Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Kevin L Gyoerkoe, PsyD, Psychologist
Kevin L Gyoerkoe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
anxietyand ocdtreatmentcenter.
Are you tired of anxiety or OCD controlling you? As a psychologist and co-author of 10 Simple Solutions to Worry, I specialize in helping people who suffer from anxiety and OCD. I'd like you to know that you can change how you feel and conquer these difficulties for good. You can get back to being you. I provide individual cognitive-behavioral therapy to adults, children and adolescents suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety, and excessive worry, as well as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and OCD-related disorders (such as trichotillomania and skin-picking).
anxietyand ocdtreatmentcenter.
Are you tired of anxiety or OCD controlling you? As a psychologist and co-author of 10 Simple Solutions to Worry, I specialize in helping people who suffer from anxiety and OCD. I'd like you to know that you can change how you feel and conquer these difficulties for good. You can get back to being you. I provide individual cognitive-behavioral therapy to adults, children and adolescents suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety, and excessive worry, as well as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and OCD-related disorders (such as trichotillomania and skin-picking).
(704) 707-4125 View (704) 707-4125
Photo of Jesse Selkin, PsyD, Psychologist
Jesse Selkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am a member of Anxiety and Depression Association of America and International OCD Foundation.
Does fear and anxiety interfere with you daily, making it difficult to enjoy certain parts of your life? Is your anxiety affecting your self-confidence and self-esteem? Do your OCD symptoms affect your life? If you are concerned with increasing levels of anxiety that feel overwhelming and uncontrollable, I can help you. With a specific focus on the treatment of Anxiety and OCD related disorders, you will gain practical tools and strategies that you can implement immediately.
I am a member of Anxiety and Depression Association of America and International OCD Foundation.
Does fear and anxiety interfere with you daily, making it difficult to enjoy certain parts of your life? Is your anxiety affecting your self-confidence and self-esteem? Do your OCD symptoms affect your life? If you are concerned with increasing levels of anxiety that feel overwhelming and uncontrollable, I can help you. With a specific focus on the treatment of Anxiety and OCD related disorders, you will gain practical tools and strategies that you can implement immediately.
(704) 313-1625 View (704) 313-1625
Photo of Steven Clemons Jr, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Steven Clemons Jr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
(704) 802-1765 x1114 View (704) 802-1765 x1114
Photo of Cristina Andreescu, PhD, Psychologist
Cristina Andreescu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
anxietyand ocdtreatmentcenter.
Are you living with worry, constantly moving from one concern to another and not really finding a break? Are you struggling to manage OCD yet nothing seems to make it stop? Is food or weight becoming a nagging thought in your mind? As a psychologist, I am trained to help adolescents and adults develop skills that will change these worries and reclaim a meaningful and satisfying life.
anxietyand ocdtreatmentcenter.
Are you living with worry, constantly moving from one concern to another and not really finding a break? Are you struggling to manage OCD yet nothing seems to make it stop? Is food or weight becoming a nagging thought in your mind? As a psychologist, I am trained to help adolescents and adults develop skills that will change these worries and reclaim a meaningful and satisfying life.
(704) 419-8071 View (704) 419-8071
Photo of Erica Lindenberg - Erica Lindenberg LCSW, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Lindenberg LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Therapist based out of Charlotte, NC. Hello, I am a bilingual therapist offering services to adolescents and adults in NC, MD and DC (telehealth). I am passionate about providing treatment for individuals with anxiety disorders, OCD, perinatal mental health disorders, and trauma. Finding the right therapist can be hard. Some common concerns for seeking therapy may include: intrusive thoughts, repetitive thinking or rumination, feeling fearful or on edge, avoiding activities that used to be joyful, or persistent loneliness and sadness.
Therapist based out of Charlotte, NC. Hello, I am a bilingual therapist offering services to adolescents and adults in NC, MD and DC (telehealth). I am passionate about providing treatment for individuals with anxiety disorders, OCD, perinatal mental health disorders, and trauma. Finding the right therapist can be hard. Some common concerns for seeking therapy may include: intrusive thoughts, repetitive thinking or rumination, feeling fearful or on edge, avoiding activities that used to be joyful, or persistent loneliness and sadness.
(919) 648-1787 View (919) 648-1787
Photo of Kristen Pascal, LCMHC
Kristen Pascal
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
My specialty areas include working with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and other presenting challenges.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Whether you've tried therapy before or you're brand new to the process, taking these first steps can be nerve-wracking. Because of this, I believe that the safe, trusting environment and relationship built between therapist and client is at the core of this work. What’s most important to me is that you feel comfortable being yourself in therapy, and my goal is that you always feel heard, supported, and accepted. Therapy is different for everybody, and I want this process to be unique and personal to you and your needs.
