Photo of Martin C Novell, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Martin C Novell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
At this point ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD are disorders that need to be managed so we can lessen consequences.
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
At this point ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD are disorders that need to be managed so we can lessen consequences.
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
(424) 254-5179 View (424) 254-5179
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Jason Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Jason Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, ICAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
“I have a deep belief in treating the whole human being and not just the symptom whether it be physical, psychological or spiritual. Both my skill as a therapist and my knowledge of East/ West Psychology aids me in providing essential knowledge and techniques for clients to affect change. I have been in the fields of therapy and mindfulness meditation for the last 20 years and in that time I have focused on integrating what works for those clients I have served. My work is informed by over two decades of exploration into the heart and mind. From the monasteries of Asia to the lecture halls of cutting edge American Universities.
(831) 777-6253 View (831) 777-6253
Photo of Lisa Chester-Schyman, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Lisa Chester-Schyman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
I provide a safe and compassionate environment to support you in your life journey and its many challenges. Through our work together you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, which will allow you to navigate the murky waters of life, manage transitions, and live a life filled with meaning. Together we will explore your true nature and I will support you to find more comfort in your life by teaching you tools to overcome obstacles to your emotional well-being. Our collaboration will allow you to move through the more challenging times in your life with a greater sense of ease. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents.
(424) 532-8592 View (424) 532-8592
Photo of Arlette Gordon Kassel, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Arlette Gordon Kassel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
You long to wake up in the morning less anxious and depressed. Or you're feeling stressed-out, stuck or have conflict in your closest relationships. Maybe pain from infidelity consumes you but you still want to try to fix what seems broken. Deep down, you want to feel excited about your life and I want that for you too. I can help you untangle the knotted threads of your life and create something beautiful. If you've tried therapy before but felt something was missing (maybe too much listening and not enough direction and interventions), let's do it differently this time so you have the knowledge & skills to create your best life.
You long to wake up in the morning less anxious and depressed. Or you're feeling stressed-out, stuck or have conflict in your closest relationships. Maybe pain from infidelity consumes you but you still want to try to fix what seems broken. Deep down, you want to feel excited about your life and I want that for you too. I can help you untangle the knotted threads of your life and create something beautiful. If you've tried therapy before but felt something was missing (maybe too much listening and not enough direction and interventions), let's do it differently this time so you have the knowledge & skills to create your best life.
(661) 491-5135 View (661) 491-5135
Photo of Armaghan Ghassemi, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Armaghan Ghassemi
Psychologist, Armaghan Ghassemi, PhD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 36 years of experience working with adolescents & adults who are experiencing a wide range of difficulties including: *Depression, Anxiety, *Substance Misuse *PTSD *Interpersonal issues *Grief *Self-confidence/Personal Growth * Communication Skills *Psychological and Neuropsychological Testing both in clinical and Forensic settings * Anger Management *Forensic Psychology.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 36 years of experience working with adolescents & adults who are experiencing a wide range of difficulties including: *Depression, Anxiety, *Substance Misuse *PTSD *Interpersonal issues *Grief *Self-confidence/Personal Growth * Communication Skills *Psychological and Neuropsychological Testing both in clinical and Forensic settings * Anger Management *Forensic Psychology.
(510) 945-3612 View (510) 945-3612
Photo of Robyn Blythe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Jackson Varady, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Jackson Varady
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Building Emotional Resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. You may be a parent dealing with the challenge of a defiant child, or a spouse suffering with a critical or distant partner. Perhaps you're a high-powered professional grappling with the demands of career and family, or a sensitive teenager navigating the precarious path towards young adulthood. In either case, whether it's relationship issues, difficult feelings, worrying thoughts, unwanted behaviors, or even just searching for answers to some of life's biggest questions, I can provide guidance, support, and wisdom towards realizing obtainable solutions.
Building Emotional Resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. You may be a parent dealing with the challenge of a defiant child, or a spouse suffering with a critical or distant partner. Perhaps you're a high-powered professional grappling with the demands of career and family, or a sensitive teenager navigating the precarious path towards young adulthood. In either case, whether it's relationship issues, difficult feelings, worrying thoughts, unwanted behaviors, or even just searching for answers to some of life's biggest questions, I can provide guidance, support, and wisdom towards realizing obtainable solutions.
(424) 365-1106 View (424) 365-1106
Photo of Seon Park, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Seon Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
We all indeed face difficulties at some point in our lives. No one is exempt from these difficulties. Everyone needs assistance in overcoming these difficulties to be able to have a meaningful and successful life journey and to share the joy with others. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2005. Graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master's Degree in Psychology and Clinical Psychology.
We all indeed face difficulties at some point in our lives. No one is exempt from these difficulties. Everyone needs assistance in overcoming these difficulties to be able to have a meaningful and successful life journey and to share the joy with others. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2005. Graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master's Degree in Psychology and Clinical Psychology.
