The OCD Stories

Blink blink clop clop audiobook for children

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Shannon (existential themed OCD and postpartum OCD) (#537) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Fugen Neziroglu: When a higher level of care may be needed, and overvalued ideation (#536)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 May 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 536 I chat with Dr. Fugen Neziroglu. Fugen is a board-certified cognitive and behavior psychologist and the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Bio Behavioral Institute in Great Neck, NY. Fugen has published more than 150 papers in scientific journals and authored or co-authored 15 books.

We discuss her rich background in the field of OCD, being mentored by the late Dr Edna Foa, the dosage of therapy, when to level up care, some of the earliest signs once a week therapy isn’t working for someone, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), residential treatment, inpatient treatment, medical treatments, what an IOP should look like, adapting the IOP to the clients timeframe. We then discuss overvalued ideation (OVI), low insight, the need to deal with OVI to improve treatment effectiveness, motivational interviewing, shame, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Fugen:

Website: https://www.biobehavioralinstitute.com/

Resources:

Dr Jon Hoffman

Dr Katia Moritz

NBI: https://www.nbiweston.com/

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Fugen Neziroglu: When a higher level of care may be needed, and overvalued ideation (#536) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Michael (health anxiety, trauma and OCD) (#535)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 535 I chat with Michael who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, nightmares in childhood, relationship themed OCD, the onset of his OCD, harm themed OCD, getting therapy, experiencing a health condition, medical trauma, health anxiety, balancing real health conditions with health anxiety, trauma and OCD (PTOCD), living life and making choices, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for health anxiety in the midst of an actual health issue, self compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

Michael wanted me to add the below points (in italic) that he did not mention in the episode:

One sentence continues to help me on the regular, “No amount of thinking is going to resolve the doubt. However, thinking about it will definitely contribute to your subjective experience of anxiety and make you miserable today!”

Scripting for both OCD and PTSD were helpful. As was dedicated rumination time.

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Resources:

The OCD Stories t-shirts https://theocdstories.creator-spring.com

Jeff Bell

Kim Quinlan – episode Caitlin and Shala https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/when-ocd-and-ptsd-collide-with-shala-nicely-caitlin-pinciotti-ep-362/

Dr Caitlin Pinciotti

Mike’s story

Episode 500

Kristen Neff

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Michael (health anxiety, trauma and OCD) (#535) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Rachel Kuchem Woodward: Faith, Scrupulosity and OCD (#534)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:09:00 +0000

In episode 534 I chat withRachel Kuchem Woodward (LCSW). Rachel is the owner of Re-Viving Lives Counseling, in Fort Worth. Rachel is a therapist holistically and clinically treating girls and women since 2019. Having her own 20+ year personal journey with OCD, Rachel is passionate about treating sufferers of OCD and educating faith circles on OCD, bridging the gap between biblical and clinical circles around this topic for clients, church leaders, and mental health leaders.

We discuss her therapy journey, how OCD can latch on to faith, telling the difference between a genuine faith based question and an OCD question, how pastors and churches can help, scripture and OCD, moving towards values, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), addressing shame in therapy, bringing in family members, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Rachel:

Website: https://re-vivinglivescounseling.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revivinglivescounseling/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/revivinglivescounseling

Resources:

Iocdf resources: https://iocdf.org/programs/educational-resources/

Justin Hughes

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Rachel Kuchem Woodward: Faith, Scrupulosity and OCD (#534) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson and Sean: 'Sarnos' and Sean's story (#533)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:55:00 +0000

In episode 533 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson and his patient Sean. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York. He is joined by one of his patients, Sean, who has kindly agreed to share his story.

We discuss Sean’s OCD story, Steve discusses the idea of Sarnos (psychosomatic symptoms), Sean’s difficulty bragging and worrying about Sarnos, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the idea of the brain voice and the gatekeeper voice, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Podcast: The treatment of children and adolescents with OCD

Podcast: Look at you looking at me, and other niche OCD spike themes

Podcast: Identity contamination, not buying into OCD themes, talking about OCD, ERP tools

Podcast: Meta-physical OCD and Sarah’s story

Resources:

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson and Sean: 'Sarnos' and Sean's story (#533) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sorcha O'Connor: The PsilOCD study investigating low-dose psilocybin for OCD (#532)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 532 I chat with Dr Sorcha O’Connor. Sorcha is a neuroscientist and PhD graduate from Imperial College London, where she led the PsilOCD study investigating low-dose psilocybin for OCD.

We discuss Sorcha’s background that led her to this work, what is psilocybin, the background to the study, what the actual study looked like for participants, the outcomes of the study, what’s happening in the brain during a dose of psilocybin, future studies, how psychedelics may improve learning, integration sessions with a therapist, what people with OCD can take from this study, limitations of the study, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sorcha O'Connor: The PsilOCD study investigating low-dose psilocybin for OCD (#532) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Alex (suicidal OCD, existential OCD, health anxiety, I-CBT) (#531)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 531 I chat with Alex who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, suicidal themed OCD, inference-based cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT), worries of harming others, existential themed OCD, how his wife helped, meditation, low self worth, understanding the past, peadophile themed OCD, health anxiety, self compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Resources:

George Maxwell: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/counselling/george-maxwell-liverpool/450997

Dan Harris’ 10% happier book: https://amzn.to/40SamXO

https://www.instagram.com/flippedlid_ocd

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Alex (suicidal OCD, existential OCD, health anxiety, I-CBT) (#531) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Amy (relationship OCD, harm OCD, contamination OCD) (#530)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 530 I chat with Amy who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss relationship themed OCD, harm themed OCD, contamination themed OCD, realising that what was going on was OCD, compulsions, disordered eating, how her husband helped, finding the OCD community, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), medication, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Amy:

Resources:

Sheva Rajaee

Sheva’s clinic: https://www.caocd.com/

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Amy (relationship OCD, harm OCD, contamination OCD) (#530) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Hoffman: Rethinking Mental Rituals: A Philosophical Conversation (#529)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 18:30:00 +0000

In episode 529 I chatted with Jonathan Hoffman. Jon is a licensed psychologist and Board Certified in Cognitive and Behavioral Psychology. He co-founded the NBI Ranch and the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI), where he was Chief Clinical Officer, exiting these roles at the end of 2025 after many years of practice.

We discuss an update on Jon, what are mental rituals/compulsions, the history of mental rituals/compulsions, are mental rituals/compulsions behaviours, we debate what is good science, how do we study mental rituals/compulsions, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Jon:

The article this podcast episode was based on: https://mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=855425&article_id=5062189&view=articleBrowser

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Jon on the podcast: OCD & comorbidities / Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / What is OCD? / Are eating disorders OCD? / How the sausage is made / Cracking the nut / Aha moments / The neuroscience of OCD

Resources:

Dr Katia Moritz

Dr Steven Poskar

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jon Hoffman: Rethinking Mental Rituals: A Philosophical Conversation (#529) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jeff Bell: Lessons that OCD and its treatment have taught Jeff about navigating Parkinson's (#528)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 528 I chat with Jeff Bell, a past guest of the podcast. Jeff is a long time OCD advocate and is the author of “When in doubt, make belief” and “rewind, replay, repeat”. Jeff co-founded adversity to advocacy.

We get a recap of his OCD story, the idea of greater good motivation, lessons OCD has taught him that helps him deal with other conditions such as his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, we discuss stoicism, advocacy and service, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Jeff:

Website: https://jeffbellonline.com/

Psychology Today article: First OCD. Now Parkinson’s? I’ve Got This! https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/from-adversity-to-advocacy/202311/first-ocd-now-parkinsons-ive-got-this

Advocacy initiative: https://a2aalliance.org/

Jeff’s books: Rewind, replay, repeat – https://amzn.to/4snyiO7 & When in doubt, make belief – https://amzn.to/404Yn8O

Jeff on the podcast: First time, second time, third time

Resources:

Donald Robertson

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

Dr Tamar Chansky book, Freeing your child from OCD: https://amzn.to/4rKpy4N

https://behavioralpsychstudio.com/ethan-sapienza-2/

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Jeff Bell: Lessons that OCD and its treatment have taught Jeff about navigating Parkinson's (#528) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ethan Tuccienza: Exposure to emotions (#527)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 527 I chat with Ethan Tuccienza. Ethan is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and clinical director of Behavioural Psych Studio’s LA office.

We discuss his therapy story, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), exposure to emotions, DBT-PTSD as an intervention, trauma, shame, tolerating emotions, he shares a couple DBT skills including willing hands and mindfulness of our emotions. We also discuss guilt, shutting down during exposures and what to do, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Ethan:

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Ethan Tuccienza: Exposure to emotions (#527) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Mike (sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, somatic OCD, harm OCD) (#526)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 526 I chat with Mike who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss sexual orientation themed OCD, existential themed OCD, somatic themed OCD, harm themed OCD, compulsing around the recovery process, getting therapy, working with Dr Steven Phillipson and Dr Michael Alcee, words of hope and much more. (Episode contains explicit language.)

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Resources:

Dr Steven Phillipson’s OCD therapy group episode featuring Mike

Dr Michael Alcee

Dr Steven Phillipson choice article

Dr Michael Greenberg and articles

Emma McAdams course

Books:

Mark Freeman’s You are not a rock book

Dr Claire Weekes Hope and helps for your nerves book

Dr Albert Ellis How to stubbornly refuse to make yourself miserable about anything book

Dr Viktor Frankl Man’s search for meaning book

Dr Russ Harris The happiness trap book second edition

Dr Michael Alcee The upside of OCD book

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Mike (sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, somatic OCD, harm OCD) (#526) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Charlotte (harm and suicidal themed OCD, journaling, therapy) (#525)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 525 I chat with Charlotte who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, worrying she was pregnant as a kid, realising it’s OCD, experiencing theme switches, harm themed OCD, mental health health anxiety, suicidal themed OCD, getting therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance, her joy journal, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Charlotte:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottevduff

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Charlotte (harm and suicidal themed OCD, journaling, therapy) (#525) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ray Kolke: Rumination by the Numbers (RBTN) as a tool for dealing with rumination (#524)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 524 I chat with Ray Kolke. Ray is a licensed mental health counsellor (LMHC) who works with people affected by OCD and anxiety.

We discuss his therapist background, why he doesn’t ask his clients how they are feeling at the start of the session, he discusses not focusing on feelings in more detail, rumination, his tool of rumination by the numbers (RBTN), he breaks down this tool, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Ray:

Website: https://raykolkecounseling.com/

Resources:

Ep 113 – Dr Jon Grayson

Ep 151 – Dr Russ Harris

Ep 200 – Dr Steven Phillipson

Ep 225 – Aaron Harvey

Ep 252 – Dr Michael Greenberg

Ep 269 – Dr Michael Greenberg

Ep 275 – Dr Steven Phillipson

Jonny Say’s episode with myself

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Ray Kolke: Rumination by the Numbers (RBTN) as a tool for dealing with rumination (#524) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Angie (Health anxiety, contamination OCD, suicidal OCD) (#523)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 523 I chat with Angie who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss health anxiety, contamination themed OCD, and suicidal themed OCD. Doubting whether it’s OCD or not, compulsions, uncertainty, getting therapy including exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), relationships, exercise, having a dog in relation to OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Angie (Health anxiety, contamination OCD, suicidal OCD) (#523) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lauren Rosen: Mental Compulsions in OCD (#522)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 522 I chat with Lauren Rosen, LMFT. Lauren is a therapist and founded the Center for the Obsessive Mind, an outpatient clinic serving individuals in California, Florida, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania and select other states and countries. Lauren is the author of The Mental Compulsions Workbook for OCD. Lauren also hosts the Purely OCD Podcast.

We discuss her Mental compulsion workbook for OCD, what are mental compulsions, rumination, noticing mental compulsions, some skills for addressing mental compulsions, mindfulness, attention, mindfulness meditation, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Lauren:

Her mental compulsions workbook: https://amzn.to/4qpJrxn

Website: https://theobsessivemind.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theobsessivemind/

Purely OCD podcast: https://purelyocd.com/

Lauren’s first time on the podcast

Resources:

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Lauren Rosen: Mental Compulsions in OCD (#522) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Regan (Harm and contamination OCD, panic attacks) (#521)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 521 I chat with Regan who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, the journey to getting an OCD diagnosis, moving countries in adolescence, panic attacks, harm themed OCD, contamination themed OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), nightmares, childhood experiences of OCD, her cat in the context of OCD, her partner, the grounding techniques Regan uses, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Regan (Harm and contamination OCD, panic attacks) (#521) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Brad Hufford: Functioning well despite OCD distress is still a victory (#520)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 08:41:00 +0000

In episode 520 I chat with Brad Hufford. Brad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) who specialises in working with OCD. He is a therapist at the Behavior therapy Center of Greater Washington.

We discuss Brad’s OCD story, being a therapist over the last 30 years, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the therapy relationship, the idea of functioning well despite distress is still a victory, motivation in ERP, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Brad:

Website: https://www.behaviortherapycenter.com/brad-s-hufford-lcswc

Resources:

Dr Charles Mansueto

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Brad Hufford: Functioning well despite OCD distress is still a victory (#520) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Ally Kristan (Grief, worries of harm coming to others, her book) (#519)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 519 I chat with Ally Kristan who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, her compulsions, starting therapy in adolescence, grief, worries of harm coming to others, what else has helped her, intuition, her book, connection with nature, animism, penguins and the Antarctic (Ally’s a penguin expert), and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Ally:

Book: Braving the waves – a memoir and guide to overcome OCD – https://amzn.to/48OFiNh

Website: https://www.allykristan.com/

Resources:

My centre: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Dr Sam Greenblatt

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Ally Kristan (Grief, worries of harm coming to others, her book) (#519) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say and Stuart Ralph role-play a key ACT skill for rumination (#518)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 518 Jonny Say and I practiced some Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) skills together. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss the skill dropping anchor, how the skill dipping in and out of the stream can help us learn how to deal with rumination, Jonny and I role play a client session using dipping in and out of the stream, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny Say ACT skill YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Wesbite: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

Our ACT skills training for therapists: https://www.icocdtraining.co.uk/live-training

Russ Harris Dropping Anchor guided audio: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/free-audio/

Russ Harris Dropping anchor role play: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fch45RTDtAc

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona

Jack’s episode

10 years of the podcast episode

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say and Stuart Ralph role-play a key ACT skill for rumination (#518) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Spenser Gabin: Reflections on ERP therapy, and becoming a therapist (#517)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 517 I chat with Spenser Gabin. Spenser is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Encinitas, California.

We discuss his OCD, becoming a therapist, his thoughts on Ian O’Brien’s episode and clinical perceptive on Ian’s research findings on exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP): drop out rate, explaining how ERP links to life, setting expectations, ERP as a lifestyle, and motivation in ERP. We also discuss building trust in therapy, therapist disclosure, self-efficacy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Find out more about Spenser:

Website: https://spensergabin.com/

Spenser’s story episode on the podcast from 2018

Resources:

Ian O’Brien’s episode

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Spenser Gabin: Reflections on ERP therapy, and becoming a therapist (#517) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Emma (Group therapy, OCD around parenting, real event OCD) (Ep516)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 516 I chat with Emma who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss OCD around parenting, real event themed OCD, group therapy and experiences of it, rumination, reassurance, dealing with shame, creativity in recovery, and much more. Hope it helps.

