Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Rhode Island

Photo of Naydeen Kafalas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Naydeen Kafalas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, RI 02865
I also have an advanced speciality treating children and adults with OCD and have received both the BTTI Certification and Advanced Forum Certificate from the International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation (I OCDF).
I have 18 years experience working in a variety of settings including hospital, residential, urgent care, and office. I have extensive experience working with children and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, sexual abuse/trauma, ADHD, autism and LGBTQ+ issues. In addition to individual work, I enjoy working with couples and families. My therapeutic approach focuses on Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Humanistic/Client-Centered Therapy.
I also have an advanced speciality treating children and adults with OCD and have received both the BTTI Certification and Advanced Forum Certificate from the International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation (I OCDF).
I have 18 years experience working in a variety of settings including hospital, residential, urgent care, and office. I have extensive experience working with children and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, sexual abuse/trauma, ADHD, autism and LGBTQ+ issues. In addition to individual work, I enjoy working with couples and families. My therapeutic approach focuses on Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Humanistic/Client-Centered Therapy.
(401) 305-4633 View (401) 305-4633
Photo of Tania Patrizio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tania Patrizio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Warwick, RI 02893  (Online Only)
I am able to treat a number of disorders, including being trained in ERP to treat OCD.
I see my role as someone to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life, to the best of my ability. I consider myself your partner in your health and well being. We will achieve this by utilizing evidence based treatment in a manner that meets your personal needs and goals. I promise to follow your lead and always see you as the expert in you life. Let me help you discover your best self. I am currently licensed in: Connecticut 12059, Maine LC23529, Massachusetts 123756, New Hampshire 2706, Rhode Island ISW02907, and Vermont 089.0135856PROV
I am able to treat a number of disorders, including being trained in ERP to treat OCD.
I see my role as someone to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life, to the best of my ability. I consider myself your partner in your health and well being. We will achieve this by utilizing evidence based treatment in a manner that meets your personal needs and goals. I promise to follow your lead and always see you as the expert in you life. Let me help you discover your best self. I am currently licensed in: Connecticut 12059, Maine LC23529, Massachusetts 123756, New Hampshire 2706, Rhode Island ISW02907, and Vermont 089.0135856PROV
(401) 206-0878 View (401) 206-0878
Photo of Ana Aybar, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana Aybar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety and mood related disorders including: Depression, Anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder.
You deserve to prioritize your health and wellness. Taking time for yourself and pursuing therapy can be a transformative and life changing experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides an empathetic approach while assisting individuals as they pursue their life goals and overcome barriers that have made it difficult for them to succeed. Within a strengths-based model, I utilize evidence-based strategies and therapeutic techniques that derive from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness, while empowering individuals to utilize the tools obtained throughout the process to make long-lasting changes within their life.
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety and mood related disorders including: Depression, Anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive-Disorder.
You deserve to prioritize your health and wellness. Taking time for yourself and pursuing therapy can be a transformative and life changing experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides an empathetic approach while assisting individuals as they pursue their life goals and overcome barriers that have made it difficult for them to succeed. Within a strengths-based model, I utilize evidence-based strategies and therapeutic techniques that derive from CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness, while empowering individuals to utilize the tools obtained throughout the process to make long-lasting changes within their life.
(401) 336-5875 View (401) 336-5875
Photo of Tinatin Surguladze, PhD, Psychologist
Tinatin Surguladze
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting adults with depression and anxiety disorders including OCD and illness anxiety.
Are you in emotional pain? Do you feel stuck and unsure of what your next steps should be? I believe that you have the resources to change, to self-actualize, and that you want your life to be meaningful. In order to activate these resources, I focus on values work to help you become more aware of what matters most to you. We will work together to shift your focus from your current suffering to the present moment. We will also address your avoidance and I will challenge you to try things differently, in ways that align with your values. I believe that you drive your healing process, and I serve as a catalyst.
I specialize in assisting adults with depression and anxiety disorders including OCD and illness anxiety.
Are you in emotional pain? Do you feel stuck and unsure of what your next steps should be? I believe that you have the resources to change, to self-actualize, and that you want your life to be meaningful. In order to activate these resources, I focus on values work to help you become more aware of what matters most to you. We will work together to shift your focus from your current suffering to the present moment. We will also address your avoidance and I will challenge you to try things differently, in ways that align with your values. I believe that you drive your healing process, and I serve as a catalyst.
(401) 329-9971 View (401) 329-9971
Photo of Greg O'Rourke, MA, Counselor
Greg O'Rourke
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02904  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with relationship issues, despression, grief, autism (including what used to be called Asperger's Syndrome), OCD, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD or perhaps the stress from significant life changes? You're not alone. We often face these challenges and search for effective ways to cope and seek a life where we can feel truly at peace and fulfilled. Together, we'll explore strategies to manage your emotions and daily stresses, aiming to unlock deep self-compassion and resilience. This journey is about empowering you to live confidently and realize your dreams, providing the support you need every step of the way.
