Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Merrimack, NH

Photo of Brian Bedard, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Brian Bedard
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
I enjoy working with professional adults and motivated older adolescents who are struggling with mental disorders and life challenges. I have been working in the mental health field for over 22 years. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. I have the dual benefit of historically working in medical, hospital and institutional settings and approaching the practice of psychotherapy from a holistic perspective (mind, body and spirit). I especially enjoy approaching psychotherapy from a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective as well using mindfulness to assist patients who are struggling.
I enjoy working with professional adults and motivated older adolescents who are struggling with mental disorders and life challenges. I have been working in the mental health field for over 22 years. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. I have the dual benefit of historically working in medical, hospital and institutional settings and approaching the practice of psychotherapy from a holistic perspective (mind, body and spirit). I especially enjoy approaching psychotherapy from a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective as well using mindfulness to assist patients who are struggling.
(603) 606-3070 View (603) 606-3070
Photo of Barton W Bryant, PhD, Psychologist
Barton W Bryant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
I love my work. You may want a quiet, protected space where you can think out loud - with the freedom to follow your thoughts to their own (surprising?) conclusions. Or you may want a more active interaction, a back-and-forth exchange to wrestle with difficult emotions and come out the other side feeling more settled and self-directed in your life. My first job is to meet you wherever you are - wanting help with an immediate crisis, or wishing to explore a past experience that continues to haunt you.
I love my work. You may want a quiet, protected space where you can think out loud - with the freedom to follow your thoughts to their own (surprising?) conclusions. Or you may want a more active interaction, a back-and-forth exchange to wrestle with difficult emotions and come out the other side feeling more settled and self-directed in your life. My first job is to meet you wherever you are - wanting help with an immediate crisis, or wishing to explore a past experience that continues to haunt you.
(603) 673-1661 View (603) 673-1661
Photo of Deborah Sturm, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Sturm
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
Hi. I am a licensed psychologist lucky enough to love what I do. I have a thriving private practice working exclusively with adults in individual and couples/marital therapy. Whether you want help with personal/emotional struggles, relationships, stresses of everyday life, or a life crisis, I can help you feel more settled and confident about yourself and your life. Rooted in the present or past, issues including anxiety, depression and self-esteem may be interfering with your happiness and effectiveness. My approach varies with your particular needs but is always rooted in a safe and caring relationship and dedicated to promoting positive change.
Hi. I am a licensed psychologist lucky enough to love what I do. I have a thriving private practice working exclusively with adults in individual and couples/marital therapy. Whether you want help with personal/emotional struggles, relationships, stresses of everyday life, or a life crisis, I can help you feel more settled and confident about yourself and your life. Rooted in the present or past, issues including anxiety, depression and self-esteem may be interfering with your happiness and effectiveness. My approach varies with your particular needs but is always rooted in a safe and caring relationship and dedicated to promoting positive change.
(855) 890-6759 View (855) 890-6759
Photo of Jessica Bennett, LCMHC, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jessica Bennett
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 11 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples. I have a passion for helping people of all ages learn to manage their day to day stressors. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing my clients learn appropriate coping skills. I provide a safe environment free of judgment while also fostering a therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 11 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples. I have a passion for helping people of all ages learn to manage their day to day stressors. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing my clients learn appropriate coping skills. I provide a safe environment free of judgment while also fostering a therapeutic relationship with my clients.
(978) 883-3021 View (978) 883-3021
Photo of Denise Gaertner, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Denise Gaertner
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
(603) 685-3705 View (603) 685-3705
Photo of Ellie Mental Health - Ellie Mental Health Nashua, LCMHC, MLADC, MA, MS, Counselor
Ellie Mental Health Nashua
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrimack, NH 03054
Welcome to Ellie Mental Health of Nashua! We are now accepting clients with no wait! See a therapist the same week! We are accept insurance, and if you don't see yours yet, it's coming! At Ellie Mental Health Nashua, we have a passion for helping people and our community! We strive to break down the barriers to care, and eliminate the stigma associated with mental health.... After all, health is health! Let us welcome you in to our brand new space, and connect you with one of our seven amazing therapists!
Welcome to Ellie Mental Health of Nashua! We are now accepting clients with no wait! See a therapist the same week! We are accept insurance, and if you don't see yours yet, it's coming! At Ellie Mental Health Nashua, we have a passion for helping people and our community! We strive to break down the barriers to care, and eliminate the stigma associated with mental health.... After all, health is health! Let us welcome you in to our brand new space, and connect you with one of our seven amazing therapists!
