OCD Treatment

OCD Doesn't Have to Run Your Life

Specialized, evidence-based therapy to help you break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

Does This Sound Familiar?

Intrusive thoughts come out of nowhere — disturbing, unwanted, and impossible to shake. You perform rituals or routines to relieve the anxiety, but the relief never lasts. You know, on some level, that the fear isn't rational — but knowing that doesn't help. Hours of your day disappear into checking, counting, cleaning, reassurance-seeking, or mental reviewing. You avoid certain places, people, or situations just to keep the thoughts at bay. You're exhausted from fighting your own mind.

If this is your experience, you may be living with OCD. It's more common than most people realize, and it's one of the most treatable conditions I work with.

What OCD Actually Is

OCD is characterized by obsessions, intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause significant distress, and compulsions, repetitive behaviors performed to neutralize that distress. Common presentations include contamination OCD, checking OCD, harm OCD, Pure O, symmetry OCD, and scrupulosity.

Whatever form it takes for you, OCD is not your fault, and it responds well to the right treatment.

How I Work: ERP + CBT

The gold standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention. I gradually expose you to triggers while helping you resist compulsions, teaching your brain that the feared outcome doesn't happen, and that you can tolerate anxiety without neutralizing it.

In our sessions we'll map your obsessions and compulsions, build an exposure hierarchy together, practice ERP at a manageable pace, and use CBT to address the beliefs fueling your OCD.

A Word on Intrusive Thoughts

Many people with OCD are ashamed of their obsessions, especially those involving harm, sexuality, or taboo themes. Having these thoughts does not say anything terrible about you. The very fact that the thought is so distressing is part of what makes it an obsession rather than an intention. You can talk openly about the content of your obsessions in my office without judgment.

What to Expect in Your First Session

We start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to see whether we're a good fit. If we are, the first full session is a 45-minute conversation about what brought you in, how OCD shows up in your daily life, and what you'd like to be different. By the end, you'll have a clear sense of how we'll work together and what the next few weeks will look like.

In Person on the Upper West Side, or Online in New York and Florida

Sessions take place at my office at 275 Central Park West, a short walk from the B and C trains at 86th Street and Central Park West. I also offer telehealth for anyone in New York State or Florida. Daytime, evening and Sunday appointments are available.

Fees and Insurance

I'm in network with UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar and Aetna through Alma and Headway. If your plan is out of network, I can provide a superbill so you can seek reimbursement directly from your insurer. Call or text 646-717-4860, or email dr@dansharir.com, to check your coverage or book a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About OCD Therapy

What is ERP, and why is it used for OCD?

Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is the most researched therapy for OCD. We gradually approach the thoughts and situations that trigger your anxiety, while you practice not doing the compulsion. Over time, the brain learns the anxiety passes on its own. You set the pace; nothing is forced.

What if my compulsions are mental, not physical?

Many people with OCD mostly review, check, reassure themselves or pray in their head. Mental compulsions are treated with ERP too. Naming them clearly is often the first step.

Do you treat OCD online?

Yes. ERP can be done by telehealth for clients in New York and Florida, and some exposures work better at home, where the triggers are.

Ready to Take the First Step?

I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation, no pressure, no commitment. I accept insurance with Aetna, Oscar, Oxford, and United Healthcare through Alma and Headway.

Call or text: 646-717-4860
Email: dr@dansharir.com
Schedule online: Book via Zocdoc

In-person on the Upper West Side. Telehealth available throughout New York State.