Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Aspinwall, PA

Melissa Galiotto EMDR Cert.
LPC, NCC, EMDR , Cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
(412) 888-0452 View (412) 888-0452
Photo of Fox Chapel Consulting And Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Fox Chapel Consulting And Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Dr. Victor H.W. is a specialist in Clinical Psychology and can effectively treat many challenging adult and youth presentations. My approach to treatment is influence by the scientific evidence! With children, adolescents, and adults, I draw from evidence-based treatments that have been proven to work; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Existential Therapy in addition to traditional talk and play therapies. However, psychotherapy is both an art and science and what works best depends on the person and the problem that the individual or family is facing.
Dr. Victor H.W. is a specialist in Clinical Psychology and can effectively treat many challenging adult and youth presentations. My approach to treatment is influence by the scientific evidence! With children, adolescents, and adults, I draw from evidence-based treatments that have been proven to work; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Existential Therapy in addition to traditional talk and play therapies. However, psychotherapy is both an art and science and what works best depends on the person and the problem that the individual or family is facing.
(878) 203-1830 View (878) 203-1830
Photo of Kathleen Seitz, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Seitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Do you feel like you are going through life’s struggles alone, unsupported and with no direction? Balancing the demands of life, work or school in today's fast paced and changing world can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely or even angry. As children we sometimes develop behavioral strategies to face life's challenges or trauma's that as adults, simply no longer fit with how we imagine or intend ourselves to be. Understanding the nature and origin of destructive patterns and their consequences, addressing current challenges and long standing issues, gaining insight and learning the skills necessary for change is what successful therapy is about.
Do you feel like you are going through life’s struggles alone, unsupported and with no direction? Balancing the demands of life, work or school in today's fast paced and changing world can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely or even angry. As children we sometimes develop behavioral strategies to face life's challenges or trauma's that as adults, simply no longer fit with how we imagine or intend ourselves to be. Understanding the nature and origin of destructive patterns and their consequences, addressing current challenges and long standing issues, gaining insight and learning the skills necessary for change is what successful therapy is about.
(412) 436-3928 View (412) 436-3928
Photo of Karen J Stickel - Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD, LCSW, BCD, FAPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
(412) 214-8785 View (412) 214-8785
Photo of Sarah Vogel, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events or you have experienced personal trauma(s) you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. She offers a safe, confidential space to be your authentic self and share your thoughts and feelings. Sarah has a gentle but direct approach that aims to help you discover and understand aspects of yourself that may need attention and self-love. As Robert Frost stated and as Sarah firmly believes "The best way out is always through."
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events or you have experienced personal trauma(s) you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. She offers a safe, confidential space to be your authentic self and share your thoughts and feelings. Sarah has a gentle but direct approach that aims to help you discover and understand aspects of yourself that may need attention and self-love. As Robert Frost stated and as Sarah firmly believes "The best way out is always through."
(412) 520-3149 View (412) 520-3149
Photo of Pamela Hoopes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Hoopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215  (Online Only)
I work with adults 18-70's . I welcome college/grad students who arr transitioning to a new chapter in their lives and adults navigating the many changes/challenges we all can face. I help clients explore their emotions, life events & goals in a supportive and collaborative environment. I use a CBT, , narrative, solution focused and Mindfulness practice specializing in treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and life transitions. I enjoy sharing/educating about how mindfulness/intuition can be integrated into every day life, how Food/Nutrition can affect our Mood and Empath Survival Skills. Small steps lead to lasting change.
I work with adults 18-70's . I welcome college/grad students who arr transitioning to a new chapter in their lives and adults navigating the many changes/challenges we all can face. I help clients explore their emotions, life events & goals in a supportive and collaborative environment. I use a CBT, , narrative, solution focused and Mindfulness practice specializing in treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and life transitions. I enjoy sharing/educating about how mindfulness/intuition can be integrated into every day life, how Food/Nutrition can affect our Mood and Empath Survival Skills. Small steps lead to lasting change.
(878) 205-0814 View (878) 205-0814

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carissa Atkinson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Atkinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
While our work together will focus on treating OCD & anxiety-related disorders, I intend to utilize a holistic approach necessary in treating the whole person, which may include family work as well.
My clinical experience began in general private practice, and I later moved on to develop a more specialized treatment approach through an internship with The Center for OCD and Anxiety in August 2020. From there, I transitioned into my roles as Associate Therapist, Intake Manager, and Caregiver Support Group Leader until February 2024. As I believe that effective therapy includes an appropriate balance of empathy, humor, active listening, and proper guidance rooted in evidence-based practices, I utilize an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities (listed below) to tailor treatment according to the specific needs of each individual.
While our work together will focus on treating OCD & anxiety-related disorders, I intend to utilize a holistic approach necessary in treating the whole person, which may include family work as well.
My clinical experience began in general private practice, and I later moved on to develop a more specialized treatment approach through an internship with The Center for OCD and Anxiety in August 2020. From there, I transitioned into my roles as Associate Therapist, Intake Manager, and Caregiver Support Group Leader until February 2024. As I believe that effective therapy includes an appropriate balance of empathy, humor, active listening, and proper guidance rooted in evidence-based practices, I utilize an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities (listed below) to tailor treatment according to the specific needs of each individual.
