Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Dover, NJ

Photo of Doreen Cook, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doreen Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801  (Online Only)
I've been in the helping professions for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of individuals create positive change in their lives, find a greater sense of peace and achieve goals that they have set for themselves. For the past ten years, I have been providing psychotherapy services. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals with almost every type of mental health need and I feel confident in my abilities to assist clients to achieve the outcomes they desire from their work in therapy. I provide teletherapy services so that you may receive treatment in the comfort of your home, on your schedule.
I've been in the helping professions for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of individuals create positive change in their lives, find a greater sense of peace and achieve goals that they have set for themselves. For the past ten years, I have been providing psychotherapy services. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals with almost every type of mental health need and I feel confident in my abilities to assist clients to achieve the outcomes they desire from their work in therapy. I provide teletherapy services so that you may receive treatment in the comfort of your home, on your schedule.
(862) 881-4089 View (862) 881-4089
Photo of Nidian Liliana Lliguicota - Nidian Liliana Lliguicota , MS, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nidian Liliana Lliguicota
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801
I provide mental health services and substance abuse services in English and Spanish to individuals, couples, and families of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, family conflicts, domestic violence, substance use/misuse and/or a variety of related mental health concerns. I am delighted to be able to help you find or renew hope, strengths, and/or to develop reachable goals which will enable you to fulfill your full potential.
I provide mental health services and substance abuse services in English and Spanish to individuals, couples, and families of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, family conflicts, domestic violence, substance use/misuse and/or a variety of related mental health concerns. I am delighted to be able to help you find or renew hope, strengths, and/or to develop reachable goals which will enable you to fulfill your full potential.
(973) 528-7192 View (973) 528-7192
Photo of Mary Beth Kneis-Carroll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Kneis-Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801
I'm here for you when you're not sure where else to turn: to reassure you that things can and do get better; to help you discover inner strengths to resolve your difficulties; and to support you along your healing journey. Reaching out for professional help can be difficult, but turning to friends and family may not always be the best option and ignoring problems won't make them go away. Remember: you don't have to do this alone - I'm here for you.
I'm here for you when you're not sure where else to turn: to reassure you that things can and do get better; to help you discover inner strengths to resolve your difficulties; and to support you along your healing journey. Reaching out for professional help can be difficult, but turning to friends and family may not always be the best option and ignoring problems won't make them go away. Remember: you don't have to do this alone - I'm here for you.
(973) 241-4927 View (973) 241-4927
Photo of Christopher Belz, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher Belz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801
My primary treatment focus has been to use validation and empathy. I want to learn what goals you have and then help you in get to them. In addition to working with adults, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families in outpatient/school and inpatient settings dealing with anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma, anger, grief and attention problems. I'm familiar with coaching DBT coping skills for distress tolerance, developing emotion management, and enhancing effective interpersonal skills. My greatest strength is in helping parents and their children reduce conflict and really hear each other.
My primary treatment focus has been to use validation and empathy. I want to learn what goals you have and then help you in get to them. In addition to working with adults, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families in outpatient/school and inpatient settings dealing with anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma, anger, grief and attention problems. I'm familiar with coaching DBT coping skills for distress tolerance, developing emotion management, and enhancing effective interpersonal skills. My greatest strength is in helping parents and their children reduce conflict and really hear each other.
(908) 333-4979 View (908) 333-4979
Photo of Tara Ely, LPC, ACS, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Ely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LCADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801  (Online Only)
Empathy, support, trust, and compassion are all things that are vital for productive therapy. With active listening I am able to help my clients gain awareness of what their struggles might be. My goal is to assist in the development of strategies and coping skills in order for healing and transformation to take place. Taking the first step could be the best step. Allow yourself the opportunity to be the authentic person you were born to be. Therapy can be one of the best gifts you can give to yourself.
