Photo of Joel Mayer, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Joel Mayer
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, BA, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Specializing in anxiety and OCD symptoms! Do you feel stuck in your anxiety? Are intrusive thoughts or memories disturbing you? Maybe you've tried many ways to cope but you haven't found anything that feels very effective in the long-term. Perhaps your anxiety is also affecting your ability to be present and to function in the ways that you would like to in your relationships, work, or school life. If this is the case, do these issues then lead you to experiencing feelings of shame, wondering if there is something wrong with you, or questioning if things will ever get better?
Specializing in anxiety and OCD symptoms! Do you feel stuck in your anxiety? Are intrusive thoughts or memories disturbing you? Maybe you've tried many ways to cope but you haven't found anything that feels very effective in the long-term. Perhaps your anxiety is also affecting your ability to be present and to function in the ways that you would like to in your relationships, work, or school life. If this is the case, do these issues then lead you to experiencing feelings of shame, wondering if there is something wrong with you, or questioning if things will ever get better?
(647) 363-6791 View (647) 363-6791
Photo of Megan LaBreche, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Megan LaBreche
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K4A  (Online Only)
There are underlying causes, and often appear with co-occurring issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive/compulsive behaviours, grief, low self-esteem/body image, perfectionism, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
Eating disorders and exercise disorders have devastating effects on the individual suffering and those close to them. As a registered psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of eating and exercise disorders and co-occurring issues, I work collaboratively with clients to meet their own individual therapeutic needs as they bravely journey into full recovery. While I specialize in treating eating disorders, approximately half of my clients come to me with different concerns. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues.
There are underlying causes, and often appear with co-occurring issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive/compulsive behaviours, grief, low self-esteem/body image, perfectionism, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
Eating disorders and exercise disorders have devastating effects on the individual suffering and those close to them. As a registered psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of eating and exercise disorders and co-occurring issues, I work collaboratively with clients to meet their own individual therapeutic needs as they bravely journey into full recovery. While I specialize in treating eating disorders, approximately half of my clients come to me with different concerns. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues.
(289) 302-6953 View (289) 302-6953
Photo of Thrive Cognitive Therapy (Dr. Thomas Newman), Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Thrive Cognitive Therapy (Dr. Thomas Newman)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G
Treatment concerns include: OCD, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, GAD, Depression, Anger Management, Stress, Low Self Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Performance Issues etc.
Life doesn’t have to be filled with anxiety and depression. Life is good! There is hope and we know it. The priority of Thrive is that you will leave therapy feeling motivated and empowered to pursue a life filled with meaning and growth. Dr. Newman is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adolescents and adults achieve positive mental health and growth in all domains of life. At Thrive, you will experience an accepting environment that fosters lasting and impactful changes. Dr. Newman is dedicated to pursuing excellence in providing the most up-to-date, evidenced based therapies in a way that is straightforward and real.
Treatment concerns include: OCD, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, GAD, Depression, Anger Management, Stress, Low Self Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Performance Issues etc.
Life doesn’t have to be filled with anxiety and depression. Life is good! There is hope and we know it. The priority of Thrive is that you will leave therapy feeling motivated and empowered to pursue a life filled with meaning and growth. Dr. Newman is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adolescents and adults achieve positive mental health and growth in all domains of life. At Thrive, you will experience an accepting environment that fosters lasting and impactful changes. Dr. Newman is dedicated to pursuing excellence in providing the most up-to-date, evidenced based therapies in a way that is straightforward and real.
(613) 482-0369 View (613) 482-0369
Photo of Jill Hernandez, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jill Hernandez
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
Hello! Here's a little about me: I have been a masters level registered social worker since 2013 and have been in clinical counselling / psychotherapy roles for 13 years. I specialize in working with youth and younger adults (under 40) and their families with a myriad of challenges including addictions (substance use and behavioural) and mental health (anxiety, depression, adjustment, stress, difficulty coping, eating disorders, trauma, OCD and more) and parenting coaching / support. I also provide clinical case consultation and supervision to other therapists and agencies. Proudly serving Embrun, Russell, Casselman & Navan area.
