Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Upper East Side, New York, NY

Photo of Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10029
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 Tori Maidenberg, LMSW
Tori Maidenberg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028
Tori has extensive training in a diverse range of therapeutic modalities proven to be highly effective, including DBT, CBT, Exposure Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy. She was a fellow in Columbia University’s DBT Training Program and trained by the renowned Behavioral Tech Institute. Working with adolescents through adulthood, Tori has cultivated a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs across the lifespan. Her focus lies in the treatment of emotional and interpersonal dysregulation, OCD, anxiety-related disorders, social anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and couples/family issues.
Tori has extensive training in a diverse range of therapeutic modalities proven to be highly effective, including DBT, CBT, Exposure Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy. She was a fellow in Columbia University’s DBT Training Program and trained by the renowned Behavioral Tech Institute. Working with adolescents through adulthood, Tori has cultivated a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs across the lifespan. Her focus lies in the treatment of emotional and interpersonal dysregulation, OCD, anxiety-related disorders, social anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and couples/family issues.
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Photo of Vesna Cvetkovic, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Vesna Cvetkovic
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10128
I am a New York State licensed psychotherapist and board-certified creative arts therapist helping people with complex trauma and identity development, anxiety, OCD, disrupted attachments, depression, bipolar disorder, stress at work or home, and life transitions such as divorce, illness, and loss. I am a big believer in the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. I provide emotional support and a safe environment and aim to work with empathy and warmth to help generate new perspectives, aim at a sense of wholeness, and restore balance and hope.
I am a New York State licensed psychotherapist and board-certified creative arts therapist helping people with complex trauma and identity development, anxiety, OCD, disrupted attachments, depression, bipolar disorder, stress at work or home, and life transitions such as divorce, illness, and loss. I am a big believer in the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. I provide emotional support and a safe environment and aim to work with empathy and warmth to help generate new perspectives, aim at a sense of wholeness, and restore balance and hope.
(914) 275-0822 View (914) 275-0822
Photo of Michael D Schwalberg, PhD, Psychologist
Michael D Schwalberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
Trained at a world renowned Anxiety Disorders treatment and research center (The SUNY Center for Stress and Anxiety Disorders, now the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders at Boston University), I have specialized in the treatment of anxiety, panic, phobias, OCD and related disorders for over 25 years. I treat adults, adolescents, and children. I have lectured, been a clinical and research consultant, and trained and supervised other mental health professionals in the treatment of these disorders.
Trained at a world renowned Anxiety Disorders treatment and research center (The SUNY Center for Stress and Anxiety Disorders, now the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders at Boston University), I have specialized in the treatment of anxiety, panic, phobias, OCD and related disorders for over 25 years. I treat adults, adolescents, and children. I have lectured, been a clinical and research consultant, and trained and supervised other mental health professionals in the treatment of these disorders.
(646) 798-4154 View (646) 798-4154
Photo of Andrea Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10029
Not accepting new clients
If you are troubled by anxiety, worries, intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, I want you to know that effective treatments are available. I can work with you to reclaim your life and live it with joy. I'm a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with obsessive compulsive and anxiety disorders. I have extensive experience and success treating patients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Other disorders I treat include body focused repetitive behaviors (e.g. trichotillomania, excoriation), hoarding, health anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic and phobias.
If you are troubled by anxiety, worries, intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, I want you to know that effective treatments are available. I can work with you to reclaim your life and live it with joy. I'm a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with obsessive compulsive and anxiety disorders. I have extensive experience and success treating patients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Other disorders I treat include body focused repetitive behaviors (e.g. trichotillomania, excoriation), hoarding, health anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic and phobias.
(516) 701-3026 View (516) 701-3026
Photo of Steve M Jenkins, PhD, Psychologist
Steve M Jenkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Anxiety on its own can be extremely challenging. To make matters more difficult, it often also comes with sleep difficulties or depression, which can make daily life an exhausting and frustrating experience. The good news is that with the correct approach, it is usually possible to make significant progress in a short period of time. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, and related difficulties (including panic attacks, OCD, generalized anxiety, phobias, PTSD, and others). I have a particular specialty in the treatment of insomnia and sleep related disorders.
Anxiety on its own can be extremely challenging. To make matters more difficult, it often also comes with sleep difficulties or depression, which can make daily life an exhausting and frustrating experience. The good news is that with the correct approach, it is usually possible to make significant progress in a short period of time. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, and related difficulties (including panic attacks, OCD, generalized anxiety, phobias, PTSD, and others). I have a particular specialty in the treatment of insomnia and sleep related disorders.