(724) 294-5846 View (724) 294-5846
Photo of Nicholas R Flower - OCD Spectrum, Inc., PsyD, Psychologist
OCD Spectrum, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
At our core, we specialize in transforming lives overshadowed by OCD, anxiety, social phobia, and BFRB’s.
Are you tired of it yet? The relentless anxiety, repetitive compulsive behaviors, and endless fear of social judgment can make the world seem like a daunting place. But there is hope. These struggles are more than just challenges; they are profound experiences that deeply affect your sense of self and connection to others. You are not alone in this. Many have felt this way, believing they were beyond help, but there is a path forward. Together, we can embark on a journey towards reclaiming your freedom allowing you to step into a life unburdened by the chains of your struggles. You don't have to live this way anymore. Let's do this.
At our core, we specialize in transforming lives overshadowed by OCD, anxiety, social phobia, and BFRB’s.
Are you tired of it yet? The relentless anxiety, repetitive compulsive behaviors, and endless fear of social judgment can make the world seem like a daunting place. But there is hope. These struggles are more than just challenges; they are profound experiences that deeply affect your sense of self and connection to others. You are not alone in this. Many have felt this way, believing they were beyond help, but there is a path forward. Together, we can embark on a journey towards reclaiming your freedom allowing you to step into a life unburdened by the chains of your struggles. You don't have to live this way anymore. Let's do this.
(412) 564-4764 View (412) 564-4764
Photo of Madeleine Morrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeleine Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and depression. If you are struggling with obsessive thoughts, feel out of control, or find yourself confused by your identity, emotions, behaviors, or relationships, I am here to help.
I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and depression. If you are struggling with obsessive thoughts, feel out of control, or find yourself confused by your identity, emotions, behaviors, or relationships, I am here to help.
(412) 534-3865 View (412) 534-3865
Photo of Dr. Sofia Alvarez, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sofia Alvarez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
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Photo of Lindsay McGovern, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay McGovern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fox Chapel, PA 15238  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with OCD or anxiety reach out to me to discuss next steps.
Before you can even grab your coffee the intrusive thoughts and feelings flood in. You struggle to not engage with the negative "What if..." questions that feel like an endless loop in your mind. The need to do compulsions and safety behaviors is on repeat throughout your day. Other people seem connected to their life, moving through it naturally and freely..... You want that too. I hear you! I work with women to help them let go of the doubt and find peace & contentment in their life. I want you to learn how to stop answering the negative "what if..." questions and lean into your values-filled life instead!
If you are struggling with OCD or anxiety reach out to me to discuss next steps.
Before you can even grab your coffee the intrusive thoughts and feelings flood in. You struggle to not engage with the negative "What if..." questions that feel like an endless loop in your mind. The need to do compulsions and safety behaviors is on repeat throughout your day. Other people seem connected to their life, moving through it naturally and freely..... You want that too. I hear you! I work with women to help them let go of the doubt and find peace & contentment in their life. I want you to learn how to stop answering the negative "what if..." questions and lean into your values-filled life instead!
(424) 246-2481 View (424) 246-2481
Photo of Valerie Bojarski, MS, LPC, Counselor
Valerie Bojarski
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I have worked with survivors of domestic violence, people experiencing mood disorders, OCD, and survivors of trauma.
Fred Rogers says, "Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary." I would love to work with you if you are ready to make your problems mentionable, and together we can work towards making them manageable.
I have worked with survivors of domestic violence, people experiencing mood disorders, OCD, and survivors of trauma.
Fred Rogers says, "Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary." I would love to work with you if you are ready to make your problems mentionable, and together we can work towards making them manageable.
(412) 528-6221 View (412) 528-6221
Photo of Bethany Kregiel, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Kregiel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
July 2024: I have a waitlist for individual therapy, but I'm currently accepting clients for my groups! Please see more info about group offerings at the bottom of my profile or on my website. I work with individuals who struggle with OCD, eating disorders, or both. I can empower clients who are looking to change patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that lead to life dissatisfaction. I am interested in working with people who need help breaking the cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Additionally, I work well with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food, exercise, and their body.
July 2024: I have a waitlist for individual therapy, but I'm currently accepting clients for my groups! Please see more info about group offerings at the bottom of my profile or on my website. I work with individuals who struggle with OCD, eating disorders, or both. I can empower clients who are looking to change patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that lead to life dissatisfaction. I am interested in working with people who need help breaking the cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Additionally, I work well with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food, exercise, and their body.
(412) 516-3197 View (412) 516-3197
Photo of Jessica Everly, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Everly
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Hello, and welcome. I am a counselor who works with individuals and couples ages 17 and up. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship distress. My approach is integrative, combining emotionally focused therapy, behavioral therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques. I am a LPC and I have a doctorate with over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology. Sessions with me tend to be semi-structured, with us working towards your goals while leaving space for timely stressors that arise. Warmth, support and curiosity are always present in my sessions.
