Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Alyse Eldred, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alyse Eldred, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I specialize in OCD, Anxiety & related disorders.
Finding a therapist for your specific goal is just as important as finding one you can connect with. I believe that a therapist that just listens isn't enough. I am an interactive therapist that listens to and collaborates with you. I provide guidance to help you understand the underlying issues that are negatively affecting your life and contributing to your problems. It is my goal to create a genuine and positive experience so you can develop the skills necessary to succeed, be happy and thrive. If you are not in CA and are searching for an OCD specialist, reach out to me about coaching to discuss if this would be a good fit.
I specialize in OCD, Anxiety & related disorders.
Finding a therapist for your specific goal is just as important as finding one you can connect with. I believe that a therapist that just listens isn't enough. I am an interactive therapist that listens to and collaborates with you. I provide guidance to help you understand the underlying issues that are negatively affecting your life and contributing to your problems. It is my goal to create a genuine and positive experience so you can develop the skills necessary to succeed, be happy and thrive. If you are not in CA and are searching for an OCD specialist, reach out to me about coaching to discuss if this would be a good fit.
(562) 280-2881 View (562) 280-2881
Photo of Katy Manetta, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Katy Manetta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in adults and teens.
I believe that with every new day, there is hope for change. Life brings us so many stressful situations. When you feel it is hard for you to bear the burden alone, I am here to help. I love being a therapist. From our first meeting, you will be able to feel the enthusiasm I have for this work. And within a few sessions, you will likely begin to feel something you may not have felt in a long time...hope.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in adults and teens.
I believe that with every new day, there is hope for change. Life brings us so many stressful situations. When you feel it is hard for you to bear the burden alone, I am here to help. I love being a therapist. From our first meeting, you will be able to feel the enthusiasm I have for this work. And within a few sessions, you will likely begin to feel something you may not have felt in a long time...hope.
(562) 799-6700 View (562) 799-6700
Photo of Robert Yeilding, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Robert Yeilding
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
With over 13 years of training and experience in CBT focused on helping people with anxiety - whether it manifests as social anxiety, sleep-related anxiety, panic, or OCD, my approach can help even if past talk therapy has been unproductive for you.
Can you picture a life where anxiety doesn't dictate your decisions or cloud your potential? If you find yourself yearning for a feeling of calm even in the midst of uncertainty in life, I am here to help. Let us work together to first understand YOU as an individual, and develop a plan that can offer you the skills and structure needed to make real progress. I specialize in applying Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people just like you overcome the negative impact anxiety has on your relationships, work or school life, and ability to rest and sleep soundly. Keep reading to learn how to book a free call and get help now.
With over 13 years of training and experience in CBT focused on helping people with anxiety - whether it manifests as social anxiety, sleep-related anxiety, panic, or OCD, my approach can help even if past talk therapy has been unproductive for you.
Can you picture a life where anxiety doesn't dictate your decisions or cloud your potential? If you find yourself yearning for a feeling of calm even in the midst of uncertainty in life, I am here to help. Let us work together to first understand YOU as an individual, and develop a plan that can offer you the skills and structure needed to make real progress. I specialize in applying Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people just like you overcome the negative impact anxiety has on your relationships, work or school life, and ability to rest and sleep soundly. Keep reading to learn how to book a free call and get help now.
(949) 528-4784 View (949) 528-4784
Photo of Shauna Pilloff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Shauna Pilloff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Living a life ruled by anxiety, OCD, trauma or stress can make every day feel like running in mud.
You, your teen or child is struggling with distressing thoughts, which create anxiety. There are strong urges to do something to get immediate relief, whether it be avoidance, a ritual, or a physical or mental action. You or your child feel better in the moment, but it’s only temporary relief. This OCD or anxiety cycle quickly returns and becomes a vicious cycle day after day and they are mentally and physically exhausted. It leaves this uncomfortable feeling of distress. OCD, anxiety and trauma take up up time, energy and space in their mind which makes it difficult to live in the present moment. You crave long-term relief.
