Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Lourdes Chahin, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Lourdes Chahin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Dr. Lourdes J Chahin is a bilingual (Spanish) Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist. She has practiced in various settings over her career: outpatient private practice, community mental health, Nurse Practitioners and medical student supervision, partial hospitalization and dual diagnosis rehabilitation programs. She is licensed in the states of NY, Fl and GA. She has over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, phobias, bipolar mood disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Lourdes J Chahin is a bilingual (Spanish) Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist. She has practiced in various settings over her career: outpatient private practice, community mental health, Nurse Practitioners and medical student supervision, partial hospitalization and dual diagnosis rehabilitation programs. She is licensed in the states of NY, Fl and GA. She has over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, phobias, bipolar mood disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.
(929) 205-0718 View (929) 205-0718
Photo of Navin Dargani, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Navin Dargani
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I bring expertise in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (EX/RP), an evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
I bring expertise in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (EX/RP), an evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am adept at treating mental health concerns ranging from mood and anxiety disorders to interpersonal difficulties and life challenges. Knowing that these problems can affect anyone and cause significant impairment in one's life, I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care with the goal of restoring my patients to the state of mind and level of functioning they expect. My approach is an integrative one, wherein I assess one's psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to problems and address these in treatment using both psychotherapy and medication management.
(646) 798-7356 View (646) 798-7356
Photo of Veda Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Veda Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from Columbia School of Social Work with a MSW and Yale University with a MSN. I have a post-masters certificate in child and adolescent therapy and have trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in utilizing CBT for anxiety and mood disorders. I have received certification in Exposure Response Prevention from the University of Pennsylvania for the treatment of OCD. I have also received training in parent management training (PMT) at the Yale Parenting Center.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from Columbia School of Social Work with a MSW and Yale University with a MSN. I have a post-masters certificate in child and adolescent therapy and have trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in utilizing CBT for anxiety and mood disorders. I have received certification in Exposure Response Prevention from the University of Pennsylvania for the treatment of OCD. I have also received training in parent management training (PMT) at the Yale Parenting Center.
(332) 286-4433 View (332) 286-4433
Photo of Elizabeth N Durovich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Elizabeth N Durovich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Medication Management for all Psychiatric Conditions including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Autism, OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and others in the adult population.
Greetings. I am accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I consider myself a holistic and empowering practitioner. We can refer out to therapists qualified to assist with treatment after our initial evaluation. You may book by visiting www.monarchpsychiatric.com/contact. We accept United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar, Aetna, Cigna and other related carriers at this time. We are able to see patients in NY, AZ, and FL. Self-pay rates are listed on our website. Telepsychiatry only. Looking forward to meeting you! NP Durovich
Medication Management for all Psychiatric Conditions including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Autism, OCD, Panic, Insomnia, and others in the adult population.
Greetings. I am accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I consider myself a holistic and empowering practitioner. We can refer out to therapists qualified to assist with treatment after our initial evaluation. You may book by visiting www.monarchpsychiatric.com/contact. We accept United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar, Aetna, Cigna and other related carriers at this time. We are able to see patients in NY, AZ, and FL. Self-pay rates are listed on our website. Telepsychiatry only. Looking forward to meeting you! NP Durovich
(929) 276-1696 x1 View (929) 276-1696 x1
Photo of Alexis Sciarrino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Alexis Sciarrino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
(347) 427-5765 View (347) 427-5765
Photo of Anne Elise Pugliese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Anne Elise Pugliese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
My name is Anne Pugliese. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have have been working in the mental health field for 13 yrs with the last 7 yrs as a NP in community mental health, private practice, inpatient and child psychiatry. I am licensed to treat patients in NY, NJ, and OH. Currently, I am taking insurance for the state of NY and OH. I take self-pay for patients in all three states. I treat a variety of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, and many others.
My name is Anne Pugliese. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have have been working in the mental health field for 13 yrs with the last 7 yrs as a NP in community mental health, private practice, inpatient and child psychiatry. I am licensed to treat patients in NY, NJ, and OH. Currently, I am taking insurance for the state of NY and OH. I take self-pay for patients in all three states. I treat a variety of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, and many others.