(877) 873-0769 View (877) 873-0769
Photo of Sari Lessard, PhD, Psychologist
Sari Lessard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
Not accepting new clients
Have you hit a sticky point? It happens! We hit them throughout our lives. From adolescence to adulthood. whether we are receiving care or giving it, we need to iron out the wrinkles now and again. As a teenager, you might be faced with tricky situations or struggle to have the types of relationships you want with family and friends. As an adult, the pressures of work, parenthood, or other caregiving might be triggering a lot of stress, anxiety, or depression. Or maybe you're heartbroken because it is your child who is struggling instead.
Have you hit a sticky point? It happens! We hit them throughout our lives. From adolescence to adulthood. whether we are receiving care or giving it, we need to iron out the wrinkles now and again. As a teenager, you might be faced with tricky situations or struggle to have the types of relationships you want with family and friends. As an adult, the pressures of work, parenthood, or other caregiving might be triggering a lot of stress, anxiety, or depression. Or maybe you're heartbroken because it is your child who is struggling instead.
(603) 525-7302 View (603) 525-7302
Photo of Christine Lavoie - Between Us Associates PLLC, PsyD, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Between Us Associates PLLC
Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
Between Us Associates Is a outpatient behavioral health practice that offers collaborative, goal-oriented therapeutic solutions and support services to help our clients overcome a variety of life's challenges. Utilizing an Integrated Approach, our treatment team draws on experience in both individual counseling and couples and family therapy to assist our clients in finding healthy solutions to a wide range of life challenges.
Between Us Associates Is a outpatient behavioral health practice that offers collaborative, goal-oriented therapeutic solutions and support services to help our clients overcome a variety of life's challenges. Utilizing an Integrated Approach, our treatment team draws on experience in both individual counseling and couples and family therapy to assist our clients in finding healthy solutions to a wide range of life challenges.
(603) 317-5116 View (603) 317-5116

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David Bradley, PhD, Psychologist
David Bradley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
Bradley treats anxiety disorders from a cognitive-behavioral and exposure-based framework, including generalized anxiety, OCD (exposure and response prevention), health anxiety, panic attacks, trichotillomania, phobias, insomnia, PTSD (prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy), and depression.
Dr. David Bradley earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University. During his post-doctoral fellowship at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, he worked with individuals experiencing a broad range of anxiety and mood-related disorders as well as insomnia. He also conducted bariatric pre-surgical evaluations. Dr. Bradley has extensive training in empirically supported treatments for anxiety and related disorders in adults of all ages.
Bradley treats anxiety disorders from a cognitive-behavioral and exposure-based framework, including generalized anxiety, OCD (exposure and response prevention), health anxiety, panic attacks, trichotillomania, phobias, insomnia, PTSD (prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy), and depression.
Dr. David Bradley earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University. During his post-doctoral fellowship at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, he worked with individuals experiencing a broad range of anxiety and mood-related disorders as well as insomnia. He also conducted bariatric pre-surgical evaluations. Dr. Bradley has extensive training in empirically supported treatments for anxiety and related disorders in adults of all ages.
(603) 755-6535 View (603) 755-6535
Photo of Shawn J Hassell - Shawn J Hassell, LMFT, Between Us Assoc PLLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn J Hassell, LMFT, Between Us Assoc PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have difficulty with feeling depressed, hopeless, or anxious? Do you and your partner have conflict, or do you lack emotional connection or intimacy together? Are there challenges with your adolescent? I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I bring 24 years of experience working with family conflict and also couple issues such as communication, sexuality, and infidelity. I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, grief/loss. I bring experience with challenges connected to sexual orientation, a family member coming out, and same-gender relationships, ENM couples, queer couples, as well as transgender individuals.
Do you have difficulty with feeling depressed, hopeless, or anxious? Do you and your partner have conflict, or do you lack emotional connection or intimacy together? Are there challenges with your adolescent? I offer individual, couples and family therapy. I bring 24 years of experience working with family conflict and also couple issues such as communication, sexuality, and infidelity. I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, grief/loss. I bring experience with challenges connected to sexual orientation, a family member coming out, and same-gender relationships, ENM couples, queer couples, as well as transgender individuals.
