Podcasts about ocd treatment

What if the scariest thoughts in your head mean nothing at all? William Schultz spent ten years trapped inside obsessive compulsive disorder. It got so bad he became afraid of his own shadow, checking it every time he flipped a light switch. Then he made one brave decision that put him in remission within two months. No drugs. No endless analysis. Today he's a psychotherapist in St. Paul, president of OCD Twin Cities, and the expert who pushed the International OCD Foundation to revise its own treatment guidelines in 2025.In this conversation, Dr. Roger McFillin and William expose why standard mental health care makes OCD worse. They reveal what actually frees people in an in depth conversation.  If you've ever been attacked by a thought you couldn't turn off, this episode is your way out.

Welcome back — I'm Jaime, an ERP therapist specializing in CBT and EMDR. This is video 7 in our ongoing series on OCD treatment, and today we're diving deeper into the cycle that keeps OCD going — and how you can begin to shift it with compassion, clarity, and courage.OCD isn't just about intrusive thoughts. It's about how we interpret those thoughts, the meaning we assign to them, and the responses we use to feel better — responses that often bring short-term relief and long-term reinforcement.

When we talk about OCD, the focus is often on intrusive thoughts. But that's only part of the picture.In this compassionate, trauma-informed video, I explore the full spectrum of OCD intrusions — including emotions, physical sensations, and urges — and why they matter just as much as thoughts. If you've ever felt overwhelming guilt, anxiety, or a strange physical sensation and wondered, “What does this mean?” — you're not alone.

A lot of people start ERP expecting immediate relief, so when their anxiety spikes in the beginning, they assume the treatment is failing. But as Dr. Patrick McGrath explains, that discomfort is often a sign that the therapy is actually working. OCD gets used to compulsions, reassurance, avoidance, and safety behaviors keeping fear under control, so when those habits are removed, the disorder tends to “fight back” harder before it starts losing power. In this video, Dr. McGrath explains why this happens so often during recovery. At NOCD, we specialize in exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, the most effective treatment for OCD—a treatment that can help you live a fulfilling life. If you're ready to take your first step, book a free 15-minute call with us at https://learn.nocd.com/YTFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm sharing the nine core things I teach every OCD client in their very first therapy session to help them better understand recovery, build confidence in ERP, and begin responding differently to intrusive thoughts.

*What is intensive treatment for OCD — and who is it actually for?*   In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Chad Brandt, clinical psychologist and OCD specialist. Together, they explore intensive ERP treatment for severe OCD, the Bergen 4-Day Treatment model, and why longer-form exposure therapy can create rapid breakthroughs in recovery.   Dr. Chad Brandt opens up about: • His background treating severe OCD and anxiety disorders • What makes ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) the gold standard for OCD treatment • How intensive OCD treatment differs from traditional weekly therapy and IOP programs • Why “doing exposures fully” matters more than simply doing more exposures • The most common fears and objections people have before starting ERP • Why OCD recovery is about changing your response to uncertainty — not eliminating thoughts   Whether you're navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers hope, practical insight, and a deeper understanding of what real OCD treatment can look like.  

In this episode, Carrie shares how to move forward when OCD treatment, ERP, prayer, or recovery programs leave you feeling stuck, discouraged, and questioning whether things can really change. Episode Highlights:Why failed OCD treatment can feel emotionally devastating for ChristiansThe mindset shift that changes how recovery and progress are viewedWhat may actually be missing when therapy does not seem effectiveWhy more people are exploring ICBT after difficult ERP experiencesHow faith, resilience, and growth can still emerge from disappointmentExplore the Empowered Mind: Christian ICBT for OCD: https://carriebock.com/training/ Carrie's services and courses: carriebock.com/services/                                                       carriebock.com/resources/Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/christianfaithandocd/and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/christianfaithandocd for the latest updates and sneak peeks. 

Welcome to The Online Therapy Clinic OCD Support That WorksHi, I'm Jaime — CBT & ERP therapist, Clinical & Meta Supervisor, and EMDR practitioner. I specialise in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related challenges. After years in the NHS and private practice, I saw how hard it can be to access the right support — and that's why I created The Online Therapy Clinic.

Is it OCD… or autism? And how do you actually treat both?   In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Jenna Stone, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of SideQuest Psychotherapy. Together, they explore the complex overlap between OCD and autism, and how proper evaluation and therapy can change everything.   Jenna opens up about: • Her personal journey with OCD and lived experience in the mental health field • How autism and OCD can overlap—and why they're often misunderstood • The differences between OCD rumination and autistic processing • How therapy needs to adapt when working with neurodivergent clients   If you've ever questioned whether symptoms are OCD, autism, or both—this episode will give you clarity, direction, and a more compassionate understanding of your experience.   Whether you're navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers practical insight, validation, and hope for a more personalized path to recovery.  

Did you know the correct kind of OCD treatment doesn't just change how you feel, it can actually change how your brain responds to fear. Yes, it's true and in this video, Dr. Patrick McGrath explains why. This isn't meant to be a science lesson, but rather a simple explanation of what's happening in the brain when someone begins effective OCD treatment like exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP). As people learn to face intrusive thoughts and resist compulsions, the brain gradually recalibrates its threat response, helping them react differently to anxiety and regain control over their lives.At NOCD, we specialize in exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the most effective treatment for OCD—a treatment that can help you live a fulfilling life. If you're ready to take your first step, book a free 15-minute call with us at https://learn.nocd.com/YTFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the OCD Family Podcast, Nicole Morris welcomes back Dr. Michael Greenberg, licensed clinical psychologist and creator of Rumination-Focused ERP, to explore a deeper way of understanding OCD.Dr. Greenberg shares insights from his article “OCD as a Defense Mechanism,” where he integrates behavioral approaches like ERP with psychoanalytic perspectives on emotional conflict and relational development. Together, Nicole and Michael discuss how OCD symptoms may function as defenses that displace difficult emotions into obsessions and compulsions.This conversation invites clinicians, families, and those with lived experience to consider a both-and approach to OCD treatment—one that addresses symptoms while also exploring the emotional dynamics that may fuel them.