(330) 583-1360 x102 View (330) 583-1360 x102
Photo of Beatriz Isaza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Beatriz Isaza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beatriz and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beatriz and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 577-3942 View (929) 577-3942
Photo of Sanjay Patel, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Sanjay Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
I am a board certified adult and child psychiatrist, and I'm also board certified in integrative and holistic medicine. I treat anxiety, attention, and mood difficulties, including adult and child ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and depression. When necessary, I recommend medication, with the lowest effective doses. I recommend traditional and natural treatments along with practical suggestions about communication, lifestyle, and stress management. I am on faculty at NYU School of Medicine.
I am a board certified adult and child psychiatrist, and I'm also board certified in integrative and holistic medicine. I treat anxiety, attention, and mood difficulties, including adult and child ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and depression. When necessary, I recommend medication, with the lowest effective doses. I recommend traditional and natural treatments along with practical suggestions about communication, lifestyle, and stress management. I am on faculty at NYU School of Medicine.
(646) 798-7270 View (646) 798-7270
Photo of Zebib Abraham, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Zebib Abraham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
Dr. Abraham is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College. She went on to complete psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She received additional training in psychoanalytic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. She has a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders.
Dr. Abraham is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College. She went on to complete psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She received additional training in psychoanalytic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. She has a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders.
(929) 209-4552 View (929) 209-4552
Steven Poskar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Dr. Poskar is one of the nation's leading experts on the treatment of OCD and Related Disorders. He is on the Scientific Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation. Dr. Poskar also cofounded OCD New York, a charity, whose mission is to help everyone affected by obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and Related Disorders to live full and productive lives. Dr. Poskar is one of the few people in the country with expertise in both using medication and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat OCD and Related Disorders. Watch Dr. Poskar lecture on Medication Treatment for Adults with OCD: https://bit.ly/2RzfM5p
Dr. Poskar is one of the nation's leading experts on the treatment of OCD and Related Disorders. He is on the Scientific Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation. Dr. Poskar also cofounded OCD New York, a charity, whose mission is to help everyone affected by obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and Related Disorders to live full and productive lives. Dr. Poskar is one of the few people in the country with expertise in both using medication and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat OCD and Related Disorders. Watch Dr. Poskar lecture on Medication Treatment for Adults with OCD: https://bit.ly/2RzfM5p
(646) 606-2512 View (646) 606-2512
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience treating Depression, Anxiety, & OCD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience treating Depression, Anxiety, & OCD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
(646) 956-3585 View (646) 956-3585
Photo of David S Ludwig, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
David S Ludwig
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021
In my private practice I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist deeply committed to the well-being of my patients. I received my medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed my residency in psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center where I was a chief resident my final year. Prior to attending medical school I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
In my private practice I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist deeply committed to the well-being of my patients. I received my medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed my residency in psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center where I was a chief resident my final year. Prior to attending medical school I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
(914) 350-5783 View (914) 350-5783
Photo of Sharon Batista, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Sharon Batista
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, FACLP, FAWMA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Dr. Sharon Batista, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist in private telepsychiatry practice. She works with patients suffering from anxiety,depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and OC-Related disorders, hoarding, perfectionism, body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Dr. Batista provides care across the lifespan including perinatal mental health consultation for pre-pregnancy planning, during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. Dr. Batista's areas of clinical focus include physician mental health. Telehealth treatment available in NY, NJ, CT, CA, FL, IL, KS, OH, PA,TX and VA.
Dr. Sharon Batista, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist in private telepsychiatry practice. She works with patients suffering from anxiety,depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and OC-Related disorders, hoarding, perfectionism, body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Dr. Batista provides care across the lifespan including perinatal mental health consultation for pre-pregnancy planning, during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. Dr. Batista's areas of clinical focus include physician mental health. Telehealth treatment available in NY, NJ, CT, CA, FL, IL, KS, OH, PA,TX and VA.