(603) 556-4896 x2031 View (603) 556-4896 x2031
Photo of Kevin Menasco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Menasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
I have specialized in the treatment of OCD-spectrum and anxiety related disorders using CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for over 5 years.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
I have specialized in the treatment of OCD-spectrum and anxiety related disorders using CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for over 5 years.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
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Photo of Lee Jackson, LPC, NBCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
I hope you find help and relief for what you are seeking counseling for. My name is Lee Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. I have practiced privately for nine years, specializing in anxiety, depression, life changes, spiritual issues, grief and loss relationship/couples counseling. I enjoy providing tools for clients that help manage their Anxiety and OCD. I have a particular interest in these areas . My background is in school counseling, I've logged many years with students and parents providing therapy to those across many different age demographics.
I hope you find help and relief for what you are seeking counseling for. My name is Lee Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. I have practiced privately for nine years, specializing in anxiety, depression, life changes, spiritual issues, grief and loss relationship/couples counseling. I enjoy providing tools for clients that help manage their Anxiety and OCD. I have a particular interest in these areas . My background is in school counseling, I've logged many years with students and parents providing therapy to those across many different age demographics.
(762) 221-5392 View (762) 221-5392
Photo of Kelly Parsons, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelly Parsons
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Londonderry, NH 03053
Anxiety? OCD? Sick of being anxious ALL the time? I developed a program for Anxiety/OCD that works! This is NOT a talk session. You need coping skills. In a few appointments, it will be much better! I have been working in mental health over 20 years. Specialties: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, relationships/low self esteem, chronic pain. I give what I would want myself, answers & treatment that works! I respect that, having worked with thousands of clients with phobia's, OCD, chronic worry, marriage/relationships, loss, and communication problems. Panic attacks/phobias (highways, fear of medical etc.)
Anxiety? OCD? Sick of being anxious ALL the time? I developed a program for Anxiety/OCD that works! This is NOT a talk session. You need coping skills. In a few appointments, it will be much better! I have been working in mental health over 20 years. Specialties: Anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, relationships/low self esteem, chronic pain. I give what I would want myself, answers & treatment that works! I respect that, having worked with thousands of clients with phobia's, OCD, chronic worry, marriage/relationships, loss, and communication problems. Panic attacks/phobias (highways, fear of medical etc.)
(603) 819-4733 View (603) 819-4733
Photo of Rachel Davidow, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Davidow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
I help folks ages 15+ with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), social anxiety, panic attacks, and other anxiety related challenges. Additionally, I have experience helping those struggling with depression, eating disorders, trauma, and stress in adjusting to difficult life circumstances. I also work with individuals struggling with body focused repetitive behaviors including skin picking or hair pulling through Habit Reversal Training. I am licensed to treat clients in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. I only offer tele-health at this time.
I help folks ages 15+ with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), social anxiety, panic attacks, and other anxiety related challenges. Additionally, I have experience helping those struggling with depression, eating disorders, trauma, and stress in adjusting to difficult life circumstances. I also work with individuals struggling with body focused repetitive behaviors including skin picking or hair pulling through Habit Reversal Training. I am licensed to treat clients in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. I only offer tele-health at this time.
(339) 244-8489 View (339) 244-8489
Photo of Jill M Brazao, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CMHIMP, Counselor
Jill M Brazao
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
My areas of clinical specialty include obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, adjustment disorders, substance abuse and dual diagnosis.
I am a LMHC with over 10 years of counseling experience. I currently work with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing an eclectic therapeutic approach that draws from CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also use a holistic approach- the body and mind are integrated, and I focus on overall wellness to best help your current mental health needs. I primarily conduct individual therapy, with adjunct family sessions for kids/teens when indicated. I believe my role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change to help each client reach their goals.
My areas of clinical specialty include obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, adjustment disorders, substance abuse and dual diagnosis.
I am a LMHC with over 10 years of counseling experience. I currently work with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing an eclectic therapeutic approach that draws from CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also use a holistic approach- the body and mind are integrated, and I focus on overall wellness to best help your current mental health needs. I primarily conduct individual therapy, with adjunct family sessions for kids/teens when indicated. I believe my role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change to help each client reach their goals.
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Photo of Danielle Michelle Viola, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Danielle Michelle Viola
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
These disorders include but are not limited to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder & Anxiety due to transitions such as divorce, job loss & loss of a loved one.
My ideal client would be one who is willing to put in the effort it takes to achieve a healthy and happy mental status. Not every population I see has this mindset. I believe that by building trust and rapport as well as by the client seeing their own progress, the motivation to reach their personal goals will increase. I have worked with patients as young as 2 and as old as 72 with varying issues. Although I am trained to work with most populations and feel comfortable doing so, my specialty lies with those suffering from anxiety.
