Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Louisa, VA

Photo of Rebecca Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisa, VA 23093
Waitlist for new clients
Looking for Christian counseling? Equine therapy? Grief counseling? Children and Teen Counseling? Mood Disorders? My name is Becky Jones, owner of Heaven's Rays Ministries, LLC, which is a Christian private practice providing professional counseling services, equine therapy, support groups, and events to the community. I offer virtual, in-person, and equine therapy (no riding involved) on a farm with animals in Louisa, Va right off I-64. I have a rustic office onsite with A/C and heat decorated to make you feel at home on the farm. Nice weather? Let's sit outside with the animals or walk and talk on the nature trails!
Looking for Christian counseling? Equine therapy? Grief counseling? Children and Teen Counseling? Mood Disorders? My name is Becky Jones, owner of Heaven's Rays Ministries, LLC, which is a Christian private practice providing professional counseling services, equine therapy, support groups, and events to the community. I offer virtual, in-person, and equine therapy (no riding involved) on a farm with animals in Louisa, Va right off I-64. I have a rustic office onsite with A/C and heat decorated to make you feel at home on the farm. Nice weather? Let's sit outside with the animals or walk and talk on the nature trails!
(540) 274-2723 View (540) 274-2723
Photo of Caroline Clarke - The MARCS Agency LLC
The MARCS Agency LLC
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
Verified Verified
Louisa, VA 23093
Waitlist for new clients
We “Motivate Adolescents and Adults to Reinforce Change for Success” through comprehensive, collaborative, programs and services. We believe all people can learn to become responsible, contributing and self-reliant members of society. We strive to offer individuals from all economic, cultural and social backgrounds access to the resources, support and opportunities that will enable them to overcome barriers and achieve their positive potential in life. Our services are person-centered, with the needs and strengths of the individual and family dictating the types and mix of services provided.
We “Motivate Adolescents and Adults to Reinforce Change for Success” through comprehensive, collaborative, programs and services. We believe all people can learn to become responsible, contributing and self-reliant members of society. We strive to offer individuals from all economic, cultural and social backgrounds access to the resources, support and opportunities that will enable them to overcome barriers and achieve their positive potential in life. Our services are person-centered, with the needs and strengths of the individual and family dictating the types and mix of services provided.
(804) 644-4444 View (804) 644-4444
Photo of Daniel L. Price, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel L. Price
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisa, VA 23093
Psychotherapy helps people achieve what they want in their lives by mobilizing their energy in a positive way and problem solving the things that stand in their way. Emotional issues from the past can be worked through to happier healthier functioning. Improved mood and functioning without anxiety can be achieved.
Psychotherapy helps people achieve what they want in their lives by mobilizing their energy in a positive way and problem solving the things that stand in their way. Emotional issues from the past can be worked through to happier healthier functioning. Improved mood and functioning without anxiety can be achieved.
(540) 986-4459 View (540) 986-4459
Photo of Kenneth Adrian Deneault, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenneth Adrian Deneault
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisa, VA 23093
Ken Deneault is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults and elderly persons dealing with a variety of issues that affect their well being. Ken offers office hours for outpatient therapy.
Ken Deneault is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults and elderly persons dealing with a variety of issues that affect their well being. Ken offers office hours for outpatient therapy.
(434) 201-7563 View (434) 201-7563

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathryn Beirne, LPC,  BC, TMH
Kathryn Beirne
Resident in Counseling, LPC, BC, TMH
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Kathryn has experience working with children and adolescents, and their families, with ADHD, anxiety, issues related to behavior, learning disabilities, OCD and trauma.
Kathryn enjoys helping clients of all ages navigate the developmental and unique challenges of their stage of life and personal experiences. She starts by being fully present with clients in order to better understand their unique worldview and how they experience their presenting issues. Her goal is to empower clients to make meaningful and lasting change in their lives by offering a nonjudgmental space for self exploration. She provides an empathetic, honest, and sensitive space for clients to increase insight regarding their patterns of behavior, learn new ways of thinking, and acquire new skills.
Kathryn has experience working with children and adolescents, and their families, with ADHD, anxiety, issues related to behavior, learning disabilities, OCD and trauma.