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Resources:

Katie d’Ath

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Emma (Group therapy, OCD around parenting, real event OCD) (Ep516) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The 10-Year Anniversary Episode: Featuring the Listeners (#515)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 515 I opened the 10-year anniversary episode up to the listeners. People were able to make a recording of a 30 second sound bite for the show. This episode features all those recordings. Thank you to all those who submitted a sound bite. And thanks to you for listening and for your support over the last 10 years. What a ride it’s been!

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Resources:

Episode 500

OCD Camp – https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

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All the best,

Stuart

The post The 10-Year Anniversary Episode: Featuring the Listeners (#515) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Ron Nicholson: AI and OCD (#514)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 514 I chat with Dr Ronald Nicholson. Ron is a clinical psychologist.

We discuss why it’s important to talk about artificial intelligence (AI) and OCD, AI and reassurance, how AI can play into compulsions, cognitive struggles due to over reliance on AI, the detriment of the loss of engagement with other humans, technology reducing distress tolerance, the future of mental health in this AI age, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Ron:

Website: https://www.drronaldnicholson.com/

Resources:

OCD SoCal conference: https://ocdsocal.org/conference/

Damon Horowitz TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/damon_horowitz_we_need_a_moral_operating_system

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Ron Nicholson: AI and OCD (#514) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Amanda (OCD themes: Religion, harm and contamination) (#513)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 513 I chat with Amanda who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss OCD themes of religion, harm and contamination. Amanda talks about depression, controlling food, stopping driving, navigating the Covid pandemic and OCD, compulsions controlling other people, therapy, grief and loss, figuring out it was ok not to do her compulsions, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), medication, managing family accommodation, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Amanda (OCD themes: Religion, harm and contamination) (#513) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson and Sarah: Metaphysical OCD and Sarah's story (#512)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 512 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson and Sarah. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York. He is joined by one of his patients, Sarah, who has kindly agreed to share her story.

We discuss what is metaphysical themed OCD, what is metaphysical contamination OCD, trauma, Sarah’s OCD story, her sticking points in recovery, getting the wrong diagnosis, how her husband supported her, and her therapy with Steve. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Podcast: The treatment of children and adolescents with OCD

Podcast: Look at you looking at me, and other niche OCD spike themes

Podcast: Identity contamination, not buying into OCD themes, talking about OCD, ERP tools

Resources:

The poison pen article mentioned in the episode: https://www.ocdonline.com/gs15

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson and Sarah: Metaphysical OCD and Sarah's story (#512) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Melissa Mose: Integrating IFS and ERP for OCD (#511)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 511 I chat with Melissa Mose. Melissa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats OCD. Melissa is president of the IOCDF affiliate OCD SoCal.

We discuss her new book for therapists on internal family systems therapy (IFS) for OCD, what is IFS, integrating IFS and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), working with parts that get in the way of therapy, noticing and working with OCD parts, understanding parts of us, understanding OCD parts in detail so that we can notice intuition better, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Melissa:

Website: https://www.melissamosemft.com/

Internal Family Systems Therapy for OCD: A Clinician’s Guide Paperback – https://amzn.to/3JNwzkF

First episode on IFS and OCD

OCD SoCal: https://ocdsocal.org/

Resources:

OCD SoCal conference: https://ocdsocal.org/conference/

Dr Sam Greenblatt

Elena Fasan

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Melissa Mose: Integrating IFS and ERP for OCD (#511) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Poskar: Medications for OCD (#510)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 510 I chat with Dr Steven Poskar. Steven is a psychiatrist and clinical director of OCD NYC. He is also a member of the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation.

We discuss his therapy journey, myths and misconceptions around OCD medication, SSRIs for OCD, choosing an SSRI based on their side effect profiles, weaning off medication, augmenting medication for OCD with anti psychotics, glutamate medications for OCD, benzodiazepines, psychedelic drug trials for OCD, cannabis, some reasons why medication doesn’t work, supplements, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Steven:

Website: https://www.ocdnyc.com/

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Poskar: Medications for OCD (#510) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ian O’Brien: OCD Story, and research on why people struggle to engage with ERP using over 100 interviews from The OCD Stories podcast (#509)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 509 I chat with Ian O’Brien. Ian is a psychotherapist based in Dublin, Ireland, who specialises in OCD.

We discuss his OCD story including relationship OCD (rOCD) and pOCD, getting therapy, support groups, and becoming a therapist. We then discuss his research on why people struggle to engage with ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) in which he analysed over 100 interviews from The OCD Stories podcast to explore the real challenges people face in starting, sticking with, or completing ERP. He shares the three major themes that emerged where people struggled with ERP including lots of sub themes, and suggestions for improvements in ERP, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Ian:

Website: https://www.ocdtherapy.ie/

All his articles on the findings of his study: https://www.ocdtherapy.ie/blog

Ian’s research study into ERP engagement challenges: (Temporarily unavailable while under review for journal publication. A public version will be made available soon in the resource library at ocdtherapy.ie)

Resources:

Research studies discussed in the episode:

Public Perceptions of Exposure and Response Prevention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – https://osf.io/preprints/psyarxiv/jyp4z_v1

Assessing exposure and response prevention readiness for clients with obsessive compulsive disorder and co-occurring conditions: A decision-making model and case example – https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-81572-001

OCD Ireland – https://ocdireland.org/

Jonny Say OCD and the therapeutic relationship episode

Website: https://www.anxietyspecialistsofatlanta.com/clinical-staff/michael-stier-lcpc-lpc/

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Ian O’Brien: OCD Story, and research on why people struggle to engage with ERP using over 100 interviews from The OCD Stories podcast (#509) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Michael Stier: Health anxiety (#508)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 508 I chat with Michael Stier. Michael is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Director of Education and Training at the Anxiety Specialists of Atlanta.

We discuss his therapy story, working with health anxiety, the health anxiety book he co-wrote, what is health anxiety, insight in health anxiety, bodily sensations, values based living, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Michael:

Book: The Complete Guide to Overcoming Health Anxiety: How to Live Life to the Fullest…Because You’re Not Dead (Yet): https://amzn.to/4hhUYJV

His health anxiety community: https://www.overcominghealthanxiety.com/ohacommunity

Resources:

Dr Josh Spitalnick

Alexandra Reynolds

IOCDF – https://IOCDF.org

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Michael Stier: Health anxiety (#508) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges: Acceptance of OCD (#507)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In episode 507 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Peer Support specialist, founder of OCD Gamechangers, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

We discuss her community, acceptance and radical acceptance, what is acceptance, what are we actually accepting, what acceptance is not, taboo themes of OCD, shame and guilt, barriers to acceptance, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Chrissie:

Community: https://chrissiehodges.com/community/

OCD Gamechangers: OCD Gamechangers

Chrissie on the podcast: The OCD Stories part 1 / The OCD Stories part 2 / OCD Gamechangers episode / Jess interviews Chrissie / Trauma of OCD episode / Chrissie interviews Chance McNeely / Groinal and other physical symptoms of OCD / Shame as a barrier to OCD treatment / Grieving from OCD / Advocating for taboo OCD themes

Her book: https://amzn.to/3QTUJr4

Resources:

IOCDF – https://IOCDF.org

Thich Nhat Hanh

Jonny Say low insight podcast episode

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges: Acceptance of OCD (#507) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: Unlocking Relationship OCD (ROCD) treatment (#506)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 506 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss an update on him, relationship OCD (ROCD) using his personal story as a case study, improving ROCD treatment, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), internal family systems (IFS) therapy, working with other emotions around ROCD, feeling emotions without analysing them, improving relationships, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Sam:

Website: https://ocdspecialists.net/

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Second episode: A potential way of improving ERP

Third episode: Cancel culture, and the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD

Fourth episode: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss)

Fifth episode: What can therapy change

Sixth episode: A review of the therapies that have an evidence base for OCD

Seventh episode: Intersections between OCD and the LGBTQIA+ community

Resources:

Anthony Pinto

Dr Russ Harris’ The Happiness trap (2nd edition) book: https://amzn.to/4fLBXR0

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: Unlocking Relationship OCD (ROCD) treatment (#506) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Fahad Khan: Islamic religious OCD (Waswasa & OCD) (#505)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 505 I chat with Dr Fahad Khan. Fahad is a licensed clinical psychologist. He currently serves as the Deputy Director at Khalil Center, providing psychological services while supervising clinical and research work. He co-wrote The Islamic Workbook for Religious OCD: A Guide for Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions.

We discuss his therapy story, waswasa, compulsive prayer, helping Imans and other community members in understanding OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), culturally attuned ERP, Traditional Islamically Integrated Psychotherapy (TIIP), words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Fahad:

Website and Khalil center: https://khalilcenter.com/staff/dr-fahad-khan

The Islamic Workbook for Religious OCD: A Guide for Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions https://amzn.to/483V8Up

Resources:

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Fahad Khan: Islamic religious OCD (Waswasa & OCD) (#505) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jack Henderson (OCD, eating disorder, therapy, poetry) (#504)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In episode 504 I chat with Jack who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, guilt and shame, diet and exercise as part of OCD, an eating disorder diagnosis, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), medication, support groups, being creative, expressing through poetry, the idea of signal vs noise, self compassion, he reads some of his poetry, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jack:

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jack_henderson_writer

Substack: https://substack.com/@jackhenderson

Resources:

Reid Wilson

Kim Quinlan self-compassion for OCD book: https://amzn.to/4nxQEtk

Duke Al Durham

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jack Henderson (OCD, eating disorder, therapy, poetry) (#504) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Samantha Faden & Dr Jenifer Cullen: Successfully adjusting OCD therapy for autistic clients (#503)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 07:56:00 +0000

In episode 503 I chat with Samantha Faden and Dr Jenifer Cullen. Samantha is autistic and has lived experience with OCD. Sam is the client of Dr Cullen. Jenifer M. Cullen, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist at the McLean OCD Institute.

We discuss their therapy relationship as therapist and client, how Sam’s therapy journey has gone, what worked, how they learned together over time, getting an autism diagnosis, working out together where autism and OCD starts, ends or overlaps. We also discuss trichotillomania, adjusting exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for autistic clients, rupture and repair in the therapeutic relationship, adjusting for sensory sensitivities in ERP, having a sensory overload plan, rating anxiety during exposures through special interests, changing the pace of therapy, having more structure and clarity, changing the language used around autism, motivation in therapy, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jen:

Website: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/jenifer-cullen

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Samantha Faden & Dr Jenifer Cullen: Successfully adjusting OCD therapy for autistic clients (#503) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Christopher Weston: OCD story, BDD, and Somatic OCD (#502)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 502 I chat with Christopher Weston. Chris is a therapist (LMFT) specialising in OCD.

We discuss his OCD story, his early life experiences that were challenging, panic attacks, somatic/sensorimotor OCD, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and much more.

Join many other listeners getting our weekly emails. Never miss a podcast episode or update: https://theocdstories.com/newsletter

Find out more about Chris:

Website: https://christopherwestontherapy.com/

TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN-_LF7ZUvs

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Christopher Weston: OCD story, BDD, and Somatic OCD (#502) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Alexandra Reynolds: Navigating shame around health anxiety (OCD) (#501)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 501 I chat with Alexandra Reynolds. Alexandra is an OCD Advocate, Community Support Group Leader at NOCD, and is currently doing her graduate clinical training.

We discuss her health anxiety story, stigma around the diagnosis, running her health anxiety support group, shame and guilt around having health anxiety and the compulsions, experiencing stigma or judgement from family and health care professionals, compassion, how family members can support their loved ones, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Alexandra:

Her story on the podcast – episode 320

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandraisobsessed

Resources:

The proper mental podcast – https://www.propermentalpodcast.com/

Dr Rob Wilson and Prof David Veale health anxiety episode

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

OCD UK – https://www.ocduk.org/

OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Alexandra Reynolds: Navigating shame around health anxiety (OCD) (#501) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The 500th episode. Musings and reflections from a Welsh mountain range.

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 500 I, Stuart Ralph, reflect on my journey with The OCD Stories podcast over the last nearly 10 years. To do this I took a hike in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, UK.

THANK YOU for listening over the years. It means a lot.

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

Resources:

Here is the form I mentioned for feedback on future episodes of the podcast: https://forms.gle/ZacGhmdxgqa2nUyS8

Jonny Say interviews Stuart (Ep498)

I mentioned a mountain episode I did with Jess. I think I released it on my old Patreon, so sadly that episode doesn’t exist any more.

Alistair Humphrey’s Microadventures book: https://amzn.to/4mwYLXi

Eddie Jenkins Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Ca0zpwFtBqVCEQRKrrGiz?si=lAc2mpSFRJCL0QdAO5McCg

The OCD Camp – https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

Centre Point charity – https://centrepoint.org.uk/

Dr Russ Harris’ The Happiness trap (2nd edition) book: https://amzn.to/4fLBXR0

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post The 500th episode. Musings and reflections from a Welsh mountain range. appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Ronald Nicholson: Using humour in OCD therapy (#499)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:10:00 +0000

In episode 499 I chat with Dr Ronald Nicholson. Ron is a clinical psychologist currently practicing as a post-doctoral fellow at Dr. Steven Phillipson’s Center of Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy.

We discuss humour in OCD therapy, why humour can help, finding the right balance between humour and seriousness, humour as a way of showing irrelevance, Dr Phillipson asks a few questions including what is the funniest thing that has happened in therapy. We discuss the science of laughter, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

A live training by Dr Phillipson for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/phillipson

Find out more about Ron:

Website: https://www.drronaldnicholson.com/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Ronald Nicholson: Using humour in OCD therapy (#499) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say interviews Stuart on the lead up to episode 500! Podcast beginnings, Stuart’s key learnings, and what helped him (#498)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 498 psychotherapist Jonny Say interviews Stuart. Stuart is the host and founder of The OCD Stories podcast. Stuart is a psychotherapist, and co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

In the build up to episode 500 Jonny interviews me (Stuart), we discuss the history of the podcast and some of my personal history, how the podcast helped me in the early days and which topics or guests helped in particular, and then how the podcast has helped me as a therapist, the evolution of the podcast, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

A live training by Dr Phillipson for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/phillipson

Find out more about Jonny and Stuart:

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icocdtuk

Resources:

Mans search for meaning book by Dr Viktor Frankl – https://amzn.to/40SqJDX

Extreme OCD camp documentary – part 1: https://youtu.be/-wirZbc_imA?feature=shared part 2: https://youtu.be/l6UJvWs8zuI?feature=shared

A live training by Dr Phillipson for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/phillipson

Jon Hershfield and the mindfulness workbook for OCD book: https://amzn.to/4muNUfX

Bob burg and The go giver book https://www.amazon.com/Go-Giver-Little-Story-Powerful-Business-ebook/dp/B003AYZBJI/

Dr Steven Phillipson and Choice article

Nate Gruner and Meaghan Cleary – their FAP for OCD training https://vimeo.com/ondemand/fapforocd

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say interviews Stuart on the lead up to episode 500! Podcast beginnings, Stuart’s key learnings, and what helped him (#498) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Identity contamination, not buying into OCD themes, talking about OCD, ERP tools (#497)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 15:05:00 +0000

In episode 497 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss identity contamination as a theme of OCD, the amygdala, not buying into OCD themes, talking about OCD with people, Dr Phillipson’s Cancel Toku list – a list of irrational or maladaptive words and concepts and their more adaptive equivalents, some exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) tools, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

A live training by Dr Phillipson for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/phillipson

Find out more about Steve:

Article mentioned in the episode: Rethinking the unthinkable – https://www.ocdonline.com/rethinking-the-unthinkable

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Podcast: The treatment of children and adolescents with OCD

Podcast: Look at you looking at me, and other niche OCD spike themes

Resources:

A live training by Dr Phillipson for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/phillipson

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Identity contamination, not buying into OCD themes, talking about OCD, ERP tools (#497) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Riley (Compulsive exercise, residential treatment, finding joy again) (#496)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 496 I chat with Riley who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss how OCD latched on to her sport (swimming), compulsive exercise, her different compulsions, obsessions around being strong, getting therapy, restricting foods, residential treatment, medication, finding joy in activities again, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Are eating disorders obsessive compulsive disorder? Episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Riley (Compulsive exercise, residential treatment, finding joy again) (#496) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Gina Abbondante: OCD story, panic disorder, ERP, I-CBT (#495)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 08:57:00 +0000

In episode 495 I chat with Gina Abbondante. Gina is a psychotherapist and clinical director at Change of Mind counselling.

