Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Richmond County, VA

Photo of Gregory Dams, LCP, Psychologist
Gregory Dams
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Farnham, VA 22460
I'm Greg Dams, a licensed clinical psychologist based in Roanoke, Virginia, offering statewide telehealth services. Specializing in anxiety, OCD, and depression, I use evidence-based therapies like CBT to help adults and older adolescents achieve their goals, fostering a positive outlook on life through warm, client-centered care. I typically work with adults experiencing anxiety disorders, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive and related conditions, depression, and PTSD.
I'm Greg Dams, a licensed clinical psychologist based in Roanoke, Virginia, offering statewide telehealth services. Specializing in anxiety, OCD, and depression, I use evidence-based therapies like CBT to help adults and older adolescents achieve their goals, fostering a positive outlook on life through warm, client-centered care. I typically work with adults experiencing anxiety disorders, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive and related conditions, depression, and PTSD.
(571) 604-5394 View (571) 604-5394

Online Therapists

Photo of Holly Ellis, PsyD, Psychologist
Holly Ellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety disorder. I also provide treatment for depression and interpersonal issues. In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, focusing primarily on ADHD and learning differences.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety disorder. I also provide treatment for depression and interpersonal issues. In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, focusing primarily on ADHD and learning differences.
(703) 249-9686 View (703) 249-9686
Photo of Kerry A Jetton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry A Jetton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Occoquan, VA 22125
I specialize in Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, PTSD, self-harm, Mood Disorders, and Family Therapy.
I'm here to help. Life is full of struggles and difficulties that can affect the way we see and interact with the world. I am here to help you process your pain, and to move past it; I am also here to help you explore what is needed to enable you to live your full and authentic life moving forward. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and the LGBTQIA+ community. I treat Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, BPD, self-harming behaviors, social and adjustment issues, family issues and more. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Mindfulness, Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
I specialize in Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, PTSD, self-harm, Mood Disorders, and Family Therapy.
I'm here to help. Life is full of struggles and difficulties that can affect the way we see and interact with the world. I am here to help you process your pain, and to move past it; I am also here to help you explore what is needed to enable you to live your full and authentic life moving forward. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and the LGBTQIA+ community. I treat Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, BPD, self-harming behaviors, social and adjustment issues, family issues and more. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Mindfulness, Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
(571) 998-1653 View (571) 998-1653
Photo of Virginia A Haesler - Ginger Haesler, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginger Haesler, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive -Brene Brown. Life is beautiful, fun and exciting, but...it is also difficult, traumatic, overwhelming, exhausting and incredibly challenging. Our anxiety sometimes gets the best of us and it's often hard to deal with the symptoms. You don't have to suffer from unbearable anxiety. Whether it manifests itself as panic, OCD, irritability, inability to focus, sleeplessness or fear, there is a way out. With education, self awareness and coping techniques you can find your way to a more manageable and peaceful life.
If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive -Brene Brown. Life is beautiful, fun and exciting, but...it is also difficult, traumatic, overwhelming, exhausting and incredibly challenging. Our anxiety sometimes gets the best of us and it's often hard to deal with the symptoms. You don't have to suffer from unbearable anxiety. Whether it manifests itself as panic, OCD, irritability, inability to focus, sleeplessness or fear, there is a way out. With education, self awareness and coping techniques you can find your way to a more manageable and peaceful life.
(757) 982-2361 View (757) 982-2361
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 Lisa Muller, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Muller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, anger issues, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief, multicultural issues, immigration, self-esteem issues, and mood disorders to include bipolar disorders.
If you allow me the opportunity, I will guide you on a journey to feel purposeful, contentment, and confident. I aim to empower you but will also be realistic. It’s ok if you’re not felling ok. I understand that there will be days when it rains and days when it storms on the inside of our minds and bodies. In our work together, I hope to give you the tools to guide you through those days; the tools to help you feel prepared and confident to weather any storm. My priority is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self while feeling validated and ultimately empowered.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, anger issues, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief, multicultural issues, immigration, self-esteem issues, and mood disorders to include bipolar disorders.
If you allow me the opportunity, I will guide you on a journey to feel purposeful, contentment, and confident. I aim to empower you but will also be realistic. It’s ok if you’re not felling ok. I understand that there will be days when it rains and days when it storms on the inside of our minds and bodies. In our work together, I hope to give you the tools to guide you through those days; the tools to help you feel prepared and confident to weather any storm. My priority is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self while feeling validated and ultimately empowered.
(757) 979-2637 View (757) 979-2637
Photo of Kimberly Culpepper, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Culpepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175  (Online Only)
Since 2010, I have been in private practice helping women and adolescents work through anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, chronic health issues, everyday stressors and adjustments to life’s everchanging dynamics and stressors. I am trained in EMDR therapy through EMDRIA and can provide this effectively via telehealth. I love EMDR because it is a root-cause approach and can be used for the vast majority of presenting issues. Together, with the client, we work as a team to achieve their desired goals.