I specialize in helping individuals dealing with relationship issues, despression, grief, autism (including what used to be called Asperger's Syndrome), OCD, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD or perhaps the stress from significant life changes? You're not alone. We often face these challenges and search for effective ways to cope and seek a life where we can feel truly at peace and fulfilled. Together, we'll explore strategies to manage your emotions and daily stresses, aiming to unlock deep self-compassion and resilience. This journey is about empowering you to live confidently and realize your dreams, providing the support you need every step of the way.
(401) 382-3486 View (401) 382-3486
Photo of Amy Bach DiLello, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Bach DiLello
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I work with adults on a number of different issues, but I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, including problems such as panic disorder, excessive worry, social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I frequently work with couples on relationship difficulties as well. CBT is a present-focused, skills-based approach to working on problems. Together, we identify goals for treatment and then we lay out a plan, using skills and strategies that have proven through research to be helpful for people who are working on similar issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I work with adults on a number of different issues, but I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, including problems such as panic disorder, excessive worry, social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I frequently work with couples on relationship difficulties as well. CBT is a present-focused, skills-based approach to working on problems. Together, we identify goals for treatment and then we lay out a plan, using skills and strategies that have proven through research to be helpful for people who are working on similar issues.
(401) 246-7932 View (401) 246-7932
Photo of Devika Prasad, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Devika Prasad
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients! Now is the time to put yourself first. It's easy to find ourselves on auto-pilot, yet missing essential skills to manage stress or tackle new challenges. Let's work together to build those skills! Whether you're moving, graduating, starting a new job, in college/graduate school, in residency, or trying to figure things out, I'm dedicated to fostering a safe space for managing your life transitions. I often work with people to improve various areas in their life including: insomnia, low self-confidence, worry, obsessions, negative thoughts, avoidance, phobias, panic attacks, skin-picking, and childhood trauma.
Accepting NEW Clients! Now is the time to put yourself first. It's easy to find ourselves on auto-pilot, yet missing essential skills to manage stress or tackle new challenges. Let's work together to build those skills! Whether you're moving, graduating, starting a new job, in college/graduate school, in residency, or trying to figure things out, I'm dedicated to fostering a safe space for managing your life transitions. I often work with people to improve various areas in their life including: insomnia, low self-confidence, worry, obsessions, negative thoughts, avoidance, phobias, panic attacks, skin-picking, and childhood trauma.
(401) 208-0752 View (401) 208-0752
Photo of Noreen Shaffi, MSc, LMHC, Counselor
Noreen Shaffi
Counselor, MSc, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
I have 29 years experience working with patients with multiple mental health issues, such as depression, grief and loss, OCD, relationship issues, anxiety, and stress management. My treatment modality is an integration of mind and body, helping clients identify their potentials and learn coping skills to live a fuller life. We are adding a nurse practitioner to IPS for medication management.
I have 29 years experience working with patients with multiple mental health issues, such as depression, grief and loss, OCD, relationship issues, anxiety, and stress management. My treatment modality is an integration of mind and body, helping clients identify their potentials and learn coping skills to live a fuller life. We are adding a nurse practitioner to IPS for medication management.
(401) 373-9108 View (401) 373-9108
Photo of Meredith Wilmer - InStride Health, ABPP, PhD , Psychologist
InStride Health
Psychologist, ABPP, PhD
Verified Verified
East Providence, RI 02914  (Online Only)
InStride Health treats all severity levels for anxiety and OCD, with particular focus on those with moderate to severe conditions where anxiety and/or OCD are interfering with functioning and causing a cascade of additional problems (e.
InStride Health is a specialty pediatric anxiety and OCD treatment provider.
InStride Health treats all severity levels for anxiety and OCD, with particular focus on those with moderate to severe conditions where anxiety and/or OCD are interfering with functioning and causing a cascade of additional problems (e.
InStride Health is a specialty pediatric anxiety and OCD treatment provider.
(401) 420-7452 View (401) 420-7452
Photo of Kelsey Gamble, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Gamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is working with clients experiencing depression, OCD, trauma and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently working at Arrow Behavioral Health in Warwick, Rhode Island. I accept both in person and online appointments. I work with teen and adult clients ages 16+. In my practice, I provide an empathic and judgment free space that allows you to be your most authentic self. Through the use of humor and my own authenticity I can guide you through processing trauma, identifying inner strengths and fostering resilience. Therapy sessions are aimed to feel welcoming and safe while encouraging you to reflect and make steps towards long term change.