Empathy, support, trust, and compassion are all things that are vital for productive therapy. With active listening I am able to help my clients gain awareness of what their struggles might be. My goal is to assist in the development of strategies and coping skills in order for healing and transformation to take place. Taking the first step could be the best step. Allow yourself the opportunity to be the authentic person you were born to be. Therapy can be one of the best gifts you can give to yourself.
(551) 227-3351 View (551) 227-3351
Photo of Tammy Carvalho, LMHC, NCC, EMDR, MA, QS, Counselor
Tammy Carvalho
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, EMDR, MA, QS
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801  (Online Only)
Hi! My ideal client is one that has prior or current trauma. Those that have been through therapists in the past with still no current relief from their traumatic episodes and still find themselves being triggered by events. I'm here for you! I am certified in EMDR therapy. An effective evidenced based treatment to help you heal and have a better quality of life! This will work especially well with teens and adults online. Come and see me today to get rid of the horrible body sensations, stinking thinking, feelings that still come up with memories that are stored in the body! There is hope!
Hi! My ideal client is one that has prior or current trauma. Those that have been through therapists in the past with still no current relief from their traumatic episodes and still find themselves being triggered by events. I'm here for you! I am certified in EMDR therapy. An effective evidenced based treatment to help you heal and have a better quality of life! This will work especially well with teens and adults online. Come and see me today to get rid of the horrible body sensations, stinking thinking, feelings that still come up with memories that are stored in the body! There is hope!
(321) 414-8195 View (321) 414-8195
Photo of Tasha DeFelice, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasha DeFelice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dover, NJ 07801
Waitlist for new clients
Change can be intimidating, but I’m here to help you through it. I strive to provide a safe, encouraging, and growth-oriented environment for my clients as they explore emotional distress, increase self awareness, and work toward their personal goals. To best meet each clients’ needs, I use an integrative approach to counseling, incorporating techniques from various approaches and theories.
Change can be intimidating, but I’m here to help you through it. I strive to provide a safe, encouraging, and growth-oriented environment for my clients as they explore emotional distress, increase self awareness, and work toward their personal goals. To best meet each clients’ needs, I use an integrative approach to counseling, incorporating techniques from various approaches and theories.
(862) 305-9862 View (862) 305-9862
Inner Healing Therapy Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07801
Life can be difficult! Let us help! We are a growing Psychotherapy Group Practice who focus on supporting each client with their unique and special needs. We pride ourselves in comprehensive care, a compassionate approach, and vast clinical knowledge to meet the growing needs of our community. Linda Jenness, LCSW our Clinical Director and Supervisor, and serves adults and families with expertise many different mental health issues including mood disorders ie. anxiety, panic, depression; personality disorders (borderline, narcissism etc), and the neurodivergent population.
Life can be difficult! Let us help! We are a growing Psychotherapy Group Practice who focus on supporting each client with their unique and special needs. We pride ourselves in comprehensive care, a compassionate approach, and vast clinical knowledge to meet the growing needs of our community. Linda Jenness, LCSW our Clinical Director and Supervisor, and serves adults and families with expertise many different mental health issues including mood disorders ie. anxiety, panic, depression; personality disorders (borderline, narcissism etc), and the neurodivergent population.
(862) 727-7379 View (862) 727-7379
Photo of Katherine Lusky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Lusky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NJ 07802  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping patients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. Worry, fear and bad memories often interfere with a person’s daily life. These problems can be very stressful and can affect a person’s social relationships, work performance, and self esteem. These individuals often turn to maladaptive coping strategies such as drugs and/or alcohol to find relief. I work with these patients to help them manage life difficulties and heal from past trauma in order to learn new ways of thinking and coping.
I specialize in helping patients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. Worry, fear and bad memories often interfere with a person’s daily life. These problems can be very stressful and can affect a person’s social relationships, work performance, and self esteem. These individuals often turn to maladaptive coping strategies such as drugs and/or alcohol to find relief. I work with these patients to help them manage life difficulties and heal from past trauma in order to learn new ways of thinking and coping.