OCD is often misunderstood as being about cleanliness, checking, or perfectionism. In this episode, Dr. Taz sits down with therapist and author Melissa Mose, LMFT, to unpack why OCD is frequently misdiagnosed for over a decade and what's really happening beneath the surface of obsessions and compulsions. Melissa's book Internal Family Systems Therapy for OCD bridges compassionate parts-based work with proven science to offer a richer path to lasting change.Using clear science and compassionate explanations, this conversation explores how OCD hijacks the brain through a cycle of alarm and relief, why reassurance and family accommodation can quietly reinforce symptoms, and what actually works in treatment. Melissa breaks down why talk therapy alone often fails OCD, how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) retrains the nervous system, and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) adds depth, self-compassion, and relational healing to recovery.In this hol+ conversation, Dr. Taz sits down with therapist, educator, and author Melissa Mose, LMFT, to unpack what OCD really is and why it often goes undiagnosed for over a decade. Melissa shares why OCD disguises itself as “just anxiety,” how well-meaning reassurance can quietly reinforce the disorder, and why many people spend years in talk therapy without real relief.Using clear science and compassionate language, this episode explores how OCD operates through a cycle of alarm and relief, why the brain learns to depend on compulsions, and how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) helps retrain the nervous system. Melissa also explains how Internal Family Systems (IFS) adds a relational, self-compassionate layer to treatment, helping people work with their inner world instead of battling it.This conversation also looks at the bigger picture. OCD does not exist in isolation. Dr. Taz and Melissa explore how neuroinflammation, PANS and PANDAS, hormonal shifts, trauma, ADHD, eating disorders, and chronic stress can overlap with or intensify OCD symptoms. They discuss why intrusive thoughts can be disturbing and taboo, why intolerance of uncertainty sits at the core of OCD, and how relationships and intimacy are often quietly impacted.From shame and self-blame to clarity and support, this episode offers a grounded reframe of OCD as a treatable condition rooted in brain-body patterns, not personal failure. Whether you are seeking help for yourself, supporting someone you love, or trying to understand OCD beyond the stereotypes, this conversation replaces fear with understanding and helplessness with practical pathways forward.Dr. Taz and Melissa Mose, LMFT discuss: Why OCD often goes undiagnosed for 11 to 17 years How reassurance and family accommodation make OCD worse The obsession-compulsion cycle and why it gets reinforced Why talk therapy alone often fails OCD What ERP actually does to retrain the brain How Internal Family Systems supports compassion and healing The role of uncertainty intolerance in OCD How OCD affects families, partners, and intimacy Neuroinflammation, PANS, PANDAS, hormones, and symptom flares Why intrusive thoughts do not define who you areAbout Melissa Mose, LMFT Melissa Mose is a licensed marriage and family therapist, educator, and specialist in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. With over 30 years of clinical experience, she works with individuals and families navigating OCD and anxiety, and trains clinicians in evidence-based treatment approaches. Melissa integrates Exposure and Response Prevention with Internal Family Systems to support deep, sustainable change that goes beyond symptom management. Melissa is the author of Internal Family Systems Therapy for OCD: A Clinician's Guide, a resource designed to help therapists bring compassion, parts-based awareness, and relational healing into gold-standard OCD treatment.Stay Connected:Connect further to Hol+ at https://holplus.co/- Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of hol+.Follow Melissa Mose, LMFT Learn more about Melissa's work: https://melissamosemft.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissamosemftFollow Dr. Taz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtazmd/https://www.instagram.com/liveholplus/Subscribe to the audio podcast: https://holplus.transistor.fm/subscribeSubscribe to the video podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DrTazMD/podcastsGet your copy of The Hormone Shift: Balance Your Body and Thrive Through Midlife and MenopauseHost & Production TeamHost: Dr. Taz; Produced by ClipGrowth.com (Producer: Pat Gostek)

In this reflective and practical episode of Breaking the Rules, the hosts unpack a phrase that shows up constantly in therapy rooms: “I don't feel ready.” What does it actually mean? Is readiness a feeling—or is it a decision we make in the presence of fear, uncertainty, and discomfort?Using OCD as the primary lens, this conversation explores how clients often wait for certainty, calm, or clarity before taking action—and how that waiting quietly reinforces avoidance. The discussion moves beyond symptom management and into the deeper work of distinguishing thoughts vs feelings, building emotional literacy, and helping clients move forward despite anxiety rather than waiting for it to disappear.This episode is especially valuable for clinicians working with ambivalence, treatment resistance, or clients who feel “stuck” before starting ERP or making meaningful behavioural change.

An intensive, circuit-breaker type treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder is now being trialled in New Zealand. Founder of the treatment, Dr Bjarne Hansen spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

A new treatment is on the way for Kiwis impacted by OCD. Charity Open Closed Doors is bringing The Bergen Four Day OCD programme to our shores - the treatment is internationally recognised and has a near 70 percent success rate. Clinical psychologist Dr Ben Sedley travelled to Singapore to learn about the programme first-hand, and he was impressed by the results. "Once you learn how to recognise all the compulsions and stop them and you've got a one-on-one clinician with you side by side for two days of doing the exposure response prevention, plus some psychoeducation - when you have all these thing together, you really have the chance to just get the momentum." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when your mind turns against you — and fills you with thoughts you can't control?   In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Maurice, creator of the Obsessless app — a powerful new tool designed to support people living with OCD. Maurice opens up about his terrifying first intrusive thoughts, years of misdiagnosis, and how ERP therapy and mindset work helped him turn pain into purpose.   Together, we explore: • The hidden side of OCD most people never see • How intrusive thoughts can completely take over your life • What it really takes to heal when therapy isn't immediately available • The creation of Obsessless — and why tech could change OCD recovery forever   Whether you're currently navigating OCD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers raw truth, hope, and tools for reclaiming your mind.  

Most people think OCD treatment is just meeting with a therapist once or twice a week. But what happens when that's not enough?In this episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast, Dr. Patrick McGrath sits down with Lori Johnson — a clinician who has worked in every level of care, from inpatient hospitals to outpatient therapy. They explain what “higher levels of care” really mean, including intensive outpatient programs (IOP), partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and residential treatment. Lori shares her journey from working in addiction centers to leading OCD programs, and explains how these different options give people the support they need without always requiring a hospital stay.At NOCD, we specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, the most effective treatment against the disorder. Want to explore your treatment options? Book a free 15-minute call with us at https://learn.nocd.com/YTFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Catherine Quiring of the Who We Are & What We Need podcast interviews me. We chat about the powerful synergy between spirituality and psychology, exploring how these two disciplines can be harmoniously integrated to foster personal growth. ________Connect with Catherine: Website - Substack - PinterestHi, Catherine Quiring is a counselor and self-trust coach living on the Emerald Coast of Florida, on the unceded land of the Muscogee. I am a creative, mystic, and neurodiverse adventurer. I love writing, creating, and connecting.Alongside this Substack and her podcast Who We Are & What We Need, she counsel's clients, speaks, leads workshops, blogs, and leads in depth group programs.Catherine's free gift to you: 3 steps to trust yourself.Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and does not substitute individual psychological advice. *This is an affiliate link. Purchasing through affiliate links supports The Soul Horizon at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

This episode breaks down what effective, child-friendly OCD treatment looks like—showing parents and clinicians how to build bravery, reduce accommodation, and tailor ERP to a child's developmental stage.