Hello! Here's a little about me: I have been a masters level registered social worker since 2013 and have been in clinical counselling / psychotherapy roles for 13 years. I specialize in working with youth and younger adults (under 40) and their families with a myriad of challenges including addictions (substance use and behavioural) and mental health (anxiety, depression, adjustment, stress, difficulty coping, eating disorders, trauma, OCD and more) and parenting coaching / support. I also provide clinical case consultation and supervision to other therapists and agencies. Proudly serving Embrun, Russell, Casselman & Navan area.
(613) 902-6711 View (613) 902-6711
Photo of Eliane Nevares, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Eliane Nevares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of populations including those suffering from eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, and the impacts of trauma. Additionally, I can support you as you navigate inter-personal relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and the hurdles that might accompany these challenges. With formal training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I bring a variety of approaches to my work.
I work with a variety of populations including those suffering from eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, and the impacts of trauma. Additionally, I can support you as you navigate inter-personal relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and the hurdles that might accompany these challenges. With formal training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I bring a variety of approaches to my work.
(902) 201-3172 View (902) 201-3172
Photo of Arktos Wellness Services Canada, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Arktos Wellness Services Canada
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
As Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health support. We offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression or navigating life's transitions, our goal is to empower you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. We will work collaboratively to identify your strengths, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience so you can live a more fulfilling and balanced life.
As Registered Social Workers and Registered Clinical Counsellors, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health support. We offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or depression or navigating life's transitions, our goal is to empower you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. We will work collaboratively to identify your strengths, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience so you can live a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(249) 490-5992 View (249) 490-5992
Photo of Ivanova Psychology & Associates, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Ivanova Psychology & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R
If you are struggling to feel like yourself or find that old patterns get in the way of you living life to the fullest, then let us help you find a way to overcome these barriers. At Ivanova Psychology & Associates, we help individuals break (generational) cycles of trauma and uncover their full potential.
If you are struggling to feel like yourself or find that old patterns get in the way of you living life to the fullest, then let us help you find a way to overcome these barriers. At Ivanova Psychology & Associates, we help individuals break (generational) cycles of trauma and uncover their full potential.
(343) 304-5646 View (343) 304-5646
Photo of Sarah Philbrick-Djerfi @ Psychotherapy for You in Ottawa, ON
Sarah Philbrick-Djerfi @ Psychotherapy for You
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over seven years experience providing support to individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I have experienced a number of challenging situations and events in my own life that have helped to shape me into an empathic and caring professional. I understand that trauma can be experienced in many different ways and am committed to providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental space to support you
I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over seven years experience providing support to individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I have experienced a number of challenging situations and events in my own life that have helped to shape me into an empathic and caring professional. I understand that trauma can be experienced in many different ways and am committed to providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental space to support you
(249) 496-1934 View (249) 496-1934
Photo of Dr. Cathy Kerzner, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Cathy Kerzner
Psychologist, CPsych, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years. In addition to working in private practice, I have experience in hospital psychology and psychiatry departments as well as in specialized eating disorder, stress management, and perinatal programs. I have trained with leading world experts in sport and performance psychology and have incorporated this work into my practice since 2010.
I have been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years. In addition to working in private practice, I have experience in hospital psychology and psychiatry departments as well as in specialized eating disorder, stress management, and perinatal programs. I have trained with leading world experts in sport and performance psychology and have incorporated this work into my practice since 2010.