Kathryn enjoys helping clients of all ages navigate the developmental and unique challenges of their stage of life and personal experiences. She starts by being fully present with clients in order to better understand their unique worldview and how they experience their presenting issues. Her goal is to empower clients to make meaningful and lasting change in their lives by offering a nonjudgmental space for self exploration. She provides an empathetic, honest, and sensitive space for clients to increase insight regarding their patterns of behavior, learn new ways of thinking, and acquire new skills.
(571) 462-2412 View (571) 462-2412
Photo of Tilmer Engebretson, PhD, Psychologist
Tilmer Engebretson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
I work in a cognitive behavioral conceptual framework and use a range of skills and tools to help people feel better, improve functioning, and better cope with life's difficulties. These difficulties may involve stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, OCD, anger, coping with cancer or other chronic illnesses, marital distress, interpersonal problems, or trauma/PTSD. In the process of our interactive work together, we will clarify what processes are disruptive and help you learn ways to better adjust, cope, and deal with those difficulties. In this way, stress is reduced and life satisfaction is enhanced.
I work in a cognitive behavioral conceptual framework and use a range of skills and tools to help people feel better, improve functioning, and better cope with life's difficulties. These difficulties may involve stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, OCD, anger, coping with cancer or other chronic illnesses, marital distress, interpersonal problems, or trauma/PTSD. In the process of our interactive work together, we will clarify what processes are disruptive and help you learn ways to better adjust, cope, and deal with those difficulties. In this way, stress is reduced and life satisfaction is enhanced.
(571) 248-1968 View (571) 248-1968
Photo of Tera Lensegrav-Benson Anxiety Specialist, PhD, Psychologist
Tera Lensegrav-Benson Anxiety Specialist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Great Falls, VA 22066  (Online Only)
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 Lisa Michelle Fox, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Michelle Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Just relax, they said - and you want to, but don't even remember what that feels like! What if something goes wrong? It did that one time. You are not alone: many people spend their time dealing with thoughts and feelings that feel intrusive and time-consuming. If you are tired of feeling trapped inside your own head, there is hope. My passion is helping people get unstuck from thoughts and feelings related to past and present experiences including child and adult complex traumas, OCD ( Obsessive-compulsive Disorder), scrupulosity, and other anxiety and depression issues and back into living life.
Just relax, they said - and you want to, but don't even remember what that feels like! What if something goes wrong? It did that one time. You are not alone: many people spend their time dealing with thoughts and feelings that feel intrusive and time-consuming. If you are tired of feeling trapped inside your own head, there is hope. My passion is helping people get unstuck from thoughts and feelings related to past and present experiences including child and adult complex traumas, OCD ( Obsessive-compulsive Disorder), scrupulosity, and other anxiety and depression issues and back into living life.
(434) 602-9907 View (434) 602-9907
Photo of Ellie Woodbridge- Marli Wright - Ellie Mental Health/Woodbridge - Marli Wright, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ellie Mental Health/Woodbridge - Marli Wright
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Margaret (Marli) has been a resident in counseling since 2021 and is in the final stages of becoming an LPC. She enjoys working with all age groups but especially teenagers and young adults. She has experience helping people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders as well as substance use. She has worked with individuals, couples, and groups in multiple different settings. Marli uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing with clients. She believes that everyone can benefit from counseling and enjoys helping others make positive changes in their lives.
Margaret (Marli) has been a resident in counseling since 2021 and is in the final stages of becoming an LPC. She enjoys working with all age groups but especially teenagers and young adults. She has experience helping people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders as well as substance use. She has worked with individuals, couples, and groups in multiple different settings. Marli uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing with clients. She believes that everyone can benefit from counseling and enjoys helping others make positive changes in their lives.
(703) 997-1076 View (703) 997-1076
Photo of Angela Stuchlik Wurm - Angela Stuchlik - NOCD
Angela Stuchlik - NOCD
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
I look forward to partnering with you to help you overcome OCD and live the life you deserve.
I’ve always been fascinated by the complexities of the mind and mental health. Seeing individuals overcome mental health challenges and improve their lives brings me immense joy. Having personally dealt with anxiety, I deeply understand its challenges. Helping others navigate anxiety, OCD, or any mental health issue is profoundly fulfilling for me. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our comprehensive understanding of OCD’s nuances allows us to accurately diagnose and effectively treat it. We are also extensively trained in ERP therapy, the gold standard for OCD treatment.
I look forward to partnering with you to help you overcome OCD and live the life you deserve.