My passion is working with clients experiencing depression, OCD, trauma and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently working at Arrow Behavioral Health in Warwick, Rhode Island. I accept both in person and online appointments. I work with teen and adult clients ages 16+. In my practice, I provide an empathic and judgment free space that allows you to be your most authentic self. Through the use of humor and my own authenticity I can guide you through processing trauma, identifying inner strengths and fostering resilience. Therapy sessions are aimed to feel welcoming and safe while encouraging you to reflect and make steps towards long term change.
(401) 336-6962 View (401) 336-6962
Photo of Marcio Guzman, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Marcio Guzman
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi, there. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders and couple's therapy. I have extensive training and experience in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). I also have extensive training and experience in IFS (Internal Family Systems). I will tailor my approach to your specific needs. During our work together, you can expect me to be attentive, gentle, compassionate, and attuned. Contact me anytime. I look forward to meeting you!
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Photo of Susan Aubut, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Aubut
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
I am particularly invested in the treatment of OCD.
As of 8/06/2024: Currently Accepting Clients Hello, and welcome to my page! I have over fifteen years of experience treating both children and adults with a vast array of diagnosis and issues to include depression, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, self-esteem and social skills deficits. I have worked in a variety of settings to include psychiatric hospitals, emergency departments and community mental health centers.
I am particularly invested in the treatment of OCD.
As of 8/06/2024: Currently Accepting Clients Hello, and welcome to my page! I have over fifteen years of experience treating both children and adults with a vast array of diagnosis and issues to include depression, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, self-esteem and social skills deficits. I have worked in a variety of settings to include psychiatric hospitals, emergency departments and community mental health centers.
(401) 235-4082 View (401) 235-4082
Photo of John Riccitelli, MSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Riccitelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My primary focus is working with individuals with OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, ADHD, autism, phobias, school/college issues, substance use, and grief/loss. My style is very laid back and down to earth. Nobody is perfect, and therapy is a team effort! I work with adults and teens (16 and over). I look forward to meeting you in person or via telephone.
My primary focus is working with individuals with OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, ADHD, autism, phobias, school/college issues, substance use, and grief/loss. My style is very laid back and down to earth. Nobody is perfect, and therapy is a team effort! I work with adults and teens (16 and over). I look forward to meeting you in person or via telephone.
(401) 561-6667 View (401) 561-6667
Photo of Christina Stang, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Stang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02909  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal mental health. Whether you are pregnant, the partner of someone who is, or postpartum, I am here to support you in your experience. In addition to treating perinatal issues, I focus on grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorders, and treating trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, particularly with teens, and issues around family planning and relationships. Depending on what we see as your areas of need, I am happy to work on a short or longer term basis. I am currently conducting all appointments via Zoom or phone only.
I am a clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal mental health. Whether you are pregnant, the partner of someone who is, or postpartum, I am here to support you in your experience. In addition to treating perinatal issues, I focus on grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorders, and treating trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, particularly with teens, and issues around family planning and relationships. Depending on what we see as your areas of need, I am happy to work on a short or longer term basis. I am currently conducting all appointments via Zoom or phone only.
(401) 340-2853 View (401) 340-2853
Photo of Carly Rivers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. As a therapist who has over 15 years of experience working with pre-teens, teens and adults, my goal of treatment is to assist others in learning healthy strategies and tools to improve positive mood and functioning and/or resolve conflict/crisis. My focus is to target your concerns in a safe, non-judgemental environment. I offer assistance for a broad range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression and stress management while also focusing on improving the overall lives and relationships of those involved.
Thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. As a therapist who has over 15 years of experience working with pre-teens, teens and adults, my goal of treatment is to assist others in learning healthy strategies and tools to improve positive mood and functioning and/or resolve conflict/crisis. My focus is to target your concerns in a safe, non-judgemental environment. I offer assistance for a broad range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression and stress management while also focusing on improving the overall lives and relationships of those involved.
(401) 229-6187 View (401) 229-6187
Photo of Sara Michelle Brown - Sara M. Brown LMHC, LMHC, CAGS, MS, EdS, RYT, Counselor
Sara M. Brown LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS, MS, EdS, RYT
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treatment of specific addictions, to include Social Media Addiction, as well as; Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, and Impulsivity Disorders (ADHD and OCD).
You're searching for a provider with whom you feel heard, understood, and respected. My approach is Mindful and CBT ("Cognitive Behavior Therapy") based and our strategies will be specifically tapered to address your unique issues. I focus on building both inner and outer awareness for healthy decision-making, and provide professional guidance in an open-minded and non-judging approach. My office is easy to locate, peaceful, completely confidential, and distraction-free. You can find me on Healthgrades for prior patient feedback regarding my service provision.