(646) 916-4651 View (646) 916-4651
Photo of Erica Baruch, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Baruch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and am passionate about supporting parents in their own mental health journeys, as well as through parenting challenges. I also provide individual therapy for adults with anxiety, OCD, and depression. My goal is to foster a warm and supportive therapy space while grounding our sessions in evidence-based approaches. I work with clients across the lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood, with the goal of managing emotions and behaviors more effectively. I aim to empower people to face their fears, tolerate uncertainty, and build a life that is in line with their values.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and am passionate about supporting parents in their own mental health journeys, as well as through parenting challenges. I also provide individual therapy for adults with anxiety, OCD, and depression. My goal is to foster a warm and supportive therapy space while grounding our sessions in evidence-based approaches. I work with clients across the lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood, with the goal of managing emotions and behaviors more effectively. I aim to empower people to face their fears, tolerate uncertainty, and build a life that is in line with their values.
(646) 798-1068 View (646) 798-1068
Photo of Laura Berssenbrugge, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Berssenbrugge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10022
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, autism, PTSD, and ADHD in children, teens, young adults, and adults.
Accepting clients in: NY, NJ, and HI. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or looking for a new clinician, you've already taken a step towards creating positive change. I provide an inviting, safe space for you to discuss your family, relationship, or personal concerns. No matter what is on your mind, I will listen with acceptance. Using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based practices, we will develop insight and recognize patterns in your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. My goal is to teach you skills that create sustainable change and help you cope more effectively with life's stressors.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, autism, PTSD, and ADHD in children, teens, young adults, and adults.
Accepting clients in: NY, NJ, and HI. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or looking for a new clinician, you've already taken a step towards creating positive change. I provide an inviting, safe space for you to discuss your family, relationship, or personal concerns. No matter what is on your mind, I will listen with acceptance. Using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based practices, we will develop insight and recognize patterns in your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. My goal is to teach you skills that create sustainable change and help you cope more effectively with life's stressors.
(646) 766-8220 x102 View (646) 766-8220 x102
Photo of Grace Slifkin, LMSW
Grace Slifkin
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028
Grace works with clients to translate her deep expertise into tangible tools for a life with less worry and more presence, confidence, and connection. She has received exceptional training in CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, and SPACE at leading hospitals and private practices. She specializes in supporting pre-teens, teens, and adults facing anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic, social anxiety, ARFID, emetophobia, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and anxiety related to chronic illness and gastrointestinal issues. Grace also works with caregivers of children with behavioral issues, OCD, and anxiety using evidence-based parenting interventions.
Grace works with clients to translate her deep expertise into tangible tools for a life with less worry and more presence, confidence, and connection. She has received exceptional training in CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, and SPACE at leading hospitals and private practices. She specializes in supporting pre-teens, teens, and adults facing anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic, social anxiety, ARFID, emetophobia, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and anxiety related to chronic illness and gastrointestinal issues. Grace also works with caregivers of children with behavioral issues, OCD, and anxiety using evidence-based parenting interventions.
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Photo of David W Perkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David W Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, phobias, panic attacks and other mental health issues that are interfering with functioning. I enjoy helping people learn to manage symptoms which are getting in the way of their leading happy, healthy lives. My practice is diverse and I am particularly familiar with the legal profession (I worked in this industry for over 30 years), the LGBTQ community, the performing arts community and people in the recovery process. I also enjoy working with people who are going through transitions and want support for making changes in their lives.
I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, phobias, panic attacks and other mental health issues that are interfering with functioning. I enjoy helping people learn to manage symptoms which are getting in the way of their leading happy, healthy lives. My practice is diverse and I am particularly familiar with the legal profession (I worked in this industry for over 30 years), the LGBTQ community, the performing arts community and people in the recovery process. I also enjoy working with people who are going through transitions and want support for making changes in their lives.
(718) 305-4494 View (718) 305-4494
Photo of Elena Katrantzos, LMHC
Elena Katrantzos
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
My specialties are OCD, pure-O type, including perinatal/postpartum OCD, relationship anxiety/OCD and couples counseling.
Do you experience anxious feelings and thoughts that you cannot seem to get rid of? Are you avoiding people, places, and things you love the most? You are a new mom and feel stressed, overwhelmed, and worry that things in your life will not change. Are you stuck in what feels like a repetitive spiral of thoughts and behaviors? I help people like you take charge of their life. My practice will help you develop concrete and actionable strategies to help you live your life according to your values.
My specialties are OCD, pure-O type, including perinatal/postpartum OCD, relationship anxiety/OCD and couples counseling.
Do you experience anxious feelings and thoughts that you cannot seem to get rid of? Are you avoiding people, places, and things you love the most? You are a new mom and feel stressed, overwhelmed, and worry that things in your life will not change. Are you stuck in what feels like a repetitive spiral of thoughts and behaviors? I help people like you take charge of their life. My practice will help you develop concrete and actionable strategies to help you live your life according to your values.
(929) 297-8316 View (929) 297-8316
Photo of Rachel Zimon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Zimon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with those struggling with various forms of anxiety, such as repetitive thoughts and OCD, individuals suffering from infertility, as well as those looking to improve their relationships.