(613) 316-6900 View (613) 316-6900
Photo of Christine Keown, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Christine Keown
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
(365) 607-9289 View (365) 607-9289
Photo of Jenny Stark, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Jenny Stark
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at CMAP Health. I have professional experience working in multiple developmental and behavioural sciences settings that have provided expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Social Anxiety Disorder. I also have a background in sports and athletics, which has driven a special interest in helping those with sports and exercise-related difficulties, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I aim to use this background to help all clients reach their highest potential in their personal goals.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at CMAP Health. I have professional experience working in multiple developmental and behavioural sciences settings that have provided expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Social Anxiety Disorder. I also have a background in sports and athletics, which has driven a special interest in helping those with sports and exercise-related difficulties, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I aim to use this background to help all clients reach their highest potential in their personal goals.
(343) 301-5142 View (343) 301-5142
Photo of Lorena Ruci, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Lorena Ruci
Psychologist, MA, CPsyc, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
I am a Psychologist, at the Sports Medicine Clinic, Carleton University. I specialize in Post Concussion Mental Health, Sport Psychology, ADHD Assessment, Anxiety & Depression and Parkinson's Mental Health. I work with high performance athletes at the Canadian Center for Mental Health and Sport (CCMHS), and I'm a professor at Carleton and the University of Ottawa. Memberships: College of Psychologists of Ontario (7342) and the College of Alberta Psychologists (6988).
I am a Psychologist, at the Sports Medicine Clinic, Carleton University. I specialize in Post Concussion Mental Health, Sport Psychology, ADHD Assessment, Anxiety & Depression and Parkinson's Mental Health. I work with high performance athletes at the Canadian Center for Mental Health and Sport (CCMHS), and I'm a professor at Carleton and the University of Ottawa. Memberships: College of Psychologists of Ontario (7342) and the College of Alberta Psychologists (6988).
(613) 520-3510 View (613) 520-3510
Photo of Amelia Dowell, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Amelia Dowell
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Are your negative self-talk and patterns holding you back? Perhaps causing you to overthink, feel overwhelmed, stressed, burnt out, anxious or depressed? Are you looking for tools and mental skills to improve your quality of life and overall well-being? I am a bilingual registered psychotherapist with extensive experience working with adolescents and adults across various mental health settings. I help clients to develop the tools and mental skills to identify and change their thought patterns, in order to improve their quality of life while increasing their self-worth and confidence.
Are your negative self-talk and patterns holding you back? Perhaps causing you to overthink, feel overwhelmed, stressed, burnt out, anxious or depressed? Are you looking for tools and mental skills to improve your quality of life and overall well-being? I am a bilingual registered psychotherapist with extensive experience working with adolescents and adults across various mental health settings. I help clients to develop the tools and mental skills to identify and change their thought patterns, in order to improve their quality of life while increasing their self-worth and confidence.
(343) 307-5773 View (343) 307-5773
Photo of Eric J. Bouwman, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Eric J. Bouwman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, social challenges, anger management, emotional regulation difficulties? You’re not alone; in fact, many others struggle with these challenges. I am a registered psychotherapist (Q) in Ottawa, ON with experience in providing therapy for a variety of mental health issues. I do not claim to have all the answers, no one does. What I do provide is a multi-faceted approach to counselling and an eagerness to see all clients whom I meet with feel more equipped to face life's challenges all the while seeking to assist in improving quality of life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, social challenges, anger management, emotional regulation difficulties? You’re not alone; in fact, many others struggle with these challenges. I am a registered psychotherapist (Q) in Ottawa, ON with experience in providing therapy for a variety of mental health issues. I do not claim to have all the answers, no one does. What I do provide is a multi-faceted approach to counselling and an eagerness to see all clients whom I meet with feel more equipped to face life's challenges all the while seeking to assist in improving quality of life.
View
Photo of Michelle Sorensen, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Michelle Sorensen
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
Are you looking to make change in your life? I use cognitive behavioural therapy, which is based on years of research and empirical evidence, to help people get to the roots of their problems and make lasting change. For some clients, I integrate mindfulness training into my approach. This involves developing self-compassion, accepting what we cannot control and living in the present moment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, and take a very active role in guiding my clients.
