Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Brentwood, TN

Photo of Stephanie Adams, MA, LCPC(IL, LPC(TN), PMH-C
Stephanie Adams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC(IL, LPC(TN), PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
We all struggle with anxiety and nerves every once in a while, but if you’re experiencing anxiety or racing thoughts that makes life difficult to live or enjoy your new baby, I can help! With a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety as well as emerging adult difficulties and OCD, I’ll teach you to overcome your challenges with tangible skills and practice through my specialty training in anxiety and depression. You'll learn to reduce obsessive thinking and conquer needless worrying that may be getting in the way of enjoying your pregnancy, new baby, or life. I have a special interest working with pregnant people & fear of childbirth.
We all struggle with anxiety and nerves every once in a while, but if you’re experiencing anxiety or racing thoughts that makes life difficult to live or enjoy your new baby, I can help! With a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety as well as emerging adult difficulties and OCD, I’ll teach you to overcome your challenges with tangible skills and practice through my specialty training in anxiety and depression. You'll learn to reduce obsessive thinking and conquer needless worrying that may be getting in the way of enjoying your pregnancy, new baby, or life. I have a special interest working with pregnant people & fear of childbirth.
(615) 903-0606 View (615) 903-0606
Photo of Emily Neilson, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Neilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Waitlist for new clients
As an experienced anxiety/ OCD therapist, I believe that you can find freedom from the anxiety that keeps you up at night.
Do you find yourself gripped by anxiety and worry no matter what you do? Maybe you're fed up with cycling through worst case scenario thoughts in your mind, feeling overwhelmed and distracted or wishing you could just "turn your brain off". Maybe you're tired of asking yourself, "what if... (insert distressing but unlikely event here)?" You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to quit worrying all the time. You're ready to feel present and connected to your loved-ones. Most of all, you're ready to relax again.
As an experienced anxiety/ OCD therapist, I believe that you can find freedom from the anxiety that keeps you up at night.
Do you find yourself gripped by anxiety and worry no matter what you do? Maybe you're fed up with cycling through worst case scenario thoughts in your mind, feeling overwhelmed and distracted or wishing you could just "turn your brain off". Maybe you're tired of asking yourself, "what if... (insert distressing but unlikely event here)?" You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to quit worrying all the time. You're ready to feel present and connected to your loved-ones. Most of all, you're ready to relax again.
(629) 205-7966 View (629) 205-7966
Photo of Amy Mariaskin - Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Unfortunately, many clients with OCD have not had proper treatment (or even diagnosis) and may feel that their symptoms are un-treatable.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and faculty member for the International OCD Foundation, I'm proud to lead as the Founding Director of the Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center (NOATC). We provide individual, group, and family therapy for people all across the lifespan. Our specialties include the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, panic, and OC spectrum disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder. Our approach to therapy is grounded in research-based techniques and a belief that individuals are most open to change when they feel that their unique traits are respected.
Unfortunately, many clients with OCD have not had proper treatment (or even diagnosis) and may feel that their symptoms are un-treatable.
As a licensed clinical psychologist and faculty member for the International OCD Foundation, I'm proud to lead as the Founding Director of the Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center (NOATC). We provide individual, group, and family therapy for people all across the lifespan. Our specialties include the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, panic, and OC spectrum disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder. Our approach to therapy is grounded in research-based techniques and a belief that individuals are most open to change when they feel that their unique traits are respected.
(615) 398-6860 View (615) 398-6860
Photo of Sydney Petty, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Petty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Waitlist for new clients
OCD & Anxiety can feel like they control your life, keeping you stuck and chained from who and what you love the most! My goal is to give you the tools and techniques to build bravery and resilience in the face of fear, and back to living the life you want and so truly deserve! Let’s kick anxiety’s booty together!.
I'm so happy you're here, and am humbled and excited to walk with you on your therapy journey! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma-Related distress and dysfunction. I work to create meaningful and sustainable change both inside and outside of the therapy office. Walking alongside clients and families as they discover their own resiliency and “why” for embracing discomfort in a safe and supportive environment is my goal! I am affirming and supportive of all LGBTQIA+ folks and am passionate about providing care to this often underserved community.
OCD & Anxiety can feel like they control your life, keeping you stuck and chained from who and what you love the most! My goal is to give you the tools and techniques to build bravery and resilience in the face of fear, and back to living the life you want and so truly deserve! Let’s kick anxiety’s booty together!.
I'm so happy you're here, and am humbled and excited to walk with you on your therapy journey! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma-Related distress and dysfunction. I work to create meaningful and sustainable change both inside and outside of the therapy office. Walking alongside clients and families as they discover their own resiliency and “why” for embracing discomfort in a safe and supportive environment is my goal! I am affirming and supportive of all LGBTQIA+ folks and am passionate about providing care to this often underserved community.