Living a life ruled by anxiety, OCD, trauma or stress can make every day feel like running in mud.
You, your teen or child is struggling with distressing thoughts, which create anxiety. There are strong urges to do something to get immediate relief, whether it be avoidance, a ritual, or a physical or mental action. You or your child feel better in the moment, but it’s only temporary relief. This OCD or anxiety cycle quickly returns and becomes a vicious cycle day after day and they are mentally and physically exhausted. It leaves this uncomfortable feeling of distress. OCD, anxiety and trauma take up up time, energy and space in their mind which makes it difficult to live in the present moment. You crave long-term relief.
(562) 285-7153 View (562) 285-7153
Photo of Grow and Glow Child Therapy LA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Grow and Glow Child Therapy LA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Is your child or teen struggling with low self esteem, social anxiety, OCD? If so, you have come to the right therapist; I specialize in the issues listed above. I am a compassionate, enthusiastic, and skilled therapist who has both passion and years of experience working with children and teens. (ages 5-18). I believe that children need to learn the skills and tools to love, accept and trust themselves. This will provide them with a strong sense of self, and the mindset that they can achieve and be anything. Grow and Glow is the mantra I strive to emphasize for my clients.
Is your child or teen struggling with low self esteem, social anxiety, OCD? If so, you have come to the right therapist; I specialize in the issues listed above. I am a compassionate, enthusiastic, and skilled therapist who has both passion and years of experience working with children and teens. (ages 5-18). I believe that children need to learn the skills and tools to love, accept and trust themselves. This will provide them with a strong sense of self, and the mindset that they can achieve and be anything. Grow and Glow is the mantra I strive to emphasize for my clients.
(310) 455-8246 View (310) 455-8246
Photo of Valerie Macy-Hurley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Valerie Macy-Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
For as long as I can remember, I have felt called to serve others through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (including anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders & ADHD), I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience supporting those with acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement & trauma (I am trauma-informed-care educated). Additionally, my experience serving diverse populations has fueled my passion for helping others navigate social, medical and educational inequities.
(562) 684-6036 View (562) 684-6036
Photo of Ben Schwartzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ben Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
It is often not easy to seek support, however you're already showing a tremendous amount of courage by considering therapy. I am a certified CBT therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, OCD, difficulty with emotions, and life transitional issues. I believe individuals have unique needs, and I bring both my experience and collaborative skills into treatment. I am dedicated to, and extremely passionate about assisting people to develop more meaning, success, and pleasure in their life. By working collaboratively we can recognize challenges, identify treatment goals, and develop skills to improve the quality of your life.
It is often not easy to seek support, however you're already showing a tremendous amount of courage by considering therapy. I am a certified CBT therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, OCD, difficulty with emotions, and life transitional issues. I believe individuals have unique needs, and I bring both my experience and collaborative skills into treatment. I am dedicated to, and extremely passionate about assisting people to develop more meaning, success, and pleasure in their life. By working collaboratively we can recognize challenges, identify treatment goals, and develop skills to improve the quality of your life.
(310) 943-0649 View (310) 943-0649
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
(323) 508-2096 View (323) 508-2096
Photo of Jamie Lesser, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Jamie Lesser
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I have experience treating a wide-range of disorders, including: OCD and related disorders, panic attacks and agoraphobia, specific phobias, health-related anxiety, generalized anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I have experience treating a wide-range of disorders, including: OCD and related disorders, panic attacks and agoraphobia, specific phobias, health-related anxiety, generalized anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(657) 216-6992 View (657) 216-6992
Photo of Noel Ochoa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Noel Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
The focus of my service has been to youth and their families. I’m looking to provide support to adolescents (6th grade) up to young adults with challenges of anxiety, depression, OCD, neurodivergent and life transitions. The world has been a challenging place and the last 3 years have really impacted that, I hear it all the time. Know that you are not alone.