My specialty areas include working with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and other presenting challenges.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Whether you've tried therapy before or you're brand new to the process, taking these first steps can be nerve-wracking. Because of this, I believe that the safe, trusting environment and relationship built between therapist and client is at the core of this work. What’s most important to me is that you feel comfortable being yourself in therapy, and my goal is that you always feel heard, supported, and accepted. Therapy is different for everybody, and I want this process to be unique and personal to you and your needs.
(704) 486-8190 x5 View (704) 486-8190 x5
Photo of Anna Schneiderman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Schneiderman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I specialize in providing treatment for OCD, social anxiety, panic disorder, generalized anxiety and specific phobias.
Are you struggling with intense anxiety, frequent worry, or obsessive thoughts? Do you avoid important activities because of your anxiety? Do you find it difficult to enjoy life and pursue goals because of these problems? We all experience anxiety sometimes, but if it interferes with your social life, daily functioning, or work there is hope. I pride myself on being compassionate while being guided by evidenced based treatment using CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention).
I specialize in providing treatment for OCD, social anxiety, panic disorder, generalized anxiety and specific phobias.
Are you struggling with intense anxiety, frequent worry, or obsessive thoughts? Do you avoid important activities because of your anxiety? Do you find it difficult to enjoy life and pursue goals because of these problems? We all experience anxiety sometimes, but if it interferes with your social life, daily functioning, or work there is hope. I pride myself on being compassionate while being guided by evidenced based treatment using CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention).
(704) 751-4460 View (704) 751-4460
Photo of Joanna Grey-Flemister - Joanna Grey, MA, LCMHC , SC-LPC, CCATP
Joanna Grey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC , SC-LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Joanna has worked in the school, medical, and private sectors and has specialized training in ADHD; training provided by TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors; and is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) focusing on OCD, panic related disorders, and social anxiety.
Joanna treats anxiety, depression, and impulse control issues such as anger and ADHD. Many times clients uses unhealthy coping skills for example; OCD and BFRBs (skin and hair pulling) to temporarily provide relief only to recognize their issues are then compounded. Joanna uses her 8 years experience to develop tailored techniques to replace her clients' unhealthy behaviors.
Joanna has worked in the school, medical, and private sectors and has specialized training in ADHD; training provided by TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors; and is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) focusing on OCD, panic related disorders, and social anxiety.
Joanna treats anxiety, depression, and impulse control issues such as anger and ADHD. Many times clients uses unhealthy coping skills for example; OCD and BFRBs (skin and hair pulling) to temporarily provide relief only to recognize their issues are then compounded. Joanna uses her 8 years experience to develop tailored techniques to replace her clients' unhealthy behaviors.
(980) 277-3540 View (980) 277-3540
Photo of Holley Mosher, LCMHC, NCC
Holley Mosher
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
I work closely with mindfulness interventions, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention for those suffering from OCD.
I’m glad you're here. Asking for help is a brave step! I understand opening up to a stranger is difficult. As your therapist, I will meet you with acceptance, compassion, and understanding. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to come as you are and support you throughout your healing journey. There is hope and relief in your future!
I work closely with mindfulness interventions, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention for those suffering from OCD.
I’m glad you're here. Asking for help is a brave step! I understand opening up to a stranger is difficult. As your therapist, I will meet you with acceptance, compassion, and understanding. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to come as you are and support you throughout your healing journey. There is hope and relief in your future!
(704) 445-3591 View (704) 445-3591
Photo of Cassandra Rondel Asencio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Rondel Asencio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Waitlist for new clients
If you are here, you are probably looking for some support and assistance in returning your life or that of a loved one to a sense of “normalcy” or calm. Or perhaps you are looking for a calm that has never been experienced. I understand that struggles with OCD, anxiety, difficult experiences or challenging behaviors can be overwhelming and difficult to sort out. I have extensive experience working with people and families in many different life situations and I can help you, your child and your family find a calmer place.
If you are here, you are probably looking for some support and assistance in returning your life or that of a loved one to a sense of “normalcy” or calm. Or perhaps you are looking for a calm that has never been experienced. I understand that struggles with OCD, anxiety, difficult experiences or challenging behaviors can be overwhelming and difficult to sort out. I have extensive experience working with people and families in many different life situations and I can help you, your child and your family find a calmer place.
(704) 368-4304 View (704) 368-4304
Photo of Brandie Terifaj, LCSW, LISW-CP, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandie Terifaj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with people who are anxious or suffering with OCD.
