Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Tampa, FL

Photo of Lori Aitken, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Lori Aitken
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33607
I've specialized in treating anxiety disorders for over 25 years. With experience, I've discovered what works to help my clients overcome panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety, health anxiety, social anxiety and more. In addition to practical experience, I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and am a graduate of the International OCD Foundation's Behavioral Therapy Training Institue (BTTI). I currently serve on the Board of Directors of OCD Central and South Florida (an IOCDF affiliate).
I've specialized in treating anxiety disorders for over 25 years. With experience, I've discovered what works to help my clients overcome panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety, health anxiety, social anxiety and more. In addition to practical experience, I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and am a graduate of the International OCD Foundation's Behavioral Therapy Training Institue (BTTI). I currently serve on the Board of Directors of OCD Central and South Florida (an IOCDF affiliate).
(941) 241-1705 View (941) 241-1705
Photo of Jasmine Luther, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Tampa, FL
Jasmine Luther
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33613  (Online Only)
Did you know a sense of urgency, intrusive thoughts, "perfectionism" can be signs of an anxiety disorder? Most anxiety disorders come from the need to control, the need to know, or the inability to let go. I consistently work with young adults that are going through a number of life's changes while struggling to maintain adequate self-care routines and positive thinking. My speciality is with anxiety disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, social anxiety and phobias. If this sounds like a good fit for you, then let's work together to overcome anxiety and start living a more peaceful life.
Did you know a sense of urgency, intrusive thoughts, "perfectionism" can be signs of an anxiety disorder? Most anxiety disorders come from the need to control, the need to know, or the inability to let go. I consistently work with young adults that are going through a number of life's changes while struggling to maintain adequate self-care routines and positive thinking. My speciality is with anxiety disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, social anxiety and phobias. If this sounds like a good fit for you, then let's work together to overcome anxiety and start living a more peaceful life.
(813) 638-0480 View (813) 638-0480
Photo of Matt McCann, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Matt McCann
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
Matt McCann is a licensed mental health counselor at Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists. He specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. He has also worked with clients who have high functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Matt has worked with and studied under leading researchers in the field of OCD and anxiety disorders, including Dr. Eric Storch, at Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa, a higher level of care for severe cases of OCD and anxiety disorders.
Matt McCann is a licensed mental health counselor at Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists. He specializes in the treatment of individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. He has also worked with clients who have high functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Matt has worked with and studied under leading researchers in the field of OCD and anxiety disorders, including Dr. Eric Storch, at Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa, a higher level of care for severe cases of OCD and anxiety disorders.
(813) 812-4940 View (813) 812-4940
Photo of Natalie Noel, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Natalie Noel
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders (phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder), PTSD, depression, postpartum depression/anxiety and body focused repetitive behaviors (hair-pulling and skin-picking). My extensive training includes working in the intensive outpatient program and partial hospitalization program at Rogers Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin and Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa respectively. I was also the founding president of OCD Central and South Florida, an affiliate of the International OCD Foundation.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders (phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder), PTSD, depression, postpartum depression/anxiety and body focused repetitive behaviors (hair-pulling and skin-picking). My extensive training includes working in the intensive outpatient program and partial hospitalization program at Rogers Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin and Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa respectively. I was also the founding president of OCD Central and South Florida, an affiliate of the International OCD Foundation.
(813) 812-4940 View (813) 812-4940
Photo of Griffin Harrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tampa, FL
Griffin Harrow
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
I work with all forms of OCD, including but not limited to ROCD, POCD, Sensory Focused OCD, sexual obsessions, HOCD, rumination, and intrusive thoughts related to harm.
My practice is dedicated to helping individuals and families reclaim their lives from OCD, anxiety, panic, and related conditions, born out of my own journey of healing. My approach is built upon the most effective treatments in the field, alongside utmost compassion and respect. I utilize Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and create individualized treatment plans for individuals and families. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel supported and validated while taking the courageous steps of changing their lives.
I work with all forms of OCD, including but not limited to ROCD, POCD, Sensory Focused OCD, sexual obsessions, HOCD, rumination, and intrusive thoughts related to harm.
