Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Saunderstown, RI

Photo of Kristyn Kowalski, LMHC, Counselor
Kristyn Kowalski
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saunderstown, RI 02874
Do you find yourself overcome with anxiety, worry, or intrusive thoughts? You may feel stuck in your own head, think negative "what-if" thoughts, or replay social situations in your mind, critiquing what you said and overanalyzing how everyone else responded. Are you ready to make a change? If so, allow me to guide you in shifting your mind from being your arch enemy to your powerful ally.  My clients and I work together as a team. We will talk about the negative thinking patterns affecting you the most, and strategies to change them so that you can breathe a sigh of relief as you feel their grip on you loosen.
Do you find yourself overcome with anxiety, worry, or intrusive thoughts? You may feel stuck in your own head, think negative "what-if" thoughts, or replay social situations in your mind, critiquing what you said and overanalyzing how everyone else responded. Are you ready to make a change? If so, allow me to guide you in shifting your mind from being your arch enemy to your powerful ally.  My clients and I work together as a team. We will talk about the negative thinking patterns affecting you the most, and strategies to change them so that you can breathe a sigh of relief as you feel their grip on you loosen.
(774) 268-8632 View (774) 268-8632
Photo of Deb Roberts, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saunderstown, RI 02874  (Online Only)
Deb Roberts is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 1998. She has an MSW from Boston University. Deb's primary focus is meeting each person where there are. Together, you and Deb will develop a treatment strategy unique to each individual or family that builds on your strengths and honors your goals. Outside of work, Deb enjoys scuba diving, pickleball, yoga, knitting, and Reiki.
Deb Roberts is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 1998. She has an MSW from Boston University. Deb's primary focus is meeting each person where there are. Together, you and Deb will develop a treatment strategy unique to each individual or family that builds on your strengths and honors your goals. Outside of work, Deb enjoys scuba diving, pickleball, yoga, knitting, and Reiki.
(401) 246-7971 View (401) 246-7971
Photo of Aaron Pelchat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Pelchat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saunderstown, RI 02874
Aaron Pelchat is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2022. Aaron seeks to help clients find the tools that work for them in managing their mental health. He appreciates the power of sending clients back out into the world with something new to try to help improve their quality of life. Aaron's background in Thanatology (the study of death, dying, and bereavement) has been effective more than once in guiding clients on their journey to process and integrate their grief into their lives.
Aaron Pelchat is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2022. Aaron seeks to help clients find the tools that work for them in managing their mental health. He appreciates the power of sending clients back out into the world with something new to try to help improve their quality of life. Aaron's background in Thanatology (the study of death, dying, and bereavement) has been effective more than once in guiding clients on their journey to process and integrate their grief into their lives.
(401) 386-8833 View (401) 386-8833
Photo of Kat Rouse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kat Rouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saunderstown, RI 02874
Kat Rouse is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Social Work from New York University. Kat is naturally curious, empathic, non-judgmental, and an active listener. Her approach is warm, collaborative, full of humor and compassion, and rooted in a person-centered and mindfulness-based approach. Kat strives to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental environment for your journey of healing, self-discovery, and radical self-acceptance. Her goal is to create a space for you to feel deeply understood. She is comfortable working with a range of ages.
Kat Rouse is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Social Work from New York University. Kat is naturally curious, empathic, non-judgmental, and an active listener. Her approach is warm, collaborative, full of humor and compassion, and rooted in a person-centered and mindfulness-based approach. Kat strives to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental environment for your journey of healing, self-discovery, and radical self-acceptance. Her goal is to create a space for you to feel deeply understood. She is comfortable working with a range of ages.
(401) 375-0735 View (401) 375-0735
Photo of Alexis Desjardins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Desjardins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saunderstown, RI 02874
Hello, I'm Alexis Desjardins, a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinical social worker with a passion for helping children, adolescents, and young adults between the ages of 8 and 30 thrive in their emotional and mental well-being. I specialize in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness practices to support individuals in their journey towards lasting positive change. My goal is to empower you to make meaningful changes and develop practical coping strategies.
Hello, I'm Alexis Desjardins, a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinical social worker with a passion for helping children, adolescents, and young adults between the ages of 8 and 30 thrive in their emotional and mental well-being. I specialize in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness practices to support individuals in their journey towards lasting positive change. My goal is to empower you to make meaningful changes and develop practical coping strategies.
