Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in North Portland, Portland, OR
Megan Rose Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
For women w/ trauma, anxiety, & OCD- I offer EMDR services, proven to reduce overall disturbance levels in most clients.
Ladies, are you struggling w/ an event that left you with nightmares, flashbacks, negative beliefs or expectations about yourself or others (eg "I'm bad"), startle responses, feeling anxious, depressed, or have difficulty concentrating? If your goal is to feel more confident in your own skin and to sleep soundly at night therapy can help.
For women w/ trauma, anxiety, & OCD- I offer EMDR services, proven to reduce overall disturbance levels in most clients.
Ladies, are you struggling w/ an event that left you with nightmares, flashbacks, negative beliefs or expectations about yourself or others (eg "I'm bad"), startle responses, feeling anxious, depressed, or have difficulty concentrating? If your goal is to feel more confident in your own skin and to sleep soundly at night therapy can help.
Sandra Stubbs - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
My journey in mental health began while serving as an assistant pastor, where I addressed community concerns related to immigration and other challenging services. Realizing the need for more specialized care for families, I pursued further education in trauma and crisis management. While managing a busy private practice, I noticed an increasing number of people struggling with OCD and sought specialization to better support them. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to diagnose and treat it effectively.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
My journey in mental health began while serving as an assistant pastor, where I addressed community concerns related to immigration and other challenging services. Realizing the need for more specialized care for families, I pursued further education in trauma and crisis management. While managing a busy private practice, I noticed an increasing number of people struggling with OCD and sought specialization to better support them. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to diagnose and treat it effectively.
Mitchell Mcdonald - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
I believe in approaching any mental health condition holistically, looking at all aspects of your life that contribute to your current functioning. I utilize a strengths-based approach to empower you to make changes while addressing challenges. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to diagnose and treat them properly.
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
I believe in approaching any mental health condition holistically, looking at all aspects of your life that contribute to your current functioning. I utilize a strengths-based approach to empower you to make changes while addressing challenges. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to diagnose and treat them properly.
Kimberlee Glassner - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
It will be difficult initially, but you will see rewards and learn to live without OCD controlling your life.
Living with OCD can be overwhelming. It is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood, leading people with OCD to suffer in silence for years. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD allows us to diagnose and treat it accurately. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD Therapy, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences and availability.
It will be difficult initially, but you will see rewards and learn to live without OCD controlling your life.
Living with OCD can be overwhelming. It is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood, leading people with OCD to suffer in silence for years. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD allows us to diagnose and treat it accurately. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD Therapy, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, based on your preferences and availability.
Dr. Andrea Millen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217
Through our work together, you’ll better understand your experience of OCD and anxiety.
Change is possible. A diagnosis of OCD or another anxiety disorder can be scary and confusing. It can feel like your life is defined by dread, worry, fear, and exhaustion. Much of your energy and time are likely spent trying to present to the outside world as “successful” and “having it all together”. Internally, you may feel disconnected from your core self, your innate purpose and potential, and the ability to enjoy simple moments in your life. Anxiety doesn’t have to define who you are as a human. Therapy is courageous work. I’m glad you’re here making this first step.
Through our work together, you’ll better understand your experience of OCD and anxiety.
Change is possible. A diagnosis of OCD or another anxiety disorder can be scary and confusing. It can feel like your life is defined by dread, worry, fear, and exhaustion. Much of your energy and time are likely spent trying to present to the outside world as “successful” and “having it all together”. Internally, you may feel disconnected from your core self, your innate purpose and potential, and the ability to enjoy simple moments in your life. Anxiety doesn’t have to define who you are as a human. Therapy is courageous work. I’m glad you’re here making this first step.
Cathedral Park Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Portland, Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with obsessive thoughts and compulsions? As a therapist specializing in anxiety and OCD, I understand the unique challenges that people face in managing these conditions. Using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I can help you develop practical strategies to overcome your fears and regain control of your life. Whether it's social anxiety holding you back from enjoying life to the fullest or intrusive thoughts disrupting your daily activities, together we can work towards building resilience and finding peace of mind. Let's get started.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with obsessive thoughts and compulsions? As a therapist specializing in anxiety and OCD, I understand the unique challenges that people face in managing these conditions. Using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I can help you develop practical strategies to overcome your fears and regain control of your life. Whether it's social anxiety holding you back from enjoying life to the fullest or intrusive thoughts disrupting your daily activities, together we can work towards building resilience and finding peace of mind. Let's get started.
Elizabeth Keating - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
My personal experience with anxiety and my professional background make me an authentic and direct therapist. Members trust and feel comfortable with me, understanding what we need to accomplish in our sessions. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, depending on your preferences.
