Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Vashon, WA

Photo of Haley VandenHazel, LMHC, Counselor
Haley VandenHazel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I offer year-round hiking therapy (walk and talk therapy) for older teens and adults on Vashon Island. I also have clients I see in office and via telehealth. During a hiking therapy session we often focus on personal goals, similar to what we might do in the office, and we get the added benefits of physical activity and time in nature.
I offer year-round hiking therapy (walk and talk therapy) for older teens and adults on Vashon Island. I also have clients I see in office and via telehealth. During a hiking therapy session we often focus on personal goals, similar to what we might do in the office, and we get the added benefits of physical activity and time in nature.
(360) 226-5197 View (360) 226-5197
Photo of Lanae Ayers - lanae ayers, MA, LMHC, EFT, Coach, Gottman, Counselor
lanae ayers
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EFT, Coach, Gottman
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Nearly everyone finds themselves in need of help, support and professional guidance at some time in their lives. If this is such a moment for you, take the first step toward getting the help you need by visiting my website. The specific therapeutic approach depends upon issues to be resolved and the needs of each individual, couple or family. In every case, however, my focus is to acknowledge existing strengths, resources and past solutions. Together, we immediately begin to transform negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors to create change
Nearly everyone finds themselves in need of help, support and professional guidance at some time in their lives. If this is such a moment for you, take the first step toward getting the help you need by visiting my website. The specific therapeutic approach depends upon issues to be resolved and the needs of each individual, couple or family. In every case, however, my focus is to acknowledge existing strengths, resources and past solutions. Together, we immediately begin to transform negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors to create change
(253) 499-9078 View (253) 499-9078
Photo of Holly Taylor, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Holly Taylor
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
(206) 504-2246 View (206) 504-2246
Photo of Jennifer Keyte, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Keyte
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Despite your best efforts, life is unknowable - you can't always predict or be prepared for what comes your way. Difficulties are inevitable. When they occur, you might need help sorting out what's going on and what to do next. The good news is, therapy helps. When you're feeling miserable, unlovable and afraid, therapy helps. When you find yourself asking the question "why me?", therapy helps. When you're ready to step into your life and take charge of it, instead of having it take charge of you, therapy helps.
Despite your best efforts, life is unknowable - you can't always predict or be prepared for what comes your way. Difficulties are inevitable. When they occur, you might need help sorting out what's going on and what to do next. The good news is, therapy helps. When you're feeling miserable, unlovable and afraid, therapy helps. When you find yourself asking the question "why me?", therapy helps. When you're ready to step into your life and take charge of it, instead of having it take charge of you, therapy helps.
(206) 681-1911 View (206) 681-1911
Photo of Dani Patrick, LMHCA, Counselor
Dani Patrick
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients (updated 10/3/24). As an openly queer, non-binary, transgender therapist, I work to create an affirming space where you can step into your authentic self and you don't have to explain your identities. Maybe you’ve made strides on your healing journey but still notice old triggers showing up, or you want to address past trauma and attachment patterns that affect you and your relationships. Together we can unpack self-doubt and shame, uncover the strengths already within you, and integrate your past experience so you can feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
Currently accepting new clients (updated 10/3/24). As an openly queer, non-binary, transgender therapist, I work to create an affirming space where you can step into your authentic self and you don't have to explain your identities. Maybe you’ve made strides on your healing journey but still notice old triggers showing up, or you want to address past trauma and attachment patterns that affect you and your relationships. Together we can unpack self-doubt and shame, uncover the strengths already within you, and integrate your past experience so you can feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
(206) 451-2735 View (206) 451-2735
Photo of Rachel Lordkenaga, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Rachel Lordkenaga
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship. This work entails identifying issues and concerns and processing them in a constructive way. I am interested in holding hope for you on this journey, even when you are feeling hopeless. I think it is important to understand the connection between the mind and the body as well as the past and the present as challenges are confronted. I find the use of creativity, both in art making and perspective changing, very healing. It is an honor to guide you in the process of creating the life you desire.
I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship. This work entails identifying issues and concerns and processing them in a constructive way. I am interested in holding hope for you on this journey, even when you are feeling hopeless. I think it is important to understand the connection between the mind and the body as well as the past and the present as challenges are confronted. I find the use of creativity, both in art making and perspective changing, very healing. It is an honor to guide you in the process of creating the life you desire.
(206) 203-4254 View (206) 203-4254

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Allred, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly Allred
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, sleep, ADHD, chronic pain, interpersonal concerns, general life stress, and race-based stress.
Immediate openings available. As a therapist, my goal is to help you lead a meaningful, fulfilling life. I firmly believe that you are the expert on your experience and that your values, beliefs, and background have a powerful impact on your life and worldview. I view therapy as a collaboration where we will work together to identify what matters most to you and to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. To do this, we will define specific treatment goals and targets as we begin to work together. We will also check in throughout the process to ensure that therapy continues to be helpful and enriching for you.
