Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT

Photo of Leah Jaramillo - Social ME , LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Social ME
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84129
Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive disorders take away our freedom of CHOICE.
Social ME wants to stand with you as you navigate your healing journey from Anxiety, OCD or Postpartum. Social ME offers Exposure Therapy done with you in mind. We find ways to ensure therapy incorporates real life experiences into your journey of health and healing. Our ability to offer therapy almost anywhere in the valley means your anxiety has no place to hide. Freedom from anxiety comes from doing life differently and we can help you do just that
Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive disorders take away our freedom of CHOICE.
Social ME wants to stand with you as you navigate your healing journey from Anxiety, OCD or Postpartum. Social ME offers Exposure Therapy done with you in mind. We find ways to ensure therapy incorporates real life experiences into your journey of health and healing. Our ability to offer therapy almost anywhere in the valley means your anxiety has no place to hide. Freedom from anxiety comes from doing life differently and we can help you do just that
(385) 469-0724 View (385) 469-0724
Photo of Emma Lundahl, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Lundahl
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I understand the courage it takes to seek support and I’m proud of you for taking this step, you deserve it! My goal is to provide a safe and accepting space for healing and growth to occur. I aim to support you as you navigate life’s challenges and to help you cultivate a rich and empowered life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, social anxiety, and depression. I understand that each individual has a unique set of experiences and needs.
I understand the courage it takes to seek support and I’m proud of you for taking this step, you deserve it! My goal is to provide a safe and accepting space for healing and growth to occur. I aim to support you as you navigate life’s challenges and to help you cultivate a rich and empowered life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, social anxiety, and depression. I understand that each individual has a unique set of experiences and needs.
(385) 308-5282 View (385) 308-5282
Photo of Brian D Coombs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian D Coombs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I have had the access and training in the most effective and time-tested treatments for OCD and related anxiety disorders. I received my clinical degree from the University of Southern California (USC) and am the founder of the OCD Foundation of Utah. I use a warm, empathic, and multifaceted approach, which includes insight therapies, exposure and response prevention, lifestyle analysis, supplementation, and education in brain mechanisms. My personality and deep insight of the torture one feels with debilitating OCD and anxiety help clients feel comfortable and heard.
I have had the access and training in the most effective and time-tested treatments for OCD and related anxiety disorders. I received my clinical degree from the University of Southern California (USC) and am the founder of the OCD Foundation of Utah. I use a warm, empathic, and multifaceted approach, which includes insight therapies, exposure and response prevention, lifestyle analysis, supplementation, and education in brain mechanisms. My personality and deep insight of the torture one feels with debilitating OCD and anxiety help clients feel comfortable and heard.
(801) 794-5380 View (801) 794-5380
Photo of Josh Kaplan - Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
In my practice, I specialize in treating these conditions using both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
In my practice, I specialize in treating these conditions using both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
(385) 376-1679 View (385) 376-1679
Photo of Regina Thomas - Regina Thomas - NOCD, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Regina Thomas - NOCD
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84120  (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I enjoy helping people identify and overcome the roadblocks that prevent them from moving forward. I have met more and more individuals with OCD who need support in addressing the obstacles and mindsets that promote OCD behaviors. Help is available, and with focus and intention, change is inevitable. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received intensive training in ERP therapy—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 enjoy helping people identify and overcome the roadblocks that prevent them from moving forward. I have met more and more individuals with OCD who need support in addressing the obstacles and mindsets that promote OCD behaviors. Help is available, and with focus and intention, change is inevitable. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received intensive training in ERP therapy—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
(872) 231-0550 View (872) 231-0550
Photo of Christina Scharmer, PhD, Psychologist
Christina Scharmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I am accepting new clients in person in Salt Lake City and via telehealth! I am a clinical psychologist with specific training and experience providing specialized care for children, teens, and adults with eating disorders, OCD, problematic exercise, anxiety, and depression. I love working collaboratively with clients to meet their goals and get back on track. I start with a thorough assessment and work with you to develop a goals and a treatment plan. I also value interdisciplinary collaboration with other providers when appropriate.
I am accepting new clients in person in Salt Lake City and via telehealth! I am a clinical psychologist with specific training and experience providing specialized care for children, teens, and adults with eating disorders, OCD, problematic exercise, anxiety, and depression. I love working collaboratively with clients to meet their goals and get back on track. I start with a thorough assessment and work with you to develop a goals and a treatment plan. I also value interdisciplinary collaboration with other providers when appropriate.