We discuss her OCD story, panic disorder – having a panic attack as early as kindergarten, blood injection injury phobia, when OCD started, suicidal themed OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), inference-based CBT (CBT), working with postpartum and postnatal parents, equine therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Gina:

Website: https://www.changeofmindcounseling.com/ginabbondante

Resources:

Jon Hershfield – Harm OCD book

Bronwyn Shroyer

Katie Marrotte

Mike Heady

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Gina Abbondante: OCD story, panic disorder, ERP, I-CBT (#495) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Clare (Intrusive thoughts, ERP, research) (#494)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 06:53:00 +0000

In episode 494 I chat with Clare who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss intrusive thoughts, harm themed OCD, skin picking, her family, exposure and response prevention therapy, her research, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

Thanks to our podcast partners who make this podcast possible. 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://go.treatmyocd.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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Clare (Intrusive thoughts, ERP, research) (#494) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Braden Smith (Religious OCD, ERP, NFL, psychedelics) (#493)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 493 I chat with Braden Smith who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us. Braden is a offensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL).

We discuss his OCD story, religious scrupulosity OCD, how OCD affected his professional career as an NFL athlete, how OCD focused on his faith, using psychedelic treatments, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), rumination and compulsive prayer, going to an intensive outpatient treatment, how he now challenges his OCD, how Braden uses humour, real event OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

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://go.treatmyocd.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

Resources:

Resources: https://theocdstories.com/resources

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,
Stuart

The post Story: Braden Smith (Religious OCD, ERP, NFL, psychedelics) (#493) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheva Rajaee: Relationship OCD Couples Therapy (#492)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 492 I chat with Sheva Rajaee. Sheva is a psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other related anxiety disorders. She is the founder of the Center for Anxiety and OCD (CAOCD). Sheva authored the book Relationship OCD: A CBT-Based Guide to Move Beyond Obsessive Doubt, Anxiety, and Fear of Commitment in Romantic Relationships.

We discuss an update on her, her center’s couples protocol for working with relationship OCD (rOCD), treating the system with rOCD, attachment theory, attachment insecurities, emotion focused therapy (EFT), having healing couples conversations, helping the partner navigate the OCD and relationship, self compassion in the context of the couple, sex and intimacy, values based sex, and much more. Hope it helps.

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://go.treatmyocd.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

Find out more about Sheva:

Sheva’s book: Relationship OCD https://amzn.to/3s0jskr

Sheva’s website: https://www.caocd.com/

Sheva’s past episodes on the podcast: OCD and anxiety in the age of information / Some questions can’t be answered (Ep131) / Relationship themed OCD (#218) / Relationship OCD (#317)

Sheva’s rOCD Masterclass course: https://programs.caocd.com/rocd

Resources:

SPACE protocol for parents: https://www.spacetreatment.net/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Sheva Rajaee: Relationship OCD Couples Therapy (#492) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Rowen (Sexual orientation themed OCD, relationship themed OCD) (#491)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 06:59:00 +0000

In episode 491 I chat with Rowen who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, compulsively confessing, sexual orientation themed OCD, relationship themed OCD, the possibility of her birth control (IUD) affecting her mental health, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Sheva Rajaee, and her book “Relationship OCD” – https://amzn.to/3ZC3tcV

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Rowen (Sexual orientation themed OCD, relationship themed OCD) (#491) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jan Stewart: A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with OCD and Neurodiversity (#490)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 490 chat with Jan Stewart. Jan is a mental health and neurodiversity advocate. She authored the book, ‘Hold on Tight: A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness’.

We discuss Jan’s parenting OCD story, neurodiversity, getting help for herself and her kids, why the patient is the whole family, separating her son from his diagnosis, reducing parental accommodation, advice for loved ones and parents, the importance of not forgetting the siblings, parental self-care, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jan:

Book – Hold on Tight: A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness: https://amzn.to/4kLyW4L

Resources:

Our article we did together: https://issuu.com/exceptionalneedstoday/docs/11.24_ent_issue19_f_pages/67

Stuart’s parenting OCD group/course: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/parent-education-group

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jan Stewart: A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with OCD and Neurodiversity (#490) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg: OCD as a defense mechanism (#489)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 489 I chat with Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a clinical psychologist who specialises in Rumination-Focused ERP (RF-ERP).

We discuss an update on Michael, rumination-focused exposure and response prevention therapy (RF-ERP), OCD as a defense mechanism, a psychoanalytical view of OCD, digesting feelings, some different psychological defenses, attachment and early experiences, clinical examples of his point, how we are all humans that bring human experiences to our relationships, a compassionate view on parenting, and much more.

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

Find out more about Michael:

Michael’s website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

Article this episode is based on: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/ocd-as-a-defense-mechanism/

All articles: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

Past episodes on our podcast:

Rumination is a compulsion: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-rumination-is-a-compulsion-252/

Putting rumination and agency at the center of ERP: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-269/

Somatic/sensorimotor OCD, and rumination: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-285/

Malan’s model of OCD part 1 and part 2

Q&A in RF-ERP

Resources:

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP)

Dr Irvin Yalom

Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP)

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All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Greenberg: OCD as a defense mechanism (#489) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Look at you looking at me, and other niche OCD spike themes (#488)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 12:30:00 +0000

In episode 488 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss the worries that come up around getting obsessed with others responses to us – what Steve calls look at you looking at me, olfactory obsessions, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and other niche OCD spike themes including, worrying if your child is your child, worrying about a loved one having been abducted by aliens and replaced, worries about being in a simulation, worries about being God, worrying your partner is not the sexual orientation they say they are, worrying about catching someones undesirable aspects of their character, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Steve:

Article mentioned in the episode: A rose by any other name – https://www.ocdonline.com/rose-by-any-other-name

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Podcast: The treatment of children and adolescents with OCD

Resources:

The broken mirror by Dr Katharine Phillips – https://amzn.to/43fSkk9

instagram.com/justinkhugheslpc/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Look at you looking at me, and other niche OCD spike themes (#488) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Justin Hughes, Valerie Andrews, Dr Alan Noble, and Chelsea Risko: A Deeper Dive into the role of faith (Christianity) in OCD treatment (#487)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

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.

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

Find out more about the guests:

Dr. Alan Noble: Dr. O. Alan Noble is Associate Professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University. He has published articles in The Atlantic, The Gospel Coalition, First Things, and Christianity Today. And is the author of three books, most recently, On Getting Out of Bed: The Burden and Gift of Living. He lives with his wife and three children.

Substack: https://newsletter.oalannoble.com/ X: @thealannoble

Valerie Andrews: Valerie Andrews is a retired school teacher and full-time wife, mother, and grandmother. Following her OCD diagnosis in 2011, she began advocating in hopes of bringing awareness and inclusion within her own community and communities of faith. Today, she spends the majority of her time focusing on her new nonprofit (msmablesparrows, Inc) a nonprofit for women of age, color, and faith. Her goal is to continue working as an IOCDF Advocate and promoting change.

Website: https://www.msmablesparrows.com/

Chelsea Risko: Based in Idaho, Chelsea Risko is an advocate for OCD awareness and mental health. Diagnosed in 2021, she had unknowingly lived with OCD for most of her life. Her recovery journey includes therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Through her Instagram, @the_ocd_girlie, she shares personal experiences and insights to support others who may not realize they have OCD, raising awareness and offering encouragement.

Instagram: @the_ocd_girlie

Justin K. Hughes, MA, LPC: Justin K. Hughes, MA, LPC, owner of Dallas Counseling, PLLC, is a therapist, writer, and course creator passionate about helping those impacted by OCD. He serves as the IOCDF Clinician Subcommittee Lead for the Faith and OCD Action Council and is the Dallas Ambassador for OCD Texas. Justin is an OCD and Anxiety Specialist who is dual-trained in psychology and theology and works with a diverse population. He most commonly speaks to the interaction between OCD and the Christian faith.

Main: www.justinkhughes.com

Course: www.justinkhughes.com/course

facebook.com/JustinKHughesLPC/

youtube.com/@justinkhugheslpc

x.com/justinhugheslpc

linkedin.com/in/justinkhughes/

Resources:

IOCDF faith and OCD special interest group: https://iocdf.org/special-interest-groups/faith-and-ocd/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Justin Hughes, Valerie Andrews, Dr Alan Noble, and Chelsea Risko: A Deeper Dive into the role of faith (Christianity) in OCD treatment (#487) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Stephen D'Intino (existential OCD, a detrimental psychedelics experience, trauma) (#486)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 486 I chat with Stephen who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, his early memories, how OCD affected his work, existential themed OCD, medication, a detrimental psychedelics experience, religious scrupulosity, derealisation, getting admitted to a psychiatric ward, therapy, agoraphobia, boundaries, trauma work, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Chrissie Hodges – https://chrissiehodges.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Stephen D'Intino (existential OCD, a detrimental psychedelics experience, trauma) (#486) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: OCD and the therapeutic relationship (#485)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 485 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss the importance of the therapeutic relationship, the benefits of it to outcomes, functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), how compulsions can get in the way of the therapeutic relationship, how a good therapeutic relationship can help acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the therapeutic relationship as a way of dealing with shame, rupture and repair, Jonny and I share our own experiences from therapeutic relationships, and much more. Hope it helps.

FAP training for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/fap-for-ocd

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

IC-OCD instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icocdtuk/

Jonny’s 10-week ACT and ERP skills group: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/low-cost-ocd-groups

Resources:

FAP for OCD training for therapists led by Nate and Meaghan: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/fapforocd

Nate Gruner and Meaghan Cleary FAP episode

Pets and OCD episode

Dr Steven Phillipson therapeutic relationship episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: OCD and the therapeutic relationship (#485) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Patrick Hussain (Suicidal themed OCD, shame, ERP) (#484)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 484 I chat with Patrick who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, suicidal themed OCD, dreams, his early OCD memories, panic, contamination, opening up to his partner, shame, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), we rift about OCD, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Dr Michael Alcee

Article Patrick mentions: https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26335082-600-a-fresh-understanding-of-ocd-is-opening-routes-to-new-treatments/

The family guide to getting over OCD

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Patrick Hussain (Suicidal themed OCD, shame, ERP) (#484) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Abramowitz: Living well with OCD (#483)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 483 I chat with Dr Jonathan Abramowitz. Jonathan is a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Chapel Hill, NC specializing in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He is also Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina. And author of several books including Getting over OCD, The family guide to getting over OCD, and Living well with OCD.

We discuss his latest research on postpartum OCD, his new book – Living well with OCD, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), urge surfing, competing responses, self monitoring, defusion, self compassion, inference-based CBT (I-CBT), words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jon:

Jon’s website: http://www.jabramowitz.com/

Books:

Living well with OCD: https://amzn.to/4jB4Noh

Jon’s other books: https://amzn.to/2ZNU4j9

Jon on the podcast:

Getting over OCD

Living the CBT lifestyle

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jon Abramowitz: Living well with OCD (#483) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Rebekah Collins (Contamination & harm OCD, PMDD, advocacy) (#482)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 12:12:00 +0000

In episode 482 I chat with Rebekah who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her early compulsions, trauma, an eating disorder, social anxiety and depression, agoraphobia, panic, being told she wouldn’t recover, her mum advocating for her, involuntary hospitalisation, diagnosis, joining support groups, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), harm and contamination OCD, dealing with shame, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), what helps her, her advocacy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Rebekah:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsrebekahcollins/

Website: https://www.itsrebekahcollins.com/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Rebekah Collins (Contamination & harm OCD, PMDD, advocacy) (#482) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Zoey (Fears of choking, obsessing over partners porn use, BDD) (#481)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 07:47:00 +0000

In episode 481 I chat with Zoey who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss fears of choking and swallowing, obsessing over her partners porn use, therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy therapy (ERP), aligning therapy with her values, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), seeing her therapist through NOCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Megan’s OCD story episode (fear of swallowing/choking)

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Zoey (Fears of choking, obsessing over partners porn use, BDD) (#481) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges: Advocating for taboo OCD themes (#480)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 480 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Peer Support specialist, founder of OCD Gamechangers, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

We talk advocacy, censorship, stigma, the need for advocates to talk about all experiences of OCD to normalise all experiences including taboo themes, the difficulties of opening up, how cancel culture may have hindered advocacy, encouragement to share the whole picture of OCD, the topic of advocacy or influencer, how to handle criticism online, having an advocacy mission statement, and much more.

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

Find out more about Chrissie:

Community: https://chrissiehodges.com/community/

OCD Gamechangers: OCD Gamechangers

Her book: https://amzn.to/3QTUJr4

Resources:

Stephen Smith

Aaron Harvey

Made of millions – https://www.madeofmillions.com/

Doctor Mike – https://www.youtube.com/@DoctorMike

Alegra Kastens

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges: Advocating for taboo OCD themes (#480) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Ideas for when people struggle with therapy for OCD (#479)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 479 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss an update on him, we talk about ideas for when people struggle with therapy for OCD. We discuss the length of therapy, he normalises the time frame, trying other approaches, therapists, or a combination of therapies. Increasing motivation through active reflection, building up skills around psychological flexibility, self compassion, and much more.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny ACT and compassion skills training for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/act-and-compassion-skills-for-erp-and-ocd-recovery-with-jonny-say

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

IC-OCD instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icocdtuk/

Jonny’s 10-week ACT and ERP skills group: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/low-cost-ocd-groups

Resources:

Functional analytic training (FAP) for therapists training: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/fap-for-ocd

Dr Irvin Yalom’s book ‘Hour of the heart‘

Kim Quinlan’s self compassion workbook for OCD

Jack’s story

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Ideas for when people struggle with therapy for OCD (#479) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Josh Spitalnick: Health Anxiety, and living life well (#478)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 478 I chat with Dr Josh Spitalnick. Josh is a licensed psychologist, owner and clinical director at the Anxiety Specialists of Atlanta, an outpatient clinic. He is co-author of “The Complete Guide to Overcoming Health Anxiety”.