My practice is dedicated to helping individuals and families reclaim their lives from OCD, anxiety, panic, and related conditions, born out of my own journey of healing. My approach is built upon the most effective treatments in the field, alongside utmost compassion and respect. I utilize Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and create individualized treatment plans for individuals and families. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel supported and validated while taking the courageous steps of changing their lives.
(813) 733-6887 View (813) 733-6887
Photo of Tampa Bay Area Counseling, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Tampa Bay Area Counseling
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
(727) 758-3948 View (727) 758-3948
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Huffman, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Dr. Jonathan Huffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Hello! My name is Dr. Jonathan Huffman. I am a licensed psychologist, board certified behavior analyst, and a certified therapist in parent child interaction therapy. My main areas of training and clinical interests are in treating symptoms associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. In addition, to individual therapy, I also specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ASD, and specific learning disorders.
Hello! My name is Dr. Jonathan Huffman. I am a licensed psychologist, board certified behavior analyst, and a certified therapist in parent child interaction therapy. My main areas of training and clinical interests are in treating symptoms associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. In addition, to individual therapy, I also specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ASD, and specific learning disorders.
(813) 607-4392 View (813) 607-4392
Photo of Yanet Vanegas, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Yanet Vanegas
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33612  (Online Only)
Dr. Yanet Vanegas is a licensed psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and perinatal (prenatal and postpartum) women, and uses evidence-based practices to treat depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, ADHD, self-esteem concerns, social anxiety, autism, and social skills deficits. Dr. Vanegas also received extensive training and is a specialist in the treatment of eating disorders and OCD. She owns a private practice, A Secure Base Psychological Service, LLC, in Tampa, FL.
Dr. Yanet Vanegas is a licensed psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and perinatal (prenatal and postpartum) women, and uses evidence-based practices to treat depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, ADHD, self-esteem concerns, social anxiety, autism, and social skills deficits. Dr. Vanegas also received extensive training and is a specialist in the treatment of eating disorders and OCD. She owns a private practice, A Secure Base Psychological Service, LLC, in Tampa, FL.
(813) 535-5368 View (813) 535-5368
Photo of Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists is a clinic providing specialized treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders (phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder), body focused repetitive behaviors (skin-picking and hair pulling) PTSD, depression, trauma, and grief. All of our providers have received extensive training within their own specialties. All of our treatment approaches are evidenced based. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the center of all the treatment approaches we provide.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Specialists is a clinic providing specialized treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders (phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder), body focused repetitive behaviors (skin-picking and hair pulling) PTSD, depression, trauma, and grief. All of our providers have received extensive training within their own specialties. All of our treatment approaches are evidenced based. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the center of all the treatment approaches we provide.
(813) 812-4940 View (813) 812-4940
Photo of Kaleigh Ayers, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Kaleigh Ayers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33607  (Online Only)
Do you battle anxious thoughts or time consuming rituals daily? Do you find yourself engaging in avoidance behaviors or seeking reassurance from others? As a therapist, I am passionate about helping my clients on their journey to positive change and can assist you in overcoming panic attacks, anxiety, OCD, and/or phobias. Asking for help dealing with these issues can be scary. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles and explore healthier coping skills together.
Do you battle anxious thoughts or time consuming rituals daily? Do you find yourself engaging in avoidance behaviors or seeking reassurance from others? As a therapist, I am passionate about helping my clients on their journey to positive change and can assist you in overcoming panic attacks, anxiety, OCD, and/or phobias. Asking for help dealing with these issues can be scary. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles and explore healthier coping skills together.
(813) 696-6347 View (813) 696-6347
Photo of Patricia Casañas, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Patricia Casañas
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33629
I am a firm believer that transformation happens in the midst of safe and supportive relationships. My hope is to give you this experience through our work together. I am intensely trained in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders, OCD, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors, trauma, and depression. If you struggle with behaviors relating to: food, being overly rigid, negative, intrusive, or racing thoughts, maladaptive perfectionism, grief, phobias, or lack social connections - I can help. I work with adolescents and adults. I will teach you the skills you need to regain your confidence in managing your life once more.