(629) 276-4552 View (629) 276-4552
Photo of Melanie Copeland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Copeland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience as a clinician. I am based in Tennessee (primarily) but also licensed in Kentucky and Minnesota. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD). I also have experience working with other anxiety disorders and clients living with depression. I am passionate about helping clients navigate life challenges in ways that honor who they are. I am supportive of people from all walks of life, including members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ community.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience as a clinician. I am based in Tennessee (primarily) but also licensed in Kentucky and Minnesota. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD). I also have experience working with other anxiety disorders and clients living with depression. I am passionate about helping clients navigate life challenges in ways that honor who they are. I am supportive of people from all walks of life, including members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ community.
(901) 665-5400 View (901) 665-5400
Photo of Ben Cook, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have specialized in OCD and anxiety for the past 9 years, and the depression that is often associated with it.
I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, and working with couples on relationships. I work with adolescents and adults and provide therapy for people who feel like these issues are getting in the way of their goals, impacting their lives negatively, and feel stuck. My goal is to understand the obstacles that are holding you back and help you make the changes that you desire in your life. Change is hard and I'm here to provide guidance, techniques, strategies, and tools that you can use to begin making a difference in your life.
I have specialized in OCD and anxiety for the past 9 years, and the depression that is often associated with it.
I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, and working with couples on relationships. I work with adolescents and adults and provide therapy for people who feel like these issues are getting in the way of their goals, impacting their lives negatively, and feel stuck. My goal is to understand the obstacles that are holding you back and help you make the changes that you desire in your life. Change is hard and I'm here to provide guidance, techniques, strategies, and tools that you can use to begin making a difference in your life.
(615) 900-2092 View (615) 900-2092
Photo of Stephanie Sheppard Upchurch, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Sheppard Upchurch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I believe every patient should receive evidence based treatments which allow them the best opportunity at real and lasting recovery. This means I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure Therapy in treating OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders and Eating disorders. This allows me to be a very hands on therapist. I regularly take clients out into the community to engage in exposure therapy and behavioral activation which allows me to provide support and encouragement throughout the process. I genuinely believe that OCD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders are very treatable conditions when being treated with effective and active treatments.
I believe every patient should receive evidence based treatments which allow them the best opportunity at real and lasting recovery. This means I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure Therapy in treating OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders and Eating disorders. This allows me to be a very hands on therapist. I regularly take clients out into the community to engage in exposure therapy and behavioral activation which allows me to provide support and encouragement throughout the process. I genuinely believe that OCD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders are very treatable conditions when being treated with effective and active treatments.
(615) 913-5648 View (615) 913-5648
Photo of Chris Roberts, MA, LPC-MHS
Chris Roberts
MA, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
**EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I enjoy working with individuals, marriages, and couples who have the courage to enter the heartache of their past or current struggles, and creatively collaborate to find new ways to thrive and live and love more fully. I have experience with anxiety, depression, anger, grief, marital dissastifaction, OCD, and divorce. As a professional counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where a person can acknowledge their current limitations and begin to move forward in positive strides.
**EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I enjoy working with individuals, marriages, and couples who have the courage to enter the heartache of their past or current struggles, and creatively collaborate to find new ways to thrive and live and love more fully. I have experience with anxiety, depression, anger, grief, marital dissastifaction, OCD, and divorce. As a professional counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where a person can acknowledge their current limitations and begin to move forward in positive strides.
(615) 745-3874 View (615) 745-3874
Photo of Tom Benedict, LPC, MHSP, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tom Benedict
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in ADHD (all ages), emotional disturbances (youth), family work, parenting issues, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, anger, emotional disconnect /numbness and men's issues.
Have you ever felt like you are stuck in the same patterns and nothing seems to change them? I have the passion, expertise and great responsibility of coming along-side teens, couples, and victims of trauma who want to get "un-stuck". I respect the uniqueness of each client I work with and I have hope for them. I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples, and teens. It would be my privilege to work with you to encounter hope, growth, unity and a healthy balance in your personal life and in your relationships.
I specialize in ADHD (all ages), emotional disturbances (youth), family work, parenting issues, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, anger, emotional disconnect /numbness and men's issues.
Have you ever felt like you are stuck in the same patterns and nothing seems to change them? I have the passion, expertise and great responsibility of coming along-side teens, couples, and victims of trauma who want to get "un-stuck". I respect the uniqueness of each client I work with and I have hope for them. I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples, and teens. It would be my privilege to work with you to encounter hope, growth, unity and a healthy balance in your personal life and in your relationships.