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
My personal experience with anxiety and my professional background make me an authentic and direct therapist. Members trust and feel comfortable with me, understanding what we need to accomplish in our sessions. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD. When you start with NOCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues, depending on your preferences.
Tim Flaharty - NOCD
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I’m excited to begin this journey with you and support you in overcoming your OCD.
As a therapist, I prioritize developing a connection with you to establish trust. I take the time to learn about you—your story, how you've arrived at your current situation, and what you want for the future. From there, we explore techniques to sever the connection between unhelpful behaviors and your anxiety. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
I’m excited to begin this journey with you and support you in overcoming your OCD.
As a therapist, I prioritize developing a connection with you to establish trust. I take the time to learn about you—your story, how you've arrived at your current situation, and what you want for the future. From there, we explore techniques to sever the connection between unhelpful behaviors and your anxiety. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Erica Callicoatte Villanueva - NOCD
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
As a therapist, I’m warm and empathetic, creating a safe and comfortable space for you to share and know you're not alone. I have always wanted to help people overcome their difficulties, struggles, and trauma. I’ve seen anxiety and depression among friends and family, and I know how challenging it can be to seek help. While I haven't been diagnosed with OCD, I’ve experienced anxiety and understand the struggle of fear and worry. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
As a therapist, I’m warm and empathetic, creating a safe and comfortable space for you to share and know you're not alone. I have always wanted to help people overcome their difficulties, struggles, and trauma. I’ve seen anxiety and depression among friends and family, and I know how challenging it can be to seek help. While I haven't been diagnosed with OCD, I’ve experienced anxiety and understand the struggle of fear and worry. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Tracie Howell - NOCD
Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
From a young age, I found my passion in helping others. I knew the pain of feeling alone in my struggles, and having someone to talk to who understood made a difference. And as a mom of a teenage daughter, I witnessed the impact of OCD firsthand. My approach to treatment starts with building a connection. I'll meet you where you are and help you recognize your strength and power as you take control of OCD. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD's nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
From a young age, I found my passion in helping others. I knew the pain of feeling alone in my struggles, and having someone to talk to who understood made a difference. And as a mom of a teenage daughter, I witnessed the impact of OCD firsthand. My approach to treatment starts with building a connection. I'll meet you where you are and help you recognize your strength and power as you take control of OCD. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD's nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Michael Britt - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
Growing up, I was curious about why we all feel so differently when faced with the same struggles. This curiosity led me to become a therapist, driven by a desire to help others with their unique challenges. My approach to OCD therapy is to empower you in your treatment journey. We will work together to address the challenges in your life, with no judgment, acknowledging that every emotion is important. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
Growing up, I was curious about why we all feel so differently when faced with the same struggles. This curiosity led me to become a therapist, driven by a desire to help others with their unique challenges. My approach to OCD therapy is to empower you in your treatment journey. We will work together to address the challenges in your life, with no judgment, acknowledging that every emotion is important. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
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Shawna Ecklind - NOCD
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
The results are absolutely worth it, turning the overwhelming noise of OCD into just whispers you barely notice.
As a therapist, I like to take a collaborative approach, using humor to create a comfortable environment. We'll start wherever you are and go from there, making therapy as engaging and enjoyable as possible. While therapy will challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone, we'll also find moments of fun and lightness. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD allows us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
The results are absolutely worth it, turning the overwhelming noise of OCD into just whispers you barely notice.
As a therapist, I like to take a collaborative approach, using humor to create a comfortable environment. We'll start wherever you are and go from there, making therapy as engaging and enjoyable as possible. While therapy will challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone, we'll also find moments of fun and lightness. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances of OCD allows us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Shauna Pichette - NOCD
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I use a personal approach to therapy, incorporating warmth and humor. I genuinely celebrate my members' successes and challenge them while respecting their boundaries. Helping people realize their potential and live their best lives has always been my passion. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We've received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I use a personal approach to therapy, incorporating warmth and humor. I genuinely celebrate my members' successes and challenge them while respecting their boundaries. Helping people realize their potential and live their best lives has always been my passion. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of OCD’s nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We've received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Carletta Nance - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
In treating OCD, I am committed, patient, and encouraging throughout the process. I tell everyone who comes to therapy that this can be hard, but it's worth it. Therapy is about committing to work on yourself so you can have a better quality of life. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly.
I look forward to working with you and helping you conquer your OCD.
In treating OCD, I am committed, patient, and encouraging throughout the process. I tell everyone who comes to therapy that this can be hard, but it's worth it. Therapy is about committing to work on yourself so you can have a better quality of life. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of these conditions enables us to treat them properly.
Ashlee K Lauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
I love working with clients who are motivated and open to trying new things in a safe setting. I hope to provide support and guidance to clients who are seeking change to live a more values-focused life. I specialize in helping clients that have symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD), and Anxiety disorders, including Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and Phobias.
