Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025If you’re looking for OCD support in Richmond, this page explains what OCD is, how treatment works, and how to find therapists in the city who treat it. It’s designed to make the next steps feel clearer and more manageable.
Psychologist
Remote only
Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat OCD, Relationship(s) with Partner/Husband/Wife, Work/Life Balance.
My main objective is to help clients manage their emotions, make decisions that are line with their values, and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
5540 Falmouth Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230
Stephen Barlow is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Richmond, Virginia. They treat OCD, Trauma, Physical Stress.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, and stress stemming from relationships or past experiences, in individual or couples counseling.
Psychiatrist
1015 15th Street Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia 20005
Derrick Brooks is a Psychiatrist in Washington, District of Columbia and has been in practice for 5 years. They treat OCD, Depression, Medication Concerns.
I offer services to those seeking a physician with insight and experience in treating a wide range of conditions.
Psychologist
6402 Odana Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53719
Keri Brown is a Psychologist in Madison, Wisconsin and has been in practice for 20 years. They treat OCD, Perfectionism, Anxiety.
We offer a compassionate, inclusive space where individuals with OCD and anxiety feel truly understood, accepted, and empowered to grow.
Psychotherapist, Psychologist
255 South 17th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103
Hider Shaaban is a Psychotherapist in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They treat OCD, Peer Difficulties, Suicidal Ideation.
Your emotional wellbeing is our priority. We will work together to not just get you unstuck, but help you thrive and flourish.
Sport Psychologist
Remote only
Auran Piatigorsky, PhD, LP, CMPC is a Sport Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat OCD, Trauma, Hoarding.
Licensed Clinical Sport Psychologist — services for mental health care & performance enhancement
OCD is a mental health condition where unwanted thoughts, images, or urges keep coming back and lead to repeated behaviors or mental routines. Common signs include intrusive worries, checking, cleaning, counting, or needing things to feel “just right.” It can make it hard to focus at work or school and can strain relationships when routines or reassurance become hard to manage. In Richmond, getting support can also feel harder when symptoms take up a lot of time and energy.
Not everyone experiences OCD the same way, and symptoms can look different from person to person and from one situation to another. Some people notice more thoughts, while others feel more pulled to certain routines or repeated actions.
OCD often develops from a mix of influences rather than a single cause. It can be shaped by inherited vulnerability, brain chemistry, and life stressors interacting over time. Symptoms may become more noticeable during periods of change, anxiety, or when routines feel disrupted.
OCD has proven treatments that can reduce symptoms and make daily life easier. Many people improve with a mix of therapy, medication, and practical coping strategies. Treatment often works best when it is tailored to the person’s needs and symptoms. It may take time, but effective help is available.
When looking for OCD therapists in Richmond, VA, it is important to choose someone licensed in the state where you live, especially for telehealth and for insurance coverage. Licensing rules can affect whether care is allowed across state lines and whether your plan will reimburse it. MiResource can filter by licensure to help you find therapists who meet these requirements.
In Richmond, access to OCD care can be uneven, especially in Downtown Richmond, The Fan, Museum District, Carytown, and Scott’s Addition. Traffic during commute hours, limited parking in dense areas, and transit that varies by neighborhood can make in-person visits harder. Insurance acceptance varies, private pay can be moderate to high, and in-network waitlists are common, so it helps to ask early about coverage and openings. University and seasonal schedules can also affect appointment availability, especially around Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond, as well as during legislative sessions and summer or holiday demand shifts. To reduce friction, consider telehealth when possible, ask to be placed on more than one waitlist, and request cancellations or flexible appointment times. Checking options in nearby neighborhoods can also improve access.
Spending time outdoors can support day-to-day mental health while coping with OCD in Richmond, VA by giving the mind a calmer setting for resetting between routines. A short walk, time in shaded areas, or sitting near water can make it easier to slow down, notice your surroundings, and get gentle movement without much pressure. That kind of predictable outdoor time can also support sleep and mood when stress from traffic, commuting, or crowded schedules starts to build. Choosing nearby places in areas like Downtown Richmond or The Fan may help keep the outing simple, especially when parking is limited in dense areas.
Maymont — open space and varied paths can make a low-pressure walk feel easier. Belle Isle — river views and outdoor space can support a quiet reset. Byrd Park — easy movement and shaded spots can work for a short break. James River Park System — many outdoor areas for gentle walking and time away from daily pressure. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden — calmer scenery and a slower pace can help with unwinding.
Use emergency services right away if OCD symptoms become a crisis, such as when you cannot keep yourself safe, the distress feels overwhelming, or you need immediate in-person help. Call 988 or 911 if there is an urgent safety concern, and use Richmond Behavioral Health Authority Crisis Response (804-819-4100) or Richmond Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) mobile crisis intervention services for immediate mental health support. If you need emergency evaluation, go to VCU Medical Center, Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital, Chippenham Hospital, or Henrico Doctors’ Hospital. Because traffic during commute hours can be heavy and transit varies by neighborhood, plan ahead if you are able, and expect limited parking in dense areas.
Q: When should someone in Richmond see a therapist for OCD? A: Consider seeing a therapist if OCD thoughts or rituals are taking up a lot of time, causing distress, or interfering with work, school, relationships, or daily routines. It can also help to reach out if you feel stuck trying to manage symptoms on your own. Early support may make it easier to address symptoms before they become more disruptive. If symptoms feel severe or you have concerns about safety, seek help promptly.
Q: What should I do if the first therapist is not a good fit for OCD? A: It is reasonable to look for someone else if you do not feel understood, respected, or comfortable. OCD care often works best when the therapist has experience with evidence-based treatment and you feel able to be honest with them. You can ask for a different approach or provider, and it is okay to switch. Finding a better fit can take time.
Q: Can virtual therapy help with OCD? A: Virtual therapy can help many people with OCD, especially when it includes evidence-based treatment such as exposure and response prevention. It may also be a practical option if travel, commute time, or scheduling makes in-person visits harder. Some people prefer the structure of meeting from home. The best option depends on your symptoms, preferences, and the therapist’s experience.
Q: What should I ask when choosing a therapist for OCD in Richmond? A: You can ask whether the therapist has experience treating OCD and whether they use exposure and response prevention or other evidence-based methods. It may help to ask how they handle symptoms like compulsions, intrusive thoughts, and avoidance. You can also ask about scheduling, fees, insurance, and whether they offer in-person or virtual visits. Clear answers can help you decide whether they are a good match.
Q: Does therapy for OCD tend to help over time? A: Therapy can help many people with OCD reduce symptom severity and improve day-to-day functioning over time. Progress is often gradual, and it may take consistent practice and follow-up between sessions. Some people notice meaningful changes fairly early, while others need more time. Ongoing support can help maintain gains and manage setbacks.
MiResource can help you search for clinicians in Richmond, VA who treat OCD. You can filter by insurance, specialty, and availability to find someone who fits your needs.
Recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive community, and the right professional care, you can overcome challenges and build a fulfilling life. We’re here to help you find the support you need.
