Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Lincoln, NE

Photo of Amanda Swyers, MSE, LIMHP, CPC, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Swyers
Counselor, MSE, LIMHP, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68501
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, to include body dysmorphia and body repetitious disorders, such as trichotillomania (hair pulling) and excoriation (skin picking). Regardless of your situation or circumstance, I believe we all have strengths within us that we can use to get back on our feet & to live our best lives. When you're ready for growth, change, or challenge, I will be in your corner. Together we will set goals to fit your life, at your pace.
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, to include body dysmorphia and body repetitious disorders, such as trichotillomania (hair pulling) and excoriation (skin picking). Regardless of your situation or circumstance, I believe we all have strengths within us that we can use to get back on our feet & to live our best lives. When you're ready for growth, change, or challenge, I will be in your corner. Together we will set goals to fit your life, at your pace.
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Photo of Sydnie Burt, MSW, PLMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydnie Burt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
Hi! I am so glad you are here. I know therapy can be intimidating for some individuals, so I am proud of you for taking the first step. I believe a huge part of therapeutic success comes through rapport; I do my best to offer a comfortable, welcoming environment. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches best fit for each person. I have lived experience with OCD and professional experience working with clients who have OCD, including those with more "taboo" themes. I also have experience working with anxiety, self-esteem issues, grief, bipolar disorder, depression, survivors of sexual abuse, and other trauma.
Hi! I am so glad you are here. I know therapy can be intimidating for some individuals, so I am proud of you for taking the first step. I believe a huge part of therapeutic success comes through rapport; I do my best to offer a comfortable, welcoming environment. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches best fit for each person. I have lived experience with OCD and professional experience working with clients who have OCD, including those with more "taboo" themes. I also have experience working with anxiety, self-esteem issues, grief, bipolar disorder, depression, survivors of sexual abuse, and other trauma.
(402) 814-8940 View (402) 814-8940
Photo of Amy Hudson, MA, LMHP, Counselor
Amy Hudson
Counselor, MA, LMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
I have extensive background in anxiety, grief, neurodiversity issues and OCD support.
Hey there! Thanks for stopping by. I believe in a modern approach to mental wellness that is person-centered and solution focused in nature. I believe in the power of breathwork, nutrition, movement and rest and encourage it in my practice. Whether you are grappling with a specific issue around which you need serious support, or you are finally trying to understand yourself better, I am here for you! I have over 20 years experience working with youth, adults, individuals and families.
I have extensive background in anxiety, grief, neurodiversity issues and OCD support.
Hey there! Thanks for stopping by. I believe in a modern approach to mental wellness that is person-centered and solution focused in nature. I believe in the power of breathwork, nutrition, movement and rest and encourage it in my practice. Whether you are grappling with a specific issue around which you need serious support, or you are finally trying to understand yourself better, I am here for you! I have over 20 years experience working with youth, adults, individuals and families.
(531) 208-1877 View (531) 208-1877
Photo of Raegan Bartholomew, MA, LMHP, LPC, Counselor
Raegan Bartholomew
Counselor, MA, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68506
I often work with clients who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, and Adjustment Concerns.
Hi there! I'm so happy you're here! Seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm glad that you're taking an active step towards improving your overall wellness. I take a holistic approach to the counseling experience where I focus on one's lifespan including their past, present, and future. While your past may play a role in who you are today, I am a firm believer that it does not have to dictate where you're going. We all may experience similar concerns throughout life, but this is YOUR journey and it is unique to you.
I often work with clients who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, and Adjustment Concerns.
Hi there! I'm so happy you're here! Seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm glad that you're taking an active step towards improving your overall wellness. I take a holistic approach to the counseling experience where I focus on one's lifespan including their past, present, and future. While your past may play a role in who you are today, I am a firm believer that it does not have to dictate where you're going. We all may experience similar concerns throughout life, but this is YOUR journey and it is unique to you.
(402) 656-6205 View (402) 656-6205
Photo of Jamie Weatherly, LMHP, Counselor
Jamie Weatherly
Counselor, LMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68510
Waitlist for new clients
I have vast experience in grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship concerns, self-worth and life transitions.