(856) 367-6239 View (856) 367-6239
Photo of Holly Aschoff, LCSW, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Aschoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dover, NJ 07801
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, I-CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, I-CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
(973) 756-3687 View (973) 756-3687
Photo of Lindsey Ziegler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Ziegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NJ 07801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have extensive professional experience in working with child, adolescent, adult individuals who may be encountering varying levels of depression, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Hi, there. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I always shift the mode of therapy to meet my clients where they are in order to help you gain the most from your therapy sessions. I also take the time to end therapy sessions with some positive reflections, affirmations, and alternative perspectives in order to help you feel empowered as the session ends and to reinforce that you can achieve the changes you desire.
I have extensive professional experience in working with child, adolescent, adult individuals who may be encountering varying levels of depression, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Hi, there. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I always shift the mode of therapy to meet my clients where they are in order to help you gain the most from your therapy sessions. I also take the time to end therapy sessions with some positive reflections, affirmations, and alternative perspectives in order to help you feel empowered as the session ends and to reinforce that you can achieve the changes you desire.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janine Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
She is renowned for her work with severe and complex OCD, trauma, grief, and anxiety.
Janine Elliott takes a collaborative approach to building relationships with clients that empower them to thrive in their relationships, school/workplace, and community. She uses evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, ERP and HRT to help reframe unhelpful behaviors and thoughts, increase emotional regulation, and improve resiliency. Janine received her MSW from Rutgers with a focus in family systems and attachment theory. She has also trained extensively with pioneers in the field at the Beck Institute, UPenn Department of Psychiatry, Center for Treatment and Study of Anxiety, and Minuchin Center for the Family.
She is renowned for her work with severe and complex OCD, trauma, grief, and anxiety.
Janine Elliott takes a collaborative approach to building relationships with clients that empower them to thrive in their relationships, school/workplace, and community. She uses evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, ERP and HRT to help reframe unhelpful behaviors and thoughts, increase emotional regulation, and improve resiliency. Janine received her MSW from Rutgers with a focus in family systems and attachment theory. She has also trained extensively with pioneers in the field at the Beck Institute, UPenn Department of Psychiatry, Center for Treatment and Study of Anxiety, and Minuchin Center for the Family.
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Photo of Janine Marie Tremblay - Janine Tremblay PhD APN, PhD, APNC, Psychologist
Janine Tremblay PhD APN
Psychologist, PhD, APNC
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
Welcome! You have already made an important step in the process of healing by beginning your research. I have been practicing Psychology since 1985 and in 2004 I added the service of being able to prescribe medications. Currently, I see patients who suffer from anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Additionally, I diagnosis and treat people with Bipolar and Addiction related disorders. I believe in the power of spirituality and am open to different faiths and points of view. I see individuals and couples ages 17 to seniors. Please call if you want to discuss an appointment.
Welcome! You have already made an important step in the process of healing by beginning your research. I have been practicing Psychology since 1985 and in 2004 I added the service of being able to prescribe medications. Currently, I see patients who suffer from anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Additionally, I diagnosis and treat people with Bipolar and Addiction related disorders. I believe in the power of spirituality and am open to different faiths and points of view. I see individuals and couples ages 17 to seniors. Please call if you want to discuss an appointment.
(973) 309-7553 View (973) 309-7553
Photo of Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
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 Kristin Far Anxiety Ocd Depression, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Far Anxiety Ocd Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with constant thoughts about the “what ifs” or worst case scenarios in your life? Are there things that you have to do in a certain way or else it doesn’t feel right or it feels like something bad will happen? I specialize in OCD, Anxiety & Depression. I help individuals who are stuck in a cycle of worrying and getting more caught up in preventing fears from coming true rather than actually living their lives. You may try to find relief and answers to your fears by searching the internet for hours or even asking for reassurance from your friends, significant other, and family constantly.