I’ve always been fascinated by the complexities of the mind and mental health. Seeing individuals overcome mental health challenges and improve their lives brings me immense joy. Having personally dealt with anxiety, I deeply understand its challenges. Helping others navigate anxiety, OCD, or any mental health issue is profoundly fulfilling for me. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our comprehensive understanding of OCD’s nuances allows us to accurately diagnose and effectively treat it. We are also extensively trained in ERP therapy, the gold standard for OCD treatment.
(872) 206-9608 View (872) 206-9608
Photo of Michael J Greenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Michael J Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
Other search terms: HOCD, SO- OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; BFRB, body-focused repetitive behaviors, trichotillomania, hair-pulling, skin-picking, excoriation; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
Other search terms: HOCD, SO- OCD, sexual orientation OCD, ROCD, relationship OCD, POCD, harm OCD, intrusive thoughts, violent thoughts, retroactive jealousy, real event OCD; somatic OCD; BFRB, body-focused repetitive behaviors, trichotillomania, hair-pulling, skin-picking, excoriation; GAD, anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, hypochondriasis.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(703) 420-7467 View (703) 420-7467
Photo of Anna Newton - Anna Newton - NOCD, LPC, Counselor
Anna Newton - NOCD
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I've always had a caring, nurturing personality, influenced by my mother, who was always there to help those in need. My family's struggles with mental health issues inspired me to learn more about the human mind and why people face anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. As a therapist, I want you to feel comfortable and cared for, as if you're talking to a friend. I'm here for you, and we're in this together. You're in good hands. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Plus, we offer support between sessions through direct messaging and a community of peers with OCD, ensuring you never feel alone.
I've always had a caring, nurturing personality, influenced by my mother, who was always there to help those in need. My family's struggles with mental health issues inspired me to learn more about the human mind and why people face anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. As a therapist, I want you to feel comfortable and cared for, as if you're talking to a friend. I'm here for you, and we're in this together. You're in good hands. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it.
(260) 376-4787 View (260) 376-4787
Photo of Rachel Kabir, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Kabir
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted from feeling overwhelmed? Do you struggle with finding ways to cope with your anxiety? As a Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and adults, I strive to use warmth, validation, and practical strategies in sessions to help you reach your mental health goals. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, OCD, and ADHD/executive functioning concerns. As a parent to a toddler myself, I know what rewarding and challenging work it is to be a parent! I’m also passionate about working directly with parents to support both themselves and their child.
Are you exhausted from feeling overwhelmed? Do you struggle with finding ways to cope with your anxiety? As a Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and adults, I strive to use warmth, validation, and practical strategies in sessions to help you reach your mental health goals. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, OCD, and ADHD/executive functioning concerns. As a parent to a toddler myself, I know what rewarding and challenging work it is to be a parent! I’m also passionate about working directly with parents to support both themselves and their child.
(571) 540-7411 View (571) 540-7411
Photo of Rachel Henry, LCSW, CCTP II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I am a results-oriented psychotherapist with a passion for using the therapeutic alliance to break through the barriers of the past. Whether it is past mistakes, missed opportunities, or traumatic experiences, I believe that our past does not have to be an obstacle but a launching pad to becoming the best version of ourselves. As a certified EMDR therapist I specialize in the treatment of trauma and OCD using an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy.
I am a results-oriented psychotherapist with a passion for using the therapeutic alliance to break through the barriers of the past. Whether it is past mistakes, missed opportunities, or traumatic experiences, I believe that our past does not have to be an obstacle but a launching pad to becoming the best version of ourselves. As a certified EMDR therapist I specialize in the treatment of trauma and OCD using an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy.
(703) 844-2655 View (703) 844-2655
Photo of Toy Newcomb - Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831  (Online Only)
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), and anxiety.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( OCD), and anxiety.
(804) 207-5721 View (804) 207-5721
Photo of Joanna Magee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Magee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, & adjustment disorders, in teens, and adults.
I provide therapy within a warm, supportive, and collaborative relationship. I work with adults with a focus on women's issues and teens coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, complex family systems and stressors related to managing the many demands of our daily lives. I have expertise in working with parents and providing developmentally appropriate, attachment oriented, interventions to resolve child behaviors and challenging parent-child relationship dynamics.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, & adjustment disorders, in teens, and adults.