I became a therapist because your life is worth my time. I'm so glad you're here. Whether this is your first or fifth time seeking a therapist, welcome! Regardless of the reasons why you're interested in starting or continuing your therapy journey, it can be complicated to be at this stage of trying to find the right fit for you. I'm happy to help. I approach therapy through a collaborative and humble lens. I may have degrees and licenses that make me educated in this field but I am not an expert of YOU. So you and I will work together to make the changes you see fit and identify the areas of life you would like to improve.
I have vast experience in grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship concerns, self-worth and life transitions.
I became a therapist because your life is worth my time. I'm so glad you're here. Whether this is your first or fifth time seeking a therapist, welcome! Regardless of the reasons why you're interested in starting or continuing your therapy journey, it can be complicated to be at this stage of trying to find the right fit for you. I'm happy to help. I approach therapy through a collaborative and humble lens. I may have degrees and licenses that make me educated in this field but I am not an expert of YOU. So you and I will work together to make the changes you see fit and identify the areas of life you would like to improve.
(402) 539-5930 View (402) 539-5930
Photo of Amber M Zeisler, PsyD, Psychologist
Amber M Zeisler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68506
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and related disorders. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder involves experiencing distressing, intrusive thoughts. Intrusions are paired with repetitive behaviors. Themes include contamination, causing unintentional harm, perfectionism, religion, relationship, sexual orientation, and "bad thoughts" (violent, sexual, taboo). When addressing OCD, my preferred method of treatment involves Exposure Therapy with Response Prevention. Individuals with Hoarding Disorder experience significant distress when discarding possessions. Avoiding this distress results in an accumulation of items that intrude on one's living space. In treatment, it is important to address both acquisition and factors that interfere with discarding.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and related disorders. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder involves experiencing distressing, intrusive thoughts. Intrusions are paired with repetitive behaviors. Themes include contamination, causing unintentional harm, perfectionism, religion, relationship, sexual orientation, and "bad thoughts" (violent, sexual, taboo). When addressing OCD, my preferred method of treatment involves Exposure Therapy with Response Prevention. Individuals with Hoarding Disorder experience significant distress when discarding possessions. Avoiding this distress results in an accumulation of items that intrude on one's living space. In treatment, it is important to address both acquisition and factors that interfere with discarding.
(402) 965-0303 View (402) 965-0303
Photo of Amanda Petrik-Gardner - Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP, Counselor
Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68501  (Online Only)
Anxiety & OCD take many forms. A fear of contamination, discomfort when something is out of order, distress that you might act on a harming/sexual thought, fear that you are a bad person or will be punished by a higher being, blasphemous thoughts that shake your faith, or fears you are responsible for something bad happening. Anxiety can look like worries about the future, fear of embarrassment, health anxiety, panic attacks, hair pulling and skin picking, or wondering if you're good enough. If any of this sounds familiar, my practice may be a good fit for you, as I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and BFRBs.
Anxiety & OCD take many forms. A fear of contamination, discomfort when something is out of order, distress that you might act on a harming/sexual thought, fear that you are a bad person or will be punished by a higher being, blasphemous thoughts that shake your faith, or fears you are responsible for something bad happening. Anxiety can look like worries about the future, fear of embarrassment, health anxiety, panic attacks, hair pulling and skin picking, or wondering if you're good enough. If any of this sounds familiar, my practice may be a good fit for you, as I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and BFRBs.
(785) 477-9117 View (785) 477-9117
Photo of Heather Kollmann, PLMHP
Heather Kollmann
Provisional Mental Health Practitioner, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
I have experience providing counseling to clients of all ages and varying needs including anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, life changes, OCD and hoarding.
Hello! I know the process of finding a therapist can be difficult and starting counseling can be scary, but I am here to help you along the way. I am a down to earth, happy go lucky person that offers a nonjudgemental, safe and secure atmosphere that will allow you to feel listened to and understood. Together we will create therapeutic goals, that are clear, identifiable and achievable. These goals will lead you to the you that you want to be.
I have experience providing counseling to clients of all ages and varying needs including anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, life changes, OCD and hoarding.