I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, sleep, ADHD, chronic pain, interpersonal concerns, general life stress, and race-based stress.
Immediate openings available. As a therapist, my goal is to help you lead a meaningful, fulfilling life. I firmly believe that you are the expert on your experience and that your values, beliefs, and background have a powerful impact on your life and worldview. I view therapy as a collaboration where we will work together to identify what matters most to you and to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. To do this, we will define specific treatment goals and targets as we begin to work together. We will also check in throughout the process to ensure that therapy continues to be helpful and enriching for you.
(206) 260-2304 View (206) 260-2304
Photo of Justin Marr, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justin Marr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, WA 98198
I also specialize in treating OCD.
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or conflict over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
I also specialize in treating OCD.
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or conflict over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
(253) 215-6418 View (253) 215-6418
Photo of Khloe Clawson, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khloe Clawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98106
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
(206) 829-6651 View (206) 829-6651
Photo of David J Kosins, PhD, Psychologist
David J Kosins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
I enjoy working with individuals with Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, Medical Phobias, Social Anxiety, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania, Excoriation Disorder).
I am one of Washington State's most experienced specialists in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I help people to cope with anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, and to live a healthy, balanced life. Working from a foundation of a caring and empathic therapy relationship, I can teach you scientifically-supported skills to handle your life challanges more effectively. My goal is to help my clients regain their vitality and confidence through learning how to resolve current problems and reduce troubling symptoms. My ideal client is someone struggling with an anxiety or related disorder who seeks concrete results from therapy that is informed by research.
I enjoy working with individuals with Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, Medical Phobias, Social Anxiety, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (Trichotillomania, Excoriation Disorder).
I am one of Washington State's most experienced specialists in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I help people to cope with anxiety, OCD, and related disorders, and to live a healthy, balanced life. Working from a foundation of a caring and empathic therapy relationship, I can teach you scientifically-supported skills to handle your life challanges more effectively. My goal is to help my clients regain their vitality and confidence through learning how to resolve current problems and reduce troubling symptoms. My ideal client is someone struggling with an anxiety or related disorder who seeks concrete results from therapy that is informed by research.
(206) 483-0367 View (206) 483-0367
Photo of Cameron Sage, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cameron Sage
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, WA 98198
Our work together will reduce intrusive thoughts and obsessive compulsive behavior while increasing interpersonal effectiveness skills and focus on overall psychological flexibility.
You have not felt like yourself, having unwanted thoughts and sensations is making life difficult. You realize the inconvenient truth that life is tough and it doles out plenty of pain. You are experiencing psychological suffering compounded by external influences of relationships and societal pressures. You want to reduce the impact of painful thoughts and feelings and take action to build a life that’s rich, full and meaningful. It is my purpose to assist you in your process by providing a safe, collaborative space, free of bias and judgement.
Our work together will reduce intrusive thoughts and obsessive compulsive behavior while increasing interpersonal effectiveness skills and focus on overall psychological flexibility.
You have not felt like yourself, having unwanted thoughts and sensations is making life difficult. You realize the inconvenient truth that life is tough and it doles out plenty of pain. You are experiencing psychological suffering compounded by external influences of relationships and societal pressures. You want to reduce the impact of painful thoughts and feelings and take action to build a life that’s rich, full and meaningful. It is my purpose to assist you in your process by providing a safe, collaborative space, free of bias and judgement.
(253) 289-7482 View (253) 289-7482
Photo of Lauren Spencer, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
I specialize in rebuilding self esteem, improving anxiety levels, and providing relief from OCD.
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
I specialize in rebuilding self esteem, improving anxiety levels, and providing relief from OCD.
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
(253) 352-2697 View (253) 352-2697
Photo of Emerson Hardebeck, PsyD, Psychologist
Emerson Hardebeck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106
For OCD and anxiety: I have specialized training in exposure and response prevention (ERP), widely understood to be the most effective treatment for OCD.
Is OCD/anxiety getting in the way of the life and relationships you want? As a psychologist specializing in both anxiety treatment and couples work, I help people overcome their fears to build rich, connected lives. I have expertise in modern cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) - but I work organically, using powerful behavioral concepts in an alive, compassionate way. We will try to radically open up your life, so worries and compulsions aren't distracting you from who and what is truly important. This work will be guided by up-to-date scientific evidence, but it will be a collaborative and human process, not a mechanical one.
For OCD and anxiety: I have specialized training in exposure and response prevention (ERP), widely understood to be the most effective treatment for OCD.
Is OCD/anxiety getting in the way of the life and relationships you want? As a psychologist specializing in both anxiety treatment and couples work, I help people overcome their fears to build rich, connected lives. I have expertise in modern cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) - but I work organically, using powerful behavioral concepts in an alive, compassionate way. We will try to radically open up your life, so worries and compulsions aren't distracting you from who and what is truly important. This work will be guided by up-to-date scientific evidence, but it will be a collaborative and human process, not a mechanical one.