(323) 991-9927 View (323) 991-9927
Photo of Kim Spano, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Kim Spano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CPsych, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Rooted in depth psychology, mind body and complementary practice, integrating trauma based psychotherapy and other evidence based psychological methodologies and modalities, I see adults, teens, couples struggling with personal, emotional, relational, parental challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, disillusionment, as well, young adults navigating individuation, contending with middle, high school, university and post graduate adjustments. My approach is to open a present, safe, focused sphere inviting vulnerability and honest expression of true experience moving deeper and deeper into one's own knowing sense.
Rooted in depth psychology, mind body and complementary practice, integrating trauma based psychotherapy and other evidence based psychological methodologies and modalities, I see adults, teens, couples struggling with personal, emotional, relational, parental challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, disillusionment, as well, young adults navigating individuation, contending with middle, high school, university and post graduate adjustments. My approach is to open a present, safe, focused sphere inviting vulnerability and honest expression of true experience moving deeper and deeper into one's own knowing sense.
(831) 241-5805 View (831) 241-5805
Photo of Kimberly Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Kimberly Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with life's curve balls, which are negatively impacting your moods, motivation, stress level, which then affect your relationships, work, school, dreams and goals? As I join you on your therapeutic journey, I will help you navigate life's curve balls and challenging times through "connecting your life dots" (past, present and future) and by learning healthy coping skills and strategies to apply. My biggest goal for you will be to guide you on how to build your "solid sense of self," so you can live a life that is authenic and emotionally fulfilling.
Are you struggling with life's curve balls, which are negatively impacting your moods, motivation, stress level, which then affect your relationships, work, school, dreams and goals? As I join you on your therapeutic journey, I will help you navigate life's curve balls and challenging times through "connecting your life dots" (past, present and future) and by learning healthy coping skills and strategies to apply. My biggest goal for you will be to guide you on how to build your "solid sense of self," so you can live a life that is authenic and emotionally fulfilling.
(310) 347-4511 View (310) 347-4511
Photo of Steven Bradshaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Steven Bradshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, CGP, MA
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
I work with high-potential, creative and sensitive beings, who may feel stuck and burned out. I've discovered personally how somatic therapy revitalizes the organism and resolves psychological and health issues at the source. In particular it can shift anxiety, chronic pain, depression, loneliness, and imposter syndrome. It works to restore the nervous system to a state of healthy regulation, energy, flow and feeling at home in your body. This provides a foundation of authentic self-esteem that becomes the basis for a meaningful career and a network of healthy relationships—a life that feels great on the inside.
I work with high-potential, creative and sensitive beings, who may feel stuck and burned out. I've discovered personally how somatic therapy revitalizes the organism and resolves psychological and health issues at the source. In particular it can shift anxiety, chronic pain, depression, loneliness, and imposter syndrome. It works to restore the nervous system to a state of healthy regulation, energy, flow and feeling at home in your body. This provides a foundation of authentic self-esteem that becomes the basis for a meaningful career and a network of healthy relationships—a life that feels great on the inside.
(424) 378-5336 View (424) 378-5336
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in West Los Angeles, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryan Schuster, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Ryan Schuster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
I provide individual therapy to adults and specialize in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other Anxiety Disorders.
Why can’t I just be happy? Why is everything so difficult? Is life just endless suffering? Most of us are trying to rid ourselves of our anxiety by avoiding frightening situations and shielding ourselves from uncomfortable experiences. In doing so, our existence often becomes narrow and tedious. But what if we could learn to make room for the inevitable pains that life confronts us with and accept the experiences we cannot control. If we can become more psychologically flexible, we can then be present and do what matters most to us.
I provide individual therapy to adults and specialize in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other Anxiety Disorders.
Why can’t I just be happy? Why is everything so difficult? Is life just endless suffering? Most of us are trying to rid ourselves of our anxiety by avoiding frightening situations and shielding ourselves from uncomfortable experiences. In doing so, our existence often becomes narrow and tedious. But what if we could learn to make room for the inevitable pains that life confronts us with and accept the experiences we cannot control. If we can become more psychologically flexible, we can then be present and do what matters most to us.
(213) 297-4285 View (213) 297-4285
Photo of Dr. Albert Bonfil, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
(424) 396-6501 x1 View (424) 396-6501 x1
Photo of Michael Gasparro, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Los Angeles, CA
Michael Gasparro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I specialize in helping men with distressing sexual feelings and behaviors, especially those with same-sex sexualized attachments and OCD, to pursue psychological and spiritual healing, in order to live more joyfully.
Are you struggling with sexual identity questions? Do you feel burdened by excessive religious or moral fears? Do you desire to live life more joyfully, free from obsessive compulsive scrupulosity?! Many people contact with experiences of unwanted sexual feelings and behaviors. As a clinician trained in Reintegrative Therapy, which is an evidence-based approach shown to treat trauma memories and trigger spontaneous shifts in client’s sexual feelings as a result, I believe people deserve access to therapeutic support which will help them resolve sexual difficulties in a manner in line with their sincerely held religious beliefs.