Hello! I know the process of finding a therapist can be difficult and starting counseling can be scary, but I am here to help you along the way. I am a down to earth, happy go lucky person that offers a nonjudgemental, safe and secure atmosphere that will allow you to feel listened to and understood. Together we will create therapeutic goals, that are clear, identifiable and achievable. These goals will lead you to the you that you want to be.
(531) 224-4486 View (531) 224-4486
Photo of DeAnne Printz, PhD, Psychologist
DeAnne Printz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
I work primarily with adults with a wide range of presenting problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, bipolar, etc. My early training and early career jobs were in agencies serving primarily children and adolescents. I have shifted to working primarily with adults, but continue to keep my hand in a bit of therapy with adolescents. My background in child/adolescent therapy has been useful in working with adults struggling with their children, teens, and adult children. I also enjoy working with couples struggling with the trials and complexities of being in a marriage.
I work primarily with adults with a wide range of presenting problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, bipolar, etc. My early training and early career jobs were in agencies serving primarily children and adolescents. I have shifted to working primarily with adults, but continue to keep my hand in a bit of therapy with adolescents. My background in child/adolescent therapy has been useful in working with adults struggling with their children, teens, and adult children. I also enjoy working with couples struggling with the trials and complexities of being in a marriage.
(531) 201-6748 x2 View (531) 201-6748 x2
Photo of Britt Echtenkamp, MA, LIMHP, RPT, Counselor
Britt Echtenkamp
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68506
I have a passion for helping children who struggle with anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, school anxiety, grief, major life transitions, and depression.
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy, which is a research based, developmentally appropriate mental health intervention for kids. Child Centered Play Therapy uses play - which is the natural language of children - as a means to allow children to process big feelings, inner experiences, struggles and triumphs. My job is to facilitate this play and establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with the child. This relationship, paired with a safe, consistent play environment, has the potential to decrease problematic behaviors, increase self-esteem, increase positive coping skills and improve overall functioning.
I have a passion for helping children who struggle with anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, school anxiety, grief, major life transitions, and depression.
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy, which is a research based, developmentally appropriate mental health intervention for kids. Child Centered Play Therapy uses play - which is the natural language of children - as a means to allow children to process big feelings, inner experiences, struggles and triumphs. My job is to facilitate this play and establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with the child. This relationship, paired with a safe, consistent play environment, has the potential to decrease problematic behaviors, increase self-esteem, increase positive coping skills and improve overall functioning.
(402) 782-1399 View (402) 782-1399
Photo of Brenna Erdman, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brenna Erdman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68508
Wherever you are in your journey, whatever you are seeking from therapy, I want to take those next steps with you! I have special interests in working with young adults and college students, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, those living with chronic pain, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
My name is Brenna Erdman, and I am a clinician at New Outlook Counseling in Lincoln, Nebraska under the supervision of Jamie Heng, LIMHP. It is my belief that creating a nonjudgmental environment is important for honest self-exploration. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be one of authenticity, collaboration, and one that feels safe and supportive. I am honored to create space for clients to share their lives with me, and I am committed to empowering clients with tools to grow into their most ideal selves.
Wherever you are in your journey, whatever you are seeking from therapy, I want to take those next steps with you! I have special interests in working with young adults and college students, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, those living with chronic pain, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
My name is Brenna Erdman, and I am a clinician at New Outlook Counseling in Lincoln, Nebraska under the supervision of Jamie Heng, LIMHP. It is my belief that creating a nonjudgmental environment is important for honest self-exploration. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be one of authenticity, collaboration, and one that feels safe and supportive. I am honored to create space for clients to share their lives with me, and I am committed to empowering clients with tools to grow into their most ideal selves.
(402) 416-9415 View (402) 416-9415
Photo of Raylene Parks, PLMHP, PCMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raylene Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PLMHP, PCMSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
Raylene is a graduate of Arizona State University with a Master's in Social Work and is currently provisionally licensed. She has experience working with the aging population and individuals with severe and persistent mental illness in the community setting. Raylene will be developing a specialty in the area of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Hoarding Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors. She also has a particular interest in working with depression, life transitions, and aging. Raylene will meet with self-pay clients for a reduced rate.