(401) 386-3301 View (401) 386-3301
Photo of Emily Patterson, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Patterson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saunderstown, RI 02874
Do you feel sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that's not making you happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress? Coming to therapy is a time for you to reflect upon yourself, the quality of your life and your relationships. I provide a supportive, safe, nonjudgmental space to share your feelings and address aspects of yourself and your life that you'd like to change or enhance. I am a licensed mental health counselor who takes a validating and collaborative approach to help address these challenges.
Do you feel sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that's not making you happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress? Coming to therapy is a time for you to reflect upon yourself, the quality of your life and your relationships. I provide a supportive, safe, nonjudgmental space to share your feelings and address aspects of yourself and your life that you'd like to change or enhance. I am a licensed mental health counselor who takes a validating and collaborative approach to help address these challenges.
(401) 357-0563 View (401) 357-0563

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelsey Gamble, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Gamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
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 Carly Rivers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
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
East Greenwich, RI 02818
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 Tera Lensegrav-Benson Anxiety Specialist, PhD, Psychologist
Tera Lensegrav-Benson Anxiety Specialist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with with women to manage their anxiety, OCD, grief, chronic health issues and parents who are struggling with parenting children/teens/young adults with chronic physical or mental health concerns.
Feeling anxious, grieving, alone, and caught up in a pattern of obsessing? Struggling with health issues and/or parenting concerns? If you are overwhelmed and contemplating therapy, we can work together to help you find relief. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of therapy and am skilled in providing personalized therapy with compassion and heart. Ready to develop insight, self compassion, regulate your anxiety, learn how your brain works and build skills to move in your own valued directions? I welcome the opportunity to partner with you in therapy. Let me help you live your best life!
I specialize in working with with women to manage their anxiety, OCD, grief, chronic health issues and parents who are struggling with parenting children/teens/young adults with chronic physical or mental health concerns.
Feeling anxious, grieving, alone, and caught up in a pattern of obsessing? Struggling with health issues and/or parenting concerns? If you are overwhelmed and contemplating therapy, we can work together to help you find relief. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of therapy and am skilled in providing personalized therapy with compassion and heart. Ready to develop insight, self compassion, regulate your anxiety, learn how your brain works and build skills to move in your own valued directions? I welcome the opportunity to partner with you in therapy. Let me help you live your best life!
(435) 800-0908 View (435) 800-0908
Photo of Sophia Koukoulis - Sophia Koukoulis - NOCD, MA, LMHC
Sophia Koukoulis - NOCD
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
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 Torrie Weindorf - Torrie Weindorf - NOCD, LMHC, Counselor
Torrie Weindorf - NOCD
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
ERP can be intimidating, but taking the steps to begin your journey with N OCD is an accomplishment itself.
In therapy, empathy and forming connections are vital. I value the effort needed to challenge oneself to overcome obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. You will feel supported and encouraged throughout this process. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
ERP can be intimidating, but taking the steps to begin your journey with N OCD is an accomplishment itself.
In therapy, empathy and forming connections are vital. I value the effort needed to challenge oneself to overcome obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. You will feel supported and encouraged throughout this process. At N OCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
(786) 567-3274 View (786) 567-3274
Photo of Mary Beard-Curry - Mary Beard-Curry - NOCD, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Beard-Curry - NOCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
Additionally, we provide support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, so you always have someone to turn to.
I love helping individuals restore joy to their lives after feeling stuck or facing mental and emotional challenges. I aim to bring sparks of hope until light becomes the prevalent theme in someone's life. Recognizing how powerful thoughts are, I wanted to equip individuals with OCD with strategies that foster mental well-being and confidence. At N OCD, my team and I are dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. We've received extensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP), which is the gold standard for OCD treatment.
Additionally, we provide support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, so you always have someone to turn to.
I love helping individuals restore joy to their lives after feeling stuck or facing mental and emotional challenges. I aim to bring sparks of hope until light becomes the prevalent theme in someone's life. Recognizing how powerful thoughts are, I wanted to equip individuals with OCD with strategies that foster mental well-being and confidence. At N OCD, my team and I are dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. We've received extensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP), which is the gold standard for OCD treatment.