The focus of my service has been to youth and their families. I’m looking to provide support to adolescents (6th grade) up to young adults with challenges of anxiety, depression, OCD, neurodivergent and life transitions. The world has been a challenging place and the last 3 years have really impacted that, I hear it all the time. Know that you are not alone.
(562) 662-7291 View (562) 662-7291
Photo of Danielle McDowell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Danielle McDowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
​With over 18 years experience working with families and as a graduate of The University of Denver specializing in Family Therapy, I am currently specializing in OCD and related anxiety disorders as well as trauma work. Areas of specialty OCD & Related Conditions Postpartum OCD Relationship OCD Sexual Orientation OCD Harm OCD Other Taboo OCD Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Situational Anxiety) Trichotillomania/Dermatillomania​ Panic Disorder PTSD
​With over 18 years experience working with families and as a graduate of The University of Denver specializing in Family Therapy, I am currently specializing in OCD and related anxiety disorders as well as trauma work. Areas of specialty OCD & Related Conditions Postpartum OCD Relationship OCD Sexual Orientation OCD Harm OCD Other Taboo OCD Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Situational Anxiety) Trichotillomania/Dermatillomania​ Panic Disorder PTSD
(657) 366-4789 View (657) 366-4789
Photo of Jason von Stietz, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Jason von Stietz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90755  (Online Only)
Are you tired of anxiety and old habits preventing you from achieving your goals? Have you been dealing with life's problems by trying harder, venting to friends and family, and avoiding stressful situations, and things never seem to get better? Are you ready for change? I’ll work collaboratively with you to tailor time-tested and evidence-based approaches to meet your specific needs. I am a cognitive behavior therapist and I specialize in the treatment of people with OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and Sport/Performance related issues. We'll work together to overcome whatever is holding you back and open up your life in meaningful ways.
Are you tired of anxiety and old habits preventing you from achieving your goals? Have you been dealing with life's problems by trying harder, venting to friends and family, and avoiding stressful situations, and things never seem to get better? Are you ready for change? I’ll work collaboratively with you to tailor time-tested and evidence-based approaches to meet your specific needs. I am a cognitive behavior therapist and I specialize in the treatment of people with OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and Sport/Performance related issues. We'll work together to overcome whatever is holding you back and open up your life in meaningful ways.
(424) 228-9724 View (424) 228-9724
Photo of Jaime Dunham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Jaime Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
My name is Jaime and I'm an LMFT that specializes in working with anxiety disorders, parenting challenges, grief and loss, perinatal and postpartum concerns, and general child concerns. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we aim to explore and work towards your goals, deepen your self understanding, and improve your confidence. Some of my training includes Child Parent Psychotherapy, Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, ERP for OCD, training through the Selective Mutism Institute, Reflective Parenting, Level 1 and 2 training through Postpartum Support International, and level 1 Gottman training.
My name is Jaime and I'm an LMFT that specializes in working with anxiety disorders, parenting challenges, grief and loss, perinatal and postpartum concerns, and general child concerns. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where we aim to explore and work towards your goals, deepen your self understanding, and improve your confidence. Some of my training includes Child Parent Psychotherapy, Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, ERP for OCD, training through the Selective Mutism Institute, Reflective Parenting, Level 1 and 2 training through Postpartum Support International, and level 1 Gottman training.
(562) 222-0258 View (562) 222-0258
Photo of Melissa Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Melissa Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
(657) 250-7952 View (657) 250-7952
Photo of Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry in Long Beach, CA
Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
CA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
If you are suffering from medication resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult going through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
If you are suffering from medication resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD, a combination of talk therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. For many people, antidepressants do not fully relieve the symptoms or cause too many side effects, and it can become very difficult going through multiple medications that do not seem to work. After failed medication attempts, you are eligible to be treated with TMS and therapy together. Call our Specialists to learn more about your options.
