Specialized OCD care across Saskatchewan. Not an emergency service. Use local emergency services for immediate danger.
Medication is not a failure of therapy, and therapy is not a substitute for medical prescribing. The right plan depends on the person, severity, preferences and clinical context.
The first-line psychological treatment targets compulsions, avoidance and the way uncertainty is responded to.
SSRIs/SRIs can be evidence-based OCD treatment options when prescribed and monitored by an appropriate medical provider.
Some clients use medication and ERP together depending on severity, preference, access and clinical judgment.
Scope matters: psychotherapy and prescribing are separate professional services even when care is coordinated.
ERP is a first-line psychological treatment. Serotonergic medications, particularly SSRIs and related strategies, are also established options. Some people use one approach; others use both.
ERP targets compulsive learning directly through planned practice with triggers and response prevention.
A prescriber can assess whether medication is appropriate, discuss benefits and risks, monitor response and adjust treatment when indicated.
Medication may reduce symptom intensity enough to make ERP more accessible for some people, while ERP builds behavioural learning that medication alone does not teach.
Medication choice, dosing, duration, side effects, interactions and changes should be managed by a qualified prescriber. Do not start, stop or change prescription medication based on website information.
Where available and appropriate, SaskOCD can coordinate with STG Health medical services or with the client existing physician or nurse practitioner. Availability, eligibility and fees should be confirmed during intake.
These answers explain the treatment process without trying to settle the content of an obsession.
No. ERP can be provided without medication when clinically appropriate. Treatment planning should consider severity, preference, previous response and medical factors.
Medication goals are individualized. OCD treatment generally focuses on reducing symptom severity and impairment rather than promising the permanent absence of unwanted thoughts.
Medication changes should be discussed with the prescribing clinician. Abrupt changes can have clinical consequences and are not recommended based on website guidance.
Psychotherapy and prescribing are separate professional services. When an STG medical pathway is available and appropriate, the intake team can explain current options and limitations.
Start with what has been happening. SaskOCD can help determine whether specialized OCD treatment is an appropriate next step.