We discuss what’s new with him, his book, the title of the book, this idea of mental health – health anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), living life regardless of fears, social media’s impact on health anxiety, the different variations of health anxiety, therapy for health anxiety, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers effective, convenient therapy available in the US and outside the US for children and adults. 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

Find out more about Josh:

Website: AnxietySpecialistsofAtlanta.com

Josh’s first episode on the podcast (health anxiety)

Josh’s second episode on the podcast (OCD in Children)

Book: The Complete Guide to Overcoming Health Anxiety: How to Live Life to the Fullest…Because You’re Not Dead (Yet): https://amzn.to/4hhUYJV

His health anxiety community: https://www.overcominghealthanxiety.com/ohacommunity

Resources:

Rich Gallagher episode

Dr Jon Grayson and Bob Cianfrone episode

Catherine Goldhouse episode

Dr Michelle Witkin episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Josh Spitalnick: Health Anxiety, and living life well (#478) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jakob (Panic, derealisation, the fear of ‘going crazy’, existential OCD) (#477)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 477 I chat with Jakob who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, panic, derealisation, the fear of ‘going crazy’, existential OCD, his advocacy work, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Iocdf Iowa – https://www.instagram.com/ocdiowa/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jakob (Panic, derealisation, the fear of ‘going crazy’, existential OCD) (#477) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Megan (Worries of choking, health anxiety, existential and religious OCD) (#476)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 476 I chat with Megan who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, worries of choking, hyperawareness of swallowing, her compulsions, other themes including existential and religious OCD, accepting and navigating relapses, OCD getting in the way of medication, health anxiety and fears of other mental health conditions, low insight, thoughts of suicide, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Megan (Worries of choking, health anxiety, existential and religious OCD) (#476) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nate Gruner and Meaghan Cleary: Functional Analytic Psychotherapy for OCD (#475)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 475 I chat with Nate Gruner and Meaghan Cleary. Nate is a staff behavioural therapist at the obsessive-compulsive disorder institute at McLean hospital. Meaghan is a licensed mental health counselor and a registered dance and movement therapist. She is also a behavioural therapist and group facilitator at the obsessive-compulsive disorder institute at McLean hospital.

We discuss what is functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), the rules of FAP, using the therapeutic relationship to create change in OCD, what FAP looks like in a session, case examples, the therapist training we are running through the centre I co-run, integrating FAP with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), why I’m interested in FAP, and much more. Hope it helps.

FAP training for therapists: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/live-trainings-therapists/fap-for-ocd

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

Find out more about Nate and Meaghan:

Nate – https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/nate-gruner

Nate’s past two episodes on FAP: One and Two.

Meaghan – https://www.meaghanecleary.com/

FAP for OCD training for therapists led by Nate and Meaghan: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/fapforocd

Resources:

Irving Yalom, ‘The gift of therapy’ – https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Therapy-Revised-Updated-generation-ebook/dp/B004KZOXHW/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nate Gruner and Meaghan Cleary: Functional Analytic Psychotherapy for OCD (#475) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Catherine Goldhouse: I-CBT, feared self, and understanding inferential confusion (#474)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 474 I chat with Catherine Goldhouse. Catherine is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) who specialises in anxiety, OCD, and relationships.

We discuss Catherine’s OCD story, inference-based CBT (I-CBT), exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), reality sensing, the idea that I-CBT cares about the why, this concept of the feared self, understanding the concept of inferential confusion, the question of whether you can combine ERP and I-CBT, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Catherine:

Website: https://www.catherinegoldhouse.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icbttherapist/

Resources:

I-CBT website – https://icbt.online/

Sheryl Paul

Book: Resolving OCD by Dr Fredrick Aardema – https://amzn.to/3EIeJwx

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Catherine Goldhouse: I-CBT, feared self, and understanding inferential confusion (#474) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stephen Smith share’s NOCD’s story (#473)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 473 I chat Stephen Smith. Stephen is the Cofounder and CEO of NOCD.

Stephen shares his OCD story, the story of NOCD, the ups and downs of getting it to where it is today, the commitment from their team to improve access to OCD therapy, NOCD’s therapists and the rigorous training for them, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about NOCD:

Website: https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Website: http://learn.nocd.com/stephensmith

Resources:

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

Dr Patrick McGrath

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Stephen Smith share’s NOCD’s story (#473) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stories: Nick Sireau & Margherita Zenoni (& Orchard OCD) (#472)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 472 I chat with Nick Sireau and Margherita Zenoni about their stories. Nick founded Orchard OCD a not-for-profit for advancing global OCD research, and Margherita manages the communication and fundraising for Orchard OCD and is doing her PhD at the University of Cambridge.

We discuss their OCD stories, their work at Orchard OCD, the research they have supported and are a part of, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Orchard OCD:

Website: https://www.orchardocd.org/

Registry: https://orchardocdregistry.org/

Resources:

OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Professor David Veale

David Adam

Dr Caitlin Pinciotti and Dr Lauren Wadsworth

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Stories: Nick Sireau & Margherita Zenoni (& Orchard OCD) (#472) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story (and therapist): Bronwyn Shroyer (OCD, PTSD, EMDR, I-CBT) (#471)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 471 I chat with Bronwyn Shroyer. Bronwyn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specialises in two treatment areas: OCD and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Bronwyn has lived experience with both PTSD and OCD.

We discuss her OCD story including PTSD, the interplay between trauma and OCD, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), inferential confusion, reality sensing, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Bronwyn:

Website: https://www.bronwynshroyer.com/

Trainings: https://www.ocdtrainingschool.com/

Resources:

I-CBT website: https://icbt.online/

WET training: https://www.counselinginstitute.org/products/recorded-webinar–written-exposure-treatment

Katie Marrotte

Mike Heady

Dr Kieron O’Connor

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story (and therapist): Bronwyn Shroyer (OCD, PTSD, EMDR, I-CBT) (#471) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: The treatment of children and adolescents (9-25) with OCD (#470)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 470 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss the treatment of children and adolescents (9-25) with OCD, Steve breaks it down by age group, indications OCD is interfering in their lives, involving parents. How Steve explains OCD to kids, when to have parents in session, the idea of parental sabotage, when kids don’t want therapy, parents being on the same page in treatment, parental accommodation, medication, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Resources:

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: The treatment of children and adolescents (9-25) with OCD (#470) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Rachael (harm OCD, postpartum OCD, fears of developing psychosis, health anxiety, existential OCD) (#469)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 469 I chat with Rachael who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss OCD themes including harm, postnatal fears of developing psychosis, existential, religious, and health anxiety. We talk about exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), learnings from ERP, how her partner helped, shame and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Book: ‘Imp of the mind’ by Dr Lee Baer – https://amzn.to/3DSSCD8

OCD LA – https://ocdla.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Rachael (harm OCD, postpartum OCD, fears of developing psychosis, health anxiety, existential OCD) (#469) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Emily Hemendinger: OCD and pets (#468)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 468 I chat with Emily Hemendinger. Emily is clinical director of the OCD Program at the University of Colorado Health Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic.

We discuss what Emily has been up to, the positives of pets on mental health, how pets can trigger our OCD, how this plays out in various themes of OCD, how vets can play a role in reducing compulsions, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Emily:

Website: https://www.erp4ocd.com/ and https://som.ucdenver.edu/Profiles/Faculty/Profile/29092

Emily’s past podcasts appearance 1 and appearance 2

Resources:

Colorado IOCDF affiliate – https://iocdf.org/organizations/ocd-colorado/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Emily Hemendinger: OCD and pets (#468) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Understanding and practicing ACT skills (Therapist’s perspective – part 2) (#467)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 467 I chat with Jonny Say who offers the therapist’s perspective to Jack’s episode last week titled: Understanding and practicing ACT skills (Client’s perspective). Jonny is a therapist and co-founder of The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss Jonny’s perspective on Jack’s episode, Jonny shares some blocks and resistances to OCD skills practice, he also shares some interpersonal blocks that can occur, and other ideas that can help. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TICFOCD

Resources:

Part 1 to this episode with Jack

Jack’s story episode

The OCD Camp: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Jonny’s low insight episode

Kim Quinlan’s self-compassion for OCD book: https://amzn.to/3Pjt4S3

Nate’s functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP) episode

Rich Gallagher

https://theocdstories.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Understanding and practicing ACT skills (Therapist’s perspective – part 2) (#467) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

A big thank you as the podcast goes into its 10th year!

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 16:06:00 +0000

Thank you for all the support in 2024. I appreciate you!

The podcast is made possible by NOCD: https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The integrative centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

The post A big thank you as the podcast goes into its 10th year! appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jack: Understanding and practicing ACT skills (Client’s perspective – part 1) (#466)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 466 I chat with Jack who came back on to talk about his approach to learning ACT skills and practising them between his therapy sessions.

We discuss his therapy including exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT), his approach to doing home practice and practicing skills outside of session, Jack recaps some of the ACT skills he learned, the importance of practising often, repetition and consistency, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jack:

His story episode on the podcast

Resources:

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

The dropping anchor audio Jack mentioned in the episode – https://jonnysaytherapy.com/guided-practices/

Website: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/molly-schiffer-lcpc/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jack: Understanding and practicing ACT skills (Client’s perspective – part 1) (#466) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Molly Schiffer: Using cognitive processing therapy for trauma that interferes with OCD therapy (#465)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 465 I chat with Molly Schiffer (LCPC). Molly is a therapist and associate director at The Center for OCD and Anxiety at Sheppard Pratt.

We discuss her therapy story, cognitive processing therapy (CPT), trauma and OCD, CPT for trauma (PTSD & CPTSD), how trauma can fuel the OCD, CPT helping exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), Molly shares a clinical case example of CPT in action, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Molly:

Resources:

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Molly Schiffer: Using cognitive processing therapy for trauma that interferes with OCD therapy (#465) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Carey Marie (magical thinking, BDD, existential OCD) (#464)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 464 I chat with Carey who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, magical thinking, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), fears around medication, feelings of shame, existential OCD, feeling suicidal, going into a psychiatric unit, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Carey:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/eclectic_daydreams

Resources:

NOCD – https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

Jon Hershfield residential episode episode

Jon Hershfield existential episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Carey Marie (magical thinking, BDD, existential OCD) (#464) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Dealing with low insight in OCD (#463)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 463 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss an update on Jonny, what is insight in OCD, how it affects OCD, the 4 things Jonny sees in clients with low insight: when mental compulsions go up insight goes down, the intensity of the symptoms, low insight and shame go hand in hand, the beliefs that we carry about thoughts and feelings, words of hope, and much more.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TICFOCD

Resources:

Dr Pete Weiss episode

Trauma episode

OCD action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Dealing with low insight in OCD (#463) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nick (pOCD, ERP, and advocacy) (#462)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 462 I chat with Nick who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, pOCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), advocacy, how his sexuality and OCD got entangled, his place of work questioning some of his OCD writings, and more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Nick:

OCD Journey Blog: https://ocdjourney.substack.com/

OCD Journey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdjourney_blog/ (@ocdjourney_blog)

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Nick (pOCD, ERP, and advocacy) (#462) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Alcée: The Upside of OCD (#461)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In episode 461 I chat with Dr Michael Alcée. Michael is a clinical psychologist (Ph.D.).

We discuss his therapy story, how Michael works with OCD, the existential story, exposure to feelings, 3 upsides of OCD, his book, some nuances of OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Michael:

Website: https://michaelalcee.com/

Book, “The Upside of OCD”: https://amzn.to/4fylhvo

Resources:

Dr Jon Hoffman

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Alcée: The Upside of OCD (#461) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Lou (harm and self-harm themed OCD, The OCD Camp, creativity) (#460)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 07:30:00 +0000

In episode 460 I chat with Lou who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, harm themed OCD around her family, self-harm themed OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), her experiences at The OCD Camp, creativity, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

The OCD Camp: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

Sophie Suri

OCD action – https://www.ocduk.org/

OCD UK – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

https://www.ocdmidwest.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Lou (harm and self-harm themed OCD, The OCD Camp, creativity) (#460) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nicole Morris: Inference-Based CBT and Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy for OCD (#459)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 459 I chat with Nicole Morris, LMFT. Nicole is a therapist and host of the OCD Family podcast.

We discuss her therapy story, her view of OCD, Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), her podcast and favourite guests, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Nicole:

Website: https://www.ocdfamilypodcast.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdfamilypodcast/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nicole Morris: Inference-Based CBT and Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy for OCD (#459) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Hannah (pOCD, harm, religious, and sexual orientation OCD) (#458)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 458 I chat with Hannah who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss how OCD manifested for her in childhood including: a fear of rabies, worries around swallowing, worries around her heart stopping, as well as harm, religious, and sexual orientation themes of OCD. We discuss other themes such as pOCD, and doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), starting a support group, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Hannah’s support group:

Harm + Sexual Obsessions OCD Peer Support Group

WHERE: Lake Forest Church- 8519 Gilead Rd, Huntersville, NC *NOTE: Not a religious based group

WHEN: Every Other Thursday from 7PM-8PM Starting Feb 29th

WHO: Anyone 18+
CONTACT: ThrivingWithOCD@outlook.com

Resources:

Kim Quinlan’s self-compassion workbook for OCD: https://amzn.to/3NGkAnk

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Hannah (pOCD, harm, religious, and sexual orientation OCD) (#458) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield: Residential treatment for OCD (#457)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 06:43:00 +0000

In episode 457 I chat with Jon Hershfield, MFT. Jon is the director of Sheppard Pratt’s The Center for OCD and Anxiety.

In this episode we discuss what is a residential treatment center, who can benefit from residential treatment, what a day in the life in residential looks like, the duration of a residential stay, therapy at residential centers, art therapy, yoga, mindfulness, having a team around you, the use of family therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jon:

Website: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/care-finder/ocd-anxiety-center/

Jon’s books: https://amzn.to/3Yy557c

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jon Hershfield: Residential treatment for OCD (#457) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Marisa Mazza: Shame around OCD, and self-compassion (#456)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 456 I chat with Dr. Marisa T. Mazza. Marisa is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of choicetherapy psychological services.

We discuss her book, what is shame, how shame manifests in OCD, how shame can interfere with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the inner critic, self-compassion, loving kindness, why we all deserve self-compassion, how to integrate self-compassion into ERP, fears blocks and resistances to self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Marisa:

Website: https://www.choicetherapy.net/

Book: The ACT workbook for OCD – https://amzn.to/4eKC8um

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Marisa Mazza: Shame around OCD, and self-compassion (#456) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Elena Fasan: OCD in children (plus her OCD story) (#455)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 455 I chat with Elena Fasan. Elena is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and founder of the Children’s OCD & Anxiety Collective.