Raylene is a graduate of Arizona State University with a Master's in Social Work and is currently provisionally licensed. She has experience working with the aging population and individuals with severe and persistent mental illness in the community setting. Raylene will be developing a specialty in the area of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Hoarding Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors. She also has a particular interest in working with depression, life transitions, and aging. Raylene will meet with self-pay clients for a reduced rate.
(402) 645-4929 View (402) 645-4929
Photo of Carey Kalkwarf, LICSW
Carey Kalkwarf
LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68516
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My experience includes having worked with adults who struggle with PTSD, trauma (as well as military-related PTSD), depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders, postpartum + pregnancy + fertility related struggles, grief/loss/bereavement, substance use/addiction, relationship issues, and suicidal ideation/crisis intervention. I specialize in perinatal mental health and I received training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My experience includes having worked with adults who struggle with PTSD, trauma (as well as military-related PTSD), depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders, postpartum + pregnancy + fertility related struggles, grief/loss/bereavement, substance use/addiction, relationship issues, and suicidal ideation/crisis intervention. I specialize in perinatal mental health and I received training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(531) 233-3015 View (531) 233-3015
Photo of Jamie Heng, LIMHP, Counselor
Jamie Heng
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68508
My areas of interest are perinatal mood disorders (PMH-C), couples counseling, challenging adult family relationships, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, OCD, stress, , and self-esteem issues.
I believe we all have a story to tell. Our life experiences shape who we are and how we think and behave. I feel honored when clients share their stories with me and allow me to help them navigate through these stories to gain a better understanding of themselves and possibly break free from unwanted thinking patterns and behaviors. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of a successful counseling experience and enjoy building these relationships with individuals and couples so we can start working together toward change.
My areas of interest are perinatal mood disorders (PMH-C), couples counseling, challenging adult family relationships, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, OCD, stress, , and self-esteem issues.
I believe we all have a story to tell. Our life experiences shape who we are and how we think and behave. I feel honored when clients share their stories with me and allow me to help them navigate through these stories to gain a better understanding of themselves and possibly break free from unwanted thinking patterns and behaviors. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of a successful counseling experience and enjoy building these relationships with individuals and couples so we can start working together toward change.
(402) 620-6094 View (402) 620-6094
Photo of Michelle Miller, MA, LIMHP, CPC, CCTP, Counselor
Michelle Miller
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, CPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68506
Waitlist for new clients
Symptoms such as racing thoughts, panic attacks, OCD, food restriction, bulimia, self-harm, unexplained physical pain, problems falling and staying asleep, and traumatic flash backs are anxiety based.
The idea that sustainable happiness is an unattainable goal, is a tricky one. It's that thing we say to ourselves: "if I just ____ then I will be happy ...or if they just ____ then I will be happy." I prefer the idea of moving toward being more content. Isn't content what we feel when we are comfortable, calm, validated and without anxious or depressive thoughts that mess with our days? Often, if not almost always, we have traumas (big or small) and mean/sad/negative inner voices and thoughts that, if we process them, we can get to our contentedness.
Symptoms such as racing thoughts, panic attacks, OCD, food restriction, bulimia, self-harm, unexplained physical pain, problems falling and staying asleep, and traumatic flash backs are anxiety based.
The idea that sustainable happiness is an unattainable goal, is a tricky one. It's that thing we say to ourselves: "if I just ____ then I will be happy ...or if they just ____ then I will be happy." I prefer the idea of moving toward being more content. Isn't content what we feel when we are comfortable, calm, validated and without anxious or depressive thoughts that mess with our days? Often, if not almost always, we have traumas (big or small) and mean/sad/negative inner voices and thoughts that, if we process them, we can get to our contentedness.
(402) 509-2463 View (402) 509-2463
Photo of Laura Forcella Spiering, LCSW, LIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Forcella Spiering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68503
I’m skilled in supporting clients with anxiety, stress, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and depression to develop better coping skills so that you can attain better balance, increase confidence, and enhance your emotional well-being.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with perfectionism, health anxiety, worry, irritability, sleeping difficulty, or depression? Is it interfering with your relationships or well-being? If so, you don’t have to keep pretending you are okay or face all of these challenges alone. I know it is hard to make the time for therapy, and we often prioritize others over ourselves. Now is the time to pause, shift focus to your own needs, and develop new coping skills so that you can live the life you want.