I specialize in treatment of specific addictions, to include Social Media Addiction, as well as; Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, and Impulsivity Disorders (ADHD and OCD).
You're searching for a provider with whom you feel heard, understood, and respected. My approach is Mindful and CBT ("Cognitive Behavior Therapy") based and our strategies will be specifically tapered to address your unique issues. I focus on building both inner and outer awareness for healthy decision-making, and provide professional guidance in an open-minded and non-judging approach. My office is easy to locate, peaceful, completely confidential, and distraction-free. You can find me on Healthgrades for prior patient feedback regarding my service provision.
(401) 271-1281 View (401) 271-1281
Photo of Sophia Koukoulis - Sophia Koukoulis - NOCD, MA, LMHC
Sophia Koukoulis - NOCD
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
Plus, N OCD offers support between sessions through direct messaging, online therapy tools, and access to peer communities, ensuring you never feel alone.
I specialize in OCD to advocate for people with OCD, helping them understand the diagnosis and get help for their symptoms. In therapy, we will work together. I want to help you open up about things that feel uncomfortable to face, sit with, or even understand. It’s OK to be nervous, even scared, about therapy. At N OCD, 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 the nuances of these conditions enables us to diagnose and treat them properly.
Plus, N OCD offers support between sessions through direct messaging, online therapy tools, and access to peer communities, ensuring you never feel alone.
I specialize in OCD to advocate for people with OCD, helping them understand the diagnosis and get help for their symptoms. In therapy, we will work together. I want to help you open up about things that feel uncomfortable to face, sit with, or even understand. It’s OK to be nervous, even scared, about therapy. At N OCD, 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 the nuances of these conditions enables us to diagnose and treat them properly.
(929) 577-3702 View (929) 577-3702
Photo of Maria Spitz, PhD, Psychologist
Maria Spitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Providence, RI 02904  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship & job performance issues, grief & loss. I use evidenced based treatment modalities; trained in ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, holistic, & psychodynamic therapies. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to your individual needs. I am a certified Yoga instructor, use breath work to help clients w/the mind body connection & assist them to a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.
(646) 362-1398 View (646) 362-1398
Photo of Loren Esposito - Loren Esposito, LICSW, LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loren Esposito, LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
I have advanced training in the treatment of OCD thru the International OCD Foundation (I OCDF) .
Treatment for: Anxiety, OCD,Grief, self-esteem, relationships, transitions, with CBT, ERP, EMDR, ACT, TIST, Eclectic I have helped many clients thru a variety of treatment needs, goals, issues. I am easy to connect with and offer 20 years of excellent experience to clarify your concerns. Together we identify obstacles and thinking/ behavioral patterns which may or may not be helping. Next we explore treatment goals that you seek to achieve. My training can help you learn skills to help yourself. I offer a supportive, environment for our sessions. I have successfully worked with clients to improve many concerns brought to therapy.
I have advanced training in the treatment of OCD thru the International OCD Foundation (I OCDF) .
Treatment for: Anxiety, OCD,Grief, self-esteem, relationships, transitions, with CBT, ERP, EMDR, ACT, TIST, Eclectic I have helped many clients thru a variety of treatment needs, goals, issues. I am easy to connect with and offer 20 years of excellent experience to clarify your concerns. Together we identify obstacles and thinking/ behavioral patterns which may or may not be helping. Next we explore treatment goals that you seek to achieve. My training can help you learn skills to help yourself. I offer a supportive, environment for our sessions. I have successfully worked with clients to improve many concerns brought to therapy.
(508) 406-9964 View (508) 406-9964
Photo of Murron A O'Neill, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Murron A O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02909
I also have more recent experience using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in support of the above for clients whose trauma symptoms are intertwined with OCD and/or anxiety.
I am a social worker at the New England Center for OCD and Anxiety helping clients of all ages. I have experience helping people struggling with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders, and particularly enjoy working with neurodivergent, queer, and gender nonconforming clients. My goals are your goals. I am a firm believer that I, as your therapist, should not be someone that is telling you what kind of person you should be. I am the resource and guide on your journey to transform into the version of yourself you would most like to be. Your life is your story, and you deserve the tools to write it.
I also have more recent experience using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in support of the above for clients whose trauma symptoms are intertwined with OCD and/or anxiety.
I am a social worker at the New England Center for OCD and Anxiety helping clients of all ages. I have experience helping people struggling with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders, and particularly enjoy working with neurodivergent, queer, and gender nonconforming clients. My goals are your goals. I am a firm believer that I, as your therapist, should not be someone that is telling you what kind of person you should be. I am the resource and guide on your journey to transform into the version of yourself you would most like to be. Your life is your story, and you deserve the tools to write it.
(617) 890-7533 View (617) 890-7533
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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.