(801) 823-2667 View (801) 823-2667
Photo of Anna K Boller, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna K Boller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Specialities: Anxiety, Depression, TS, OCD, Adjustment Difficulties, Gifted, Neurodivergent Individuals.
Developing resilience in the face of adversity is the focus of my clinical practice. This is informed by research based interventions. Child and Adult therapy is available, including treatment for neurodivergent children and adults. Anxiety, OCD and Tourette are areas of advanced training. Therapy is an active process, with between session goals designed to maximize treatment.
Specialities: Anxiety, Depression, TS, OCD, Adjustment Difficulties, Gifted, Neurodivergent Individuals.
Developing resilience in the face of adversity is the focus of my clinical practice. This is informed by research based interventions. Child and Adult therapy is available, including treatment for neurodivergent children and adults. Anxiety, OCD and Tourette are areas of advanced training. Therapy is an active process, with between session goals designed to maximize treatment.
(801) 948-0480 View (801) 948-0480
Photo of Christina Hauritz - Christina Hauritz - NOCD, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Hauritz - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84128  (Online Only)
When you start with N OCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues based on your preferences.
From a young age, I felt a deep-seated desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. My decision to specialize in OCD was deeply influenced by personal experience, familial connections, and professional exposure to individuals grappling with this challenging condition. I've seen the debilitating effects of OCD firsthand through the experiences of loved ones. My team and I at N OCD utilizes evidence-based approaches such as exposure and response prevention (ERP). You'll receive targeted and effective treatment specifically tailored to your OCD symptoms.
When you start with N OCD, you’ll either work with me or be paired with one of my colleagues based on your preferences.
From a young age, I felt a deep-seated desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. My decision to specialize in OCD was deeply influenced by personal experience, familial connections, and professional exposure to individuals grappling with this challenging condition. I've seen the debilitating effects of OCD firsthand through the experiences of loved ones. My team and I at N OCD utilizes evidence-based approaches such as exposure and response prevention (ERP). You'll receive targeted and effective treatment specifically tailored to your OCD symptoms.
(385) 354-7810 View (385) 354-7810
Photo of Pamela Robison Awana, PhD, Psychologist
Pamela Robison Awana
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
I specialize in anxiety disorders ( OCD and panic). I am passionate about assisting patients with compulsions, fears, and intrusive thoughts that no one wants to talk about, i.e., what if I jumped off a cliff, or hurt someone, what if I no longer believe in my faith. I have an energetic, open and caring style. I will give you clear feedback and things to read and work on outside of therapy so we can make our time more productive and help you meet your goals. We understand the part of brain that misfires in OCD and can actually help you rewire your brain. ERP--Exposure and response prevention is used. Prefer EMAIL inquiry.
I specialize in anxiety disorders ( OCD and panic). I am passionate about assisting patients with compulsions, fears, and intrusive thoughts that no one wants to talk about, i.e., what if I jumped off a cliff, or hurt someone, what if I no longer believe in my faith. I have an energetic, open and caring style. I will give you clear feedback and things to read and work on outside of therapy so we can make our time more productive and help you meet your goals. We understand the part of brain that misfires in OCD and can actually help you rewire your brain. ERP--Exposure and response prevention is used. Prefer EMAIL inquiry.
(801) 935-8882 View (801) 935-8882
Photo of Alex Ertl, PsyD, Psychologist
Alex Ertl
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I have specialized experience in treating trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression.
I view therapy as a place for both the patient and the therapist to be real and authentic. Therapy can be a place where we come together to listen to and honor those parts of ourselves that we cut off. Over time, as we come to acknowledge and accept those parts of self that have been left behind, we can come to feel whole again. In this way, therapy does not eliminate every pain or problem, but it is a chance for reducing unnecessary suffering while being kind to ourselves in the face of the inherent struggles of life.
I have specialized experience in treating trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression.
I view therapy as a place for both the patient and the therapist to be real and authentic. Therapy can be a place where we come together to listen to and honor those parts of ourselves that we cut off. Over time, as we come to acknowledge and accept those parts of self that have been left behind, we can come to feel whole again. In this way, therapy does not eliminate every pain or problem, but it is a chance for reducing unnecessary suffering while being kind to ourselves in the face of the inherent struggles of life.
(801) 336-4490 View (801) 336-4490
Photo of Emerald Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emerald Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
My training and experience is in OCD and anxiety related disorders, substance use disorders, depression, and trauma.
I know that each person has such strength inside of them that they can create the life that they have been searching for. Together we will explore new and different avenues and I will guide you in an evidence-based approach in developing skills and empowering you as an individual. Often we go through the cycles each day and feel like we have lost control over our own lives. I am excited to walk beside you as you find your unique potential. I work well with both adults and teens with OCD, Anxiety Depression, PANS and PANDAS, and trauma related concerns.