These disorders include but are not limited to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder & Anxiety due to transitions such as divorce, job loss & loss of a loved one.
My ideal client would be one who is willing to put in the effort it takes to achieve a healthy and happy mental status. Not every population I see has this mindset. I believe that by building trust and rapport as well as by the client seeing their own progress, the motivation to reach their personal goals will increase. I have worked with patients as young as 2 and as old as 72 with varying issues. Although I am trained to work with most populations and feel comfortable doing so, my specialty lies with those suffering from anxiety.
(603) 207-8932 View (603) 207-8932
Photo of Tania Patrizio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tania Patrizio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
I am able to treat a number of disorders, including being trained in ERP to treat OCD.
I see my role as someone to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life, to the best of my ability. I consider myself your partner in your health and well being. We will achieve this by utilizing evidence based treatment in a manner that meets your personal needs and goals. I promise to follow your lead and always see you as the expert in you life. Let me help you discover your best self. I am currently licensed in: Connecticut 12059, Maine LC23529, Massachusetts 123756, New Hampshire 2706, Rhode Island ISW02907, and Vermont 089.0135856PROV
I am able to treat a number of disorders, including being trained in ERP to treat OCD.
I see my role as someone to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life, to the best of my ability. I consider myself your partner in your health and well being. We will achieve this by utilizing evidence based treatment in a manner that meets your personal needs and goals. I promise to follow your lead and always see you as the expert in you life. Let me help you discover your best self. I am currently licensed in: Connecticut 12059, Maine LC23529, Massachusetts 123756, New Hampshire 2706, Rhode Island ISW02907, and Vermont 089.0135856PROV
(401) 206-0878 View (401) 206-0878
Photo of Cerissa Desrosiers - Endurance Behavioral Health, PsyD, Psychologist
Endurance Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
Now offering our PHP both in-person and online! Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Out-of-control? In these uncertain times, you don't have to go it alone. Let us support you as you work on regaining safety and stability in your life. Our partial hospital program (PHP) welcomes teens ages 13-20 who may be experiencing significant mental health concerns (e.g., self-harm, suicidal thinking, OCD, anxiety), struggling to attend or engage in school, stepping down from residential or inpatient treatment, and/or looking to avoid future hospitalization.
Now offering our PHP both in-person and online! Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Out-of-control? In these uncertain times, you don't have to go it alone. Let us support you as you work on regaining safety and stability in your life. Our partial hospital program (PHP) welcomes teens ages 13-20 who may be experiencing significant mental health concerns (e.g., self-harm, suicidal thinking, OCD, anxiety), struggling to attend or engage in school, stepping down from residential or inpatient treatment, and/or looking to avoid future hospitalization.
(603) 825-6051 View (603) 825-6051
Photo of Matthew Stone, PsyD, Psychologist
Matthew Stone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
Dr. Matthew Stone is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. "Hailing from the north shore of Massachusetts, Dr. Stone received his undergraduate degree in biopsychology from Tufts University in Massachusetts. He subsequently received his doctorate in clinical psychology from John F. Kennedy University, in California. Dr. Stone is a specialist in child, adolescent, and family therapy, with focus on assessing and treating autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Dr. Matthew Stone is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. "Hailing from the north shore of Massachusetts, Dr. Stone received his undergraduate degree in biopsychology from Tufts University in Massachusetts. He subsequently received his doctorate in clinical psychology from John F. Kennedy University, in California. Dr. Stone is a specialist in child, adolescent, and family therapy, with focus on assessing and treating autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Emily Turcotte, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Turcotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome and thank you for starting your journey to wellness. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. I have been working in the counseling field since 2009. I have experience in outpatient, residential and inpatient settings conducting individual and group therapy with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, trauma, substance use issues, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, relationship issues, gender issues, sexuality issues, insomnia, personal growth and adjustment issues. I meet you where you are at with a person-centered approach.
Welcome and thank you for starting your journey to wellness. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. I have been working in the counseling field since 2009. I have experience in outpatient, residential and inpatient settings conducting individual and group therapy with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, trauma, substance use issues, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, relationship issues, gender issues, sexuality issues, insomnia, personal growth and adjustment issues. I meet you where you are at with a person-centered approach.
(603) 825-6156 View (603) 825-6156
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.