(615) 829-8628 View (615) 829-8628
Photo of Linda Wirth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in treating OCD in adults and children.
Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of frustrating, unfulfilling thoughts, feelings or behavior patterns? Are you ready to find some new, more effective ways to increase your life satisfaction? Would you like to increase your self-awareness and understanding and develop some new coping strategies? Are you looking for a therapist who can be supportive as well as open, direct and an active participant in the change process?
I specialize in treating OCD in adults and children.
Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of frustrating, unfulfilling thoughts, feelings or behavior patterns? Are you ready to find some new, more effective ways to increase your life satisfaction? Would you like to increase your self-awareness and understanding and develop some new coping strategies? Are you looking for a therapist who can be supportive as well as open, direct and an active participant in the change process?
(615) 338-5306 View (615) 338-5306
Photo of Mary Alexander Feldman, LPC, MHSP(t), Pre-Licensed Professional
Mary Alexander Feldman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP(t)
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Do you want a no-beat-around-the-bush approach to OCD and anxiety? Are you ready to take your life back? I'm here to help you with that.
I've worked at multiple levels of care, and I've seen OCD & anxiety at their gnarliest. OCD is not just about germs and organization. It can include debilitating mental compulsions, taboo themes, complex presentations, and so much more. Finding therapists who "get it" can be challenging. That's where I come in.
Do you want a no-beat-around-the-bush approach to OCD and anxiety? Are you ready to take your life back? I'm here to help you with that.
I've worked at multiple levels of care, and I've seen OCD & anxiety at their gnarliest. OCD is not just about germs and organization. It can include debilitating mental compulsions, taboo themes, complex presentations, and so much more. Finding therapists who "get it" can be challenging. That's where I come in.
(615) 437-7843 View (615) 437-7843
Photo of Kiesa Kelly - ScienceWorks Behavioral Healthcare, Psychologist
ScienceWorks Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Treatment for psychological disorders is better than ever. I specialize in offering new, evidence-based treatment options for OCD and related/co-occuring conditions that are more gentle and affirming than traditional approaches. How you experience OCD can be influenced by ADHD, Autism, racism, LGBTQ+ identity, trauma history, substance use and other contextual and identity factors. I'm here to listen with humility and acceptance (no thoughts are too shameful or taboo), make a thoughtful diagnosis, and gently guide you through science-backed treatment. Best of all, we can do it all from the comfort of home via videoconferencing.
Treatment for psychological disorders is better than ever. I specialize in offering new, evidence-based treatment options for OCD and related/co-occuring conditions that are more gentle and affirming than traditional approaches. How you experience OCD can be influenced by ADHD, Autism, racism, LGBTQ+ identity, trauma history, substance use and other contextual and identity factors. I'm here to listen with humility and acceptance (no thoughts are too shameful or taboo), make a thoughtful diagnosis, and gently guide you through science-backed treatment. Best of all, we can do it all from the comfort of home via videoconferencing.
(615) 237-7146 View (615) 237-7146
Photo of Emily Guest, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Guest
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hi, I’m Emily! I’m a middle Tennessee native, passionate about helping others. My specialty is with teen girls dealing with anxiety, grief, and OCD, I have experience with children (male and female) ages 5-12, teen girls, adult women ages 18-75, and premarital couples. I have worked with anxiety, depression, grief, adoption, divorce, self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and behavioral issues. I am certified in the Prepare Enrich couples therapy model.
Hi, I’m Emily! I’m a middle Tennessee native, passionate about helping others. My specialty is with teen girls dealing with anxiety, grief, and OCD, I have experience with children (male and female) ages 5-12, teen girls, adult women ages 18-75, and premarital couples. I have worked with anxiety, depression, grief, adoption, divorce, self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and behavioral issues. I am certified in the Prepare Enrich couples therapy model.
(615) 558-5262 View (615) 558-5262
Photo of Leah Johansson, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Johansson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, and body-focused behaviors such as skin-picking and trichotillomania, and also help individuals struggling with ADHD, addiction, and depression.
Whether or not we ever meet, I want you to know that I respect your courage and strength. Simply by virtue of the fact that you’re reading this profile, I know that you yearn to move beyond struggle and build a life worth living. I would love to help you do that.
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, and body-focused behaviors such as skin-picking and trichotillomania, and also help individuals struggling with ADHD, addiction, and depression.
Whether or not we ever meet, I want you to know that I respect your courage and strength. Simply by virtue of the fact that you’re reading this profile, I know that you yearn to move beyond struggle and build a life worth living. I would love to help you do that.
