Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counselling in Newcastle upon Tyne

Photo of James Bowness Clarke, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
James Bowness Clarke
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience of working in the NHS and private practice. Whilst I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety or low mood, I have a special interest in Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and complex grief. I am experienced in working with individual or couples and families, and I am qualified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I hold clinics in the evenings in Jesmond or offer evening online appointments.
01434 307703 View 01434 307703
Photo of Dr Christine Price, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Christine Price
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
With over 25 years of qualified experience as a Clinical Psychologist, I have treated a wide range of difficulties. Whether you're dealing with professional burn out or mental health issues, my career has been about helping people with all kinds of challenges. These include anxiety and panic; depression; health anxiety; intrusive thoughts, obsessive compulsive disorder; work stress/burn out; personal stress; adjustment to life transitions; coping with chronic illness; relationship issues; bereavement and loss; emotional regulation, self-esteem issues as well as others.
With over 25 years of qualified experience as a Clinical Psychologist, I have treated a wide range of difficulties. Whether you're dealing with professional burn out or mental health issues, my career has been about helping people with all kinds of challenges. These include anxiety and panic; depression; health anxiety; intrusive thoughts, obsessive compulsive disorder; work stress/burn out; personal stress; adjustment to life transitions; coping with chronic illness; relationship issues; bereavement and loss; emotional regulation, self-esteem issues as well as others.
0191 917 4404 View 0191 917 4404
Photo of Christina Elizabeth Lee, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Christina Elizabeth Lee
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2  (Online Only)
If you want to feel happier, less stressed, more appreciative about yourself and your life, then I am here to support you. With 20 years experience in counselling, I believe therapy is a creative act that can change your life. My clients often tell me how much they enjoy our sessions together. I can assist you to understand your inner self, and teach you some great tools to help you move past anxiety or low mood or low self esteem, and start to make the changes you want to. I have plenty of tools to help you with OCD, PTSD or trauma. Please have a look at my website and feel welcome to give me call and have a free chat.
If you want to feel happier, less stressed, more appreciative about yourself and your life, then I am here to support you. With 20 years experience in counselling, I believe therapy is a creative act that can change your life. My clients often tell me how much they enjoy our sessions together. I can assist you to understand your inner self, and teach you some great tools to help you move past anxiety or low mood or low self esteem, and start to make the changes you want to. I have plenty of tools to help you with OCD, PTSD or trauma. Please have a look at my website and feel welcome to give me call and have a free chat.
01276 543408 View 01276 543408
Photo of Brodie McGeown, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Brodie McGeown
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
I specialise in OCD, social anxiety, generalised anxiety, health anxiety, phobias, women's issues including menopause, impulse control disorders, low mood, stress, and relationship issues. I am a Clinical Psychologist with an additional Masters in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and have over 9 years experience delivering psychological therapies in the NHS. My job is to be helpful to you, so please feel welcome to ask me any questions you may have. Open to both self-funding and insurance clients.
I specialise in OCD, social anxiety, generalised anxiety, health anxiety, phobias, women's issues including menopause, impulse control disorders, low mood, stress, and relationship issues. I am a Clinical Psychologist with an additional Masters in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and have over 9 years experience delivering psychological therapies in the NHS. My job is to be helpful to you, so please feel welcome to ask me any questions you may have. Open to both self-funding and insurance clients.
View
Photo of James Knox - Tyne Talking Therapies, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Tyne Talking Therapies
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I work best with anxiety based disorders including PTSD, OCD, worry, phobia and panic.
Hi, I'm James. I am a qualified and BABCP accredited CBT therapist. I like flexibility within therapy and believe that the quality of the relationship that therapist and client has is important. I have experience and training in various other therapeutic approaches including compassion focused therapy (CFT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I have worked in Mental health for a number of years in various settings, I currently work day to day with members of the armed forces community.
I work best with anxiety based disorders including PTSD, OCD, worry, phobia and panic.
Hi, I'm James. I am a qualified and BABCP accredited CBT therapist. I like flexibility within therapy and believe that the quality of the relationship that therapist and client has is important. I have experience and training in various other therapeutic approaches including compassion focused therapy (CFT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I have worked in Mental health for a number of years in various settings, I currently work day to day with members of the armed forces community.
View
Photo of Dr Carolyn Law, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Carolyn Law
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE20
Most importantly, I work with people, not diagnoses or labels. I specialise in working with those with a history of trauma, whether that’s one off events such as a car crash, sexual assault or attack, or layers of trauma in the form of childhood neglect/abuse, a military/medical career or an abusive relationship. I try to help my patients overcome their ongoing reactions to this trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive memories, high levels of anxiety and poor sleep. I also work with people experiencing moral injury and survivors guilt. Additionally, those experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD and relationship issues.