(312) 766-6780 View (312) 766-6780
Photo of Melissa Coe - Water's Edge Therapy, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Water's Edge Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Kingstown, RI 02852
I am an integrative therapist with over 20 years of diverse experience and am passionate about what I do! My specialties are working with Women's issues, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, OCD, adolescents, couples work, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, foster care/adoption, as well as self-exploration. We all go through struggles on our journey, and reaching out for unbiased and non-judgmental support can be extremely beneficial and takes great inner strength. I utilize a whole person eclectic approach, incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and an interactive relaxed style.
I am an integrative therapist with over 20 years of diverse experience and am passionate about what I do! My specialties are working with Women's issues, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, OCD, adolescents, couples work, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, foster care/adoption, as well as self-exploration. We all go through struggles on our journey, and reaching out for unbiased and non-judgmental support can be extremely beneficial and takes great inner strength. I utilize a whole person eclectic approach, incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and an interactive relaxed style.
(401) 329-9384 View (401) 329-9384
Photo of Lisa Davis, M Ed, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Davis
Counselor, M Ed, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I work with clients to address a wide variety of mental health concerns/needs including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD and Bipolar Disorder, and self care.
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
I work with clients to address a wide variety of mental health concerns/needs including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD and Bipolar Disorder, and self care.
I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people live a better life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck. My goal is to help you feel better so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of!
(401) 216-4411 View (401) 216-4411
Photo of Michelle Solitro, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Solitro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have 16+ years experience working in schools, community mental health, a hospital and a group private practice providing home based, outpatient and day treatment therapy. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks, depression, self-injurious behavior, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention and behavioral problems, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting skills, social skills, trauma, anger management, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have 16+ years experience working in schools, community mental health, a hospital and a group private practice providing home based, outpatient and day treatment therapy. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks, depression, self-injurious behavior, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention and behavioral problems, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting skills, social skills, trauma, anger management, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
(401) 386-5392 View (401) 386-5392
Photo of Dr. Holly Schiff, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Holly Schiff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Kingstown, RI 02852  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Has your child failed to connect with other mental health providers? I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an exclusive focus on children, adolescents, young adults and their families. I excel at developing a rapport with this age group which lays the groundwork for a positive therapeutic relationship. Treatment specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, underachievement, relationships, school refusal, divorce, OCD, suicidal ideation/self-harm, Autism, Eating Disorders, bullying, and grief/loss.
Has your child failed to connect with other mental health providers? I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an exclusive focus on children, adolescents, young adults and their families. I excel at developing a rapport with this age group which lays the groundwork for a positive therapeutic relationship. Treatment specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, underachievement, relationships, school refusal, divorce, OCD, suicidal ideation/self-harm, Autism, Eating Disorders, bullying, and grief/loss.
(475) 897-5296 View (475) 897-5296
Photo of Melanie Clifford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Clifford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
(401) 293-2271 View (401) 293-2271
Photo of Lisa Litner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Litner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
North Kingstown, RI 02852  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping to support people as they navigate through the many different waves of life. I help to create a warm, non judgmental, and supportive environment where clients are free to talk about their stories. I draw from a number of different treatment modalities, but most importantly, meet the client where they are at. While each individual's experience is unique, I regularly work with clients around topics related to anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, relationship concerns, sexuality, ADHD, life's transitions, familial conflict and many more.
I enjoy helping to support people as they navigate through the many different waves of life. I help to create a warm, non judgmental, and supportive environment where clients are free to talk about their stories. I draw from a number of different treatment modalities, but most importantly, meet the client where they are at. While each individual's experience is unique, I regularly work with clients around topics related to anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, relationship concerns, sexuality, ADHD, life's transitions, familial conflict and many more.
(815) 982-2033 View (815) 982-2033
Photo of Ellen Flannery-Schroeder - New England Center for Anxiety, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
New England Center for Anxiety
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
North Kingstown, RI 02852
The New England Center for Anxiety offers cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety and related disorders including, but not limited to, generalized anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety.
Congratulations on taking the first step in learning to manage your anxiety! The New England Center for Anxiety provides research-supported cognitive-behavioral interventions to help individuals to learn critically important coping skills useful in combating fear, anxiety, and worry.
The New England Center for Anxiety offers cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety and related disorders including, but not limited to, generalized anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety.
Congratulations on taking the first step in learning to manage your anxiety! The New England Center for Anxiety provides research-supported cognitive-behavioral interventions to help individuals to learn critically important coping skills useful in combating fear, anxiety, and worry.
(401) 596-2302 View (401) 596-2302

See more therapy options for Saunderstown

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.