When Dr. Maha Zayed opened The OCD and Anxiety Center in Orland Park in 2019, she saw a clear need in the southwest suburbs: accessible, evidence-based treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder and related anxiety conditions.
“We chose Orland Park because we recognized a clear need for specialized, evidence-based treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders in the southwest suburbs,” said Zayed, founder and clinical director of the center. “What we’ve appreciated most since opening is the strong sense of community and collaboration.”
Located at 9631 W. 153rd St., Suite 33, the clinic provides therapy for children, teens and adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, phobias and trauma. Services are offered in person and virtually across Illinois.
Zayed’s team is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT) treatment models that help clients understand their symptoms and take control of their lives.
“These conditions are highly treatable with the right approach,” Zayed said. “Not all therapy is created equal. With structured, evidence-based care, people can get better.”
In June, the center marked a new chapter by joining the Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on June 24 to celebrate the milestone and reaffirm the clinic’s commitment to serving the community.
With locations in Oak Brook and Marietta, chamber officials said they are happy to be a part of their continued expansion in Orland Park.
“We’ve had the opportunity to connect with dedicated professionals across schools, medical practices, and local organizations who are truly committed to supporting the well-being of their community members,” Zayed said.
She added that demand for services has grown significantly in recent years, driven in part by the lingering effects of the pandemic.
“We have absolutely seen a rise in anxiety and OCD over the past few years,” she said. “Much of this increase is tied to the impact of the pandemic — uncertainty, isolation, disrupted routines and heightened stress. At the same time, the growing awareness and destigmatization of mental health has encouraged more people to seek help, which is a very hopeful trend.”
Still, many new clients come to the clinic after struggling to find care that fits. Zayed said that’s often because traditional therapy wasn’t designed for OCD or anxiety specifically.
“Our mission is to help clients and families find lasting relief and to feel empowered in their lives again,” she said. “We’re proud to be part of the Orland Park community and grateful for the opportunity to serve.”