(206) 208-9596 View (206) 208-9596
Photo of Mary Torres - Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normandy Park, WA 98148  (Online Only)
We specialize working in the " Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum".
Fastest way to our wait list is the request for service on our website. Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts and unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it.
We specialize working in the " Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum".
Fastest way to our wait list is the request for service on our website. Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts and unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it.
(206) 535-1464 View (206) 535-1464
Photo of Megan Putnam, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Megan Putnam
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
Hello! I am a licensed therapist working in the Yakima Valley. I have experience treating anxiety/stress, relationship concerns, PTSD, and OCD, among others. I am an lgbtqia+ affirming therapist. I believe you are the expert of your own life. A session with me typically looks like a warm, safe environment where you feel able to voice your concerns and validated.
Hello! I am a licensed therapist working in the Yakima Valley. I have experience treating anxiety/stress, relationship concerns, PTSD, and OCD, among others. I am an lgbtqia+ affirming therapist. I believe you are the expert of your own life. A session with me typically looks like a warm, safe environment where you feel able to voice your concerns and validated.
(509) 233-4307 View (509) 233-4307
Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Immediate openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
My areas of treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Immediate openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
(206) 210-1385 View (206) 210-1385
Photo of Shamus Chierotti, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shamus Chierotti
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Addressing such issues as flourishing in Gender Transition, Self-Defining Masculinity, Communicating as a couple/family, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, OCD, Anxiety, and Depression.
Do you feel stuck? Have questions about yourself? Do you struggle with gender dysphoria? Find yourself obsessing about repeated thoughts? Feel that you are a burden? You are not alone in any of these thoughts, and you do not need to face them alone. These are questions I have had the honor of addressing in therapy with many of my clients. If these or any other concerns resonate with you, I would be happy to help you address them. Wether that ultimately means us working together or helping you find services that will best support you and your needs.
Addressing such issues as flourishing in Gender Transition, Self-Defining Masculinity, Communicating as a couple/family, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, OCD, Anxiety, and Depression.
Do you feel stuck? Have questions about yourself? Do you struggle with gender dysphoria? Find yourself obsessing about repeated thoughts? Feel that you are a burden? You are not alone in any of these thoughts, and you do not need to face them alone. These are questions I have had the honor of addressing in therapy with many of my clients. If these or any other concerns resonate with you, I would be happy to help you address them. Wether that ultimately means us working together or helping you find services that will best support you and your needs.
(253) 785-6399 View (253) 785-6399
Photo of Conor Troy Geraghty, LMHCA, Counselor
Conor Troy Geraghty
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
As a therapist in training, I have experience with trauma, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, codependency, and addiction.
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed, trying your best to stay afloat but nothing seems to work? You might struggle to connect with others, wearing a mask to hide your struggles. You may fear failure, striving for perfection, and feeling haunted by past pain. Avoiding reminders of past hurt might lead you to withdraw from what you value most. You might feel the need to control everything, causing resentment and strained relationships. Anxiety about the future distracts you from what matters most. You might feel broken or in need of fixing, but you are not. Your trauma and past pain are preventing you from experiencing life's beauty.
As a therapist in training, I have experience with trauma, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, codependency, and addiction.
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed, trying your best to stay afloat but nothing seems to work? You might struggle to connect with others, wearing a mask to hide your struggles. You may fear failure, striving for perfection, and feeling haunted by past pain. Avoiding reminders of past hurt might lead you to withdraw from what you value most. You might feel the need to control everything, causing resentment and strained relationships. Anxiety about the future distracts you from what matters most. You might feel broken or in need of fixing, but you are not. Your trauma and past pain are preventing you from experiencing life's beauty.
(253) 683-8289 View (253) 683-8289
Photo of Mar Galizio, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mar Galizio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, in which I have extensive training by DBT Linehan Board-Certified clinicians, as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle to be connected to your life? You're not alone. Together we can work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Being emotionally sensitive myself, I understand the difficulties many of us face when we feel things deeply. My mission as your therapist will be to support you in cherishing this aspect of yourself, while we work on any negative impacts it might have on your life. My specialty is working with adults and older teens with difficulty regulating emotion, as well as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
I provide Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, in which I have extensive training by DBT Linehan Board-Certified clinicians, as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
Do you feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle to be connected to your life? You're not alone. Together we can work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Being emotionally sensitive myself, I understand the difficulties many of us face when we feel things deeply. My mission as your therapist will be to support you in cherishing this aspect of yourself, while we work on any negative impacts it might have on your life. My specialty is working with adults and older teens with difficulty regulating emotion, as well as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
(440) 597-2381 View (440) 597-2381
Photo of Elizeth J. Chavez, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizeth J. Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(830) 541-7902 View (830) 541-7902
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.