Since 2010, I have been in private practice helping women and adolescents work through anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, chronic health issues, everyday stressors and adjustments to life’s everchanging dynamics and stressors. I am trained in EMDR therapy through EMDRIA and can provide this effectively via telehealth. I love EMDR because it is a root-cause approach and can be used for the vast majority of presenting issues. Together, with the client, we work as a team to achieve their desired goals.
(571) 200-0797 View (571) 200-0797
Photo of Carrie Holl, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Carrie Holl
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
I am an empathic and experienced Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapist. I also teach at Georgetown Hospital and the George Washington University, as well as serve on the OCD Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Board. My treatment aims are as follows: 1) provide direct symptom relief, 2) engage clients in treatment in a way that interests them, 3) appeal to strengths, 4) encourage overall treatment compliance, and 5) explain the clinical process in easy to understand language. Empowerment occurs with the recognition that mental health symptoms have predictable patterns. Symptoms are relieved through changing these patterns. Interactive readings and assignments are encouraged.
(202) 670-8967 View (202) 670-8967
Photo of Allyson Markussen, LPC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allyson Markussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hello! Thanks so much for including me as a consideration in your healing journey! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and young adults who are moving through life's challenges including behavioral challenges, friendship challenges, anxiety, anger management, OCD, emotional regulation, adjustment, and self-esteem.
Hello! Thanks so much for including me as a consideration in your healing journey! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and young adults who are moving through life's challenges including behavioral challenges, friendship challenges, anxiety, anger management, OCD, emotional regulation, adjustment, and self-esteem.
(571) 570-3439 View (571) 570-3439
Photo of Joshua Mcleod Crocker, LMFT, AAMFT, Superv, Candid, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Mcleod Crocker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AAMFT, Superv, Candid
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Former positions include: Children's Case Management, Therapist for populations: Severe Mental Illness: Schizophrenia/Biopolar, OCD, Borderline, ADD in Adults and Adolescents, PTSD.
AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate: Supervising LMFT and LPC Resident Counselors. (Fairfaxcounseling.org) Specializing in Couples Counseling and youth/young adults, my commitment is to provide a non-judgmental atmosphere where we face hard issues to grow and find more peace in your life. Leaving shame at the door, we dig into what is keeping you "stuck" and find practical tools to move forward. The therapist-client relationship gives one freedom, maybe beyond any other setting, to be fully open, honest and press forward to the best version of yourself.
Former positions include: Children's Case Management, Therapist for populations: Severe Mental Illness: Schizophrenia/Biopolar, OCD, Borderline, ADD in Adults and Adolescents, PTSD.
AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate: Supervising LMFT and LPC Resident Counselors. (Fairfaxcounseling.org) Specializing in Couples Counseling and youth/young adults, my commitment is to provide a non-judgmental atmosphere where we face hard issues to grow and find more peace in your life. Leaving shame at the door, we dig into what is keeping you "stuck" and find practical tools to move forward. The therapist-client relationship gives one freedom, maybe beyond any other setting, to be fully open, honest and press forward to the best version of yourself.
(571) 487-7122 View (571) 487-7122
Photo of Kate Dansie, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Dansie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22202
When working with clients with OCD, I use Exposure and Response Prevention-the gold standard of OCD treatment.
I love working with teens and adults who are tired of feeling trapped by obsessive compulsive disorder, exhausted from struggling with an eating disorder, or hate what they see when they look in the mirror.
When working with clients with OCD, I use Exposure and Response Prevention-the gold standard of OCD treatment.
I love working with teens and adults who are tired of feeling trapped by obsessive compulsive disorder, exhausted from struggling with an eating disorder, or hate what they see when they look in the mirror.
(240) 219-8041 View (240) 219-8041
Photo of Erik Norman - Pema Mithub - Free Spirit Counseling Collaborative, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pema Mithub - Free Spirit Counseling Collaborative
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, VA 23693  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, adolescents and adults age 12 and up. I support clients seeking assistance with areas such as: life transitions, stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, young adult life, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation building, substance abuse, trauma, co-occurring disorders, military life, college life, and women’s issues. I am a LGBTQ+ Ally. See my full profile here! https:/shorturl.at/mpXf7
I work with individuals, adolescents and adults age 12 and up. I support clients seeking assistance with areas such as: life transitions, stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, young adult life, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation building, substance abuse, trauma, co-occurring disorders, military life, college life, and women’s issues. I am a LGBTQ+ Ally. See my full profile here! https:/shorturl.at/mpXf7
(757) 832-1517 View (757) 832-1517
Photo of Zach Hocanson - Zach Hocanson - NOCD, MC, LCPC, LPC, CPC, CCTP
Zach Hocanson - NOCD
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MC, LCPC, LPC, CPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
As your OCD therapist, I approach treatment through an evidence-based lens that delivers proven results. I want you to see the progress you make as we take steps toward recovery together. The most gratifying part of my job is witnessing the drive and determination of people reclaiming control in their lives. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to accurately diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
As your OCD therapist, I approach treatment through an evidence-based lens that delivers proven results. I want you to see the progress you make as we take steps toward recovery together. The most gratifying part of my job is witnessing the drive and determination of people reclaiming control in their lives. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to accurately diagnose and treat it. We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