(615) 436-8998 View (615) 436-8998
Photo of Dr. Kiesa Kelly, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Kiesa Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Treatment for psychological disorders is better than ever. I specialize in offering new, evidence-based treatment options for OCD and related/co-occuring conditions that are more gentle and affirming than traditional approaches. How you experience OCD can be influenced by ADHD, Autism, racism, LGBTQ+ identity, trauma history, substance use and other contextual and identity factors. I'm here to listen with humility and acceptance (no thoughts are too shameful or taboo), make a thoughtful diagnosis, and gently guide you through science-backed treatment. Best of all, we can do it all from the comfort of home via videoconferencing.
Treatment for psychological disorders is better than ever. I specialize in offering new, evidence-based treatment options for OCD and related/co-occuring conditions that are more gentle and affirming than traditional approaches. How you experience OCD can be influenced by ADHD, Autism, racism, LGBTQ+ identity, trauma history, substance use and other contextual and identity factors. I'm here to listen with humility and acceptance (no thoughts are too shameful or taboo), make a thoughtful diagnosis, and gently guide you through science-backed treatment. Best of all, we can do it all from the comfort of home via videoconferencing.
(615) 551-0732 View (615) 551-0732
Photo of Dr. Sarah Brown, MS, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Sarah Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I enjoy working with children and adults with anxiety/ OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and depression. I specialize in conducting full psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for these concerns. My personal therapeutic and consultative style is sprinkled with humor, curiosity, and direct feedback. I celebrate neurodiversity and understand what it is like to experience the world from a unique lens. My goal is to create a calm, nurturing, and trusting space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment.
I enjoy working with children and adults with anxiety/ OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and depression. I specialize in conducting full psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for these concerns. My personal therapeutic and consultative style is sprinkled with humor, curiosity, and direct feedback. I celebrate neurodiversity and understand what it is like to experience the world from a unique lens. My goal is to create a calm, nurturing, and trusting space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment.
(629) 263-6003 View (629) 263-6003
Photo of Paul E. Gray, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paul E. Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
All of us are born inherently valuable and that never changes. Unfortunately, things like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD and addiction may have us questioning that truth. We often become our own worst critic especially at a time when we need encouragement, guidance and perspective the most. Since I began working in mental health my primary mission has been to challenge the negative self-talk, that only keeps us in a downward depressed cycle. My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy along with cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and EMDR depending on the client’s needs.
All of us are born inherently valuable and that never changes. Unfortunately, things like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD and addiction may have us questioning that truth. We often become our own worst critic especially at a time when we need encouragement, guidance and perspective the most. Since I began working in mental health my primary mission has been to challenge the negative self-talk, that only keeps us in a downward depressed cycle. My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy along with cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and EMDR depending on the client’s needs.
(629) 276-9672 View (629) 276-9672
Photo of Lindsay West Schneck, MS, LPCMHSP, CCTP, Counselor
Lindsay West Schneck
Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for help can be a difficult and crucial first step on the path to healing. And sometimes our hardest endeavors become our greatest joys. It is normal for us to have a wide range of experiences in this life. As a therapist, it is my goal to provide a safe space for clients to be seen, heard, and navigate all that life has in store. My professional experience includes a variety of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, adverse religious experiences and spiritual issues, the music business and touring life, body image and disordered eating, and grief and loss.
I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for help can be a difficult and crucial first step on the path to healing. And sometimes our hardest endeavors become our greatest joys. It is normal for us to have a wide range of experiences in this life. As a therapist, it is my goal to provide a safe space for clients to be seen, heard, and navigate all that life has in store. My professional experience includes a variety of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, adverse religious experiences and spiritual issues, the music business and touring life, body image and disordered eating, and grief and loss.
(615) 551-1070 View (615) 551-1070
Photo of Amy Ferrell, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Ferrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
My specializations include perinatal and postpartum issues, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, and depression. My passion populations are women and teens, and my values center around compassion, advocacy, and kindness. I work with individuals to find solutions and gain new tools in order to find their way back to fulfillment.
My specializations include perinatal and postpartum issues, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, and depression. My passion populations are women and teens, and my values center around compassion, advocacy, and kindness. I work with individuals to find solutions and gain new tools in order to find their way back to fulfillment.
(629) 276-6460 View (629) 276-6460
Photo of Cammie Douglass, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cammie Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as OCD, anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, stress management, self-compassion, body image concerns, religious trauma, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, relationship problems, life transitions, and more.
Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Or are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. In our sessions, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you are respected as the expert of your own story.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as OCD, anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, stress management, self-compassion, body image concerns, religious trauma, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, relationship problems, life transitions, and more.
Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Or are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. In our sessions, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you are respected as the expert of your own story.
(615) 282-5912 View (615) 282-5912
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.