Are you looking to make change in your life? I use cognitive behavioural therapy, which is based on years of research and empirical evidence, to help people get to the roots of their problems and make lasting change. For some clients, I integrate mindfulness training into my approach. This involves developing self-compassion, accepting what we cannot control and living in the present moment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, and take a very active role in guiding my clients.
(343) 306-0364 View (343) 306-0364
Photo of Abigail Whitney, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Abigail Whitney
Registered Psychotherapist, MA:I, MA:Coun, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
You are struggling with feelings of stress, overwhelmedness, and stuck-ness that might be new—or you’ve had them as long as you can remember. You might be feeling low, unmotivated, and having a hard time getting back to your ‘usual self'. Your life, career, or relationships just aren't going the way you'd like them to, and you want to create more helpful patterns and experiences. These and other issues (grief, parenting and pregnancy/postpartum) are all things people I see are experiencing and wanting to change. I am fluent in ASL and understand the unique issues clients who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing face.
You are struggling with feelings of stress, overwhelmedness, and stuck-ness that might be new—or you’ve had them as long as you can remember. You might be feeling low, unmotivated, and having a hard time getting back to your ‘usual self'. Your life, career, or relationships just aren't going the way you'd like them to, and you want to create more helpful patterns and experiences. These and other issues (grief, parenting and pregnancy/postpartum) are all things people I see are experiencing and wanting to change. I am fluent in ASL and understand the unique issues clients who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing face.
(613) 707-5065 View (613) 707-5065
Photo of Emily Segal, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Emily Segal
Psychologist, PhD , CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Waitlist for new clients
All people share a common desire to be seen, understood, cherished, and respected. My hope is to provide this caring context in order to help people who are ready to transform their lives and take control of their mental health.
All people share a common desire to be seen, understood, cherished, and respected. My hope is to provide this caring context in order to help people who are ready to transform their lives and take control of their mental health.
(343) 307-6193 View (343) 307-6193
Photo of Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
(289) 272-9090 View (289) 272-9090
Photo of 2Beinflow Neurofeedback Services - Chris Peacock in Ottawa, ON
2Beinflow Neurofeedback Services - Chris Peacock
MHA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z
I am passionate about working with clients who are seeking to improve their sleep, energy, focus and attention and/or who would like to experience less reactivity, racing thoughts, or panic attacks. People who deal with anxiety, high stress levels, PTSD, are recovering from concussion, or children or adults who have ADHD, autism or learning disabilities are the clients I see the most. Following a series of sessions, it is very rewarding to see the frequency, intensity or duration of symptoms subside and clients more able to access and use tools such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga in order to manage day to day stresses.
I am passionate about working with clients who are seeking to improve their sleep, energy, focus and attention and/or who would like to experience less reactivity, racing thoughts, or panic attacks. People who deal with anxiety, high stress levels, PTSD, are recovering from concussion, or children or adults who have ADHD, autism or learning disabilities are the clients I see the most. Following a series of sessions, it is very rewarding to see the frequency, intensity or duration of symptoms subside and clients more able to access and use tools such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga in order to manage day to day stresses.
(613) 701-9681 View (613) 701-9681
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Sogge C.Psych., Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Kimberly Sogge C.Psych.
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I am a therapist for other therapists, a healer for wounded physicians. Our clients are high performers who struggle with the downside of over control, perfectionism, and anxiety. Many clients complete their therapy less controlled by their conditioned habits, fears, traumas, and aversive motivations. It gives me joy to see clients leave their time with us with all parts more aligned with Self, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Connectedness, Creativity, Courage, Confidence.
I am a therapist for other therapists, a healer for wounded physicians. Our clients are high performers who struggle with the downside of over control, perfectionism, and anxiety. Many clients complete their therapy less controlled by their conditioned habits, fears, traumas, and aversive motivations. It gives me joy to see clients leave their time with us with all parts more aligned with Self, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Connectedness, Creativity, Courage, Confidence.
(613) 801-8345 View (613) 801-8345

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Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

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, fluoxetine, and sertraline, 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.