A "circuit-breaker"-type treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder - which is having impressive results internationally - will soon be available in this country. Ruth Hill explains.

In this episode, Carrie shares how integrating ICBT and EMDR creates a powerful, personalized approach to treating OCD. She explains how these therapies work together to address both the cognitive and nervous system components of healing through a Christ-centered lens.Episode Highlight: Why EMDR is more than just trauma treatment and how it targets the nervous system for healingHow ICBT helps identify and restructure obsessional reasoning in OCDThe benefits of combining EMDR and ICBT for complex, co-occurring symptomsHow to approach therapy with questions and curiosity about your treatment plan Join the waitlist for the Christians Learning ICBT training: https://carriebock.com/training/ Explore Carrie's services and courses: carriebock.com/services/ carriebock.com/resources/Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/christianfaithandocd/and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/christianfaithandocd for the latest updates and sneak peeks.

In episode 487 I chat with Justin Hughes, Valerie Andrews, Dr Alan Noble, and Chelsea Risko. We discuss  how OCD can latch on to faith, scrupulosity, finding the line between compulsive prayer and valued prayer, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), inference-based cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT), how faith was a support for them, worrying about therapy and faith, working with a non faith based counsellor, words of hope, and much more.  Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/episode/faith-487 The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers effective, convenient therapy available in the US and outside the US. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://learn.nocd.com/theocdstories Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter  Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. To sign up to our Patreon and to check out the benefits you'll receive as a Patron, visit: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast 

Many families struggle to find OCD treatment for their children. Specialty-trained therapists are limited, and wait lists are usually long. Online therapy is an option, but how well does it work? Today, we discuss a study that examines online cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention for kids with OCD.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 05/19/2025Duration: 11 minutes, 16 secondsJoshua Feder, MD, and Mara Goverman, LCSW, have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

In this episode, Kimberley Quinlan and Dr. Jon Abramowitz explore the current state of OCD treatment in 2025, highlighting what's working, what challenges remain, and how the future of personalized, evidence-based care is evolving.

Is OCD holding you back? On this episode of Create with Franz, we're tackling the complex world of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder with expert Dr. Avigail Lev. We'll explore the science behind compulsions, the different faces of OCD, and why early intervention is key. Dr. Lev shares her insights on schema and somatic therapy, and introduces NeuroImmerse, a revolutionary approach combining neuroscience and immersive sound.  Get ready to understand your brain better, break free from anxiety, and discover powerful tools for healing. Plus, access free guided exercises to experience the transformative power of NeuroImmerse! Topic covered: OCD, OCD symptoms, OCD treatment, OCD anxiety, types of OCD, compulsions, obsessions, CBT for OCD, schema therapy OCD, somatic therapy OCD, NeuroImmerse, binaural beats OCD, exposure therapy OCD, OCD recovery, anxiety relief, mental health podcast, neuroscience podcast, mindset transformation, emotional healing, overcoming anxiety   Find Avigail Here: https://valuesbasedcoaching.com/our-team/ Work with Franz on your mindset!   Did you enjoy this episode and would like to share some love?  

If OCD is disrupting your life and preventing you from doing what you really want to do, Mission Connection can help. Call (866) 833-1822 or visit https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/ocd-treatment/ to learn about their various treatment programs, which are offered in California. Mission Connection City: San Juan Capistrano Address: 30310 Rancho Viejo Rd. Website: https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/

Send Lauren a text! In this episode, I focus on how parents can find qualified therapists who treat OCD in children and teens, understand ERP therapy (the gold standard in OCD treatment) and support their child's recovery journey.✨ What's Bringing Me More ZenTune in till the end of the episode to discover my new favorite protein-packed snack that helps me through mid-day energy slumps! Click here to see where you can buy this snack for yourself 

The 2025 IOCDF Conference — starting July 10 in Chicago — is set to bring together clinicians, researchers, and individuals with OCD for a weekend focused on education, advocacy, and community. In this episode, Rebecca Deusser, Executive Director of the International OCD Foundation, talks with Dr. Patrick McGrath about what makes this event unique and why it has become such an important gathering for the OCD community. They discuss new initiatives for this year's conference, including expanded virtual access, increased programming for families, and a stronger emphasis on global outreach.Beyond the conference, Rebecca shares the IOCDF's long-term goals, from pushing for more research funding to improving access to treatment worldwide. With OCD still widely misunderstood and effective care difficult to find, the need for advocacy has never been greater. This conversation dives into how the conference plays a key role in breaking stigma, equipping clinicians with better training, and giving those affected by OCD the resources they need.For more information about the conference, please visit: https://iocdf.org/programs/conferences/Follow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocdFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

This is the final part of our two-part chat with Chrissie Hodges. In the last episode, Chrissie shared her early experiences with OCD before embracing the challenges of OCD peer support and advocacy work. In this episode, Chrissie reflects on her experiences with OCD treatments and what clinicians can and should be doing better. She also emphasises the importance of acknowledging the impacts of different OCD themes on the individual and how some themes might result in more trauma and stigma than others. Resources and links: Chrissie Hodges’ website Chrissie Hodges on YouTube Chrissie Hodges on Instagram OCD Gamechangers website Webinars, books, and training by Melbourne Wellbeing Group OCD training workshops by Dr Celin Gelgec OCD focused supervision for healthcare professionals with Dr Celin Gelgec Connect: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

A decade ago, finding effective OCD treatment was an uphill battle —misdiagnosis, stigma, and inaccessibility left many struggling alone. But change is happening. OCD advocate Chrissie Hodges and Stephen Smith, co-founder and CEO of NOCD, share their personal and professional journeys in reshaping the landscape of OCD care. From grassroots advocacy to groundbreaking digital therapy, they explore how far treatment has come, but also the obstacles that still prevent people from getting help.Despite big progress, stigma and misinformation continue to delay diagnosis and treatment, especially for those facing the most distressing OCD themes. Chrissie and Stephen cover why awareness is the final frontier and how the next decade can bring true accessibility, understanding, and support for those who need it most.NOCD is proud to treat OCD with expert care. Our therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy — the leading treatment against OCD. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized care at https://learn.nocd.com/podcastFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Titans of Science continues, where we talk to some of the major movers and shakers leading the way in their respective fields. This time we're hearing from Cambridge neuroscientist, and expert on obsessive compulsive disorder - OCD - Trevor Robbins... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Join your host, Nicole Morris, LMFT and Mental Health Correspondent, as she reviews an overview of evidence-based therapies and emerging protocols with help from some of her prior podcast guests. Nicole amasses highlights of ERP, I-CBT, MCT, Medication Support, TMS and Deep Brain Stimulation. Additionally, Nicole highlights 4 emerging protocols worth our time and attention, including the developing landscape for I-CBT with kids, Rumination-Focused ERP, the Mastery Approach and the Upside of OCD. So whether you're already aware of most of these and curious to hear more, or new to the OCD Family Community and desperate for hope, we've got you with highlights from OCD researchers, psychiatrists, trainers and OCD treatment experts, oh my!