We discuss her OCD story, how OCD can effect a child’s development, getting creative with kids in OCD therapy, working with parents, supporting siblings, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Elena:

Website: https://childrensocdandanxiety.com/

Parenting OCD: https://parentingocd.com/

Resources:

International OCD Foundation (IOCDF): https://iocdf.org/

OCD LA: https://ocdla.com/

Book: Sitting still like a frog – https://www.shambhala.com/sittingstilllikeafrog/

Tamar Black’s books for treating children with ACT: https://tamarblack.com.au/act-for-treating-children/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Elena Fasan: OCD in children (plus her OCD story) (#455) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Katie Marrotte (I-CBT) (#454)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 06:21:00 +0000

In episode 454 I chat with Katie Marrotte. Katie is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Katie kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, harm themed OCD, magical thinking, worries around natural disasters, sexual orientation themed OCD, worries around her dog, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), we discuss inference-based cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT) in detail, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Katie:

Website (training school): https://www.ocdtrainingschool.com/

Resources:

I-CBT self-help course: https://www.ocdtrainingschool.com/selfhelp

I-CBT Online: https://icbt.online/

Mike Heady

OCD action: https://ocdaction.org.uk/

OCD UK: https://www.ocduk.org/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Katie Marrotte (I-CBT) (#454) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Natasha Daniels: Out of my shell (Social anxiety) (#453)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 453 I chat with Natasha Daniels. Natasha is an anxiety & OCD therapist. She runs her online membership AT Parenting Community. And recently authored the book, “Out of my shell: overcoming social anxiety from childhood to adulthood”.

We discuss her community, her social anxiety story, the loss of her husband, working through social anxiety, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), her new book, social anxiety and OCD, and much more.

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

Find out more about Natasha:

Website: http://atparentingsurvival.com/

AT parenting community: https://atparentingcommunity.com/

Natasha’s books: https://amzn.to/2vj3Uxl

Her new book, “Out of my shell”: https://amzn.to/3Bpc9tC

Her first episode on the podcast: Parenting children and teens with OCD

Resources:

https://laurenwadsworth.com

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Natasha Daniels: Out of my shell (Social anxiety) (#453) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Lauren Wadsworth, Dr Caitlin Pinciotti, and Dr Nathaniel Van Kirk: Trauma and OCD (#452)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 06:42:00 +0000

In episode 452 I chat with Dr Lauren Wadsworth, Dr Caitlin Pinciotti, and Dr Nathaniel Van Kirk. Lauren is a clinical psychologist in private practice, Caitlin is a clinical psychologist, researcher and assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and Nathaniel is a clinical psychologist and director of psychological services at McLean OCD Institute.

We discuss who they are, how do we define trauma, complex trauma (CPTSD) and PTSD, stats on trauma and OCD, static vs dynamic trauma and OCD links, research, therapies for trauma, treating OCD and trauma together, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Lauren, Caitlin, Nathaniel:

Lauren:

https://www.meridianpractice.org

https://gviproc.org

Previous episodes: pOCD and A conversation with an OCD support group

Caitlin:

Website: (OCD/PTSD resources and treatment provider directory): https://www.cmpinciotti.com

Caitlin’s research:

To participate in the National OCD Survey, go to: https://bcmpsych.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9LdbaR2yrj0oV7g or email NationalOCDSurvey@bcm.edu

To participate in the OCD and Loss Study, go to: https://bcmpsych.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8f6dizD05esiyFM or email OCDLossStudy@bcm.edu

Nathaniel:

https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/nathaniel-van-kirk

Resources:

Here is the link to the Trauma, PTSD, in OCD special interest group (SIG) website they mentioned: https://sites.google.com/view/trauma-ptsd-in-ocd-sig/home

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Lauren Wadsworth, Dr Caitlin Pinciotti, and Dr Nathaniel Van Kirk: Trauma and OCD (#452) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges: Grieving from OCD (#451)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 451 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Peer Support specialist, founder of OCD Gamechangers, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

We discuss her new community, grieving from OCD, the points of grief in Chrissie’s OCD story (OCD onset, lost opportunities, love and sexual development, lost time, stigma), her grieving process, her difficulty of being involuntarily admitted to a mental health hospital, navigating anger in grief, self-compassion, figuring out who you are and what you want to do with your life as symptoms reduce, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Chrissie:

Community: https://chrissiehodges.com/community/

OCD Gamechangers: https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Her book: https://amzn.to/3QTUJr4

Resources:

Natasha Daniels

Dr Maggie Perry

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges: Grieving from OCD (#451) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Carrie (#450)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 450 I chat with Carrie who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, intrusive thoughts, religious themed OCD, pocd, suicidal thoughts, postpartum OCD, getting therapy, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), going to intensive outpatient therapy, shame, self-compassion, mindfulness, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

OCDI Texas (Houston): https://ocditexas.com/

Kimberley Quinlan and her book, The self-com passion workbook for OCD

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Carrie (#450) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: What’s the problem? (#449)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 06:32:00 +0000

In episode 449 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss figuring out what’s the problem in OCD, defining what a problem is, anxiety vs worry, what gets in the way of OCD treatment, the issue with seeing thoughts and feelings as the problem, judging thoughts as bad, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website including all his articles – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Podcast: OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike

Resources:

International OCD Foundation (IOCDF): https://iocdf.org/

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

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: What’s the problem? (#449) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Chris Russo (#448)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 448 I chat with Chris Russo who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, an early parental loss, religious themed OCD, hit and run themed OCD, the fear of rejection, panic attacks, getting therapy, finding it hard to let go of compulsions, trauma and OCD, what else helps, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

International OCD Foundation (IOCDF): https://iocdf.org/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Chris Russo (#448) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nadav (#447)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Aug 2024 07:35:00 +0000

In episode 447 I chat with Nadav who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, obsessing over if he had damaged his hearing and the compulsions around this, starting exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), sexual orientation OCD, zoophilia OCD, obsessing about obsessing, imaginal exposures in ERP, social anxiety, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Nadav (#447) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

LIVE podcast from the 29th IOCDF Conference in Orlando with Stuart and Jonny (#446)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 446 therapist Jonny Say and myself (Stuart Ralph) do a live podcast with an audience at the 29th International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) conference. We asked the audience for topics before recording, and then did our best to answer those topics live.

We discuss my full circle moment, Jonny’s experience of the conference, perfection, hyper responsibility, how loved ones can look after themselves when supporting someone with OCD, and how loved ones can support their loved ones with OCD, just right OCD, Inference-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (I-CBT), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jonny and Stuart:

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Jonny and Stuart learnings from the conference (blog): https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/blog/29th-iocdf-conference-highlights

Parenting course: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/parent-education-group

Resources:

Parenting course: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/parent-education-group

Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE): https://www.spacetreatment.net/

Dr Eli Lebowitz

Kimberley Quinlan book, The self-compassion for workbook for OCD: https://amzn.to/4duiemo

Dr Kieron O’Connor

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post LIVE podcast from the 29th IOCDF Conference in Orlando with Stuart and Jonny (#446) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Grace Anderson (#445)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 445 I chat with Grace Anderson who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, real event themed OCD, magical thinking, contamination themed OCD, memory hoarding themed OCD, PANS, medication, therapy, humour, what else helps her and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Grace:

NOCD article: https://www.treatmyocd.com/my-ocd-journey/the-unsolvable-puzzle-my-experience-with-ocd

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Grace Anderson (#445) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chris Trondsen: Body Dysmorphic Disorder (#444)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 10:39:00 +0000

In episode 444 I chat with Chris Trondsen. Chris is psychotherapist at the Gateway institute, an OCD and anxiety treatment center. He currently serves as the Vice President of the IOCDF Southern California Affiliate, and is on the Board of Directors of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)

We discuss an update on Chris, what is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), muscle dysmorphia, levels of insight in BDD, a view of how the brain works in BDD, therapy for BDD, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Chris:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christrondsen

Website: https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/

Chris first episode on the podcast

Resources:

BDD Foundation: https://bddfoundation.org/

BDD podcast: https://bddfoundation.org/podcast-beating-bdd/

OCD SoCal: https://ocdsocal.org/

Robyn Stern: https://www.rlsterntherapy.com/

Scott Granet book: https://amzn.to/3WoVZY1

Dr Katherine Phillips: https://www.katharinephillipsmd.com/

Pure O: https://open.spotify.com/episode/61nbqAlbwVuBzcuZbokHSs?si=p7zf76uYTy6xG6uDSoPIpA

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chris Trondsen: Body Dysmorphic Disorder (#444) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Will (#443)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 06:42:00 +0000

In episode 443 I chat with Will who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, harm themed OCD, OCD that latched onto someone, medication, the OCD theme of worrying whether he has OCD or not, tics, what helps him, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Will:

Podcast: https://www.anyamedia.net/project/livelyminds/

Resources:

My three interviews on their podcast:

Why is OCD so misunderstood: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7wJAAPC1zLh8jYC9nM87GS?si=YnTdvUvHQ9CfgGHrqOY8yw

Tackling misinformation about OCD: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08E8jCwKPdbtuwf9I5lwyh?si=10CpTaXTRj6oDm7-W89eLA

Ben Eckstein

Jonny Say and his YouTube channel

Here are links to some of the things Will mentioned:

The article Will read that made him realise he had OCD: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/aug/31/pure-ocd-the-naked-truth

Ironic Process Theory: https://www.simplypsychology.org/ironic-process-theory-white-bear-experiment.html

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Will (#443) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny interviews Stuart on OCD Therapy for Children and Teens (#442)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 06:58:00 +0000

In episode 442 therapist Jonny Say interviews myself, Stuart, about my work as a therapist with children and adolescents.

We discuss how I adapt Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for children and teens with OCD, the other therapies I integrate, self-compassion, how parents can help their children with OCD, what I would tell my younger self, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy (IC-OCD): https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Jonny Say Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Book: ACT for Treating Children by Tamar Black https://amzn.to/3S65XMR

Emma Roselli

Anxiety Josh on the podcast – his book, ‘And how does that make you feel?’ https://amzn.to/3y520Rz

Parent course at IC-OCD: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/parent-education-group

SPACE https://www.spacetreatment.net/

Breaking free of child anxiety and OCD (SPACE book): https://amzn.to/3S5mSzb

Dr Eli Lebowitz

NOCD: https://www.treatmyocd.com/therapists/74597/madina.alam

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny interviews Stuart on OCD Therapy for Children and Teens (#442) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Madina Alam: Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) (#441)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 441 I chat with Madina Alam. Madina is a licensed mental health therapist, and director of therapist engagement at NOCD.

We discuss her therapy journey, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) as a tool for life, explaining ERP, working for NOCD, coming up with exposure ideas in session, homework, when ERP works really well what she notices, experiences of being on the TV show the Bachelor and dealing with the pressure, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Madina:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinalynee/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Madina Alam: Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) (#441) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jack (#440)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 06:29:00 +0000

In episode 440 I chat with Jack who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, an early parental loss, he shares themes of harm OCD, sexual orientation OCD, and peadophile themed OCD. Jack talks about substance use to mask the pain, how numbers played a part in his compulsions, being in an abusive relationship, he mentions suicide, attending The OCD Camp, doing Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP). Jack discusses secondary spikes, what else helps him, self-compassion and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Jonny Say – The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

The OCD Camp – https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jack (#440) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: What ACT based Exposure can look like (#439)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Jun 2024 06:41:00 +0000

In episode 439 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We talk about what are values based exposures, Jonny guides me through an imaginal exposure with acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), he goes through the skill dropping anchor, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s 10-week ACT and ERP skills group: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/low-cost-ocd-groups

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Dr Jon Abramowitz on Breaking the rules podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/60W8ITaL4HTqypVdFt6rtS?si=zYY1MqNoQu2wFonPlK8-Ig

Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely ‘Everyday mindfulness for OCD’ book: https://amzn.to/4eBixwZ

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: What ACT based Exposure can look like (#439) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Russ Harris: We practice ACT and compassion skills for OCD (#438)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Jun 2024 06:50:00 +0000

In episode 438 I chat with Dr Russ Harris. Russ is a medical practitioner, author of the international best-selling self-help book ‘The Happiness Trap’ (as well as nine others), and is a world-renowned trainer of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).

We discuss his new Happiness Trap card deck, rumination, the skill noticing and naming, he guides us through the ACT skill Dropping Anchor, the problems with distraction, self compassion, and he guides us through the kind hands exercise, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Russ:

The Happiness Trap cards (Shambhala publications): https://www.shambhala.com/the-happiness-trap-cards.html

The Happiness Trap 2nd edition: https://amzn.to/3kOVzIo

Free dropping anchor audio: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/free-audio/

His first episode on the podcast

His second episode on the podcast

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Russ Harris: We practice ACT and compassion skills for OCD (#438) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: Intersections between OCD and the LGBTQIA+ community (#437)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 06:29:00 +0000

In episode 437 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss an update on Sam, intersections between OCD and the LGBTQIA+ community, how OCD can show up in this community, including common OCD themes, working with therapists who understand the needs of the community, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Sam:

Queer themes in OCD article: https://ocdspecialists.net/ocdarticles/queer-themes-of-ocd

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Second episode: A potential way of improving ERP

Third episode: Cancel culture, and the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD

Fourth episode: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss)

Fifth episode: What can therapy change?

Sixth episode: A review of the therapies that have an evidence base for OCD

Resources:

LGBTQ+ IOCDF special interest group: https://iocdf.org/special-interest-groups/lgbtq/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: Intersections between OCD and the LGBTQIA+ community (#437) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson’s OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike (#436)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Jun 2024 18:42:00 +0000

In episode 436 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson and three members of one of his OCD therapy groups: Sadie, Rachel, and Mike. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss Steve’s therapy group for OCD, we hear from his group members, their experiences in group, processing shame in the group, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) in the group, the safety of sharing in the group, their favourite group moments, words of hope, and much more.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Resources:

The OCD Camp – https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson’s OCD therapy group featuring Sadie, Rachel, and Mike (#436) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Alex (#435)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 435 I chat with Alex who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, harm themed OCD, hit and run themed OCD, reassurance seeking, finding a therapist that could help with OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), judgements, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Resources:

Jonny Say YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/@jonnysaytherapy

Mark Freeman

Integrative centre for OCD Therapy – https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Dropping anchor – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P47C7Lxi79E

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Alex (#435) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Heather Sequeira: Complex trauma and OCD (#434)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 434 I chat to Dr Heather Sequeira. Heather is a consultant psychologist specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

We discuss an update on her OCD story, what is complex trauma, the upstairs-downstairs brain, complex trauma and OCD, shame, we talk briefly on relationship themed OCD, self-compassion, rewiring the brain, disgust, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Heather:

Website: https://www.drheathersequeira.co.uk/

Trauma trainings for professionals: https://www.ptsdtraumaworkshops.co.uk/

Past episode: Dr Heather Sequeira: Trauma and OCD (PTSD, Complex and Developmental trauma)

Resources:

Eva Sawrey: Guilty obsessions episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Heather Sequeira: Complex trauma and OCD (#434) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kayla (#433)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 433 I chat with Kayla who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, her early worries, self harm themed OCD, a bad psychedelic trip, health anxiety, OCD worries around the Covid vaccine, worries about going crazy, harm themed OCD, religious themed OCD, OCD worries of possession, finding appropriate help, medication, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), what’s helped her, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Resources:

Dr Emily O’Leary

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Kayla (#433) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Louise Newson: Hormones, perimenopause, OCD and mental health (#432)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 May 2024 06:48:00 +0000

UPDATE (30/09/2024): Since this podcast came out, this BBC Panorama episode was released. I am keeping the podcast episode live because I found the conversation with Louise insightful on the topic discussed, but please be aware of some of the criticisms surrounding Dr Newson and her private practice Newson Health. It’s important to have a full picture when deciding on the best course of action for our health. Here is Newson Health’s response to the documentary.