I love working with clients who are motivated and open to trying new things in a safe setting. I hope to provide support and guidance to clients who are seeking change to live a more values-focused life. I specialize in helping clients that have symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD), and Anxiety disorders, including Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and Phobias.
Laura Patiño
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety and OCD, focusing on assisting clients through life transitions as well as relationship and sexual concerns.
Difficult life experiences might leave us isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure of what's next. Yet, these challenges often create opportunities for profound growth, transformation, and self-discovery. I offer a safe, open, and consistently stable therapeutic environment where you can explore and move through your concerns with the support of a neutral, experienced licensed professional counselor. I particularly enjoy working with creative and highly motivated individuals who strive to live a meaningful, authentic, and secure life. My passion is helping individuals & couples discover greater empowerment, self-compassion, and connection.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety and OCD, focusing on assisting clients through life transitions as well as relationship and sexual concerns.
Difficult life experiences might leave us isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure of what's next. Yet, these challenges often create opportunities for profound growth, transformation, and self-discovery. I offer a safe, open, and consistently stable therapeutic environment where you can explore and move through your concerns with the support of a neutral, experienced licensed professional counselor. I particularly enjoy working with creative and highly motivated individuals who strive to live a meaningful, authentic, and secure life. My passion is helping individuals & couples discover greater empowerment, self-compassion, and connection.
Eileen Aguon Martinez
MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! My name is Eileen and I am a biracial clinician of Chamorro (Pacific Islander) and Mexican descent originally from Anaheim, California. It is my mission to provide specialized treatment for children, youth, & adults in areas of mental health recovery (depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, body-focused repetitive behaviors, & complex trauma), racial identity challenges, relationship issues, intercultural relationship navigation, life transitions, ancestral/intergenerational trauma, and somatic therapy. I am committed as an ally to human rights and the issues of social/racial justice, equity, and equality for all.
Welcome! My name is Eileen and I am a biracial clinician of Chamorro (Pacific Islander) and Mexican descent originally from Anaheim, California. It is my mission to provide specialized treatment for children, youth, & adults in areas of mental health recovery (depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, body-focused repetitive behaviors, & complex trauma), racial identity challenges, relationship issues, intercultural relationship navigation, life transitions, ancestral/intergenerational trauma, and somatic therapy. I am committed as an ally to human rights and the issues of social/racial justice, equity, and equality for all.
Riverside Clinical Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Asking for help is a big step and often difficult to do. Thank you for looking to me, for support. Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Neurodivergence, Relationship Issues or various stressors? In many ways behavioral health is similar to physical health. We all have it, and we need to take care of it, so we can live healthy lives. Taking care of your mental health may feel overwhelming and it might also cause feelings of shame, or fear of judgement. You are not alone. I am here to help guide you through the process and assist you in improving your quality of life.
Accepting New Clients. Asking for help is a big step and often difficult to do. Thank you for looking to me, for support. Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Neurodivergence, Relationship Issues or various stressors? In many ways behavioral health is similar to physical health. We all have it, and we need to take care of it, so we can live healthy lives. Taking care of your mental health may feel overwhelming and it might also cause feelings of shame, or fear of judgement. You are not alone. I am here to help guide you through the process and assist you in improving your quality of life.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97217
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/5/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/5/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Laura Placek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHC, CADCIII, CMH
Verified Verified
North Portland, Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
I treat OCD with ERP (specialized through NOCD) depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, anger management, domestic violence, sexual disorders/ offending, behavioral, couples, parenting, coping and assertive skill building.
Bringing you affordable, confidential, and comprehensive services locally. We are an independent behavioral agency providing dual diagnosis and treatment services. Board certified and Licensed. I meet you where you are in life. My goal is to help you to identify paths to achieve personal goals, recovery, and life balance. Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I believe in compassionate and respectful person-centered care.
I treat OCD with ERP (specialized through NOCD) depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, anger management, domestic violence, sexual disorders/ offending, behavioral, couples, parenting, coping and assertive skill building.
Bringing you affordable, confidential, and comprehensive services locally. We are an independent behavioral agency providing dual diagnosis and treatment services. Board certified and Licensed. I meet you where you are in life. My goal is to help you to identify paths to achieve personal goals, recovery, and life balance. Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I believe in compassionate and respectful person-centered care.
See more therapy options for North Portland, Portland
Nearby Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists Searches for North Portland, Portland
- Arbor Lodge
- Boise
- Bridgeton
- Cathedral Park
- Humboldt
- Kenton
- Northwest
- Northwest Industrial
- Portsmith
- Portsmouth
- Saint Johns
- Woodlawn
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.