I am a firm believer that transformation happens in the midst of safe and supportive relationships. My hope is to give you this experience through our work together. I am intensely trained in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders, OCD, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors, trauma, and depression. If you struggle with behaviors relating to: food, being overly rigid, negative, intrusive, or racing thoughts, maladaptive perfectionism, grief, phobias, or lack social connections - I can help. I work with adolescents and adults. I will teach you the skills you need to regain your confidence in managing your life once more.
(727) 359-0089 View (727) 359-0089
Photo of Andrea C Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Andrea C Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33626
I've worked with individuals and couples who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, OCD, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationships/parenting, grief/bereavement, infertility, life-threatening illnesses and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional based in the Tampa, Florida area. Over the years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling, is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles.
I've worked with individuals and couples who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, OCD, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationships/parenting, grief/bereavement, infertility, life-threatening illnesses and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional based in the Tampa, Florida area. Over the years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling, is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles.
(813) 592-7709 View (813) 592-7709
Photo of Eric L Wilcox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Eric L Wilcox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety related disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and specific phobias by using a cognitive-behavioral approach, habit reversal treatment, and exposure response prevention.
I believe that true mastery of ourselves is within each and every one of us. Each person is unique and this means they have something to offer the world. Sometimes it is a matter of getting out of your own way to see just how unique you really are. I have many years of experience working with people with a wide range of challenges. We will collaboratively work to utilize your strengths and enhance your coping skills. I work with each individual in addressing their primary challenges by constructing an individual goal plan that is in accordance with conquering your biggest challenges and becoming the best version of yourself.
I specialize in working with anxiety related disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and specific phobias by using a cognitive-behavioral approach, habit reversal treatment, and exposure response prevention.
I believe that true mastery of ourselves is within each and every one of us. Each person is unique and this means they have something to offer the world. Sometimes it is a matter of getting out of your own way to see just how unique you really are. I have many years of experience working with people with a wide range of challenges. We will collaboratively work to utilize your strengths and enhance your coping skills. I work with each individual in addressing their primary challenges by constructing an individual goal plan that is in accordance with conquering your biggest challenges and becoming the best version of yourself.
(904) 299-4798 View (904) 299-4798
Photo of Caroline Faifman Perfectionism Therapy, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Caroline Faifman Perfectionism Therapy
Counselor, LMHC , MCAP, CAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
You may be a successful high achieving person, but struggling with feeling like it’s never good enough. Perfectionism seems like a virtue when you’re succeeding, but any difficulties can throw your sense of self-worth off. Even on good days it can feel like things aren’t “quite right”, and you’re not in control. These daily struggles can make you feel resentful, angry, and struggle in your relationships. I specialize in working with perfectionism, OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety.
You may be a successful high achieving person, but struggling with feeling like it’s never good enough. Perfectionism seems like a virtue when you’re succeeding, but any difficulties can throw your sense of self-worth off. Even on good days it can feel like things aren’t “quite right”, and you’re not in control. These daily struggles can make you feel resentful, angry, and struggle in your relationships. I specialize in working with perfectionism, OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety.
(727) 955-3666 View (727) 955-3666
Photo of Christina Ennabe, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Christina Ennabe
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33621  (Online Only)
I offer Inference Based CBT, Exposure Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy all evidence based treatments for OCD.
Currently accepting clients in NH, ME & FL. Anxiety, overthinking, and fear of making the "wrong" choices prevent you from moving forward with your goals. Self-doubt gets in the way of you having the health, the confidence, the career, the meaningful relationships, the freedom, and the true happiness that you want. But with the right guidance, you are capable of drastically changing your mindset, and ultimately your life. I provide online therapy and life coaching for the Type A high achiever who on the outside has it all together, but on the inside struggles with Anxiety, OCD, burnout, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and overwhelm.
I offer Inference Based CBT, Exposure Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy all evidence based treatments for OCD.