(443) 323-2866 View (443) 323-2866
Photo of Trevor Dunn, PhD, Psychologist
Trevor Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
(703) 884-1802 View (703) 884-1802
Photo of Hannah White
Hannah White
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, and other mental illnesses.
Everyone is on a personal journey with many paths to choose from. My goal is to help you navigate that journey as you come to bumps in the road. Through enhanced coping skills and client centered care, I work with you to overcome the challenges you face. I am an empathetic counselor who assists people of all backgrounds prevail over the difficulties in their lives. I take a collaborative approach to empower clients in their daily lives by teaching them new skills and strengthening those they already possess.
I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, and other mental illnesses.
Everyone is on a personal journey with many paths to choose from. My goal is to help you navigate that journey as you come to bumps in the road. Through enhanced coping skills and client centered care, I work with you to overcome the challenges you face. I am an empathetic counselor who assists people of all backgrounds prevail over the difficulties in their lives. I take a collaborative approach to empower clients in their daily lives by teaching them new skills and strengthening those they already possess.
(804) 465-9850 View (804) 465-9850
Photo of Katherine (Kat) Illgen, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine (Kat) Illgen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23608  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, OCD, and anxiety disorders.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Have you experienced trauma? Do you find that fears, intrusive thoughts, and repetitive behaviors are stopping you from living your life? If the answer is yes to any of those, I'd like to help. Hi, I'm Katherine, and I specialize in treating PTSD and OCD using the gold standard approaches: Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Both structured treatments are designed to get you specific results without needing years of therapy. To combat anxiety and depression I create a customized treatment for the individual to ensure a personalized, highly effective experience.
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, OCD, and anxiety disorders.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Have you experienced trauma? Do you find that fears, intrusive thoughts, and repetitive behaviors are stopping you from living your life? If the answer is yes to any of those, I'd like to help. Hi, I'm Katherine, and I specialize in treating PTSD and OCD using the gold standard approaches: Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Both structured treatments are designed to get you specific results without needing years of therapy. To combat anxiety and depression I create a customized treatment for the individual to ensure a personalized, highly effective experience.
(757) 273-8685 View (757) 273-8685
Photo of Hailey Kohler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailey Kohler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker providing in person or virtual sessions in the state of Virginia, and virtual sessions for those located in Hawaii and California. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Anxiety. Focusing on Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, I offer comprehensive support to help clients manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Those that suffer can often find symptoms to be distressful and disturbing, leading to isolation and major impacts on their lifestyle. You are not alone and this is treatable.
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker providing in person or virtual sessions in the state of Virginia, and virtual sessions for those located in Hawaii and California. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Anxiety. Focusing on Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, I offer comprehensive support to help clients manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Those that suffer can often find symptoms to be distressful and disturbing, leading to isolation and major impacts on their lifestyle. You are not alone and this is treatable.
(831) 291-4360 View (831) 291-4360
Photo of Jonathan Patrick Behler - Grace in the Shadows, LLC, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace in the Shadows, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 20301  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, marital issues, family issues, clergy burnout, porn addiction, numerous other mental health issues.
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, marital issues, family issues, clergy burnout, porn addiction, numerous other mental health issues.
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
(571) 462-2141 View (571) 462-2141
Photo of Stacy Freilich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Freilich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I am in private practice and provide outpatient therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Approach as well as a solution focused approach to treatment. I am trained and experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, school refusal, family issues, addiction, PTSD, behavioral issues, impusivity, self-esteem, sucidal thoughts and self harm.
I am in private practice and provide outpatient therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Approach as well as a solution focused approach to treatment. I am trained and experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, school refusal, family issues, addiction, PTSD, behavioral issues, impusivity, self-esteem, sucidal thoughts and self harm.
(571) 248-3959 View (571) 248-3959
Photo of Theresa A Weedon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa A Weedon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King George, VA 22485
My mission is to serve my clients in a professionally caring manner that is respectful of each individuals situation. Have you ever gone to a treatment provider and felt that you weren't heard. This has happened to me many times and it is so frustrating. When someone is struggling with the stress of life finding someone to listen is difficult enough. Then add to that anxiety, depression, ADHD,obsessive thoughts,severe trauma or loss and the feeling of hopelessness and defeat can be almost overwhelming .This brings up the question"Does anyone really care?".
My mission is to serve my clients in a professionally caring manner that is respectful of each individuals situation. Have you ever gone to a treatment provider and felt that you weren't heard. This has happened to me many times and it is so frustrating. When someone is struggling with the stress of life finding someone to listen is difficult enough. Then add to that anxiety, depression, ADHD,obsessive thoughts,severe trauma or loss and the feeling of hopelessness and defeat can be almost overwhelming .This brings up the question"Does anyone really care?".
(540) 492-4464 View (540) 492-4464

See more therapy options for Richmond County

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.