My training and experience is in OCD and anxiety related disorders, substance use disorders, depression, and trauma.
I know that each person has such strength inside of them that they can create the life that they have been searching for. Together we will explore new and different avenues and I will guide you in an evidence-based approach in developing skills and empowering you as an individual. Often we go through the cycles each day and feel like we have lost control over our own lives. I am excited to walk beside you as you find your unique potential. I work well with both adults and teens with OCD, Anxiety Depression, PANS and PANDAS, and trauma related concerns.
(385) 279-5509 View (385) 279-5509
Photo of Erinn Geyer, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erinn Geyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I love helping individuals learn more about themselves and their potential to take on any challenge in life. I hope to create a space where you can share your vulnerabilities through offering non-judgement, compassion, curiosity, and care. Together, we can build a strong therapeutic relationship to help identify your goals and to help you work towards living the life you want to. My passions and practice include working with individuals from all walks of life especially children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and life transitions.
I love helping individuals learn more about themselves and their potential to take on any challenge in life. I hope to create a space where you can share your vulnerabilities through offering non-judgement, compassion, curiosity, and care. Together, we can build a strong therapeutic relationship to help identify your goals and to help you work towards living the life you want to. My passions and practice include working with individuals from all walks of life especially children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and life transitions.
(385) 786-0454 View (385) 786-0454
Photo of Suze Harrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suze Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I have treated over 1700 individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and have finely tuned the most successful methods to treat this disorder.
CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention methods can be tailored to the needs of any individual seeking freedom from fears and compulsions. BioBehavioral Interventions is a practice based on the wonderful fact that you can change your brain chemistry with your behavior. This approach is successful with General Anxiety, Specific Phobias as well as Social Phobia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with families and couples, who share in the distress of these often debilitating disorders. I have treated children as young as three, and adults as old as 89, and all ages in between.
I have treated over 1700 individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and have finely tuned the most successful methods to treat this disorder.
CBT and Exposure and Response Prevention methods can be tailored to the needs of any individual seeking freedom from fears and compulsions. BioBehavioral Interventions is a practice based on the wonderful fact that you can change your brain chemistry with your behavior. This approach is successful with General Anxiety, Specific Phobias as well as Social Phobia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with families and couples, who share in the distress of these often debilitating disorders. I have treated children as young as three, and adults as old as 89, and all ages in between.
(801) 550-8627 View (801) 550-8627
Photo of Rebecca Cohen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I readily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psycho-dynamic principles, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment as well as Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERPT) when working with phobias and OCD symptoms.
I have experience working with individuals who have a history of trauma, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder/attention deficit disorder, relationship difficulties, attachment, and self-esteem issues. I utilize evidence-based practices to help my clients navigate their issues, and I work to build a relationship with my clients to provide them with a safe and non-judgmental space to process experiences and emotions.
I readily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psycho-dynamic principles, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment as well as Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERPT) when working with phobias and OCD symptoms.
I have experience working with individuals who have a history of trauma, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD), depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder/attention deficit disorder, relationship difficulties, attachment, and self-esteem issues. I utilize evidence-based practices to help my clients navigate their issues, and I work to build a relationship with my clients to provide them with a safe and non-judgmental space to process experiences and emotions.
(385) 212-4195 View (385) 212-4195
Photo of Will DeJohn, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Will DeJohn
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I work with folx struggling with OCD, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and am passionate about LGBTQ+ affirming work.
Is navigating daily life, relationships, and personal goals particularly difficult? Are you struggling with significant uncertainty about how to move forward and need support in finding clarity and direction? I specialize in guiding individuals through these exact challenges.
I work with folx struggling with OCD, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and am passionate about LGBTQ+ affirming work.
Is navigating daily life, relationships, and personal goals particularly difficult? Are you struggling with significant uncertainty about how to move forward and need support in finding clarity and direction? I specialize in guiding individuals through these exact challenges.
(385) 438-6735 View (385) 438-6735
Photo of Claire Breedlove, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Breedlove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84150  (Online Only)
Scrupulosity isn’t a problem of faith even though it feels that way sometimes–it’s a form of obsessive compulsive disorder that gets better with evidence-based treatment.
I help Latter-day Saints who struggle with a kind of obsessive compulsive disorder called scrupulosity find peace in their spiritual lives. My clients want to have good experiences at church, in the temple, or on a mission, but their OCD and anxiety always gets in the way. They are worried that they aren’t worthy, that the Church isn’t true, and that they aren’t going to be with their families forever. They also struggle with other OCD themes in addition to scrupulosity.