Make 2025 the year you take control of your OCD with insights from Brenna Posey, NOCD's Client Success Senior Manager. Brenna brings a unique perspective as both an expert in OCD care and someone who has personally experienced and managed her own OCD.In this episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast, Brenna dives into the questions many are asking as they consider treatment in the new year. Take 10 minutes of your time as she answers three key questions to help you approach OCD treatment with confidence and make this your year of progress.Start 2025 by booking a free 15-minute consultation with one of our experts. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to pick your appointment. Follow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

In this episode, Dr. David Puder dives deep into the world of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with renowned expert Dr. Fred Penzel, who brings over 43 years of experience to the table. Together, they explore groundbreaking approaches to treating OCD, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), cognitive restructuring, and embracing uncertainty. Dr. Penzel shares fascinating insights into the neurobiology of OCD, the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions, and effective strategies for lasting recovery. Whether you're a clinician seeking best practices or someone navigating OCD, this episode offers a wealth of practical tools, compelling stories, and hope. Uncover why OCD is called the "doubting disease" and how evidence-based methods can break its grip. This is more than a podcast—it's a roadmap to understanding and overcoming one of the most challenging mental health conditions.

Send us a textI just had an eye-opening conversation with OCD specialist Amanda Petrik-Gardner that I can't wait to share with you.Most of us think we understand OCD – neat freaks who love cleaning, right? WRONG. Amanda completely shattered those myths and revealed how complex and misunderstood this disorder really is.

Stanford researcher Dr. Carolyn Rodriguez is at the forefront of OCD treatment and care. In this episode of the Get to Know Podcast, Dr. Rodriguez gives us a look at new treatments for OCD. She tells us what's still the gold-standard treatment but also new research areas to treat OCD, including improv and psychedelics. If you want a look into the future of OCD treatment, you're in the right place!If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, know there is help. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://learn.nocd.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠ to learn more.Show notes:0:00 Intro1:14 Carolyn's background 2:11 What Carolyn' superpower is4:07 Being a role model for others6:40 Helping those with OCD is Carolyn's passion9:25 Could MDMA help with OCD?12:29 Mentors paved the path for Carolyn15:20 Latest psychedelics research on OCD19:50 What Patrick learned from a comedy class21:19 What's next for Carolyn's lab and research24:51 Surgical therapy for OCD25:43 Overlap between OCD and hoarding disorder30:02 What Carolyn wants her legacy to be31:10 Treatment resistance34:35 Medication for OCD35:31 Advice from Carolyn Follow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

OCD-specialized treatment can make all the difference in recovery, but these days, the word "specialized" gets tossed around way too often. In this special episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast, we sit down with OCD researcher Uma Chatterjee and NOCD's Tia Wilson to dig into what truly counts as specialized care — and what doesn't. Hear their candid convo as both share their personal experiences with effective and ineffective treatments for their OCD. This is an eye-opening conversation you won't want to miss.If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, know there is help. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://learn.nocd.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more.Show notes:0:00 Intro2:03 Treatments that didn't work8:53 What is specialized treatment13:14 First line treatment for OCD21:25 Treatment resistance28:15 The proven link between OCD and the brain34:59 Therapist red flags42:56 Therapist green flag45:45 What makes the OCD community so unique 54:11 Remembering why you became an advocate 59:54 Favorite therapists1:11:48 Uma's message about hope Follow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/https://twitter.com/treatmyocdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Paul Peterson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the CEO of the OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center. His practice involves mainly working with Anxiety, OCD, Hoarding, and Trichotillomania. He also works with patients suffering from comorbid issues. His practice evolved from his early years of marriage, where he realized his wife and son were living with OCD.  After using the by-the-book methods to treat his son, he realized treatment could be better. Today, he has cultivated methods of treating OCD by learning from different experts in the field and applying what he sees fitting best with each individual patient. In this episode we talk about:  ◾️Peter's personal history in treating OCD ◾️ A deeper dive into OCD treatments ◾️ Finding the right method for your OCD Find Paul here: theocdandanxietytreatmentcenter.com Find Zach here: zachwesterbeck.com/ocd-coaching @zach_westerbeck Discover the transformative power of my Concierge OCD Coaching program, where personalized support meets proven strategies to help you overcome intrusive thoughts and reclaim your life. Experience up to two one-on-one coaching sessions each week, tailored resources designed specifically for your journey, and a customized roadmap that guides you every step of the way. Plus, enjoy text support between sessions to keep you on track and motivated. This isn't just coaching; it's a life-changing opportunity to unlock your potential and embrace a calmer, happier existence. Don't wait—take the first step toward your transformation and apply now:  Disclaimer: Nothing here is medical advice. Please do your own research. The information above is just for informational and educational purposes. If you require assistance with any mental health or medical issue, please contact your healthcare provider for any medical care or medical advice.

Penny Moodie grew up consumed by catastrophic thoughts and developed habits to try to ward off impending doom. It turned out she had been living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (R)

Did you know there is a psychological approach to treating OCD that DOESN'T focus on preventing compulsions?To mark OCD Awareness Week, I am joined by Amanda Petrik-Gardner, a licensed clinical professional counsellor specializing in inference-based CBT (iCBT). We discuss the principles of iCBT, which differs from the traditional exposure and response prevention (ERP) approach. Instead, iCBT focuses on the reasoning process behind obsessional doubts rather than stopping compulsions. Our conversation highlights the concept of inferential confusion and the feared possible self, aiming to restore trust in the individual's real self. The conversation provides insights into the practical aspects of iCBT therapy, valuable insights into this purely cognitive approach that seeks to resolve the roots of obsessive doubt.  Highlights of the episode include:03:10 What is iCBT?04:02 Core Concepts of iCBT07:30 Research and Evidence for iCBT09:03 Inferential Confusion Explained12:39 Components Leading to Inferential Confusion18:34 The Feared Possible SelfThis week's guest:Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP specialises in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders. Amanda is the creator of the OCD Exposure Colouring Books and The Compulsive Reassurance Workbook. Amanda currWhat did you think of this episode?More free downloads and resources to support your mental health and wellbeing: https://www.harleyclinical.co.uk/free-mental-health-downloadable-guidesJoin our email list for more mental health tips: https://mailchi.mp/harleyclinical/newsletter-sign-upFor private psychology services and therapy in person (London/Hertfordshire) or online, please visit Harley Clinical Psychology.*****************Subscribe to Dr Liz's YouTube channelFollow Harley Clinical on InstagramFollow Dr Liz White on InstagramFollow Dr Liz White on TikTok*****************DISCLAIMER - The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.

