Ayyappan Venkatraman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a general psychiatrist with a flexible approach to mental health that aims to combine the best of modern science and psychiatric medications (when needed) with talk therapy and spiritual healing. My aim as a clinician is to help people understand themselves better and feel more fulfilled, tailoring treatment to meet their unique history, circumstances and goals. I work with people 18 and older addressing a wide range of issues including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, attention and learning issues, and addiction.
I am a general psychiatrist with a flexible approach to mental health that aims to combine the best of modern science and psychiatric medications (when needed) with talk therapy and spiritual healing. My aim as a clinician is to help people understand themselves better and feel more fulfilled, tailoring treatment to meet their unique history, circumstances and goals. I work with people 18 and older addressing a wide range of issues including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, attention and learning issues, and addiction.
(215) 234-3966 View (215) 234-3966
Photo of Michael J Canino, Psychiatrist in 19102, PA
Michael J Canino
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Adjustments can often be challenging. Whether it may be a shift in career, end to a relationship, or change in phase of life, these transitions can frequently disrupt our usual patterns of thinking and behavior. My professional experience has found that having an interested, empathetic, and active listener as a psychotherapist can be extremely beneficial in assisting not only with these difficult times, but also with unforeseen situations bound to occur in the future.
Adjustments can often be challenging. Whether it may be a shift in career, end to a relationship, or change in phase of life, these transitions can frequently disrupt our usual patterns of thinking and behavior. My professional experience has found that having an interested, empathetic, and active listener as a psychotherapist can be extremely beneficial in assisting not only with these difficult times, but also with unforeseen situations bound to occur in the future.
(215) 874-4485 View (215) 874-4485
Photo of Christina L Persaud, Psychiatrist in 19102, PA
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
(646) 956-5955 View (646) 956-5955
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.