Are you struggling with constant thoughts about the “what ifs” or worst case scenarios in your life? Are there things that you have to do in a certain way or else it doesn’t feel right or it feels like something bad will happen? I specialize in OCD, Anxiety & Depression. I help individuals who are stuck in a cycle of worrying and getting more caught up in preventing fears from coming true rather than actually living their lives. You may try to find relief and answers to your fears by searching the internet for hours or even asking for reassurance from your friends, significant other, and family constantly.
(973) 836-5041 View (973) 836-5041
Photo of Nina F. Rifkind - Nina Rifkind, LCSW Anxiety & OCD Therapy Center, LCSW, ACS, Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Rifkind, LCSW Anxiety & OCD Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS, Anxiety, OCD, Phobias
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Drawing on extensive, specialized training & more than 20 years of experience treating adolescents & adults with anxiety disorders, phobias, OCD & related disorders, Health Anxiety, Body Dysmorphia, Emetophobia & BFRBs my unique approach integrates CBT, ERP, ACT and psychodynamic techniques, providing clients with lasting tools to optimize their potential.
Struggling to fully engage in your life, or watching your child struggle can be incredibly challenging. Untreated anxiety disorders and OCD can severely restrict social, academic and professional opportunities. More distressingly, they can trigger anxiety and panic attacks that leave you feeling exhausted, alone and powerless. Through our work together, teens and young adults are able to reclaim a sense of normalcy in their lives, with a personalized therapeutic program, in a safe, judgement-free environment. You'll find yourself ready to take on challenges you never dreamed of and enjoying peace in your day to day life.
Drawing on extensive, specialized training & more than 20 years of experience treating adolescents & adults with anxiety disorders, phobias, OCD & related disorders, Health Anxiety, Body Dysmorphia, Emetophobia & BFRBs my unique approach integrates CBT, ERP, ACT and psychodynamic techniques, providing clients with lasting tools to optimize their potential.
Struggling to fully engage in your life, or watching your child struggle can be incredibly challenging. Untreated anxiety disorders and OCD can severely restrict social, academic and professional opportunities. More distressingly, they can trigger anxiety and panic attacks that leave you feeling exhausted, alone and powerless. Through our work together, teens and young adults are able to reclaim a sense of normalcy in their lives, with a personalized therapeutic program, in a safe, judgement-free environment. You'll find yourself ready to take on challenges you never dreamed of and enjoying peace in your day to day life.
(973) 453-2568 View (973) 453-2568
Photo of Michele Kaczmarek, MEd, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Kaczmarek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
In addition to graduate training and experience, I am a member of International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation (I OCDF), graduate of Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, and Pediatric BTTI.
I have 25 years of successful experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings, treating different age groups with diverse needs. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I am skilled at utilizing many counseling techniques and I individualize treatment approaches according to the unique needs of the client, ensuring better outcomes. I understand that finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is vital to the therapeutic relationship. This enables you to make lasting changes and resolve issues that may have been causing dysfunctional patterns in your life. I believe it's important to treat clients compassionately, respectfully, and without judgement.
In addition to graduate training and experience, I am a member of International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation (I OCDF), graduate of Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, and Pediatric BTTI.
I have 25 years of successful experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings, treating different age groups with diverse needs. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I am skilled at utilizing many counseling techniques and I individualize treatment approaches according to the unique needs of the client, ensuring better outcomes. I understand that finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is vital to the therapeutic relationship. This enables you to make lasting changes and resolve issues that may have been causing dysfunctional patterns in your life. I believe it's important to treat clients compassionately, respectfully, and without judgement.
(201) 204-9943 View (201) 204-9943
Photo of Jaclyn Leit, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Leit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Waitlist for new clients
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
(201) 419-6341 View (201) 419-6341
Photo of Lauren Dobbs, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
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 Haley Kastner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
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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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.