OCD doesn't live in a bubble; it lives in our home. It lives in our families. It is not an isolated disorder. It involves the whole family system.That is why family involvement is key to a child's OCD long term success. Often this is the missing component, even when a child is being treated for OCD.In this week's AT Parenting Survival Podcast I explore how OCD involves the family and what parents can do to leverage their support.

Inspired by a suggestion from our listener Ashley, today Carrie is diving into how being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) affects OCD treatment. She explores why sensitivity matters and how it can shape your therapeutic journey.Episode Highlights: What it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person and how it impacts daily life.How being an HSP can influence the approach to treating OCD.Carrie shares her own experiences with sensitivity and how she manages it.Adjustments therapists can make to accommodate highly sensitive individuals in OCD treatment.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://hopeforanxietyandocd.com/free Explore our courses: https://hopeforanxietyandocd.podia.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeforanxietyandocdpodcast and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hopeforanxietyandocd for the latest updates and sneak peeks.

Chris opines about the future of mental healthcare in general and OCD treatment in particular. Given the slow but steady, technological development of healthcare delivery in the past 20 to 30 years, it's only a matter of time. Soon AI human-like robots (like Max Headroom from the 80s) will serve as treatment experts, and patients will get themselves better with the use of highly developed and widely accessible, therapeutic applications. Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have to chris@KentuckyOCD.com. If you've found OCD Straight Talk helpful, consider giving us a 5-star rating/review and subscribing to the podcast for more structured help with you anxiety or OCD symptoms.

SPP 176: Anxiety and OCD Treatment #psychedpodcast is excited for a great episode! Please join us as we chat with Natasha Daniels https://www.anxioustoddlers.com/https://hillchildcounseling.com/

Dr. Teri Bullis is the founder of Behavior Solutions for Children and Families. Her specialty in therapy lies in treating children of ages 3 to 12 and parents with ADHD, aggression, oppositionality, ASD-related social skills deficit, sleeping issues, and more. For patients with OCD, she collaborates with the patient in crafting effective ERP exercises to help them confront their intrusions in manageable steps. She believes in the close involvement of parents when it comes to treating their kids who face behavioral challenges.  In this episode we talk about:  ◾️ OCD in 3-12 year olds ◾️  Setting up a rewards system to aid in the child's recovery ◾️ Helping parents participate in their children's recovery journey Find Teri here: drterib@gmail.com behaviorsolutionsvt.com Find Zach here: zachwesterbeck.com @zach_westerbeck This podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers effective, affordable, and convenient OCD therapy. NOCD therapists are trained in Exposure Response Prevention, or ERP, therapy, the gold standard treatment for OCD. With NOCD, you can do virtual, live face-to-face video sessions with one of their licensed, specialty-trained therapists, and they accept most major insurance plans. If your insurance isn't covered, mention discount code ZACH100 for a special $100 rate for the next two months. To find out more about NOCD, visit zachwesterbeck.com/virtual-ocd-therapy/ to book a free 15-minute call. Zach Westerbeck is not a licensed medical professional. Zach Westerbeck is not trained in diagnosing psychological or medical conditions. Zach Westerbeck is not a substitute for medical care or medical advice. If you require assistance with any mental health or medical issue, please contact your health care provider for any medical care or medical advice. Zach Westerbeck makes no guarantees of any kind that the information or services provided by Zach Westerbeck will improve the client's situation. This podcast should not be considered medical advice. Please seek professional assistance from a licensed professional. Zach Westerbeck (https://zachwesterbeck.com/virtual-ocd-therapy/) Virtual OCD Therapy - Zach Westerbeck I've partnered with NOCD to bring you effective, affordable and convenient OCD therapy.

Perfectionism. It's a complicated trait that shows up a lot when working with OCD. It can present in a range of ways and can look like self-loathing, anger, people-pleasing, or even a strong sense of doubt and uncertainty in clients. In this skills episode, we dig into how perfectionism can manifest in a client, how it might present in a session, and how to address it when it does.   Connect: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Imagine carrying a relentless storm of anxiety, compelled by thoughts that clash with your core values—a reality for many living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Joined by Stephen Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of NoCD, we confront the cold truth about OCD, unmasking the fears and secretive struggles that countless individuals endure. Gone are the misconceptions and casual stigmas; instead, our conversation serves as a beacon of understanding and a call to action for heightened awareness and empathy. This episode offers firsthand narratives and expert insights into the labyrinth of OCD subtypes, from harm-based to relationship OCD. We discuss the transformative effect of specialized treatment, particularly exposure response prevention (ERP), and how it stands as a testament to hope for those grappling with this disorder. Stephen's journey with NoCD shines a light on the importance of immediate, accessible support, detailing how ERP is revolutionizing care by meeting people where they are, amidst their deepest fears. Follow nOCD @treatmyocd Follow Chase @chase_chewning ----- In this episode we discuss... (00:00) Understanding OCD (12:18) Understanding and Treating Different OCD Subtypes (18:54) Understanding OCD and Effective Treatment (26:51) OCD Treatment and Co-Morbid Conditions (34:38) Improving Access to OCD Treatment (39:45) Accessing OCD Treatment With NoCD (48:43) Access NoCD Resources for Mental Health ----- Episode resources: This episode is sponsored by nOCD, to learn more about their treatment options visit TreatMyOCD.com Watch and subscribe on YouTube