You will find that I enjoy connecting to people through their interests, passions and experiences. I like to bring a sense of humor into sessions when appropriate and treat everyone with dignity, respect and compassion. We will not just talk about your problems, but I will get to know you as a person so we can utilize those strengths to manage the less desirable parts of self, thus moving toward acceptance rather than judgement.
My specialty is working with people who are anxious or suffering with OCD.
You will find that I enjoy connecting to people through their interests, passions and experiences. I like to bring a sense of humor into sessions when appropriate and treat everyone with dignity, respect and compassion. We will not just talk about your problems, but I will get to know you as a person so we can utilize those strengths to manage the less desirable parts of self, thus moving toward acceptance rather than judgement.
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Photo of Sara Wilkerson, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Wilkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
Please note: I am on a waitlist for therapy. However, I am accepting appointments for assessments on a rolling basis. As a Master's level clinician (LCMHC), I specialize in neuropsychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, and Anxiety. In addition, I have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced life-changing diagnoses, ranging from brain and spinal cord injuries to terminal illnesses. My personalized approach targets each client's unique concerns, and I collaborate with other providers as needed.
Please note: I am on a waitlist for therapy. However, I am accepting appointments for assessments on a rolling basis. As a Master's level clinician (LCMHC), I specialize in neuropsychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, and Anxiety. In addition, I have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced life-changing diagnoses, ranging from brain and spinal cord injuries to terminal illnesses. My personalized approach targets each client's unique concerns, and I collaborate with other providers as needed.
(704) 237-6713 View (704) 237-6713
Photo of Jordyn Haney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordyn Haney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am certified in Trauma and Shame-informed Treatment as well as Anxiety and OCD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker servicing both North and South Carolina populations. I have a vast array of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and improving their lives. I pride myself on being able to meet people where they currently are in life and work to view the individual as part of their entire environment. Through modalities of play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention, I individualize all treatment plans to best serve my clients.
I am certified in Trauma and Shame-informed Treatment as well as Anxiety and OCD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker servicing both North and South Carolina populations. I have a vast array of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and improving their lives. I pride myself on being able to meet people where they currently are in life and work to view the individual as part of their entire environment. Through modalities of play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention, I individualize all treatment plans to best serve my clients.
(704) 272-2613 View (704) 272-2613
Photo of Erica A Kennedy, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Erica A Kennedy
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am passionate about helping individuals deal with complexities of life including generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, low self esteem, school based issues, social skills, phobias, social anxiety and family divorce/blended families.
My goal as a therapist is to help adults, adolescents, children and families to improve their quality of life and relationships with one another. I work with individuals to find healing and peace in times of crisis, confusion, and stress. Additional services that I offer are parental coaching and school advocating/consulting. My strength is creating a safe, positive, space for adults, teens, kids, and families to open up authentically and make the changes necessary for happiness.
I am passionate about helping individuals deal with complexities of life including generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, low self esteem, school based issues, social skills, phobias, social anxiety and family divorce/blended families.
My goal as a therapist is to help adults, adolescents, children and families to improve their quality of life and relationships with one another. I work with individuals to find healing and peace in times of crisis, confusion, and stress. Additional services that I offer are parental coaching and school advocating/consulting. My strength is creating a safe, positive, space for adults, teens, kids, and families to open up authentically and make the changes necessary for happiness.
(704) 270-2814 View (704) 270-2814
Photo of Melissa Franz, MSW, LCSWA
Melissa Franz
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict, grief, life transitions, peer relationships, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
I believe that every person has inherent worth and matters intensely. I am so grateful you found your way to this page. Life may feel overwhelming, scary, or even unlivable right now but I want to provide reassurance that this feeling can and will pass. In my clinical practice, I work with clients to create a holistic treatment plan and approach our work focusing on your strengths while making you feel heard and valued.
I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, family conflict, grief, life transitions, peer relationships, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
I believe that every person has inherent worth and matters intensely. I am so grateful you found your way to this page. Life may feel overwhelming, scary, or even unlivable right now but I want to provide reassurance that this feeling can and will pass. In my clinical practice, I work with clients to create a holistic treatment plan and approach our work focusing on your strengths while making you feel heard and valued.
(980) 375-5169 View (980) 375-5169
Photo of Simone Leavell-Bruce, PsyD, Psychologist
Simone Leavell-Bruce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Hello Psychology Today family! My name is Simone Leavell-Bruce and I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Matone Counseling & Testing. I have expert knowledge in the assessment & treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD) and related anxiety disorders. I also provide training and supervision to other clinicians for OCD. I have received extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and utilize the gold-standard, evidence-based modality to treat OCD, Exposure and Ritual Prevention (ExRP). I also utilize mindfulness practices and aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in my work.