(657) 888-0108 View (657) 888-0108
Photo of Tatiana Itskowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Tatiana Itskowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
My background is in working with substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, and OCD.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
My background is in working with substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, and OCD.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
(562) 620-8577 View (562) 620-8577
Photo of Nancy Cano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Nancy Cano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
Mrs. Nancy Cano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats children, adolescents, adults and their families. Nancy has diagnosed and treated a wide range of mental health disorders including major depression, generalized anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. She is nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP). Although Nancy is skilled in treating patients of all ages, she was recruited to Belmont Psych for her specialization and expertise in working with children and adolescents.
Mrs. Nancy Cano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats children, adolescents, adults and their families. Nancy has diagnosed and treated a wide range of mental health disorders including major depression, generalized anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. She is nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP). Although Nancy is skilled in treating patients of all ages, she was recruited to Belmont Psych for her specialization and expertise in working with children and adolescents.
(562) 554-4051 x4 View (562) 554-4051 x4
Photo of S & S Psychological Consultants, Pre-Licensed Professional in Long Beach, CA
S & S Psychological Consultants
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents with a range of different learning difficulties such as attention challenges (ADD/ ADHD), behavior concerns (ODD), compulsive behavior (OCD), and Autism.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to my clients. For therapy to be effective it is important to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. As a participant in the treatment process we work together to develop treatment goals that fit your unique needs.
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents with a range of different learning difficulties such as attention challenges (ADD/ ADHD), behavior concerns (ODD), compulsive behavior (OCD), and Autism.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to my clients. For therapy to be effective it is important to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. As a participant in the treatment process we work together to develop treatment goals that fit your unique needs.
(562) 321-9946 View (562) 321-9946
Photo of Nicole Abadi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Nicole Abadi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
Like most therapists, I treat many types of individuals for various mental health issues but I specialize in anxiety (including OCD and phobias), couples counseling, and children/teens.
Live your best life because you only get one! Constantly worrying about everything, always asking yourself "what if," unsure about decisions you've already made/will make... let's get rid of this anxiety! If anxiety, self-worth, and/or unresolved issues get in the way of you living a happy, meaningful life, reach out to me today to take back control. I provide a collaborative approach in therapy, giving "homework" to all of my clients, working to get them out of therapy, not keep them in it! I'm so proud & so grateful to be both the most reviewed AND best ranked therapist of Long Beach 3 years in a row!
Like most therapists, I treat many types of individuals for various mental health issues but I specialize in anxiety (including OCD and phobias), couples counseling, and children/teens.
Live your best life because you only get one! Constantly worrying about everything, always asking yourself "what if," unsure about decisions you've already made/will make... let's get rid of this anxiety! If anxiety, self-worth, and/or unresolved issues get in the way of you living a happy, meaningful life, reach out to me today to take back control. I provide a collaborative approach in therapy, giving "homework" to all of my clients, working to get them out of therapy, not keep them in it! I'm so proud & so grateful to be both the most reviewed AND best ranked therapist of Long Beach 3 years in a row!
(818) 477-3641 View (818) 477-3641
Photo of Era Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Era Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90840  (Online Only)
Do you experience difficulty with managing depression, anxiety, or OCD? Are you suffering due to past trauma, or due to negative self-talk. In therapy, you can learn to cope with stressors and life transitions more effectively. Therapy can help you to manage worry, experience less anger, increase motivation, and feel more centered. Many people who struggle with sadness, stress, relationship conflicts, trauma, worry, or low self-esteem find it difficult to function at work, in their family environment, and in other social settings.
Do you experience difficulty with managing depression, anxiety, or OCD? Are you suffering due to past trauma, or due to negative self-talk. In therapy, you can learn to cope with stressors and life transitions more effectively. Therapy can help you to manage worry, experience less anger, increase motivation, and feel more centered. Many people who struggle with sadness, stress, relationship conflicts, trauma, worry, or low self-esteem find it difficult to function at work, in their family environment, and in other social settings.
(323) 313-0479 View (323) 313-0479
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.