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a challenging condition, but the good news is that it's highly treatable. The key to effective management and recovery lies in understanding the condition, embracing the right treatment approaches, and adopting a supportive mindset. This article distills essential guidance and expert insights, aiming to empower those affected by OCD with knowledge and strategies for their treatment journey. YOU ARE BRAVE FOR STARTING OCD TREATMENT Taking the first step towards seeking help for OCD is a significant and brave decision. Acknowledging the courage it takes to confront one's fears and commit to treatment is crucial. Remember, showing up for therapy or seeking help is a commendable act of bravery. YOU CAN GET BETTER WITH OCD TREATMENT OCD treatment, particularly through methods like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has shown considerable success. These evidence-based approaches are supported by extensive research, indicating significant potential for individuals to reclaim their lives from OCD's grasp. The path may not lead to a complete eradication of symptoms, but substantial improvement and regained control over one's life are highly achievable. OCD TREATMENT IS NOT TALK THERAPY OCD therapy extends beyond the realms of conventional talk therapy, involving specific exercises, homework, and practical worksheets designed to confront and manage OCD symptoms directly. These tools are integral to the treatment process, allowing individuals to actively engage with their treatment both within and outside therapy sessions. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS “BAD” THOUGHTS A pivotal aspect of OCD treatment involves changing how individuals perceive their thoughts and their control over them. It's essential to recognize that thoughts, regardless of their nature, do not define a person. Attempting to control or suppress thoughts often exacerbates them, which is why therapy focuses on techniques that allow individuals to accept their thoughts without judgment and reduce their impact. YOU CAN NOT CONTROL YOUR THOUGHTS, BUT YOU CAN CONTROL YOUR BEHAVIORS You will have intrusive thoughts and feelings. This is a part of being human, and it is not in your control. However, you can learn to pivot and change your reactions to these intrusive thoughts, feelings, sensations, urges, and images.  YOU HAVE MANY OCD TREATMENT OPTIONS While medication can be a valuable part of OCD treatment, particularly when combined with therapy, it's not mandatory. Decisions regarding medication should be made based on personal circumstances, preferences, and professional advice, acknowledging that progress is still possible without it. In addition to ERP and CBT, other therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and self-compassion practices have emerged as beneficial complements to OCD treatment. These approaches can offer additional strategies to cope with symptoms and improve overall well-being. The accessibility of OCD treatment has expanded significantly with the advent of online therapy and self-led courses. These digital resources provide valuable support, particularly for those unable to access traditional therapy, enabling individuals to engage with treatment tools and strategies remotely. For those without access to a therapist, self-led OCD courses and resources can offer guidance and structure. Engaging with these materials can empower individuals to take active steps towards managing their OCD, underscoring the importance of self-directed learning in the recovery process. TREATMENT WILL NEVER INVOLVE YOU DOING THINGS YOU DO NOT WANT TO DO I am usually very clear with my patients. Here are some key points I share I will never ask you to do something I do not want you to do I will never ask you to do something that I myself would not do  I will never ask you to do something that goes against your values. RECOVERY IS NOT LINEAR Recovery from OCD is not a linear process; it involves ups and downs, successes and setbacks. Embracing discomfort and challenges as part of the journey is essential. Adopting a mindset that views discomfort as an opportunity for growth can greatly enhance one's resilience and progress in treatment. There will be good days and hard days. This is normal for OCD recovery.  There will be days when you feel like you are making no progress, but you are. Keep going at it and be as gentle as you can SETTING CLEAR TREATMENT GOALS Clarifying treatment goals is crucial for a focused and effective therapy experience. Whether it's reducing compulsions, living according to one's values, or tackling specific fears, clear goals provide direction and motivation throughout the treatment process. BE HONEST WITH YOUR THERAPIST The success of OCD treatment is significantly influenced by the honesty and openness of the individual undergoing therapy. Without reservation, sharing one's thoughts, fears, and experiences allows for more tailored and effective therapeutic interventions. IT IS A BEAUTIFUL DAY TO DO HARD THINGS.  No question. You can do hard things!  OCD is a complex but treatable condition. By understanding the essentials of effective treatment, including the importance of evidence-based therapies, the role of mindset, and the value of self-directed learning, individuals can embark on a journey towards recovery with confidence. Remember, every step taken towards confronting OCD is a step towards reclaiming control over one's life and living according to one's values and aspirations. TRANSCRIPT There is so much bad advice out there about OCD treatment. So today, I wanted to share with you the 11 things I specifically tell my patients on their first day of OCD therapy.  Hello, my name is Kimberley Quinlan. I'm an OCD specialist. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, and I have helped hundreds of people with OCD over the course of the 10, 15 years I have been in practice.  Now, whether you have an OCD therapist or not, my goal is to help you feel confident and feel prepared when addressing your OCD treatment and symptoms, whether you have an OCD therapist or not. That is the big goal here at CBTSchool.com and Your Anxiety Toolkit podcast.  Make sure you stick around until the end because I will also be sharing specific things that you can remember if you don't have a therapist, because I know a lot of you don't. And I'll be sharing what you need to know so that you don't feel like you're doing it alone.  Now, if you're watching this here on YouTube, or you follow me on social media at Your Anxiety Toolkit, let me know if there's anything I've missed or anything that you were told on your first session that was particularly helpful, because I'm sure your knowledge can help someone else or another person with OCD who is in need of support and care and advice. So let's go. Here are the 11 things that I tell my patients on their first day of OCD therapy. Number one, I congratulate them for showing up, because showing up for OCD treatment is probably one of the most brave things you can do. I really make sure I validate them that this is scary, and I'm really glad they're here. And I'm pretty impressed with the fact that they showed up, even though it's scary.  The second thing I tell them is that OCD treatment is successful. You can come a long way and make massive changes in your life by going through the steps of OCD treatment, showing up, being willing to take a look at what's going on in your life, and making appropriate changes so that you can get your life back, do things you want to do, spend more time with your family, your friends, the things you love to do, like hobbies, and that OCD treatment can be very effective. We're very lucky that OCD is a very treatable condition. It doesn't mean it'll go away completely, but you can have absolute success in getting your life back.  Now, one thing to know here is, how do we know this? Well, OCD treatment research and OCD treatment articles. If you go onto Google Scholar, you will find a lot of articles that show a meta-analysis of the OCD treatments available, where it shows that ERP and cognitive behavioral therapy are the gold standard of treatment. And using a meta-analysis, that basically means that they've surveyed all of the large, well-done research articles and found which one shows the most results and shows that they have the most repeated results over periods of time. And that's why it is so important that you do follow the research because there is a lot of bad information out there, absolutely.  Now, the third thing I tell my patients on their first day of therapy is that OCD treatment is not talk therapy. It's not just talking, that it requires OCD therapy exercises and homework and lots of worksheets. I have a packet that we give our patients at the center that I own in Calabasas, California. Everyone gets a welcome manual. And in the welcome manual, it's got worksheets on identifying obsessions and compulsions. It's got mindfulness worksheets. It's got logging worksheets. And I will send you home with those to do for homework. You'll come back. Let me know what worked, what didn't work, what was helpful, what wasn't. And you will be doing a lot of this work on your own.  Now, again, as I mentioned at the beginning, if you do not have access to OCD therapy or you don't have the resources to get that, we have an online course called ERP School. It is a course specifically for people with OCD, where I walk you through the specific steps that I take my patients through. And all of those worksheets are there. They have worksheets on identifying your obsessions, identifying your compulsions, mindfulness, self-compassion worksheets, things that can remind you and prompt you in the direction of setting up a plan so that you can get moving and make the steps on your own. The fourth thing that you need to know on the first day of your therapy is that there is no such thing as bad thoughts. Let's just sit with that for a second. There is no such thing as bad thoughts. Your thoughts do not define you, nor do your behaviors, that you might have these thoughts that you think are going to really freak you out. You might have this idea, these thoughts, these intrusive, repetitive, scary thoughts, and you might think, “Well, I can't even tell Kimberley about them yet.” I will often tell my patients like there is nothing these walls haven't heard, and you probably won't shock me because I haven't been shocked in many, many, many years working as an OCD therapist. I've heard it all. I've heard the most, what people perceive as the grossest thoughts. It's a normal part of the work that we do. And your thoughts are neither good nor bad and they do not define you. And I really make that point made because, as we move forward, I want you to know that I've seen a lot of cases and that “your thoughts aren't special” in that they're not something that I would be alarmed by.  The fifth thing that I would tell my patients is that you cannot control your thoughts. And I bet you believe it because you've probably tried over and over again, and all you found is the more you try and control it, the more thoughts you have. The more you try to suppress your thoughts, the more thoughts you have. There are, as we've already discussed, OCD treatment options that will really solidify this concept. Now, the most important one is exposure and response prevention, which is the type of treatment that we use for OCD and is the type of treatment that all of those research articles I discussed before show and direct to as a really successful treatment for OCD.  Now, in addition, there are other OCD treatment options. One of those treatment options is OCD treatment with medication. Now, again, when you do that meta-analysis, we have found that a combination of CBT and ERP with medication is the most successful. Now, that doesn't mean you have to take medication, though. I'm never going to tell my patients that they have to take medication.  