In episode 432 I chat with Dr Louise Newson. Louise is a GP and Menopause Specialist, and co-founder of Newson Health Menopause and Wellbeing Centre. She is also author of, ‘The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause’.

We discuss her doctor story, hormones and mental health, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), the different hormones and their role in mental health, some of the perimenopause and menopause symptoms in relation to mental health, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), anxieties around HRT, other lifestyle factors that may help, teenage hormones, men and hormones, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Dr Louise Newson:

Websites:

Balance by Newson Health (app): https://www.balance-menopause.com/

Newson Health clinic: https://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/

Louise personal website (podcast): https://www.drlouisenewson.co.uk/

Book: The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause – The Sunday Times bestseller: Revised and Updated – https://amzn.to/44jz1Fo

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Louise Newson: Hormones, perimenopause, OCD and mental health (#432) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Paul Huntingford: The many opportunities to practice acceptance in OCD recovery (#431)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 431 I chat with Paul Huntingford. Paul is an integrative therapist, and sees clients through the Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss his therapy story, addiction, anxiety, what is acceptance, the many opportunities to practice acceptance in OCD recovery including: acceptance of the feelings, acceptance of the process, acceptance of the presence of thoughts, conditional acceptance, acceptance of the work to be done, acceptance of relapses, and much more.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Paul:

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Paul Huntingford: The many opportunities to practice acceptance in OCD recovery (#431) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Edith Bell: PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) (#430)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 430 I chat with Edith Bell. Edith is a CBT Therapist and Director of Counselling for Familyworks Northern Ireland.

We discuss her therapy story, PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections), what is PANDAS, working therapeutically with OCD brought on by PANDAS, what to look out for, Sydenham chorea, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Edith:

Website: https://familyworksni.com/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Edith Bell: PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) (#430) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg: Q&A on RF-ERP (#429)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 429 I chat with Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a clinical psychologist who specialises in Rumination-Focused ERP (RF-ERP).

We discuss what’s new with him, he then answers listener questions, he explores how RF-ERP has helped people, learning to let go of the questions, some justifications of rumination that people use to justify it, persistent obsessions and urges, and much more.

Find out more about Michael:

Michael’s website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

All articles: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

Past episodes on our podcast:

Rumination is a compulsion: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-rumination-is-a-compulsion-252/

Putting rumination and agency at the center of ERP: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-269/

Somatic/sensorimotor OCD, and rumination: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-285/

Malan’s model of OCD part 1 and part 2

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Greenberg: Q&A on RF-ERP (#429) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kelly (#428)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 428 I chat with Kelly who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss health anxiety, postpartum OCD, harm OCD, violent intrusive thoughts, getting help, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), physical sensations alongside intrusive thoughts, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Dr Russ Harris – The Happiness Trap https://amzn.to/3xjPrBp

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Kelly (#428) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Erica Lugo (EricaFitLove) (#427)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 427 I chat with Erica who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us. You may know Erica as a trainer from USA Networks Biggest Loser TV show, or from her Instagram (EricaFitLove).

We discuss her OCD story, suicidal and self harm themed OCD, getting diagnosed, working with NOCD, doing exposure and response prevention therapy, the Whac-A-Mole effect of OCD, the power of tracking progress, doing home practice, hormones, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Erica:

Website: https://www.ericafitlove.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericafitlove/

Resources:

Dr Charles Brady suicidal themed OCD Episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Erica Lugo (EricaFitLove) (#427) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Josh (#426)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 426 I chat with Josh who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, his early experiences of OCD, intrusive thoughts, sexual intrusive thoughts, religious OCD, self harm, joining the military, perfectionism, getting therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Josh:

Josh is a sitting member of International OCD Foundation’s Local Affiliate OCD Oregon.

If you wish to get involved with OCD Oregon you can find out more on their webpage: ocdoregon.org or follow them on Instagram: @OCDOregon

Resources:

Mark Freeman

The mindfulness workbook for OCD by Jon Hershfield and Tom Corboy – https://amzn.to/43pyy41

Get out of your mind and into your life by Dr Steven Hayes – https://amzn.to/3PsNE34

Everyday mindfulness for OCD by Jon Hershfield and Shila Nicely – https://amzn.to/43qWgx0

Shala Nicely

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Josh (#426) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Nicholas Farrell: ERP – understanding it, hierarchies, and home practice (#425)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 425 I interviewed licensed clinical psychologist Nicholas Farrell. Nick is the clinical director of programming and development at NOCD.

We discuss Nick’s therapy journey, explaining exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) and its effectiveness, working on hierarchies that target the correct thing, home practice, ERP as a lifestyle change, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Nick:

Website: https://www.treatmyocd.com/therapists/137931/nicholas.farrell

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Nicholas Farrell: ERP – understanding it, hierarchies, and home practice (#425) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Emma Roselli: Working with parents of children and teens experiencing OCD (#424)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 424 I interviewed Psychotherapist Emma Roselli.

We discuss her therapy journey, working with Stuart at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy, working with and supporting parents of children and teens with OCD, what parents can do more of to support their child, acknowledging the tough experiences of parenting, boundaries and reducing accommodations, ruptures in the parent child relationship, working with taboo intrusive thoughts with children and teens, how parents can help around taboo intrusive thoughts, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Josh:

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/therapists

Resources:

SPACE book: https://amzn.to/32TgvZ3

SPACE podcast: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-eli-lebowitz-306/

Pure O: https://open.spotify.com/episode/61nbqAlbwVuBzcuZbokHSs?si=p7zf76uYTy6xG6uDSoPIpA

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Emma Roselli: Working with parents of children and teens experiencing OCD (#424) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The Lively Minds podcast interviews Stuart, and Matthew Antonelli (IOCDF): Tackling misinformation about OCD (#423)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 423 Will Sadler and Ellie Page of the Lively Minds podcast interviewed myself (Stuart), and Matthew Antonelli of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) about tackling the misinformation about OCD.

We talk about how misunderstood OCD is, why the media gets it wrong, the letting your intrusive thoughts win social media trend, educating a news outlet on OCD miseducation, educating clinicians, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Lively Minds and IOCDF:

Website: https://www.anyamedia.net/project/livelyminds/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelymindspod/

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ZTKEUcKvn3pU6BdXvZOll?si=0ebcc04ffb034bb4

This episode on their podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08E8jCwKPdbtuwf9I5lwyh?si=GhLEXEZUT4-tDwze2S6vOQ

My two interviews on their podcast:

Why is OCD so misunderstood: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7wJAAPC1zLh8jYC9nM87GS?si=YnTdvUvHQ9CfgGHrqOY8yw

IOCDF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iocdf

IOCDF Anxiety in the classroom: https://anxietyintheclassroom.org/

IOCDF (BTTI) Behavior Therapy Training Institute: https://iocdf.org/professionals/training-institute/btti/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post The Lively Minds podcast interviews Stuart, and Matthew Antonelli (IOCDF): Tackling misinformation about OCD (#423) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh): And how does that make you feel? (#422)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 422 I interviewed Psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh) about his new book, ‘And how does that make you feel?’.

We talk about his new book, the voices he uses in his book that narrates his inner dialogue, we discuss some of the clients in the book, the writing process being cathartic, we discuss integrative therapists, what he hopes the book achieves, emotional conservatism, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Josh:

Book: ‘And how does that make you feel?’: https://amzn.to/42R7ESr

His first appearance on The OCD Stories, ‘What is Anxiety?‘

Links to his books, podcast and more: https://schoolofanxiety.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anxietyjosh

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh): And how does that make you feel? (#422) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Iona (#421)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 421 I chat with Iona who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her earliest OCD memory and it feeling like a premonition, her obsessions and compulsions, worries of harm coming to her family, wanting to normalise embarrassing compulsions, family support, medication, starting CBT as a teenager and having a tough time engaging and then being ready for therapy later on, how her sister helped, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Iona (#421) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: A review of the therapies that have an evidence base for OCD (#420)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 420 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss an update on Sam, theories on relationship OCD, the nuances of therapy, the idea of trusting your gut, a review of the therapies that have an evidence base for OCD, the need for more longitudinal research, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Sam:

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Second episode: A potential way of improving ERP

Third episode: Cancel culture, and the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD

Fourth episode: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss)

Fifth episode: What can therapy change?

Resources:

OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Dr Russ Harris – Happiness Trap

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: A review of the therapies that have an evidence base for OCD (#420) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Saraa D. Lee (#419)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 419 I chat with Saraa D. Lee who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us. Saraa is a therapist (LCSW) at Soul Spa Psychotherapy and is an OCD and Trauma specialist.

We discuss her story, traumatic experiences in her childhood, her obsessions and compulsions, not getting a diagnosis, her therapy journey, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Saraa:

Website: https://soulspapsychotherapy.com/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Saraa D. Lee (#419) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: OCD in times of crisis (#418)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 418 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss OCD in times of crisis, the terms of blood lust and guilt thrill, character indictment OCD, feeling bad because you’re not giving any attention to a crisis, or focusing too much on a crisis because it triggers OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – https://www.ocdonline.com/

Article this episode is based on: https://www.ocdonline.com/ocd911

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Podcast: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: OCD in times of crisis (#418) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jesse Birnbaum and Sandy Robinson (OCD and chronic illness) (#417)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 417 I chat with Jesse Birnbaum and Sandy Robinson who have kindly agreed to share their OCD stories with us.

We discuss their OCD stories, living with OCD and chronic illnesses, going through therapy, self-compassion, setting up their special interest group for OCD and chronic illness, their experience of support groups, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jessie and Sandy:

Their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronically.courageous/

IOCDF special interest group: https://iocdf.org/special-interest-groups/chronic-illness-disability/

Resources:

Duke’s OCD story episode

Dr Steven Phillipson – The top 6 emotions

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jesse Birnbaum and Sandy Robinson (OCD and chronic illness) (#417) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Positive emotions and experiences as triggers for OCD (#416)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 416 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We talk about The OCD Camp, positive emotions and experiences as triggers, Jonny’s personal experiences with this, perfectionism of experience, shame around positive emotions and experiences, therapy around this issue, he gives theme examples, self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

The OCD Camp: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp

Dr Pete Weiss

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Positive emotions and experiences as triggers for OCD (#416) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The OCD Camp 24 – Applications are open

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 11:39:00 +0000

Hi all,

The OCD Camp UK is now open for applications.

The camp is open to UK residents over 18 years of age (there is no upper age limit). It’s 3 days of fun, community and learning OCD skills in nature.

If this sounds interesting to you, you can find out all the info and how to apply here: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/the-ocd-camp. Applications close on the 25th January.

Thanks for your support.

The post The OCD Camp 24 – Applications are open appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jack McGlynn (#415)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 415 I chat with Jack who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, somatic themed OCD, contamination themed OCD, going through grief, ADHD, pure O, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jack McGlynn (#415) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Duke Al Durham (#414)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 07:30:00 +0000

In episode 414 I chat with Duke who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us. Duke is a spoken word poet.

We discuss his story, his compulsions, drinking to cope, pOCD, real event themed OCD, a suicide attempt, getting treatment, therapy groups, how OCD targets numbers for him, Duke shares two spoken word pieces, we discuss type one diabetes, and how OCD latches onto his diabetes, the things that have helped him, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Duke:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dukealdurham/

Resources:

OCD action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Duke Al Durham (#414) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges: Shame as a barrier to treatment for OCD (#413)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 413 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Peer Support specialist, founder of OCD Gamechangers, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

We discuss what’s new with her, Chrissie’s OCD research, shame and OCD, themes of OCD and their relationship to shame, the question of do themes matter, shame as a barrier to treatment, shame around taboo intrusive thoughts, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Chrissie:

OCD Gamechangers: OCD Gamechangers

Her book: https://amzn.to/3QTUJr4

Resources:

OCD action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Lori Johnson and In Focus Counselling – https://infocuscounselingdenver.com/

Brene Brown shame – https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_listening_to_shame

Sheryl Paul

Catherine Benfield

My study on brief humanistic counselling for OCD: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/capr.12499

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges: Shame as a barrier to treatment for OCD (#413) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Katia Moritz: Navigating the holiday season with OCD

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:30:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with licensed psychologist Dr Katia Moritz of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

We talk about OCD and the holiday season, when excitement becomes a trigger for OCD, making values based choices, therapy homework over the holidays, how family can support their loved ones during the holidays, and much more.

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/

Find out more about Katia:

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Katia on the podcast: The core of OCD treatment / What is OCD? / How the sausage is made: Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment center / Client and therapist perspectives of two OCD Stories / Cracking the nut (case) / The Myth about OCD and Suicide

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Katia Moritz: Navigating the holiday season with OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Laura (#412)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 412 I chat with Laura who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, relationship themed OCD, going inpatient, getting misdiagnosed, getting effective therapy for OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the inner critic, compassion focused therapy (CFT), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

OCD UK – https://www.ocduk.org/

OCD UK: NHS NICE Guidelines – https://www.ocduk.org/overcoming-ocd/nice-guidelines-for-the-treatment-of-ocd/

The Compassionate Mind workbook by Dr Elaine Beaumont and Dr Chris Irons: https://amzn.to/48d1tcY

The Compassionate Mind book by Professor Paul Gilbert: https://amzn.to/3Nmqf2m

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Laura (#412) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ben Eckstein: Rumination (#411)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 411 I chat with Ben Eckstein (LCSW). Ben is a therapist in Durham, North Carolina, specialising in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders. Ben founded his therapy centre Bull City Anxiety, and recently published a book called, ‘Worrying is optional’.

We discuss what is rumination, building awareness of when ruminating, keeping a log of rumination, working with rumination in therapy, the difference between OCD and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Ben:

Website: https://www.bullcityanxiety.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bullcityanxiety/

Book: Worrying Is Optional: Break the Cycle of Anxiety and Rumination That Keeps You Stuck – https://amzn.to/3Rbtsma

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Ben Eckstein: Rumination (#411) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Benjamin Ellis (#410)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 410 I chat with Benjamin who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, sexual intrusive thoughts, existential themed OCD, going into an eating disorder rehab facility, suicidal thoughts, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), finding help in mixed martial arts, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Ben:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben17ellis/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Benjamin Ellis (#410) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Hoffman and Dr Amirsaman Sajad: The neuroscience of OCD

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 20:49:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Jon Hoffman of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida, and Dr Amirsaman Sajad, a neuroscientist at Vanderbilt University.

We discuss what is neuroscience, the difference between brain and mind, what goes on in the brain of OCD, how can neuroscience improve therapy for OCD, the importance of psychotherapy and neuroscience working together, why some people don’t have confidence in science and research, and much more. Hope it helps.

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.

Find out more about Jon and Amir:

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Amir: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/psychological_sciences/bio/amirsaman-sajad

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jon Hoffman and Dr Amirsaman Sajad: The neuroscience of OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Live from the OCD Action conference with Olivia Bamber, Mairéad Ruane, and Shaun Flores (#409)

Nami — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 409 I chat with Olivia Bamber, Mairéad Ruane, and Shaun Flores. This conversation was recorded live at The OCD Action conference.

