deficits, obsessive-compulsive disorders and phobias.
Lavender Springs offers assistance to individuals, regardless of whether it is their initial, third, or fourth time seeking therapy. With Bryan or Nicole as your therapist, they each strives to create a structured approach that aligns with your goals. They will encourage you, challenge you, be coaches, they will teach you and motivates change. This approach ensures that your time and investment in therapy are valuable, allowing you to make progress during each session. Lavender Springs prioritizes evidence-based methods, focusing on personalized treatment tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Additionally, they have an exceptional track record in helping clients who are managing attention deficits, obsessive-compulsive disorders and phobias.
Lavender Springs offers assistance to individuals, regardless of whether it is their initial, third, or fourth time seeking therapy. With Bryan or Nicole as your therapist, they each strives to create a structured approach that aligns with your goals. They will encourage you, challenge you, be coaches, they will teach you and motivates change. This approach ensures that your time and investment in therapy are valuable, allowing you to make progress during each session. Lavender Springs prioritizes evidence-based methods, focusing on personalized treatment tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(913) 347-6629 View (913) 347-6629
Photo of Darlene Weldon, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darlene Weldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people of all ages who have anxiety, OCD, and those who are on the Autism Spectrum. I'm based out of Parkville, Missouri but I help people residing anywhere in Missouri or Kansas. Issues include anxiety, panic, social and coping skills, intrusive thoughts, giftedness, and self-esteem. Parents of younger kids may benefit from learning effective behavior modification strategies and fine tuning their parenting style. Issues addressed can include toilet training, help with bedtime and morning routines, sibling conflict, school anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, and tantrums/meltdowns.
I specialize in helping people of all ages who have anxiety, OCD, and those who are on the Autism Spectrum. I'm based out of Parkville, Missouri but I help people residing anywhere in Missouri or Kansas. Issues include anxiety, panic, social and coping skills, intrusive thoughts, giftedness, and self-esteem. Parents of younger kids may benefit from learning effective behavior modification strategies and fine tuning their parenting style. Issues addressed can include toilet training, help with bedtime and morning routines, sibling conflict, school anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, and tantrums/meltdowns.
(816) 348-3258 View (816) 348-3258
Photo of Anna Cox, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64152
I work with clients who are trying to manage a variety of issues including stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, life changes, trauma, and OCD.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
I work with clients who are trying to manage a variety of issues including stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, life changes, trauma, and OCD.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
(573) 549-3940 View (573) 549-3940
Photo of Hailee Bradshaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailee Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults 18 years and older and couples. I have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I am an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and I want to help encourage people through finding themselves. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and holistic DBT approach.
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults 18 years and older and couples. I have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I am an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and I want to help encourage people through finding themselves. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and holistic DBT approach.
(816) 934-5599 View (816) 934-5599
Photo of Taylor Magruder, MS, PLPC
Taylor Magruder
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
(816) 339-4685 View (816) 339-4685
Photo of Catie Tweedie, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catie Tweedie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Thank you for being here. I work with individuals 13+ to address Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, OCD, Relational Issues, Suicidality, LGBTQIA+, and people experiencing grief and loss. I believe that self-compassion is the foundation for personal growth. As your therapist, my role is not to give you advice. You know yourself best. My role is to provide a partnering hand to move through life's challenges with you.
Thank you for being here. I work with individuals 13+ to address Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, OCD, Relational Issues, Suicidality, LGBTQIA+, and people experiencing grief and loss. I believe that self-compassion is the foundation for personal growth. As your therapist, my role is not to give you advice. You know yourself best. My role is to provide a partnering hand to move through life's challenges with you.
(816) 439-8049 View (816) 439-8049
Photo of Jeffrey E Holt, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey E Holt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, CPT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, CPT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
(816) 521-6948 View (816) 521-6948
Photo of Emily J Towner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily J Towner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
(816) 565-4270 View (816) 565-4270
Photo of Rachel Bichara, LPC, LCPC
Rachel Bichara
LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Specialties: Anxiety Disorders (OCD), Depression, Eating Disorders, Interpersonal Issues, DBT, CBT.