(347) 673-0599 View (347) 673-0599
Photo of Manisha Punwani, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Manisha Punwani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
(646) 693-3583 View (646) 693-3583
Photo of Samantha Levy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Samantha Levy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders, and ADHD.
I am a Columbia University-trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I'm licensed to treat individuals across the life span, with extensive training in working with children, adolescents and adults with a subspeciality in women's mental health. I provide complete psychiatric assessment and care, including psychiatric evaluations, individual therapy and medication management if indicated. We may work together in starting medication, adjusting and optimizing current medication treatment, or discontinuing medication safely as well as providing therapy including lifelong skills.
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders, and ADHD.
I am a Columbia University-trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I'm licensed to treat individuals across the life span, with extensive training in working with children, adolescents and adults with a subspeciality in women's mental health. I provide complete psychiatric assessment and care, including psychiatric evaluations, individual therapy and medication management if indicated. We may work together in starting medication, adjusting and optimizing current medication treatment, or discontinuing medication safely as well as providing therapy including lifelong skills.
(914) 350-5516 View (914) 350-5516
Photo of Jim Dhrymes MD - Psychiatrist, Holistic Care, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Jim Dhrymes MD - Psychiatrist, Holistic Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
Do you find it difficult to manage stress, or do you struggle with depression or anxiety (including OCD & panic attacks), PTSD, alcohol or other substance abuse challenges? Working together, I can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and suggestions for going forward. In many cases, Motivational Interviewing and other types of psychotherapy can deliver substantial improvements. Based on your needs, we will map a treatment plan that includes therapy, or a blend of therapy and medication. If you are already in psychotherapy and need medication management, your therapist and I will cooperate to deliver the best results possible.
Do you find it difficult to manage stress, or do you struggle with depression or anxiety (including OCD & panic attacks), PTSD, alcohol or other substance abuse challenges? Working together, I can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and suggestions for going forward. In many cases, Motivational Interviewing and other types of psychotherapy can deliver substantial improvements. Based on your needs, we will map a treatment plan that includes therapy, or a blend of therapy and medication. If you are already in psychotherapy and need medication management, your therapist and I will cooperate to deliver the best results possible.
(646) 480-7215 View (646) 480-7215
Photo of Eric Hollander, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Eric Hollander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
Our Mission is to provide state of the art, interdisciplinary, novel, and integrated treatments for Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and PANDAS Disorders in adults, adolescents and children.
Our Mission is to provide state of the art, interdisciplinary, novel, and integrated treatments for Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and PANDAS Disorders in adults, adolescents and children.
(646) 699-3957 View (646) 699-3957
Photo of Katherine Pan, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Katherine Pan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Many of my clients struggle with mood disorders or anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder. When psychiatric symptoms are too overwhelming and difficult to be addressed with psychotherapy alone, many clients may seek treatment with medications.
Many of my clients struggle with mood disorders or anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder. When psychiatric symptoms are too overwhelming and difficult to be addressed with psychotherapy alone, many clients may seek treatment with medications.
(844) 384-2779 View (844) 384-2779
Photo of David Latov, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
David Latov
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and former chief resident of the Columbia adult psychiatry program. I also completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training at the combined Cornell-Columbia New York Presbyterian Hospital program. I provide therapy and medication management for a variety of issues related to anxiety, relationships, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and ADHD. I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for clients who are experiencing problems related to trauma. Feel free to reach out for a free initial phone consultation.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and former chief resident of the Columbia adult psychiatry program. I also completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training at the combined Cornell-Columbia New York Presbyterian Hospital program. I provide therapy and medication management for a variety of issues related to anxiety, relationships, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and ADHD. I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for clients who are experiencing problems related to trauma. Feel free to reach out for a free initial phone consultation.
(347) 609-7850 View (347) 609-7850
Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Dr. Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
My training was completed at Brown University with a sub-specialty focus in treating neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, as well as expertise in anxiety, OCD, depression, and mood disorders.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
My training was completed at Brown University with a sub-specialty focus in treating neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, as well as expertise in anxiety, OCD, depression, and mood disorders.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(617) 431-4864 View (617) 431-4864
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Psychiatrists

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.