I specialize in helping men with distressing sexual feelings and behaviors, especially those with same-sex sexualized attachments and OCD, to pursue psychological and spiritual healing, in order to live more joyfully.
Are you struggling with sexual identity questions? Do you feel burdened by excessive religious or moral fears? Do you desire to live life more joyfully, free from obsessive compulsive scrupulosity?! Many people contact with experiences of unwanted sexual feelings and behaviors. As a clinician trained in Reintegrative Therapy, which is an evidence-based approach shown to treat trauma memories and trigger spontaneous shifts in client’s sexual feelings as a result, I believe people deserve access to therapeutic support which will help them resolve sexual difficulties in a manner in line with their sincerely held religious beliefs.
(805) 301-1256 View (805) 301-1256
Photo of Natasha Moharter, Counselor in West Los Angeles, CA
Natasha Moharter
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
If you have OCD, & want to engage in effective treatment, we will move forward with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
Any of these thoughts sound familiar? What if I harm someone? What if I harm myself? What if I act on an urge to do something I really don’t want to do? What if I am a bad person and just fooling everyone? What if I touched something that could contaminate me or my family? What if I want to act on that sexual thought I really didn’t like? What if I go to jail for something I did but forgot or didn't know? What if that thing I did will come back to haunt me? What if I cheat on my partner? What if I am with the 'wrong' partner even though I love my partner? What if my sexual orientation will change even though I don't want it to?
If you have OCD, & want to engage in effective treatment, we will move forward with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
Any of these thoughts sound familiar? What if I harm someone? What if I harm myself? What if I act on an urge to do something I really don’t want to do? What if I am a bad person and just fooling everyone? What if I touched something that could contaminate me or my family? What if I want to act on that sexual thought I really didn’t like? What if I go to jail for something I did but forgot or didn't know? What if that thing I did will come back to haunt me? What if I cheat on my partner? What if I am with the 'wrong' partner even though I love my partner? What if my sexual orientation will change even though I don't want it to?
(858) 358-6345 View (858) 358-6345
Photo of Natalie Guerra-Crowe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in West Los Angeles, CA
Natalie Guerra-Crowe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
(805) 600-3902 View (805) 600-3902
Photo of Dr. JM Licensed Psychologist, Psychologist in West Los Angeles, CA
Dr. JM Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MSEd
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety and depression through examining deep-rooted inner conflicts/shame/guilt/childhood trauma and unconscious cognitive distortions while reshaping repetitive/obsessive coping mechanisms that manifest in perpetuating self esteem, career, and relationship difficulties.
I work with unique individuals who are seemingly successful and happy but deep inside feel lost, alone, even if they are in a relationship, and often feel like they don't belong or struggle to be present in life. With expertise gathered from years of experience across borders, time zones and cultures, I dive alongside men and women into the deep ocean of darkness— including all types of diversity, in-between/intersecting identities, worldwide travelers, high-achieving/performing and creative people. I am Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) certified and was formerly a clinical supervisor and psychologist at Johns Hopkins University.
I treat anxiety and depression through examining deep-rooted inner conflicts/shame/guilt/childhood trauma and unconscious cognitive distortions while reshaping repetitive/obsessive coping mechanisms that manifest in perpetuating self esteem, career, and relationship difficulties.
I work with unique individuals who are seemingly successful and happy but deep inside feel lost, alone, even if they are in a relationship, and often feel like they don't belong or struggle to be present in life. With expertise gathered from years of experience across borders, time zones and cultures, I dive alongside men and women into the deep ocean of darkness— including all types of diversity, in-between/intersecting identities, worldwide travelers, high-achieving/performing and creative people. I am Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) certified and was formerly a clinical supervisor and psychologist at Johns Hopkins University.
(714) 464-7616 View (714) 464-7616
Photo of Tamara Bailey Phd, Psychological Associate in West Los Angeles, CA
Tamara Bailey Phd
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Dr. Bailey is a psychological associate specializing in anxiety, OCD, and related mood disorders in adults. Dr. Bailey views clients' mental health concerns from a holistic, biopsychosocial perspective utilizing therapeutic modalities including CBT, ERP, and mindfulness. Dr. Bailey believes a strong therapeutic relationship, based on compassion, trust, empathy, and collaboration is vital to delivering effective, evidence-based and complementary treatments.
Dr. Bailey is a psychological associate specializing in anxiety, OCD, and related mood disorders in adults. Dr. Bailey views clients' mental health concerns from a holistic, biopsychosocial perspective utilizing therapeutic modalities including CBT, ERP, and mindfulness. Dr. Bailey believes a strong therapeutic relationship, based on compassion, trust, empathy, and collaboration is vital to delivering effective, evidence-based and complementary treatments.
(424) 699-4632 View (424) 699-4632

See more therapy options for West Los Angeles

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.