I’m skilled in supporting clients with anxiety, stress, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and depression to develop better coping skills so that you can attain better balance, increase confidence, and enhance your emotional well-being.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with perfectionism, health anxiety, worry, irritability, sleeping difficulty, or depression? Is it interfering with your relationships or well-being? If so, you don’t have to keep pretending you are okay or face all of these challenges alone. I know it is hard to make the time for therapy, and we often prioritize others over ourselves. Now is the time to pause, shift focus to your own needs, and develop new coping skills so that you can live the life you want.
(850) 713-5856 View (850) 713-5856
Photo of Christine Erickson, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine Erickson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68522  (Online Only)
Everyone needs help at times, and that’s okay. I have several years experience working with individuals dealing with chronic anxiety, chronic depression, complex trauma, and issues related to neurodiversity. I’ve worked with girls at the end of high school transitioning to college, as well as adults of multiple genders. I also have many years working with children in different settings, many of whom dealt with multiple diagnoses. Some of these issues include ADHD, OCD, autism, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Everyone needs help at times, and that’s okay. I have several years experience working with individuals dealing with chronic anxiety, chronic depression, complex trauma, and issues related to neurodiversity. I’ve worked with girls at the end of high school transitioning to college, as well as adults of multiple genders. I also have many years working with children in different settings, many of whom dealt with multiple diagnoses. Some of these issues include ADHD, OCD, autism, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(435) 238-4514 View (435) 238-4514
Photo of Jolene John-Beckstrom, MA, LIMHP, LPC, Counselor
Jolene John-Beckstrom
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68516
Are you a stressed-out professional, overwhelmed with too many responsibilities? Sometimes you can't talk to a spouse or co-worker. There is no reason to keep it to yourself; that only makes things worse. How can you change things? Realistically, you can only change your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and perspective. If you need help doing that, call today.
Are you a stressed-out professional, overwhelmed with too many responsibilities? Sometimes you can't talk to a spouse or co-worker. There is no reason to keep it to yourself; that only makes things worse. How can you change things? Realistically, you can only change your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and perspective. If you need help doing that, call today.
(402) 718-8467 View (402) 718-8467
Photo of Elisabeth Shaw, MA, LIMHP, LCPC-P, LPC
Elisabeth Shaw
MA, LIMHP, LCPC-P, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68508
Many experiences in life can leave us feeling lost and alone. This often leads to seasons in our life where we experience emotional or physical distress. It is during these seasons where navigating and asking for help can sometimes be difficult. Maybe you're asking "what's wrong with me?" You are not alone in whatever struggle you are experiencing. I'm not here to fix you, but rather to provide a safe place to process, support, empower, and discover what it looks like to live a more authentic life.
Many experiences in life can leave us feeling lost and alone. This often leads to seasons in our life where we experience emotional or physical distress. It is during these seasons where navigating and asking for help can sometimes be difficult. Maybe you're asking "what's wrong with me?" You are not alone in whatever struggle you are experiencing. I'm not here to fix you, but rather to provide a safe place to process, support, empower, and discover what it looks like to live a more authentic life.
(402) 285-6090 View (402) 285-6090
Photo of Rachel Despain, MA, LIMHP
Rachel Despain
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, MA, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68506
Welcome! Whether you are returning to therapy or seeking it out for the first time, taking this step is brave and worth celebrating. My hope as your counselor is to facilitate a space where you feel safe, seen, and secure. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship to support clients in moving towards their desired goals. I knew I wanted to be a therapist after having my own experience in therapy and since then I have dedicated my life and career to helping others in the same way that that therapist helped me.
Welcome! Whether you are returning to therapy or seeking it out for the first time, taking this step is brave and worth celebrating. My hope as your counselor is to facilitate a space where you feel safe, seen, and secure. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship to support clients in moving towards their desired goals. I knew I wanted to be a therapist after having my own experience in therapy and since then I have dedicated my life and career to helping others in the same way that that therapist helped me.
(402) 628-7753 View (402) 628-7753
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.