I provide therapy within a warm, supportive, and collaborative relationship. I work with adults with a focus on women's issues and teens coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, complex family systems and stressors related to managing the many demands of our daily lives. I have expertise in working with parents and providing developmentally appropriate, attachment oriented, interventions to resolve child behaviors and challenging parent-child relationship dynamics.
(434) 207-2177 View (434) 207-2177
Photo of Margarita Franco Mattei, PsyD, Psychologist
Margarita Franco Mattei
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. My areas of specialization include the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders including: OCD, Panic Attacks, and Social Anxiety utilizing evidence based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ERP, and Mindfulness. My focus is on positive psychology and the development of coping skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. My areas of specialization include the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders including: OCD, Panic Attacks, and Social Anxiety utilizing evidence based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ERP, and Mindfulness. My focus is on positive psychology and the development of coping skills.
(703) 349-4905 View (703) 349-4905
Photo of Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176
Sarah offers comprehensive psychological assessments for children with a variety of psychological concerns such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, OCD, behavioral challenges, anxiety, peer and social difficulties, trauma, school/academic problems, and self-esteem challenges.
Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham, PsyD (Dr. Sarah) is a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist who specializes in comprehensive psychological/ neuropsychological assessments and psychotherapy services for children and teens. Dr. Sarah is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidenced-based psychological services for children. Her commitment to quality and patient outcomes always takes priority over volume. Her approach is highly effective as evidenced by documented outcome measures. In her work, she uses data-informed and effective psychotherapy approaches to move beyond symptom reduction and help each child thrive.
Sarah offers comprehensive psychological assessments for children with a variety of psychological concerns such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, OCD, behavioral challenges, anxiety, peer and social difficulties, trauma, school/academic problems, and self-esteem challenges.
Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham, PsyD (Dr. Sarah) is a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist who specializes in comprehensive psychological/ neuropsychological assessments and psychotherapy services for children and teens. Dr. Sarah is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidenced-based psychological services for children. Her commitment to quality and patient outcomes always takes priority over volume. Her approach is highly effective as evidenced by documented outcome measures. In her work, she uses data-informed and effective psychotherapy approaches to move beyond symptom reduction and help each child thrive.
(540) 202-1475 View (540) 202-1475
Photo of Virginia Nielsen, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Nielsen
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
I have experience working with addictions, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders, but I can work with most diagnoses.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2010. I began working with many clients with developmental disorders and Autism; teaching life skills, and behavioral management. In 2012, I started working with children and families within a home and community setting. Teaching behavioral techniques/plans, coping skills, parenting techniques/skills, and assisted with 504 plans with school districts. I finished my master’s in clinical, mental health counseling degree in 2016, and began working with adults, running groups, and completing intakes.
I have experience working with addictions, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders, but I can work with most diagnoses.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2010. I began working with many clients with developmental disorders and Autism; teaching life skills, and behavioral management. In 2012, I started working with children and families within a home and community setting. Teaching behavioral techniques/plans, coping skills, parenting techniques/skills, and assisted with 504 plans with school districts. I finished my master’s in clinical, mental health counseling degree in 2016, and began working with adults, running groups, and completing intakes.
(540) 679-7459 View (540) 679-7459
Photo of Risa E Sanders, PhD, Psychologist
Risa E Sanders
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Does worry interfere with your quality of life? Are habits or certain behaviors troubling you? Are important relationships unsatisfying? Are you feeling more anger, stress, or sadness? i can help. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist since 1984, I have extensive experience, and adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards. I welcome your call for an initial 10-15 minute chat to discuss your concerns. I specialize in stress and anxiety management, phobias( including emetophobia and illness phobias), OCD, fear of public speaking, school concerns, habit control, relationships, communication and social skills training, anger management, ADD/ADHD, parent training, procrastination, performance improvement, LGBT, and diabetes
Does worry interfere with your quality of life? Are habits or certain behaviors troubling you? Are important relationships unsatisfying? Are you feeling more anger, stress, or sadness? i can help. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist since 1984, I have extensive experience, and adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards. I welcome your call for an initial 10-15 minute chat to discuss your concerns. I specialize in stress and anxiety management, phobias( including emetophobia and illness phobias), OCD, fear of public speaking, school concerns, habit control, relationships, communication and social skills training, anger management, ADD/ADHD, parent training, procrastination, performance improvement, LGBT, and diabetes
(703) 596-3664 View (703) 596-3664
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.