Currently accepting clients in NH, ME & FL. Anxiety, overthinking, and fear of making the "wrong" choices prevent you from moving forward with your goals. Self-doubt gets in the way of you having the health, the confidence, the career, the meaningful relationships, the freedom, and the true happiness that you want. But with the right guidance, you are capable of drastically changing your mindset, and ultimately your life. I provide online therapy and life coaching for the Type A high achiever who on the outside has it all together, but on the inside struggles with Anxiety, OCD, burnout, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and overwhelm.
(855) 695-3085 View (855) 695-3085
Photo of Kelly Mayor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Kelly Mayor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety such as panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, excessive checking or compulsions, and anxious thoughts that are interfering with your life, there is hope. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional through Evergreen Certifications. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These three treatments are highly effective for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, phobias/fears, agoraphobia, and panic disorder.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety such as panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, excessive checking or compulsions, and anxious thoughts that are interfering with your life, there is hope. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional through Evergreen Certifications. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These three treatments are highly effective for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, phobias/fears, agoraphobia, and panic disorder.
(850) 367-7453 View (850) 367-7453
Photo of Solana Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tampa, FL
Solana Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
I specialize in working with women struggling with OCD, trauma, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
I am currently licensed in both CO & FL(virtually) to work with clients! Welcome - congratulations for taking one of the hardest steps towards improving your mental health! Maybe you have found yourself on my page because you recognize that something is not working in your life and you are wanting to make changes. You deserve the space to heal and understand patterns in your life that might be causing stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression or strains in relationships. Life is not meant to just be survived, it is to be experienced to the fullest potential and we can discover that in the therapy room!
I specialize in working with women struggling with OCD, trauma, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
I am currently licensed in both CO & FL(virtually) to work with clients! Welcome - congratulations for taking one of the hardest steps towards improving your mental health! Maybe you have found yourself on my page because you recognize that something is not working in your life and you are wanting to make changes. You deserve the space to heal and understand patterns in your life that might be causing stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression or strains in relationships. Life is not meant to just be survived, it is to be experienced to the fullest potential and we can discover that in the therapy room!
(984) 217-1873 View (984) 217-1873
Photo of Josh Nadeau, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Josh Nadeau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33624
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and young adults with obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and behavioral problems.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and young adults with obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and behavioral problems.
(813) 993-4804 View (813) 993-4804
Photo of Dr. Charisse Diaz, Counselor in Tampa, FL
Dr. Charisse Diaz
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618  (Online Only)
Dr. Charisse Diaz has 20 years of experience in the mental health field and is a Qualified Supervisor through the Florida Department of Health where she provides guidance and training for new counselors entering the field. She has a warm and friendly style and has treated a wide variety of issues and disorders and welcomes patients with any issue to work with her. Dr. Diaz specifically specializes in the treatment of Anxiety related disorders including; Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Trichotillomania, and Excoriation Disorder.
Dr. Charisse Diaz has 20 years of experience in the mental health field and is a Qualified Supervisor through the Florida Department of Health where she provides guidance and training for new counselors entering the field. She has a warm and friendly style and has treated a wide variety of issues and disorders and welcomes patients with any issue to work with her. Dr. Diaz specifically specializes in the treatment of Anxiety related disorders including; Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Trichotillomania, and Excoriation Disorder.
(727) 855-6012 View (727) 855-6012
Photo of Katie Merricks, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
Katie Merricks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
Let me introduce myself - my name is Dr. Katie and treating anxiety efficiently and effectively is my forte. I specialize in the unique training required to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, trichotillomania, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety inducing difficulties. It also rare that an individual has a pure anxiety diagnosis, therefore I am as equally effective in treating individuals who also struggle with depression, disordered eating, behavioral difficulties, etc. I have trained at a variety of clinic settings including Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital and Rogers Behavioral Health.
Let me introduce myself - my name is Dr. Katie and treating anxiety efficiently and effectively is my forte. I specialize in the unique training required to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, trichotillomania, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety inducing difficulties. It also rare that an individual has a pure anxiety diagnosis, therefore I am as equally effective in treating individuals who also struggle with depression, disordered eating, behavioral difficulties, etc. I have trained at a variety of clinic settings including Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital and Rogers Behavioral Health.
(813) 609-2161 View (813) 609-2161
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.