Hello, and welcome. I am a counselor who works with individuals and couples ages 17 and up. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship distress. My approach is integrative, combining emotionally focused therapy, behavioral therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques. I am a LPC and I have a doctorate with over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology. Sessions with me tend to be semi-structured, with us working towards your goals while leaving space for timely stressors that arise. Warmth, support and curiosity are always present in my sessions.
(412) 693-6197 View (412) 693-6197
Photo of Jamie Jeffrey, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Jeffrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238  (Online Only)
those who may have been or are still in relationships with a partner who exhibits narcissistic tendencies, pregnancy/post-partum, depression, anxiety, OCD, phobia, parenting etc.
I strive to make therapy a safe space that is customized to fit your needs. I utilize various techniques from different types of therapy based on your personal story and experiences. Maybe you experienced some trauma and you need help finding your way through it. You want to find ways to alleviate stress, or need to resolve some concerns that you can't seem to get past. You want someone to help you set achievable goals, find yourself, or get out of that funk you've been stuck in. You're coming out of a difficult relationship or you are wondering if it's time to leave. Let me help you create a better tomorrow.
those who may have been or are still in relationships with a partner who exhibits narcissistic tendencies, pregnancy/post-partum, depression, anxiety, OCD, phobia, parenting etc.
I strive to make therapy a safe space that is customized to fit your needs. I utilize various techniques from different types of therapy based on your personal story and experiences. Maybe you experienced some trauma and you need help finding your way through it. You want to find ways to alleviate stress, or need to resolve some concerns that you can't seem to get past. You want someone to help you set achievable goals, find yourself, or get out of that funk you've been stuck in. You're coming out of a difficult relationship or you are wondering if it's time to leave. Let me help you create a better tomorrow.
(724) 576-9322 View (724) 576-9322
Photo of Rebecca Pierce, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (Online Only)
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
I am one of those therapists who genuinely loves their work. Getting to understand my clients and the hurdles they face is a privilege that I take seriously. If you are struggling to form and maintain healthy intimate relationships, overcome trauma, to coexist with and even manage anxiety and depression, to gain new approaches to coping with obsessive compulsive symptoms... well, these are just a few of the issues that we can work on together! We can navigate this journey as a team, collaborate on setting realistic goals, and then you can define what "progress" would look like in your eyes.
(484) 229-5139 View (484) 229-5139
Photo of Ann Frerotte, RN , LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Frerotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have training and experience with pregnant and postpartum people, life transitions, depression, anxiety, menopause and midlife issues and OCD.
It is powerful, life changing and brave when we take steps toward understanding ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. At first this can sound daunting but with a solid set of tools and healthy introspection and exploration, this is a superpower. This is where our freedom lies. Things in life are often not clearly delineated. Oftentimes, we judge ourselves harshly and feel like we can’t move ahead. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you weather life's ups and downs while developing self-compassion.
I have training and experience with pregnant and postpartum people, life transitions, depression, anxiety, menopause and midlife issues and OCD.
It is powerful, life changing and brave when we take steps toward understanding ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. At first this can sound daunting but with a solid set of tools and healthy introspection and exploration, this is a superpower. This is where our freedom lies. Things in life are often not clearly delineated. Oftentimes, we judge ourselves harshly and feel like we can’t move ahead. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you weather life's ups and downs while developing self-compassion.
(412) 910-1053 View (412) 910-1053
Photo of Dr. Spiegel Freedman - Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates, Psychologist
Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
(412) 307-5806 View (412) 307-5806
Photo of Dr. Shannon Coleman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Shannon Coleman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238  (Online Only)
Dr. Shannon Coleman is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy to adults and couples. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Coleman specializes in treatment for anxiety (e.g., generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD), depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, anger, relationship conflict, and coping with life stressors. Dr. Coleman received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Binghamton University (SUNY).
Dr. Shannon Coleman is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy to adults and couples. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Coleman specializes in treatment for anxiety (e.g., generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD), depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, anger, relationship conflict, and coping with life stressors. Dr. Coleman received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Binghamton University (SUNY).
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Photo of Devon Layfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Layfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15215  (Online Only)
Let's dive into evidence-backed treatments, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to conquer OCD and anxiety.
Embark on a transformative mental health journey tailored just for you. As your strengths-based therapist, I'm all about values-based living and self-compassion, working hand-in-hand with you to set and achieve personalized goals. Together, we'll build a strong connection because I truly believe in the power of a solid client-therapist relationship. Curious about unleashing your strengths and resilience?
Let's dive into evidence-backed treatments, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to conquer OCD and anxiety.
Embark on a transformative mental health journey tailored just for you. As your strengths-based therapist, I'm all about values-based living and self-compassion, working hand-in-hand with you to set and achieve personalized goals. Together, we'll build a strong connection because I truly believe in the power of a solid client-therapist relationship. Curious about unleashing your strengths and resilience?
(732) 696-4737 View (732) 696-4737

See more therapy options for Aspinwall

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.