You will hear the OCD Action CEO Leigh Wallbank at the start introducing the panel. Thank you to Leigh, Cara, Eden and the rest of the OCD Action team for making it possible.

I ask my panel guests about road blocks to recovery, dealing with the highs and lows of recovery, what made their therapy effective, how they found the strength to keep trying with therapy, advice for those feeling unsure or undeserving of treatment, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Olivia, Mairéad, and Shaun:

Olivia: https://www.instagram.com/obamber/

Mairéad: https://instagram.com/ocdzinesetc

Shaun: https://www.instagram.com/theshaunflores/

Resources:

OCD Action

Health anxiety podcast

Professor David Veale

Dr Rob Willson

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Live from the OCD Action conference with Olivia Bamber, Mairéad Ruane, and Shaun Flores (#409) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Understanding acceptance within OCD and its misconceptions (#408)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 408 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss an update with Jonny, the concept of acceptance from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), what do we mean by acceptance, resentment as a compulsion, acceptance misconceptions, blocks to acceptance and navigating them, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five, six

Website: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/ / https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Understanding acceptance within OCD and its misconceptions (#408) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan: Meditating with OCD (#407)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 407 I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. Kim is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and related disorders, Eating Disorders and Body Focused Repetitive Disorders. She runs her own podcast called Your Anxiety Toolkit. She also runs CBTschool.com.

We discuss an update on her, what is meditation, meditation compared to mindfulness, resistances and blocks to meditation, Kim guides us through an OCD informed meditation, the basics of meditation, compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Kim:

Clinic website: https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/

Kim’s book: https://amzn.to/3kSiUd2

Kimberley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youranxietytoolkit/

Meditation vault (and other courses) at CBT School: https://www.cbtschool.com/a/2147719491/HYz3xYbY

Kimberley Quinlan on the podcast – Your anxiety toolkit, Badass radical acceptance, OCD and eating disorders, It’s a beautiful day to do hard things, Let’s talk about self-love, Self-compassion for OCD.

Resources:

Headspace: https://www.headspace.com/

Calm: https://www.calm.com/

Eric Kupers

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Kimberley Quinlan: Meditating with OCD (#407) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Abi K (#406)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 406 I chat with Abi who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, sexual intrusive thoughts, compulsive prayer, scrupulosity, emetophobia, trichotillomania, an eating disorder, what’s helped her, support from her partner, intimacy and intrusive thoughts, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Abi:

Email: anaky2k@hotmail.com

Resources:

Rev Katie O’Dun n

Shaun Flores

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Abi K (#406) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Dee Franklin and Dr David Tolin: OCD and PTSD

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:50:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Dee Franklin of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida, and Dr David Tolin is the Founder and Director of the Anxiety Disorders Center at the Institute of Living.

We discuss their therapy journey, what is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex PTSD, overlapping symptoms with OCD, high levels of anxiety, how PTSD and OCD interact with therapy, when the OCD latches onto the trauma, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Dee and David:

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Dee: https://www.nbiweston.com/dee-ross-franklin

Dee on the podcast: Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Dee Franklin: Are Eating Disorders Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

David: https://drtolin.com/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Dee Franklin and Dr David Tolin: OCD and PTSD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A (#405)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 405 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss the things Steve wants you to know about OCD recovery, including why the OCD topics are irrelevant, we need to show the brain that the topic is meaningless, why we shouldn’t use memory to prove the OCD topic is irrelevant, the topics of OCD are only made relevant by the emotion behind it, people with OCD are not fearful people (generally speaking) they are fearful of a small amount of specific worries only. Steve then answers questions from some of the listeners of the show. He answers whether he has OCD or not, superstition and metaphysical OCD, clarification on Steve’s comment about an OCD god, dealing with the fear of death, ways to unhook from OCD thoughts, dealing with obsessing about emotional numbness, are OCD and addiction related, how to deal with intrusive thoughts in everyday moments, how much therapy homework should I do, why am I not getting better from exposures I.e. I’m still obsessing, sensorimotor OCD around the anus, magical thinking around OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Thanks to all our patrons for supporting our work. This podcast episode is available as a video recording on our Patreon. To sign up to our Patreon and to check out the other benefits you’ll receive as a Patron, visit: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

I think it moved article

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Podcast: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: The things Steve wants you to know about OCD, and a Q&A (#405) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Hannah Leib (#403)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 403 I chat with Hannah Leib. Hannah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, worries around her Dad, an eating disorder, getting a diagnosis and therapy, starting a support group initiative at college, becoming a therapist, domestic violence, working with OCD in children and adolescents, school anxiety, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Hannah:

Website: https://www.growandglowchildtherapyla.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growandglowchildtherapy/

Back to school anxiety article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/helping-youth-in-crisis/202308/navigating-back-to-school-anxiety

Resources:

Sheryl Paul episode featuring Stuart: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3vihTzkAfWERVWHXA0aJIp?si=EGSU5vuMRbmyRom3toV04w

Dr Jon Hoffman and Dr Dee Franklin, Are eating disorders OCD? Episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Hannah Leib (#403) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Melissa Mose: Internal Family Systems therapy and ERP for OCD (#402)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 402 I chat with Melissa Mose. Melissa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats OCD. Melissa is president of the IOCDF affiliate OCD SoCal.

We discuss her therapy story, what is Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS), the idea of parts of us, merging IFS with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), OCD being a cluster of parts, thinking about parts of self during exposures, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Melissa:

Website: https://www.melissamosemft.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissamosemft/

Resources:

OCD SoCal: http://ocdsocal.org/

No bad parts book by Dr Richard Schwartz: https://amzn.to/3F2ch0T

Greater than the sum of our parts audiobook by Dr Richard Schwartz: https://amzn.to/3F1O1fe

Dr Eli Lebowitz: SPACE episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Melissa Mose: Internal Family Systems therapy and ERP for OCD (#402) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nicholas (#401)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 401 I chat with Nicholas who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, his early childhood experiences, substance use, worries about choking, suicidal themed OCD, peadophile themed OCD, going through exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), group therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Maria Bamford

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Nicholas (#401) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Katia Moritz and Dr Wilfredo Rivera-Perez: The Myth about OCD and Suicide

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:05:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with licensed psychologists Dr Katia Moritz and Dr Wilfredo Rivera-Perez of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

We discuss what is suicide, some differences between being suicidal and experiencing suicidal OCD, when people experience both suicidal OCD or harm OCD and being actually suicidal, co-occurring disorders that may increase the risk for suicide, the importance of assessment, safety plans, suicidal ideation vs intention, protective factors, what to look out for as family members, and much more.

If you are feeling suicidal, please reach out to the relevant support i.e. your therapist, emergency services, or call a suicide hotline/helpline. Global suicide hotlines/helplines: https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/.

Find out more about Katia and Wilfredo:

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Wilfredo: https://www.nbiweston.com/wilfredo-rivera

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriesp odcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Katia Moritz and Dr Wilfredo Rivera-Perez: The Myth about OCD and Suicide appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nami interviews Stuart on 400 episodes (#400)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 400 Nami (my wife) chats with me (Stuart, the host of the podcast) about my experience and learnings from the podcast over the last 400 episodes.

We discuss and reflect on the last 400 episodes, what episodes and concepts have stood out to me, my original hopes for the podcast, how the podcast has influenced me, what topics I hope to cover in the future, what I would put on a billboard, what I would tell my 7 year old self, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Extreme OCD Camp – Part 1 / Part 2

Sheryl Paul’s podcast on dreams: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08cgDQWJjOSeDYjtNblY04?si=ac96c62083594ee5

The OCD Camp – https://theocdcamp.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nami interviews Stuart on 400 episodes (#400) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Logan (#399)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 06:18:00 +0000

In episode 399 I chat with Logan who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, relationship OCD, ADHD, therapy, how boredom played into the OCD, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Dr Chad LeJeune

Internal Family Systems

Dr Michael Greenberg – Rumination is a compulsion episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Logan (#399) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Maggie Perry: OCD and mood disorders (#398)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 398 I chat with Dr. Maggie Perry. Maggie is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Denver, Colorado and the founder of Relatable Health.

We discuss an update on her, mood disorders, how mood disorders affect OCD and vice versa, working with mood disorders alongside OCD, how to adjust therapy for the two disorders, behavioural activation, negative core beliefs, group therapy for OCD and mood, guilt, and much more. Hope it helps.

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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

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

Find out more about Maggie:

Website: https://www.relatable.health/

Maggie on the podcast

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Maggie Perry: OCD and mood disorders (#398) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Anthony Pinto: Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) (#397)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 397 I chat with Dr Anthony Pinto (Ph.D). Anthony is Director of the Northwell Health OCD Center at Zucker Hillside Hospital on Long Island in NY, and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Dr. Pinto has an extensive publication record, with over 100 manuscripts/chapters on obsessive compulsive disorder and related conditions, particularly obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). He is a leading authority on OCPD and co-edited a comprehensive book on the subject (Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder, American Psychiatric Association Publishing, 2020). He is the lead author of the self-rated Family Accommodation Scale for OCD, which is being used worldwide. He serves on the International OCD Foundation Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board.

Obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a chronic maladaptive pattern of excessive perfectionism, preoccupation with orderliness/detail, and need for control over one’s environment that frequently co-occurs with OCD and can complicate its treatment. Despite its prevalence, many clinicians are not aware of how to treat OCPD. Dr. Pinto shares with us the core features of OCPD, how the condition impacts functioning, and explains how it can be differentiated from OCD. He also focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy interventions for the maladaptive traits and behaviors of OCPD. As well as navigating therapy for OCD while also having OCPD. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Anthony:

Northwell Health OCD Center website (includes videos and articles on OCPD): https://www.northwell.edu/ocdcenter

Resources:

Book on OCPD: https://www.appi.org/Products/Personality-Disorders/Obsessive-Compulsive-Personality-Disorder

New website on OCPD information which will include the POPS self-report measure (new site goes live in mid-Sept 2023): https://ocpd.org/

“The ACT Workbook for Perfectionism” by Dr Jennifer Kemp: https://amzn.to/3OX0dCK

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Anthony Pinto: Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) (#397) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michele Bechor and Dr Ciana Mickolus: A team approach to OCD treatment

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

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.

Find out more about Michele and Ciana:

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Michele: https://www.nbiweston.com/michele-bechor

Ciana: https://www.nbiweston.com/ciana-mickolus

Episodes: Are eating disorders OCD? / How the sausage is made

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michele Bechor and Dr Ciana Mickolus: A team approach to OCD treatment appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jesse Spiegel and Dr Sarah Haider: Troubleshooting ERP when it’s not working (#396)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 06:43:00 +0000

In episode 396 I chat with Dr Jesse Spiegel and Dr Sarah A. Haider. Jesse and Sarah are licensed clinical psychologists working with OCD.

We discuss their therapy stories, why exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) doesn’t work sometimes, including intensity, frequency, and duration. We also cover asking clients to tell on themselves, psychoeducation, checking for small compulsions that interrupt ERP, mental compulsions, how much homework is ideal, uncertainty, reassurance, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Jesse and Sarah:

Jesse: https://www.drjessespiegel.com/

Sarah: https://gameplantherapy.com/about-us

Resources:

Dr Jenny Yip

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jesse Spiegel and Dr Sarah Haider: Troubleshooting ERP when it’s not working (#396) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Hannah (#395)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 395 I chat with Hannah who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss harm worries around her children, hit and run themed OCD, finding a therapist who is an specialist in OCD, her core fears, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), doing ERP while raising kids, medication, support groups, OCD and faith, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Books:

Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder by Dr Jon Grayson: https://amzn.to/3OVQptL

Good mums have scary thoughts by Karen Kleiman: https://amzn.to/44hPiJg

Everyday mindfulness for OCD by Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely: https://amzn.to/3sf4jhP

Overcoming unwanted intrusive thoughts by Dr Sally Winston and Dr Martin Seif: https://amzn.to/3OHsg95

Brain lock by Dr Jeffrey Schwartz: https://amzn.to/3OZxCOf

Post partum support international: https://www.postpartum.net/

Jenna Overbaugh

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Hannah (#395) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Will (#394)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 394 I chat with Will who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his story, growing up in a toxic environment, intrusive thoughts, confessing as a compulsion, perfectionism, being active duty in the US military, identity struggles, a bad relationship with alcohol, peadophile themed OCD, relationship themed OCD, sexual orientation themed OCD, suicidal themed OCD, harm themed OCD, a fear of crossing bridges, health anxiety, being hyper-fixated on sleep, his journey to finding suitable therapy, peer support, intensive outpatient therapy program, masculinity, developing self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

Chance McNeely story episode

Jon Hershfield harm OCD episode, and book

Chrissie Hodges on the podcast, and website

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Will (#394) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Overcoming barriers to OCD recovery (#393)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 06:40:00 +0000

In episode 393 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist and co-director at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy.

We discuss our new OCD centre, we talk about 9 barriers to OCD recovery, including using exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) with the agenda of controlling symptoms, automatic compulsions, secondary spikes, intense feelings, difficulties with urge surfing, shame, unworkable beliefs, core fears, and systemic issues. But more importantly some ideas on how to overcome these barriers. Hope it helps.

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

Our OCD centre, The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four, five (secondary spikes)

Website: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube OCD skills playlist (Jonny’s videos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO7z2Bt0boE&list=PLGsVxNXB_hBQIzyiWFRM6fZRdI58rRN6k

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy: https://www.integrativecentreforocd.co.uk/

Resources:

OCD Action: https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Wegner’s white bear experiment: https://youtu.be/8WVjUTqKQd0

Dropping anchor:

Audio: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/free-audio/

Instructions: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/assets/7c353df422/Dropping-Anchor-Russ-Harris-Infographic-.pdf

Episode on dropping anchor: https://theocdstories.com/episode/russ-harris-328/ (inc urge surfing)

SPACE: https://www.spacetreatment.net/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Overcoming barriers to OCD recovery (#393) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

A conversation with an OCD Support group, featuring Dr Lauren Wadsworth (#392)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 21:53:00 +0000

In episode 392 I chat with 6 members of an OCD support group. The support group members on the show were Bri, Bridget, Cassie, Joe, Kim, Steve, and Dr Lauren Wadsworth.

