Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Chester, NJ

Photo of Lindsay McGovern, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay McGovern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with OCD or anxiety reach out to me to discuss next steps.
Before you can even grab your coffee the intrusive thoughts and feelings flood in. You struggle to not engage with the negative "What if..." questions that feel like an endless loop in your mind. The need to do compulsions and safety behaviors is on repeat throughout your day. Other people seem connected to their life, moving through it naturally and freely..... You want that too. I hear you! I work with women to help them let go of the doubt and find peace & contentment in their life. I want you to learn how to stop answering the negative "what if..." questions and lean into your values-filled life instead!
If you are struggling with OCD or anxiety reach out to me to discuss next steps.
Before you can even grab your coffee the intrusive thoughts and feelings flood in. You struggle to not engage with the negative "What if..." questions that feel like an endless loop in your mind. The need to do compulsions and safety behaviors is on repeat throughout your day. Other people seem connected to their life, moving through it naturally and freely..... You want that too. I hear you! I work with women to help them let go of the doubt and find peace & contentment in their life. I want you to learn how to stop answering the negative "what if..." questions and lean into your values-filled life instead!
(424) 246-2481 View (424) 246-2481
Photo of Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
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Photo of Haley Kastner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
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Photo of Yvonne Hansen, PhD, Psychologist
Yvonne Hansen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
(908) 280-0439 View (908) 280-0439
Photo of Lauren Dobbs, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Dobbs has a profound understanding of mood, anxiety, OCD, parenting, ADHD, executive functioning, life transitions, adjustment issues, and perinatal mental health.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
Dobbs has a profound understanding of mood, anxiety, OCD, parenting, ADHD, executive functioning, life transitions, adjustment issues, and perinatal mental health.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
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Photo of Ranjana Hari, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
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Photo of Jeri Rothe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeri Rothe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
My experience is in ADD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression, Bi-Polar, ODD, OCD, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Reaching out for help is a STRENGTH, not a weakness. Life can be wonderful....but it is not easy. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Therapy is the most useful way to learn Life Skills that are imperative in helping you achieve optimum mental health so you can successfully tackle life's challenges. And if you are motivated to learn these skills; learn how to think and react differently, then I am the therapist for you. I will do the work with you and be there every step of the way...AND YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL!
My experience is in ADD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression, Bi-Polar, ODD, OCD, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Reaching out for help is a STRENGTH, not a weakness. Life can be wonderful....but it is not easy. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Therapy is the most useful way to learn Life Skills that are imperative in helping you achieve optimum mental health so you can successfully tackle life's challenges. And if you are motivated to learn these skills; learn how to think and react differently, then I am the therapist for you. I will do the work with you and be there every step of the way...AND YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL!
(908) 760-4713 View (908) 760-4713
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
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Photo of Heather Watson-Perez, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Watson-Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed clinical psychologist. I treat individuals of all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders, Problems associated with divorce, bereavement, and relationships, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma.
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed clinical psychologist. I treat individuals of all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders, Problems associated with divorce, bereavement, and relationships, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma.
(908) 897-0622 View (908) 897-0622
Photo of Beverly Dean, LPC, NCC, CCTP, ACS, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverly Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, ACS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to the first step on your journey to peace and wellness! I work with children, adolescents and adults to increase their ability to dream big and move forward! I am a fully Licensed seasoned therapist with over 30 years or experience. In addition I hold credentials as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, A Certified EMDR therapist / EMDRIA approved consultant , A Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & A Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I draw from psychotherapy modalities in both verbal and creative realms. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma and Perinatal Mental Health.
Welcome to the first step on your journey to peace and wellness! I work with children, adolescents and adults to increase their ability to dream big and move forward! I am a fully Licensed seasoned therapist with over 30 years or experience. In addition I hold credentials as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, A Certified EMDR therapist / EMDRIA approved consultant , A Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & A Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I draw from psychotherapy modalities in both verbal and creative realms. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma and Perinatal Mental Health.