So we can have OCD treatment with medication. We can have OCD treatment without medication. In fact, some of my most difficult cases, the clients, for medical reasons or for personal values reasons, chose not to go on medication. You can still get better. It might make it a little more difficult. You may want to speak with your therapist, or if you're doing this alone, you might need to put in a little extra homework, have a team of support, and people who are really there holding you accountable. Absolutely. But medication is another treatment option that you may want to consider as you move through this process. Now there are also new treatments for OCD recovery. They might include acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness practices, self-compassion. We even have some research around dialectical behavioral therapy as other OCD treatment interventions. I will be implementing those as we go, depending on what roadblocks show up. And again, if you're doing this on your own, there are amazing resources that can also help you, and I'll share about those here in a bit. Again, as we've talked about, there is also OCD treatment online. Since COVID-19, we've done a lot of growing in terms of being able to utilize CBT via the internet, via our computers, via our smartphones. A lot of people come to us because they've looked for OCD treatment in Los Angeles, which is where we are. And even though they only live a few miles down the street, they're still doing sessions online because it's so convenient. They can do it at home between sessions with their work or between getting their kids to school. So, OCD treatment online has become a very popular way to also access treatment. And I give these to my clients as we go, because sometimes they're going to need a little extra help.  Now, as I've mentioned to you earlier in there, if you don't have access to OCD treatment, there are tons of self-led OCD courses. Again, one of the ones that we offer is ERP School. Now you can go to CBTSchool.com, or you can click the link below in the show notes, where we have all of these courses for OCD and other anxiety disorders. But there are others as well—other amazing therapists who have created similar products.  When we're really looking at treatment depending on your age, the treatment does look very similar for OCD treatment for adults and OCD treatment for children. They are very, very similar. With children, we might play more games, have more rewards, use those strategies, but to be honest with you, adults are just big kids in adult bodies. So I really believe that we want to make this as fun as we can. Have rewards. Have there be something that you're working towards. Make it fun. Make it a part of a game. I use a lot of games in treatment and a lot of ERP games because why do we want to make everything boring all the time? Why not make it a little bit fun if we can? Number seven, the main thing I'm going to tell you here, and this is really, really important, is I will not ask you to do something that you don't want to do. I have this in our welcome manual. We don't ask people to do things that go against their values, and we don't ask people to do things that I myself would not do. There are a lot of TV shows that sort of use ERP and exposure work as sort of like doing your worst, worst, worst, worst, worst case. And that's fine. But often we're not doing that. We're doing exposures, we're facing your fears so that you can get back to functioning, so you can get back to doing the things you want to do. So again, I'm not going to have you do anything you don't want to do. You're in charge. If you're taking ERP School, we do the same thing. You create your own plan. You create a hierarchy of what you want to start with, and we work our way up. And we do the same thing in therapy as well.  Now the eighth thing that I will tell you, and by then you're probably getting a little tired and overwhelmed. We might take a little tea break really quick, but I would tell you that recovery is not linear. While we do have effective treatment for OCD, it will be an up-and-down process. You'll have really good days, and you'll have some hard days. And those hard days don't mean that you're doing anything wrong. It doesn't mean that your treatment's not successful. It just means we have to take a look here and see what's going well, what's not going well, what do we need to tweak, do we need to make a pivot here. Or do we need to reassess something and maybe apply some additional tools—mindfulness tools again, self-compassion skills, some distress tolerance skills, maybe? But just remember, your recovery will not be linear, and that is okay.  Now the ninth thing I'm going to tell you is that your OCD treatment goals must be clear. You are going to get really clear on why you're here, what you want to do, why you're doing this treatment because it is hard work. Again, there's homework. I'm going to be giving you some things to do at home, and they're going to be a little bit difficult. They're going to cause you to feel some feelings that maybe you don't want to feel, some sensations you don't want to feel.  And so, really again, I will ask them, like, what are your goals for treatment? Now, some common OCD goals for OCD therapy is to reduce compulsions. “I want to be able to not be doing these compulsions for hours and hours.” Other people say, “I want to live my life according to my values. I don't want to let fear constantly be telling me what to do.” Other people will say, “I want to learn how to tolerate this discomfort and this uncertainty because every time I try and run away from it, it just gets worse. It makes it worse. And now I'm stuck in this cycle.” So it's important that you get really clear.  Sometimes people will come in and they'll say, “I've never been to Paris. I want to be able to go to Paris with my family. And so, that's the goal.” That's fine too. You could have a large goal like that, or you could have a really simple goal like, “I just want to have more space in my life to paint,” or “I don't want to feel like I'm on edge all the time, like the scariest thing is going to happen all the time.” And that's fine too.  Now, the 10th thing that you're going to need to know and need to remember is, our recovery is really dependent on how open and honest you are. As I said at the beginning, some people don't feel yet like they can trust to tell me the depth of their intrusive thoughts, and that's okay. But throughout therapy, I'm going to need you to be really honest with me and really honest with yourself, because if you're not disclosing what's going on and the thoughts you're having, we can't actually apply the skills to it. And then it puts a wrench in the success of your treatment.  So we want you to be as open, honest as you can. And I often will say to them, there is nothing I haven't heard. In fact, if you have taken ERP School already—a lot of you have—we actually play a couple of games where we play a game called One Up, which is where no matter what thought you have, you make it a little worse or little more scary. And I give some demonstrations and show like I'm not afraid to go there. I will go to the scary, yucky place just to show you that that's what I want you to do as well. Again, it doesn't have to be all serious. We're allowed to play games, and we do that in therapy as well.  Often people will ask like, how do I tell my therapist about these horrible thoughts I'm having? Like, how do I share? If you're having a specific type of thought that you feel is particularly taboo or very scary to share, or you're afraid of the consequences of sharing, what I would encourage you to do is do a very quick Google search. There are some amazing websites and articles online of your obsession. Print it out and bring it to your therapist, and say, “Hey, this is what I'm dealing with. I'm too scared or I'm too vulnerable to share. It's so horrendous in my mind, but this is what I'm going through.” And chances are, again, the therapist, if they're a trained OCD specialist, will go, “Ah, thank you for letting me know. I've treated that before. I'm good to go.” Again, if they're a newer therapist, it's still okay because they're getting the education about really common obsessions that happen a lot in our practice.  Okay. Here we go—drum roll to the last one. And I know you guys are probably already guessing what it is. It's something I say to my patients and to you guys all the time, and it's this: It's a beautiful day to do hard things.  We have been taught that life should be easy, shouldn't be scary, shouldn't be hard, and that you should be Instagram-ready all the time. But the truth is, life is hard. And today is a beautiful day to do those hard things. I have found that those who recover the fastest and the most successful over time are the ones who see discomfort as a challenge, something that they're willing to have. They'll say, “Bring it on, let's go. Bring my shoulders back. I know it's going to be here.” And they're really gentle with themselves when they have this discomfort. And I want you to really walk away feeling empowered that you too can handle some pretty uncomfortable things because you already are. So again, it's a beautiful day to do hard things.  All right, let's round it out because I know I promised you some extra things here. Now, what have we covered? We've covered the mindset shifts that you need for OCD therapy, behavioral changes that you're going to need to make. We've talked about complementary tools, the most important being self-compassion. And also, guys, you can also follow Your Anxiety Toolkit because we have over 380 episodes of tools and core concepts, and everything like that.  Now, for treatment, just so that you get an idea of what this would look like, I share with my patients what treatment looks like. So usually, once I've told them all of this, I send them home with their welcome manual, and I'll say, “The next two to three sessions, I'm going to be training you for this treatment. And a lot of that is going to involve psychoeducation, me giving you tools, giving you strategies, putting a plan together.” And again, for those of you who don't have therapy, we do exactly that in ERP School. So if you feel like you need some structure, you can go to CBTSchool.com and access ERP School. We can go through that.  Now, for those of you, again, who don't have an OCD therapist, does OCD therapy and treatment work for you too? Yes. We actually have some early research to show that self-led programs can be very successful for people with OCD and with other anxiety disorders. So, if you don't have access to therapy, you could take ERP School. You could buy some workbooks that you buy from Amazon or your local bookstore. There are a ton of workbooks out there. Shameless plug, I also wrote one called The Self-Compassion Workbook for OCD. You can get it wherever you buy books. There are also online groups. I'm a huge, huge proponent of online groups. So if there are support groups in your area, by all means, use those because just knowing other people who are struggling, what you're struggling with can be so validating and inspiring because you're seeing them do the hard thing as well.  But either way, treatment requires a lot of homework. So, as I say to patients, showing up here once a week isn't going to get you better. You're going to have to practice the skills. And if you don't have a therapist, you're going to be doing that anyway. So I want to really hope that you leave here with a sense of inspiration and hope that you can get better even if you don't have OCD therapy at this time. So there you go, guys. There are the 11 things I tell my patients on the very first session. I will usually end the session by encouraging them and, again, congratulating them for coming in and doing this work with me. Let them know I'm so excited for them.  I hope that this was helpful for you, and my hope is that you too will then go on to learn all the tools that you need in your tool belt and go on to live the life that you want to live because that's the whole mission here at Your Anxiety Toolkit.  Have a wonderful day, everybody, and I'll talk to you next week.