Most importantly, I work with people, not diagnoses or labels. I specialise in working with those with a history of trauma, whether that’s one off events such as a car crash, sexual assault or attack, or layers of trauma in the form of childhood neglect/abuse, a military/medical career or an abusive relationship. I try to help my patients overcome their ongoing reactions to this trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive memories, high levels of anxiety and poor sleep. I also work with people experiencing moral injury and survivors guilt. Additionally, those experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD and relationship issues.
01661 523736 View 01661 523736
Photo of Taryn Whitlie - Time to Talk Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Time to Talk Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I have specialist experience working with people with Depression, Anxiety disorders including; Panic, Generalised anxiety (Excessive worry|), Obsessive Compulsive disorder (OCD), Panic, PTSD, Health Anxiety, Phobia's, Social anxiety, Stress, Sleep difficulties, and Low self esteem issues.
If you are suffering from anxiety, stress or low mood then I am here to help. I offer a free telephone consultation to help you decide what you need. I am a qualified nurse, fully accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT), EMDR (Trauma Therapy) and Couples Counsellor with over 13 years experience working in the NHS and health services. I believe in offering the most effective and efficient treatment with a warm and compassionate approach tailored to meet your needs. My aim is to provide a safe and confidential space for you to be able to get the most out of your sessions and work towards a happier healthier you.
I have specialist experience working with people with Depression, Anxiety disorders including; Panic, Generalised anxiety (Excessive worry|), Obsessive Compulsive disorder (OCD), Panic, PTSD, Health Anxiety, Phobia's, Social anxiety, Stress, Sleep difficulties, and Low self esteem issues.
If you are suffering from anxiety, stress or low mood then I am here to help. I offer a free telephone consultation to help you decide what you need. I am a qualified nurse, fully accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT), EMDR (Trauma Therapy) and Couples Counsellor with over 13 years experience working in the NHS and health services. I believe in offering the most effective and efficient treatment with a warm and compassionate approach tailored to meet your needs. My aim is to provide a safe and confidential space for you to be able to get the most out of your sessions and work towards a happier healthier you.
0191 743 0181 View 0191 743 0181
Photo of Kathryn Spence, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Kathryn Spence
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
Hi there, I’m Kathryn, an Accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, Accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR Therapist. I am happy to arrange a free telephone consultation discuss how I can help. I specialise in helping adults with trauma or PTSD / c-PTSD, OCD, attachment or relationship issues, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. As well as other difficulties people may be facing. I aim to help people who are feeling 'stuck' and want to make changes to improve the way they feel about themselves. This may involve working on your history or staying in the present, learning new ways to manage and recover from emotional difficulties.
Hi there, I’m Kathryn, an Accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, Accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR Therapist. I am happy to arrange a free telephone consultation discuss how I can help. I specialise in helping adults with trauma or PTSD / c-PTSD, OCD, attachment or relationship issues, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. As well as other difficulties people may be facing. I aim to help people who are feeling 'stuck' and want to make changes to improve the way they feel about themselves. This may involve working on your history or staying in the present, learning new ways to manage and recover from emotional difficulties.
0191 743 0046 View 0191 743 0046
Photo of Dr Stuart Sadler, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Stuart Sadler
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
019467 60715 View 019467 60715
Photo of Helen Gifford, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Gifford
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
Being a young adults and parenting young people is complex and sometimes some help is beneficial. Counselling, is confidential support to offload, get perspective and gain the tools to find your way and is especially useful in periods of transition. It can be in the comfort of a therapy room or your own home, school or workplace. This support can help in different areas; depression, grief and loss, anxiety, relationship difficulties, obsessive thoughts, anger problems, self esteem, addictions, abuse, domestic violence, bullying, self harm, suicidal thoughts, as well as many others.
Being a young adults and parenting young people is complex and sometimes some help is beneficial. Counselling, is confidential support to offload, get perspective and gain the tools to find your way and is especially useful in periods of transition. It can be in the comfort of a therapy room or your own home, school or workplace. This support can help in different areas; depression, grief and loss, anxiety, relationship difficulties, obsessive thoughts, anger problems, self esteem, addictions, abuse, domestic violence, bullying, self harm, suicidal thoughts, as well as many others.
0191 814 7191 View 0191 814 7191
Photo of Joseph Tyson-Adams - North East Therapy Network, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Joseph Tyson-Adams - North East Therapy Network
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE6
I have specialist experience delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & EMDR, working with people suffering depression, trauma & anxiety disorders including; panic, generalised anxiety (excess worry), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias & stress.