(862) 505-2444 View (862) 505-2444
Photo of Jaemmavheb (Jaemma) Javanes-Pisani, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaemmavheb (Jaemma) Javanes-Pisani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I work with individuals ranging from age 16 & older with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, Trichotillomania, low self-esteem, grief, & insomnia.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you but you can decide not to be reduced by them.-Brené Brown.” I am passionate about helping people break through & identify patterns that cover up their truest potential. Often times people find themselves stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, unfulfilled relationships & self-destructive behaviors. These struggles can affect your home life, work life, and many other social interactions. In a non-judgmental & compassionate space, we will work together to transform those issues that keep you stuck & help rediscover your passions & joy for life.
I work with individuals ranging from age 16 & older with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, Trichotillomania, low self-esteem, grief, & insomnia.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you but you can decide not to be reduced by them.-Brené Brown.” I am passionate about helping people break through & identify patterns that cover up their truest potential. Often times people find themselves stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, unfulfilled relationships & self-destructive behaviors. These struggles can affect your home life, work life, and many other social interactions. In a non-judgmental & compassionate space, we will work together to transform those issues that keep you stuck & help rediscover your passions & joy for life.
(908) 808-5232 View (908) 808-5232
Photo of Leah Birchler, MSW, LCSW, SAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Birchler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in mental health, specializing in adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions or low self-esteem. I also have an expertise in helping women and couples who are dealing with infertility, multiple miscarriages and family planning. I believe in a person-centered approach; you are the expert on your life and you can be empowered to change your thoughts and behaviors to improve your emotional well-being. I have an eclectic perspective and like to infuse relaxation and guided meditation into my practice.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in mental health, specializing in adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions or low self-esteem. I also have an expertise in helping women and couples who are dealing with infertility, multiple miscarriages and family planning. I believe in a person-centered approach; you are the expert on your life and you can be empowered to change your thoughts and behaviors to improve your emotional well-being. I have an eclectic perspective and like to infuse relaxation and guided meditation into my practice.
(201) 354-5427 View (201) 354-5427
Photo of Risa Simpson-Davis, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Risa Simpson-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
Do you long for the love and connection you use to feel with your partner or spouse? Do you feel frustrated, powerless or stuck in repeated arguments? Do you have difficulty communicating with each other, managing conflict or problem solving? Your issues may include lack of trust, infidelity, intimacy, life transitions,addiction, or parenting. You want to see positive change in your marriage or relationship, but you feel stuck. No matter how big or small your issues are you can't seem to resolve them on your own. I can help you navigate the complexities of your relationship and help you build a stronger more reslient bond.
Do you long for the love and connection you use to feel with your partner or spouse? Do you feel frustrated, powerless or stuck in repeated arguments? Do you have difficulty communicating with each other, managing conflict or problem solving? Your issues may include lack of trust, infidelity, intimacy, life transitions,addiction, or parenting. You want to see positive change in your marriage or relationship, but you feel stuck. No matter how big or small your issues are you can't seem to resolve them on your own. I can help you navigate the complexities of your relationship and help you build a stronger more reslient bond.
(732) 800-2470 View (732) 800-2470
Photo of Nancy Sachar Sidhu, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Sachar Sidhu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have conducted therapy for more than 27 years. I am caring and nonjudgmental. I create a safe and confidential place where you can feel supported to achieve your goals. I attended the University of Pennsylvania (BA) and California School of Professional Psychology (MA and PhD). I completed my post-doc at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I am currently the director of Chester Psychological Assessment & Therapy, LLC. I am well-trained in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. I have supervised and taught other psychologists as well as master's level therapists.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have conducted therapy for more than 27 years. I am caring and nonjudgmental. I create a safe and confidential place where you can feel supported to achieve your goals. I attended the University of Pennsylvania (BA) and California School of Professional Psychology (MA and PhD). I completed my post-doc at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I am currently the director of Chester Psychological Assessment & Therapy, LLC. I am well-trained in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. I have supervised and taught other psychologists as well as master's level therapists.
(908) 376-9928 View (908) 376-9928
Photo of Christine Fitzgerald Petrat, LCSW, CPT-1, C-DBT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Fitzgerald Petrat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPT-1, C-DBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
With over 15 years of experience, I have been consistently told that I am warm, easy to talk to, and very helpful. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Certified Trauma Professional, and a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist and together we can find ways to better understand yourself and your circumstances so that you can make meaningful changes in your life, and get support with stressful situations you may be dealing with. We will figure out what will help you feel better and overall more content with the use of strategies that have been proven to be effective and tailored to your specific needs.