Hello Psychology Today family! My name is Simone Leavell-Bruce and I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Matone Counseling & Testing. I have expert knowledge in the assessment & treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD) and related anxiety disorders. I also provide training and supervision to other clinicians for OCD. I have received extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and utilize the gold-standard, evidence-based modality to treat OCD, Exposure and Ritual Prevention (ExRP). I also utilize mindfulness practices and aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in my work.
(704) 327-0808 View (704) 327-0808
Photo of Corey Connelly, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corey Connelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I have extensive training and experience implementing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a treatment designed to build emotion regulation.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), anxiety, and perfectionism. I recognize the challenging cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, obsessive doubt, avoidance, and compulsions, and can help provide some guidance around becoming “unstuck” from difficult patterns that are no longer serving you. If you struggle with using substances or other behavioral addictions to cope, and are wanting to set some goals surrounding your use, I am dually licensed to treat co-occuring substance use as well.
I have extensive training and experience implementing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a treatment designed to build emotion regulation.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), anxiety, and perfectionism. I recognize the challenging cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, obsessive doubt, avoidance, and compulsions, and can help provide some guidance around becoming “unstuck” from difficult patterns that are no longer serving you. If you struggle with using substances or other behavioral addictions to cope, and are wanting to set some goals surrounding your use, I am dually licensed to treat co-occuring substance use as well.
(704) 368-3383 View (704) 368-3383
Photo of Erica Barton, LPC
Erica Barton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I have worked in private practice over 10 years, as well as in-patient treatment centers; specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders and/or depression.
We are all faced with the challenges through the journey of finding purpose, fulfillment and identity.  You might feel like you are being stretched in a million different directions right now.  Maybe you are having difficulty making the "right" decision about your job, your friendships, or your romantic relationships.  Perhaps stress, anxiety or depression is getting in the way of bringing your true self to your interactions and performance. If you've found yourself reading through this page, then perhaps there is a part of you that is ready to explore a different way of living. And yes, it is possible.
I have worked in private practice over 10 years, as well as in-patient treatment centers; specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders and/or depression.
We are all faced with the challenges through the journey of finding purpose, fulfillment and identity.  You might feel like you are being stretched in a million different directions right now.  Maybe you are having difficulty making the "right" decision about your job, your friendships, or your romantic relationships.  Perhaps stress, anxiety or depression is getting in the way of bringing your true self to your interactions and performance. If you've found yourself reading through this page, then perhaps there is a part of you that is ready to explore a different way of living. And yes, it is possible.
(704) 396-4262 View (704) 396-4262
Photo of Kimberly “Kim” Simmons, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kimberly “Kim” Simmons
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people ready to embrace change and gain a fresh perspective on life’s challenges. If you often feel overwhelmed by worries, fear losing control, or struggle with feelings of inadequacy, and if old patterns are holding you back, you’re eager to break free. You might face challenges like OCD, anxiety, trauma, depression, major life changes or just feel stuck. You’re open to exploring your thoughts and emotions deeply and facing fears to reclaim your life. If you value authenticity, connection, and a straightforward yet compassionate approach, let’s connect!
I enjoy working with people ready to embrace change and gain a fresh perspective on life’s challenges. If you often feel overwhelmed by worries, fear losing control, or struggle with feelings of inadequacy, and if old patterns are holding you back, you’re eager to break free. You might face challenges like OCD, anxiety, trauma, depression, major life changes or just feel stuck. You’re open to exploring your thoughts and emotions deeply and facing fears to reclaim your life. If you value authenticity, connection, and a straightforward yet compassionate approach, let’s connect!
(910) 773-5960 View (910) 773-5960
Photo of Katie Parenti, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Parenti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I work with people struggling with depression, low self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, and OCD.
Have you been struggling with depression or low self esteem to the point of hating yourself? Maybe you've been struggling with this for years and can't imagine not dealing with it. Do you have horrible memories from your past that you try your best to ignore but they always seem to seep their way into your brain? It's not your fault that you have trauma, but you may sometimes feel like it is. What about obsessive, anxious thoughts that you can't get our of your head? They might even be causing you to act in a way that doesn't feel like you.
I work with people struggling with depression, low self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, and OCD.
Have you been struggling with depression or low self esteem to the point of hating yourself? Maybe you've been struggling with this for years and can't imagine not dealing with it. Do you have horrible memories from your past that you try your best to ignore but they always seem to seep their way into your brain? It's not your fault that you have trauma, but you may sometimes feel like it is. What about obsessive, anxious thoughts that you can't get our of your head? They might even be causing you to act in a way that doesn't feel like you.
(704) 270-6950 View (704) 270-6950
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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.