Hi. My name is Joseph Tyson-Adams, I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR (trauma therapy) practitioner. I have worked in the NHS over the last 20 years, currently working as a Senior Psychotherapist. If you are suffering from past traumas, stress, depression or anxiety issues, I am here to help. I have worked with clients to improve their mental health & reclaim their lives. I would find it a huge privilege & pleasure to join you on your journey towards your goals. We offer a free telephone consultation to discuss issues affecting you & support we could offer.
I have specialist experience delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & EMDR, working with people suffering depression, trauma & anxiety disorders including; panic, generalised anxiety (excess worry), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), health anxiety, social anxiety, phobias & stress.
Hi. My name is Joseph Tyson-Adams, I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR (trauma therapy) practitioner. I have worked in the NHS over the last 20 years, currently working as a Senior Psychotherapist. If you are suffering from past traumas, stress, depression or anxiety issues, I am here to help. I have worked with clients to improve their mental health & reclaim their lives. I would find it a huge privilege & pleasure to join you on your journey towards your goals. We offer a free telephone consultation to discuss issues affecting you & support we could offer.
0191 743 4697 View 0191 743 4697
Photo of Sian Barnard - Sian Barnard Peaceful Minds, MSc
Sian Barnard Peaceful Minds
MSc
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I offer a safe and non-judgemental enviroment where I help people solve the problems that they are dealing with. I want my clients to walk away from our time together with the tools to maintain the changes they have worked for and a new found or rediscovered confidence in themselves and life. My therapy is practical, straight forward and it works. Cognitive behaviour therapy was designed for anxiety related issues from panic to OCD. It is perfect for depression or anger issues. As a qualified hypnotherapist I also teach relaxation and mindfillness meditation to those who want that extra dimension to their therapy.
I offer a safe and non-judgemental enviroment where I help people solve the problems that they are dealing with. I want my clients to walk away from our time together with the tools to maintain the changes they have worked for and a new found or rediscovered confidence in themselves and life. My therapy is practical, straight forward and it works. Cognitive behaviour therapy was designed for anxiety related issues from panic to OCD. It is perfect for depression or anger issues. As a qualified hypnotherapist I also teach relaxation and mindfillness meditation to those who want that extra dimension to their therapy.
0191 743 0131 View 0191 743 0131
Photo of Craig Lee - Craig Lee - Eating Disorder Therapist , MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Craig Lee - Eating Disorder Therapist
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
I offer online therapy specialising in eating disorders, body image difficulties, and related issues. I can help if thoughts about food rule your life, you’re sick of feeling out of control, or you feel like no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to move forward/sustain change. I have personally recovered from an eating disorder and body dysmorphia so understand the importance of getting the right support to overcome your food issues, improve your body image, and live a rich, meaningful life. I can also help with other things that might be getting in the way such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, stress, and grief.
I offer online therapy specialising in eating disorders, body image difficulties, and related issues. I can help if thoughts about food rule your life, you’re sick of feeling out of control, or you feel like no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to move forward/sustain change. I have personally recovered from an eating disorder and body dysmorphia so understand the importance of getting the right support to overcome your food issues, improve your body image, and live a rich, meaningful life. I can also help with other things that might be getting in the way such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, stress, and grief.
01325 523238 View 01325 523238
Photo of Dr David Blakelock, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr David Blakelock
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
I can provide clients with access to tailored, evidence based interventions for a range of mental health difficulties. Examples include depression, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and personality disorder. I am also able to provide services to enhance the performance and well-being of athletes, sportspersons, coaches and teams. Examples of areas of focus include performance anxiety, difficulty managing/regulating emotions, problems with concentration, focus and attention and difficulties coping with transitions/injuries.
I can provide clients with access to tailored, evidence based interventions for a range of mental health difficulties. Examples include depression, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and personality disorder. I am also able to provide services to enhance the performance and well-being of athletes, sportspersons, coaches and teams. Examples of areas of focus include performance anxiety, difficulty managing/regulating emotions, problems with concentration, focus and attention and difficulties coping with transitions/injuries.
0191 917 4532 View 0191 917 4532
Photo of Suzie Grazier
Suzie Grazier
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
I was one of the first children's psychological wellbeing practitioners qualified in the UK and provide support for children and young people struggling with mild to moderate common mental health issues, such as social anxiety, separation anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, generalised anxiety and low mood. With 3 years experience of working in CAMHS I am aware of the issues that many families face in getting early help for their children. I am passionate about early intervention and believe that getting the right help at the earliest opportunity can make a world of difference long into adulthood.