With over 15 years of experience, I have been consistently told that I am warm, easy to talk to, and very helpful. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Certified Trauma Professional, and a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist and together we can find ways to better understand yourself and your circumstances so that you can make meaningful changes in your life, and get support with stressful situations you may be dealing with. We will figure out what will help you feel better and overall more content with the use of strategies that have been proven to be effective and tailored to your specific needs.
(973) 500-2758 View (973) 500-2758
Photo of Dr. Andrew E Lima, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Andrew E Lima
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
My approach is warm, collaborative, and direct. My focus is on providing a supportive and interactive dialogue with you to remove blocks, build upon strengths and resilience, and foster self-attunement to live more authentically and to attain the personal growth you are seeking. I provide individual therapy to clients of all ages well as comprehensive psychological evaluations. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, school refusal, disruptive behavioral problems, ADHD, chronic medical problems, chronic stress, anger management and substance abuse evaluations.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and direct. My focus is on providing a supportive and interactive dialogue with you to remove blocks, build upon strengths and resilience, and foster self-attunement to live more authentically and to attain the personal growth you are seeking. I provide individual therapy to clients of all ages well as comprehensive psychological evaluations. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, school refusal, disruptive behavioral problems, ADHD, chronic medical problems, chronic stress, anger management and substance abuse evaluations.
(908) 498-9230 View (908) 498-9230
Photo of Lauren Palumbo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Palumbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
People always tell me that they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas and feelings with me. I believe this is because they feel unconditional acceptance without any judgement. Many people I support are living with anxiety, depression, wrestling with a life transition, struggling in their relationships at home or at work, or just feeling stuck. If you are contemplating making a change in your life and are seeking guidance as you explore your options and the possibilities that change may bring, I can help.
People always tell me that they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas and feelings with me. I believe this is because they feel unconditional acceptance without any judgement. Many people I support are living with anxiety, depression, wrestling with a life transition, struggling in their relationships at home or at work, or just feeling stuck. If you are contemplating making a change in your life and are seeking guidance as you explore your options and the possibilities that change may bring, I can help.
(908) 304-9915 View (908) 304-9915
Photo of Kendall Klas - Find Your Light Counseling Teens and Young Adults, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Find Your Light Counseling Teens and Young Adults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found us. Teens and young adults today face unique challenges. With pressures from social media, friendship and relationship issues, and academic/new career stressors, today’s youth need non-judgmental support and care to feel confident. During these formative years, it is so important to learn healthy coping skills and build positive relationships with peers, family, and oneself.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found us. Teens and young adults today face unique challenges. With pressures from social media, friendship and relationship issues, and academic/new career stressors, today’s youth need non-judgmental support and care to feel confident. During these formative years, it is so important to learn healthy coping skills and build positive relationships with peers, family, and oneself.
(862) 289-1945 View (862) 289-1945
Photo of Michaela D'Urso, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michaela D'Urso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
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Photo of Cassandra M Faraci - Center for Anxiety and Behavior Management, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Center for Anxiety and Behavior Management, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Are bothersome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors interfering? Are you a teen or adult who is overwhelmed and wants to live a happy, fulfilled life instead of just getting through the day? Are you a parent who needs some guidance in helping your child reach his or her potential? Are you looking for actual strategies to cope with the day's stressors? Evidence-based treatment is aimed at providing science-supported techniques to help you see change. Our goal is to help you develop skills so that you don't need to be in therapy long term. *ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*
Are bothersome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors interfering? Are you a teen or adult who is overwhelmed and wants to live a happy, fulfilled life instead of just getting through the day? Are you a parent who needs some guidance in helping your child reach his or her potential? Are you looking for actual strategies to cope with the day's stressors? Evidence-based treatment is aimed at providing science-supported techniques to help you see change. Our goal is to help you develop skills so that you don't need to be in therapy long term. *ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*
(908) 545-9583 View (908) 545-9583
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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.