Scrupulosity isn’t a problem of faith even though it feels that way sometimes–it’s a form of obsessive compulsive disorder that gets better with evidence-based treatment.
I help Latter-day Saints who struggle with a kind of obsessive compulsive disorder called scrupulosity find peace in their spiritual lives. My clients want to have good experiences at church, in the temple, or on a mission, but their OCD and anxiety always gets in the way. They are worried that they aren’t worthy, that the Church isn’t true, and that they aren’t going to be with their families forever. They also struggle with other OCD themes in addition to scrupulosity.
(214) 225-6453 View (214) 225-6453
Photo of Taunya Cox, MA, CMHC, BCN, Counselor
Taunya Cox
Counselor, MA, CMHC, BCN
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Origins Therapy is taking NEW clients! I am a person-centered therapist. I have dedicated my career to working with people who suffer from anxiety/ OCD, depression, trauma, substance abuse, addiction, PTSD, and other challenges. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals so that you can live a life worth celebrating.
Origins Therapy is taking NEW clients! I am a person-centered therapist. I have dedicated my career to working with people who suffer from anxiety/ OCD, depression, trauma, substance abuse, addiction, PTSD, and other challenges. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals so that you can live a life worth celebrating.
(801) 829-9048 View (801) 829-9048
Photo of Kathryn (Kathy) E. Angell, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn (Kathy) E. Angell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84109  (Online Only)
Do you have intrusive thoughts? no energy? a lot of fights with your partner? too much stress? problems sleeping? a lot of distress and you don't know why? traumatic events that really bother you? or just feel really down? Regardless of the source of your distress, I would like to help you. I have specialized expertise in top-rated individual and couples therapy approaches that science has demonstrated to be effective: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for depression, anxiety, eating disorders and insomnia (CBT, CBT-E, CBT-I), Exposure Response-Prevention (ERP, ExRP) for OCD; Prolonged Exposure (PE),for trauma, & Gottman Couples Therapy.
Do you have intrusive thoughts? no energy? a lot of fights with your partner? too much stress? problems sleeping? a lot of distress and you don't know why? traumatic events that really bother you? or just feel really down? Regardless of the source of your distress, I would like to help you. I have specialized expertise in top-rated individual and couples therapy approaches that science has demonstrated to be effective: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for depression, anxiety, eating disorders and insomnia (CBT, CBT-E, CBT-I), Exposure Response-Prevention (ERP, ExRP) for OCD; Prolonged Exposure (PE),for trauma, & Gottman Couples Therapy.
(610) 347-5273 View (610) 347-5273
Photo of Brittany Titensor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Titensor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging. Everyone has struggles, but what can make life even more difficult is coping with mental health issues. I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety. I have received training in ERP (exposure response prevention) therapy. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I am here to help you thrive and live your best life and cope with life's challenges. For more information, please visit my website: supportivepathwaystherapy.com
Life can be challenging. Everyone has struggles, but what can make life even more difficult is coping with mental health issues. I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety. I have received training in ERP (exposure response prevention) therapy. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I am here to help you thrive and live your best life and cope with life's challenges. For more information, please visit my website: supportivepathwaystherapy.com
(801) 893-7255 View (801) 893-7255
Photo of Nina Dalley, LCSW, ASUDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Dalley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASUDC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I use a client-centered, feminist multicultural approach to work with trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, grief, and substance use disorder.
My focus has been on the way trauma, lived experiences, social systems, and substance use often show up and weave together in us. We all have trauma, regardless of how we take up our space in the world. I love to show people their inner strength and foster self-compassion through harm-reduction and specialized trauma treatment techniques. I strive to confront the often-overwhelming stigma and shame so many of us have surrounding mental health issues, sexuality, gender expression, race, ethnicity, and spirituality. If you feel scared or stuck, I am ready to help navigate your unique process and path.
I use a client-centered, feminist multicultural approach to work with trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, grief, and substance use disorder.
My focus has been on the way trauma, lived experiences, social systems, and substance use often show up and weave together in us. We all have trauma, regardless of how we take up our space in the world. I love to show people their inner strength and foster self-compassion through harm-reduction and specialized trauma treatment techniques. I strive to confront the often-overwhelming stigma and shame so many of us have surrounding mental health issues, sexuality, gender expression, race, ethnicity, and spirituality. If you feel scared or stuck, I am ready to help navigate your unique process and path.
(385) 333-7851 View (385) 333-7851
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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.