I was one of the first children's psychological wellbeing practitioners qualified in the UK and provide support for children and young people struggling with mild to moderate common mental health issues, such as social anxiety, separation anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, generalised anxiety and low mood. With 3 years experience of working in CAMHS I am aware of the issues that many families face in getting early help for their children. I am passionate about early intervention and believe that getting the right help at the earliest opportunity can make a world of difference long into adulthood.
01429 802903 View 01429 802903
Photo of Diane Wardman, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Diane Wardman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
I can help you with a variety of issues such as:- abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), ADHD, anger issues, anxiety, autism, fears, body image, depression, disability, family issues, grief, LGBTQ+, loss, mood disorders, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, substance dependency, trauma, work issues, and much more.
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
I can help you with a variety of issues such as:- abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), ADHD, anger issues, anxiety, autism, fears, body image, depression, disability, family issues, grief, LGBTQ+, loss, mood disorders, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, substance dependency, trauma, work issues, and much more.
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
01475 603626 View 01475 603626
Photo of Lesley Inglis Supervisor, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Lesley Inglis Supervisor
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
anxiety, depression, OCD, BDD, self-esteem, perfectionism, procrastination eating distress, 6 sess negotiable.
Hello, I am a widely experienced, Psychosexual Therapist/Supervisor. If you want to understand yourself better,/change unwanted behaviours to 'feel' better I would be delighted to receive an EMAIL from you. I work with common & also unusual Sex & Relationship difficulties & Mental health conditions . I assess you & help you identify your goals for Therapy. I review how you think our work together is progressing. I explain the rational for my exploration & focus of the tasks I ask you to practice. I work collaboratively with you-as a team to reach your goals. Clients say this is a good way to work. Please email re Supervision.
anxiety, depression, OCD, BDD, self-esteem, perfectionism, procrastination eating distress, 6 sess negotiable.
Hello, I am a widely experienced, Psychosexual Therapist/Supervisor. If you want to understand yourself better,/change unwanted behaviours to 'feel' better I would be delighted to receive an EMAIL from you. I work with common & also unusual Sex & Relationship difficulties & Mental health conditions . I assess you & help you identify your goals for Therapy. I review how you think our work together is progressing. I explain the rational for my exploration & focus of the tasks I ask you to practice. I work collaboratively with you-as a team to reach your goals. Clients say this is a good way to work. Please email re Supervision.
01573 400476 View 01573 400476
Photo of Sean Mellor, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Sean Mellor
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a dedicated CBT and EMDR therapist, I am committed to helping my clients. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to create positive change in their lives. I help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health difficulties. By teaching clients effective coping strategies and skills, I empower them to manage their emotions and behaviours in a healthier way.
As a dedicated CBT and EMDR therapist, I am committed to helping my clients. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to create positive change in their lives. I help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health difficulties. By teaching clients effective coping strategies and skills, I empower them to manage their emotions and behaviours in a healthier way.
01388 217366 View 01388 217366
Photo of Heather Gullon, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Heather Gullon
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE6  (Online Only)
Pleased to meet you, I’m Heather, co-owner of C&H Psychotherapies. If you are viewing this profile then things may not be great for you, or your child. You may be a young person yourself and seeking a therapist that you can connect with. A felt sense that you are different, even from a young age, can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space for working psychologically with marginalised and oppressed groups; in particular those people who identify as belonging to the LGBTQIA+ communities. Please feel free to visit www.chpsychotherapies.com or call on 0330 043 3970 for more information.
Pleased to meet you, I’m Heather, co-owner of C&H Psychotherapies. If you are viewing this profile then things may not be great for you, or your child. You may be a young person yourself and seeking a therapist that you can connect with. A felt sense that you are different, even from a young age, can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space for working psychologically with marginalised and oppressed groups; in particular those people who identify as belonging to the LGBTQIA+ communities. Please feel free to visit www.chpsychotherapies.com or call on 0330 043 3970 for more information.
0330 043 3970 View 0330 043 3970
Photo of Peter Robinson-Vernon, MBACP, Counsellor
Peter Robinson-Vernon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
I have a wide range of experience in clinical issues, I have worked with a range of ages from three years to sixty six year old clients. Specialising in anger management, bereavement, loss, stress, anxiety and depression, relationships and men's issues. All mental health issues can be talked about in person or via cyber counselling. I also offer experienced clinical supervision for counsellors, feel free to contact me for more information
I have a wide range of experience in clinical issues, I have worked with a range of ages from three years to sixty six year old clients. Specialising in anger management, bereavement, loss, stress, anxiety and depression, relationships and men's issues. All mental health issues can be talked about in person or via cyber counselling. I also offer experienced clinical supervision for counsellors, feel free to contact me for more information
0191 917 9619 View 0191 917 9619
1

See more therapy options for Newcastle upon Tyne

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.