In this episode, I talk to OCD and anxiety advocate, Elysse Lescarbeau, about techniques typically reserved for OCD and anxiety are actually beneficial for everyone. We also discuss.. Her "Stay PUT" method of managing anxiety in the moment Our 5 strategies typically reserved for OCD/anxiety that can be helpful for all individuals Why and how ERP is absolutely necessary for OCD and anxiety recovery Elysse Lescarbeau (@ocd.or.just.me) has A LOT of lived experience with mental health issues with diagnoses. Elysse had been struggling in silence due to a lack of OCD awareness - she thought her obsessive thoughts and mental only compulsions were “just her”. A year after being hospitalized for SI, with a long overdue OCD diagnosis and treatment under her belt, she hopes to offer others the knowledge she wished she'd had - how OCD can present very differently from common media portrayals, why gold standard therapy techniques for OCD can go beyond treating acute symptoms, and how recovery and a less anxious life IS possible.  Follow her on Instagram @ocd.or.just.me and check out her free resource - the Values in Action Digital Workbook (https://stan.store/ocdorjustme/p/free-find-my-values-worksheet) - for her tried and true techniques to take value-driven action everyday, even while anxious. 

In this midweek special episode I chat with licensed psychologists Dr Michele Bechor and Dr Ciana Mickolus of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.  We discuss their stories, a team approach to OCD treatment, what's it like working in a big multidisciplinary team, the benefits for clients and for staff, a day in the life at NBI, and much more. Hope it helps.   Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/episode/nbi-7  The midweek special episodes which go out at the end of the month on a Wednesday are made possible by and in partnership with the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida. I will be interviewing different members of their clinical team on a range of topics. NBI specialise in treatment and programs for anxiety, OCD, comorbidities, and complex cases. They also offer an intensive outpatient program, and a residential program called the NBI Ranch: A supportive living experience that complements intensive treatment for Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders. To find out more about their intensive outpatient services, or the NBI ranch, as well as to read some of their free information online about OCD via their blog, click here to find out more: https://www.nbiweston.com/