Are you troubled by anxiety or intrusive thoughts? Do you struggle in your relationships or feel unfulfilled in your life? I help create a safe and authentic space where we can explore what is preventing you from reaching your potential. People have a tremendous capacity for change, and I can work with you in understanding patterns that are present in your life. My style is warm, compassionate, and genuine.
I specialize in working with those struggling with various forms of anxiety, such as repetitive thoughts and OCD, individuals suffering from infertility, as well as those looking to improve their relationships.
Are you troubled by anxiety or intrusive thoughts? Do you struggle in your relationships or feel unfulfilled in your life? I help create a safe and authentic space where we can explore what is preventing you from reaching your potential. People have a tremendous capacity for change, and I can work with you in understanding patterns that are present in your life. My style is warm, compassionate, and genuine.
(646) 808-0712 View (646) 808-0712
Photo of Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028
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 Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10021
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 Danielle Dennis, PhD, Psychologist
Danielle Dennis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10075  (Online Only)
Specifically, my specialty includes treating clients with OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and sleep related difficulties.
As a licensed psychologist, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that has been shown to help manage your symptoms. My aim is to help clients learn skills and tools to help manage intrusive thoughts, phobias, generalized anxiety, OCD concerns, and sleep disturbances. Although change is never easy, I am a believer that through hard work, dedication, and determination it is possible.
Specifically, my specialty includes treating clients with OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and sleep related difficulties.
As a licensed psychologist, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that has been shown to help manage your symptoms. My aim is to help clients learn skills and tools to help manage intrusive thoughts, phobias, generalized anxiety, OCD concerns, and sleep disturbances. Although change is never easy, I am a believer that through hard work, dedication, and determination it is possible.
(617) 744-7852 View (617) 744-7852
Photo of Michael Greenberg - OCD Associates, PhD, Psychologist
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Other search terms: HOCD, SO-OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; BFRB, body-focused repetitive behaviors, trichotillomania, hair-pulling, skin-picking, excoriation; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
Other search terms: HOCD, SO-OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; BFRB, body-focused repetitive behaviors, trichotillomania, hair-pulling, skin-picking, excoriation; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(646) 980-3968 View (646) 980-3968
Photo of Andrew Sickles, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrew Sickles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028
I specialize in the treatment of teens, young adults, and adults with OCD, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, interpersonal effectiveness, and adjustment difficulties.
Therapy is an important step to reach comfort with the uncomfortable. I am deeply committed to working with others to progress through difficult situations. I look forward to working with you to gain an understanding of the emotional challenges in front of you and collaborate to explore ways to mitigate these challenges. We are often unsure of exactly what we are struggling with or why we feel overwhelmed by our emotional responses - I am here to work with you on how to proceed.
I specialize in the treatment of teens, young adults, and adults with OCD, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, interpersonal effectiveness, and adjustment difficulties.
Therapy is an important step to reach comfort with the uncomfortable. I am deeply committed to working with others to progress through difficult situations. I look forward to working with you to gain an understanding of the emotional challenges in front of you and collaborate to explore ways to mitigate these challenges. We are often unsure of exactly what we are struggling with or why we feel overwhelmed by our emotional responses - I am here to work with you on how to proceed.
(646) 849-2115 View (646) 849-2115
Photo of Maria Spitz, PhD, Psychologist
Maria Spitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
(646) 362-1398 View (646) 362-1398
Photo of Meredith Grossman, PhD, Psychologist
Meredith Grossman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10022
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, using evidence-based practices. During my extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults using a cognitive-behavioral approach, I have worked with patients struggling with anxiety disorders (such as social phobia, selective mutism, OCD, panic disorder, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder) and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder). Prior to opening my practice, I was a full-time faculty member at Weill Cornell Medical College. It is my goal to provide treatment that is supported by the most current research in the field of psychology.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, using evidence-based practices. During my extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults using a cognitive-behavioral approach, I have worked with patients struggling with anxiety disorders (such as social phobia, selective mutism, OCD, panic disorder, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder) and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder). Prior to opening my practice, I was a full-time faculty member at Weill Cornell Medical College. It is my goal to provide treatment that is supported by the most current research in the field of psychology.
(646) 362-2047 View (646) 362-2047
Photo of Talia Blumofe, LMHC, Counselor
Talia Blumofe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I specialize in OCD, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem.
If you're struggling with anxiety and feel like you're going to feel trapped forever, I understand. It's a scary feeling, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. My practice focuses on identifying the patterns that keep us stuck, and building a path forward. Together, we can build tools for leading a life that feels whole for you.
I specialize in OCD, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem.
If you're struggling with anxiety and feel like you're going to feel trapped forever, I understand. It's a scary feeling, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. My practice focuses on identifying the patterns that keep us stuck, and building a path forward. Together, we can build tools for leading a life that feels whole for you.
(646) 798-2283 View (646) 798-2283

See more therapy options for Upper East Side, New York

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.