Let's get you started in therapy! I'm looking forward to the chance to get to know you and create an environment where you feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable. Therapy isn't supposed to be easy but it should be something that you look forward to (most days at least). I will do everything I can to get to know you and figure out what approach will work best for you!
Specialties: Anxiety Disorders (OCD), Depression, Eating Disorders, Interpersonal Issues, DBT, CBT.
Let's get you started in therapy! I'm looking forward to the chance to get to know you and create an environment where you feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable. Therapy isn't supposed to be easy but it should be something that you look forward to (most days at least). I will do everything I can to get to know you and figure out what approach will work best for you!
(913) 583-0554 View (913) 583-0554
Photo of Aaron K Shore - gokc Healing Center, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
gokc Healing Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
Specifically, I have clinical expertise and training in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, men’s issues, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, effective fathering training and personality disorders.
I'm Aaron Shore, Owner of gokc - a Nature Therapy & Mental Health Counseling Practice. I love being a therapist & am grateful to be a part of the KC community of helpers! I believe in leaning into our strengths and cultivating ‘good enough’ mindset in deficit areas. We are not meant to live in our struggles - we are more than them. I offer support through humor, practical skill building & challenging/changing your beliefs. There are so many ways we can do this and your individual style will determine how we approach your work in session. gokc is a group practice - we have 5 terrific & diverse therapists to help you reconnect & heal.
Specifically, I have clinical expertise and training in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, men’s issues, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, effective fathering training and personality disorders.
I'm Aaron Shore, Owner of gokc - a Nature Therapy & Mental Health Counseling Practice. I love being a therapist & am grateful to be a part of the KC community of helpers! I believe in leaning into our strengths and cultivating ‘good enough’ mindset in deficit areas. We are not meant to live in our struggles - we are more than them. I offer support through humor, practical skill building & challenging/changing your beliefs. There are so many ways we can do this and your individual style will determine how we approach your work in session. gokc is a group practice - we have 5 terrific & diverse therapists to help you reconnect & heal.
(816) 209-1987 View (816) 209-1987
Photo of Gabi Goldstein, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabi Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma and PTSD as well as expertise in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and self-harm.
Hi there, I’m Gabi! Thank you for taking the time to read through my page. Reaching out for therapy can be a daunting and overwhelming process. I’m here to make this journey easy to navigate so you can focus on what matters most. My passion lies in facilitating a space for healing and guiding individuals like you towards living your most authentic life. Taking this first step requires courage, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma and PTSD as well as expertise in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and self-harm.
Hi there, I’m Gabi! Thank you for taking the time to read through my page. Reaching out for therapy can be a daunting and overwhelming process. I’m here to make this journey easy to navigate so you can focus on what matters most. My passion lies in facilitating a space for healing and guiding individuals like you towards living your most authentic life. Taking this first step requires courage, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(816) 846-3336 View (816) 846-3336
Photo of Elizabeth Brown, MS, LMFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Waitlist for new clients
I am an attachment based and client-centered therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD and relational distress.
Feeling stuck, chaotic, overwhelmed, purposeless, anxious? Do you ever find yourself doing the same things over and over wishing you would have a different outcome? Do you feel consumed by your thoughts? Do you feel like you and your partner just don’t get each other? Often time asking for help and finding help is overwhelming. You want to make a change, make things better, but you don’t know how. You want to feel like you again - not to just keep surviving, but start living intentionally and passionately. You want the anxiety, the intrusive thoughts and the sleepless nights to end - to be present with yourself and your loved ones.
I am an attachment based and client-centered therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD and relational distress.
Feeling stuck, chaotic, overwhelmed, purposeless, anxious? Do you ever find yourself doing the same things over and over wishing you would have a different outcome? Do you feel consumed by your thoughts? Do you feel like you and your partner just don’t get each other? Often time asking for help and finding help is overwhelming. You want to make a change, make things better, but you don’t know how. You want to feel like you again - not to just keep surviving, but start living intentionally and passionately. You want the anxiety, the intrusive thoughts and the sleepless nights to end - to be present with yourself and your loved ones.
(816) 662-6127 View (816) 662-6127
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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.