Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Therapists in Vancouver
Browse 3 therapists specializing in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Vancouver. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by obsessions, which are persistent, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress, and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to relieve that distress. Common obsession themes include contamination, harm, symmetry, religion or morality, and relationship doubt. Compulsions might look like handwashing, checking, counting, or seeking reassurance, but they can also be entirely internal, such as mentally reviewing an event or silently repeating phrases. The relief from compulsions is temporary, and over time they tend to make obsessions stronger rather than weaker.
What to look for in an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) therapist on Purple Lotus
- Specific training and experience in ERP for OCD
- Familiarity with the full range of OCD subtypes, including intrusive thought presentations
- Approach that avoids providing reassurance as part of treatment
- Collaborative exposure planning with input from you on pace and content
3 therapists for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Vancouver
Browse 3 therapists specializing in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Vancouver. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.
Mila Loskutova
Hi! My name is Mila Loskutova and I'm a registered clinical counsellor. I am a queer, immigrant settler woman. I am passionate about supporting folks healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues and OCD. I use a mix of gentle talk therapy that helps individuals dive deeper into self-exploration and more structured approaches for specific concerns, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I am mindful and curious about how our identities and the systems we live in shape the way we move through the world. My approach is humanistic, anti-oppressive and sometimes irreverent. I enjoy helping people create and deepen meaning in their lives. I am available online and in person at my office at 315, 2083 Alma Street, Vancouver.
Nicole Grant
I work with children, teens and adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma and life changes. I am trained in CBT, DBT and EMDR.
Looking beyond Vancouver? Browse all Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) therapists in Canada.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) therapists in Vancouver — at a glance
- accepting new clients
- 3/ 3
- offer online sessions
- 3/ 3
- offer sliding scale fees
- 1/ 3
Frequently asked questions
What is the most effective therapy for OCD?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the most well-researched and widely recommended therapy for OCD. It involves gradually facing feared situations without performing compulsions. Research consistently shows large reductions in OCD symptoms. Medication, particularly SSRIs, is sometimes used alongside therapy for moderate to severe cases.
What is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?
ERP is a structured form of CBT specifically developed for OCD. It involves deliberately triggering obsessions in a controlled way, then refraining from the associated compulsion. Over time, this weakens the anxiety response and reduces the pull of compulsions. Sessions involve both in-session practice and homework between appointments.
How long does OCD therapy take?
Many people see meaningful improvement within 12 to 20 sessions of ERP, though this varies with symptom severity, OCD subtype, and consistency of between-session practice. Some clients benefit from longer-term support, particularly when OCD is severe or when additional concerns are present alongside it.
Can OCD be treated without medication?
Yes. ERP is effective for many people without medication. Guidelines from organizations including the International OCD Foundation recommend ERP as a first-line treatment. Medication is often recommended for moderate to severe OCD, or when therapy alone has not produced sufficient improvement. This is a decision to make with your therapist and doctor.
My OCD involves disturbing thoughts I would never act on. Can therapy still help?
Yes, and this is one of the most common OCD presentations. Intrusive thoughts about harm, sexuality, or morality are distressing precisely because they conflict with what you actually value. Therapists trained in OCD understand this. ERP and ACT are both well-suited to helping people disengage from the content of these thoughts without acting on them.
Is OCD therapy available online?
Yes. ERP has been studied in online formats and shown to be effective. Many OCD-specialized therapists offer video sessions, which can make it easier to access a therapist with specific OCD training regardless of location. For some exposures, being at home is actually an advantage, since many OCD triggers are home-based.
How is OCD different from anxiety disorders?
OCD involves a specific cycle of obsessions and compulsions. While anxiety is a central feature, the compulsion component sets OCD apart. Therapies that work well for generalized anxiety, such as relaxation techniques or reassurance, can reinforce OCD symptoms. This is why OCD-specific treatment, rather than general anxiety therapy, is recommended.
How do I find an OCD therapist in Vancouver?
Browse therapists in Vancouver who list OCD as a specialty and look for those with specific ERP training. General CBT experience is not sufficient for OCD treatment. Filtering by specialty and reviewing therapist profiles for OCD-specific language will help you identify practitioners with the relevant background.
Is OCD therapy covered by insurance in Vancouver?
Coverage depends on your extended health plan. Sessions with a registered psychologist, psychotherapist, or social worker in Vancouver are often eligible for reimbursement through employer benefits. Review your policy for eligible designations and per-session or annual limits before booking.