We discuss what is the group about, what’s it like being in an OCD support group, the benefits of being in an OCD support group, they share some nice memories of being in the group, setting goals within the group, managing challenges in the group, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Lauren:

Website – https://laurenwadsworth.com/

Genesse Valley Psychology Website – https://gviproc.org/

Lauren’s podcast episode on pOCD

Resources:

Support groups:

Here is one public OCD discord mentioned on the podcast: https://discord.gg/84rhnXEM

IOCDF list of online support groups: https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/supportgroups/online-and-phone-ocd-support-groups/

OCD Action support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/online-support-groups/

OCD UK support groups: https://www.ocduk.org/support-groups/online/

The central London OCD support group: https://twitter.com/londonocd

Dr Jon Grayson’s handbook for running an OCD support group using his goal method: https://iocdf.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/OCD_GOAL_Manual.pdf

The OCD Camp – https://theocdcamp.com/

Dr Pete Weiss

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post A conversation with an OCD Support group, featuring Dr Lauren Wadsworth (#392) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ethan Smith and Dr Jonathan Hoffman: Aha moments

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:49:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Ethan Smith, and Dr Jonathan Hoffman of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

We discuss aha moments, Ethan’s story and aha moment, aha moments of all kinds, pseudo aha moments, the catalysts for an aha moment, whether people need them, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI (Jon):

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

Jon on the podcast: OCD & comorbidities / Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / What is OCD? / Are eating disorders OCD? / How the sausage is made / Cracking the nut

Find out more about Ethan:

Ethan: https://www.instagram.com/ethwriter/

Ethan’s OCD Story episode: https://theocdstories.com/episode/ethan-smith-if-i-can-then-you-can-too-ep118/

Ethan’s panel episode: Client and therapist perspectives of two OCD Stories

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Ethan Smith and Dr Jonathan Hoffman: Aha moments appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Katryna (#391)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 391 I chat with Katryna who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, masking symptoms, self harm, OCD themes including: harm, symmetry, existential, suicidal, relationship. We talk about compulsively tapping and blinking, panic, her dog Oliver who helped her a lot, how taking mind altering substances triggered an OCD theme, a traumatic event (attempted kidnapping) triggering harm OCD, the use of humour in therapy, doing intensive outpatient therapy, NOCD, group therapy, depersonalisation and derealisation, and much more.

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

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Katryna (#391) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kevin Ashworth: Helping parents help children (and teens) with OCD (#390)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 390 I chat with Kevin Ashworth. Kevin is the clinical director & senior clinician at the Northwest Anxiety Institute.

We discuss his therapy story, helping parents help kids and teens with OCD, helping with parental shame and guilt, psychoeducating parents on OCD, reducing accommodations, the therapeutic program SPACE which stands for supportive parenting for anxious childhood emotions, having Mum, Dad or care giver in the therapy room, dealing with conflict between child and parent, how much should parents remind kids of therapy homework, the importance of humour, learning to be miserable on purpose, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Find out more about Kevin:

Website: https://www.nwanxiety.com/

Resources:

Dr Eli Lebowitz

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Kevin Ashworth: Helping parents help children (and teens) with OCD (#390) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lauren Rosen: Mindfulness and OCD (#389)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 389 I chat with Lauren Rosen. Lauren is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and founder of The Center for the Obsessive Mind.

We discuss her OCD story, what is mindfulness, some benefits of mindfulness, learning to let go of the question, making space for and accepting the presence of feelings, techniques and practices of mindfulness, and much more. Hope it helps.

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.c om/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Lauren:

Website: https://theobsessivemind.com/

Her podcast: https://purelyocd.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theobsessivemind/

Resources:

Eric Kupers

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Lauren Rosen: Mindfulness and OCD (#389) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Sara (#388)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 388 I chat with Sara who has kindly shared her story with us.

We discuss her story, themes of OCD: sexual orientation, harm, existential, and relationship. We talk about panic disorder, depersonalisation, depression, substance use, getting diagnosed, dialectal behaviour therapy (DBT), intrusive thoughts, death anxiety, compassion for her younger self, and much more. Hope it helps.

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

Resources:

OCD LA

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Sara (#388) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Katia Moritz and Dr Jonathan Hoffman: Cracking the nut (case)

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 10:43:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

We discuss the analogy Cracking the nut, who cracks the nut (case), working with tough cases of OCD, getting treatment ready, what makes OCD harder for someone, frustration tolerance, comorbidities, getting families and loved ones involved in the treatment process, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI (Jon and Katia):

Website: https://www.nbiweston.com/

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

NBI Blog: https://www.nbiweston.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbiweston/

Katia: h ttps://www.nbiweston.com/katia-moritz

Jon on the podcast: OCD & comorbidities / Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / What is OCD? / Are eating disorders OCD? / How the sausage is made: Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment center

Katia on the podcast: The core of OCD treatment / What is OCD? / How the sausage is made: Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment center / Client and therapist perspectives of two OCD Stories

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Katia Moritz and Dr Jonathan Hoffman: Cracking the nut (case) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Emily Hemendinger: Executive functioning, and decision making in OCD (#387)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 07:16:00 +0000

In episode 387 I chat with Emily Hemendinger. Emily is clinical director of the OCD Program at the University of Colorado Health Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic.

We discuss what’s new with her, what is executive functioning, how OCD can effect executive functioning, how impaired executive functioning can impact people’s quality of life, things that can help, decision making, how exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) comes into play with decision making, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Emily:

Website: https://www.erp4ocd.com/ and https://som.ucdenver.edu/Profiles/Faculty/Profile/29092

Emily’s past podcast episode

Resources:

Dr Steven Phillipson: Choice (Audiobook): https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-steven-phillipson-choice-audiobook-ep187/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Emily Hemendinger: Executive functioning, and decision making in OCD (#387) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kelley Franke: OCD Story, and being a therapist (#386)

Nami — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 386 I chat with Kelley Franke. Kelley is Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and founder of the Center for OCD.

We discuss Kelley’s OCD story, experiencing 3 major deaths in a short period of time and how this affected her OCD, existential themed OCD, a suicide attempt, becoming a therapist, how OCD impacted her parenting, advocating for people experiencing OCD, how her approach to OCD has changed in recent years, what matters most to her in the world of OCD right now, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Kelley:

Kelley’s website: https://centerforocd.com/

Kelley’s podcast: https://centerforocd.com/podcast-3/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theocdtherapist/

Resources:

OCD LA (Tom Corboy) – https://ocdla.com/

Catherine Benfield: https://www.instagram.com/catherine_benfield/

Lauren Rosen: https://www.instagram.com/theobsessivemind/

Dr Sophie Suri

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Kelley Franke: OCD Story, and being a therapist (#386) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Madelaine Sanfilippo: Group Therapy for OCD (#385)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 06:26:00 +0000

In episode 385 I chat with Madelaine Sanfilippo. Madelaine is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the state of California and Head of Groups at The Center for Anxiety and OCD.

We discuss her OCD story, what is a group, how does group therapy differ from individual therapy, the benefits of group therapy, when is group therapy right for you, the flow and process of group therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) within a group therapy setting, who wouldn’t be suitable for group therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Madelaine:

Website: https://www.caocd.com/

Resources:

Sheva Rajaee

Dr Irvin Yalom Group Therapy book, ‘The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy’ (6th edition): https://amzn.to/42u0yl5

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Madelaine Sanfilippo: Group Therapy for OCD (#385) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD (#384)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 15:27:00 +0000

In episode 384 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss what it means to live within the variability of being human, being authentic, being centred, autonomy, assertiveness, and why this can all be important in OCD therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Living within the variability of being human, being centred, autonomy, and assertiveness in relation to OCD (#384) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ethan Smith, Kyle King, and Dr Katia Moritz: Client and Therapist Perspectives of Two OCD Stories

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 31 May 2023 07:06:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Katia Moritz of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida, and advocates Ethan Smith and Kyle King.

In this episode we discuss Ethan and Kyle’s OCD story, their recovery process, stories from their therapy sessions, Katia’s thoughts from her perspective, they all share mutual stories from their therapy processes, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI (Katia):

Website: https://www.nbiweston.com/

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

NBI Blog: https://www.nbiweston.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbiweston/

Kyle: https://medicine.yale.edu/psychiatry/ocd/aboutocd/guest_blog/

Katia on the podcast: The core of OCD treatment / What is OCD? / How the sausage is made: Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment center

Find out more about Ethan and Kyle:

Ethan S. Smith currently lives in the Atlanta area working as a writer/director/producer and OCD advocate and consultant. Ethan was born with OCD and struggled the majority of his life until receiving life-changing treatment in 2010. Ethan was the keynote speaker at the 2014 Annual OCD Conference in Los Angeles. He served as an IOCDF National Spokesperson from 2015–2017, as the IOCDF National Ambassador from 2018–2020, and currently serves as an IOCDF National Advocate. He’s devoted his life to reducing stigma around OCD and mental health, to education, and to supporting the OCD community. You can see Ethan every week moderating a virtual IOCDF town hall event, or hosting his popular IOCDF live stream “Community Conversations.” Ethan is currently a girl dad to two adorable kitties.

Ethan: https://www.instagram.com/ethwriter/

Ethan’s OCD Story episode: https://theocdstories.com/episode/ethan-smith-if-i-can-then-you-can-too-ep118/

Kyle King is a senior at Yale University and a research assistant at the Yale OCD Research Clinic. Kyle was diagnosed with OCD when he was in 7th grade and, after recovering, committed to doing all he could to help those with OCD everywhere. He leads most of the Young Adult Events with the IOCDF and has dreams of one day becoming a psychiatrist! Outside of the IOCDF, Kyle is a member of the UNICEF USA National Council and a National Youth Ambassador with UNICEF Global.

Resources:

McLean OCDI: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Ethan Smith, Kyle King, and Dr Katia Moritz: Client and Therapist Perspectives of Two OCD Stories appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Reed Amber (#383)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 May 2023 06:07:00 +0000

Photo credit: Luke Nugent

In episode 383 I chat with Reed Amber who has kindly shared her story with us. Reed is a Sex Educator, Sex Worker and co-founder of ComeCurious and host of the award-winning F**ks Given podcast.

We discuss her story, needing to have order in her life, relying on drugs to cope, resistance to therapy, health anxiety, IBS, depersonalisation and derealisation, making peace with the shadow parts of herself, intrusive thoughts and images, OCD and sex, the inner compassionate voice, facing her fears, panic attacks, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Reed:

Reed’s instagram, Come curious podcast, and all other links here: https://linktr.ee/reedamberxx

Resources:

OCD and sexual intimacy episode with Dr Amy Mariaskin

PURE episode with Rose Cartwright

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Reed Amber (#383) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Professor David Veale and Dr Rob Willson: Overcoming Health Anxiety (#382)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 May 2023 06:44:00 +0000

In episode 382 I chat with Professor David Veale and Dr Rob Willson (PhD). David is a consultant psychiatrist specialising in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Rob is a Cognitive Behaviour Therapist.

We discuss an update on them, what is health anxiety, the episodic nature of health anxiety, the similarities and differences between health anxiety and OCD, death anxiety, the 2nd edition of their book Overcoming Health Anxiety, some of the worries and safety behaviours within health anxiety, compassion focused therapy (CFT), exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about David and Rob:

David: https://www.veale.co.uk/

Rob: https://robwillson.com/

Book: Professor David Veale and Dr Rob Willson, ‘Overcoming health anxiety’ 2nd Edition https://amzn.to/3WjWiTP

Resources:

BDD Foundation – https://bddfoundation.org/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Professor David Veale and Dr Rob Willson: Overcoming Health Anxiety (#382) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Rich Gallagher: Disgust-Based OCD (#281)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 May 2023 06:43:00 +0000

In episode 381 I chat with Rich Gallagher. Rich is a therapist (LMFT) based in Ithaca, NY. He is the author of numerous self-help books including The Anxiety Journal (Rockridge Press, 2022), Stress-Free Small Talk (Rockridge Press, 2019), How to Tell Anyone Anything (AMACOM/HarperCollins, 2009), and many others.

We discuss Rich’s therapy journey and OCD story, disgust-based OCD, the neurobiology of disgust and what this means for exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), adapting ERP for disgust, a judicious use of safety behaviours, good vs bad safety behaviours, where to start when everything feels contaminated, and much more. Hope it helps.

For the month of May, NOCD is offering a reduced rate of $100 USD per session, available to a limited number of new members, to help more people receive life-changing treatment. To get started and access this opportunity while it’s available, schedule a free call with the NOCD team today at learn.nocd.com/OCDStories.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Rich:

Rich’s IOCDF blog on treating disgust OCD: https://iocdf.org/blog/2023/04/25/disgust-based-ocd-thoughts-on-a-new-treatment-protocol/

Rich’s thoughts on evidence-based OCD treatment: https://anxietycamp.wordpress.com/2023/02/06/when-is-ocd-treatment-evidence-based-enough-heres-your-answer/

Rich’s books: https://amzn.to/3M9syFK

Website: www.anxietycamp.com.

Resources:

Professor Adam Radomsky

Dr Allen Weg

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Rich Gallagher: Disgust-Based OCD (#281) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: What can therapy change? (#380)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 380 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss what is new with him, OCD metaphors, what therapy for OCD can change, the difference between pain and suffering, reducing suffering, intensity, duration, frequency, and content. As well as much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. For the month of May 2023, NOCD is offering a reduced rate of $100 USD per session, available to a limited number of new members, to help more people receive life-changing treatment. To get started and access this opportunity while it’s available, schedule a free call with the NOCD team today at learn.nocd.com/OCDStories.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Sam:

Article this episode is based on: https://www.drsamgreenblatt.com/ocdarticles/what-can-therapy-change

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Second episode: A potential way of improving ERP

Third episode: Cancel culture, and the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD

Fourth episode: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss)

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: What can therapy change? (#380) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nate Gruner: Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) for OCD (#379)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 06:37:00 +0000

In episode 379 I chat with Nate Gruner. Nate is a staff Behavioral Therapist at McLean OCD institute.

I chat with Nate about functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), the history of FAP, what is FAP, the 5 rules of FAP, why FAP may be helpful for people with OCD, content vs process, the principles of awareness, courage and love. Nate shares some client examples where he has used FAP with OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

Find out more about Nate:

Website: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/nate-gruner

Nate’s first episode: Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) for OCD

FAP for OCD training for therapists led by Nate and Meaghan: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/fapforocd

Resources:

Gareth Holman FAP training for therapists: https://contextualconsulting.co.uk/workshop/functional-analytic-psychotherapy-an-introduction-with-dr-gareth-holman

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nate Gruner: Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) for OCD (#379) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz: How the sausage is made – Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment centre

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 22:21:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

In this episode we discuss what goes on behind the scenes of an OCD treatment centre, how the NBI team work together, what an average day looks like, how the clinic operates, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI (Jon and Katia):

Website: https://www.nbiweston.com/

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

NBI Blog: https://www.nbiweston.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbiweston/

Jon on the podcast: OCD & comorbidities / Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / What is OCD? / Are eating disorders OCD?

Katia on the podcast: The core of OCD treatment / What is OCD?

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz: How the sausage is made – Behind the scenes of an OCD treatment centre appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Eva Surawy Stepney: The history of intrusive thoughts (#378)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 06:42:00 +0000

In episode 378 I chat with Eva Surawy Stepney. Eva is a research student studying for her PhD at the University of Sheffield. Her thesis title is, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the foundations of ‘evidence-based’ practice in British Psychology, 1948-1990.

I chat with Eva about the history of intrusive thoughts. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Eva:

Website – https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/history/people/phd-researchers/eva-surawy-stepney

Guilty obsessions episode

OCD in society conference: https://ocdinsociety.wixsite.com/home

Resources:

Dr Jon Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz ‘What is OCD?’ episode

Mike Heady – I-CBT episode

Dr Stanley Rachman

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Eva Surawy Stepney: The history of intrusive thoughts (#378) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mike Heady: Inference-based Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (I-CBT) (#377)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 377 I chat with Mike Heady. Mike (LCPC) is the Co-Owner & Co-Director of the Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland where he has specialized in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, and related conditions for the last 16-years. He is a faculty member of the IOCDF’s Training Institute and is a regular presenter at annual conferences for the IOCDF and ADAA.

We discuss what’s new with him, what is inference-based cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT), the name change from inference-based therapy (IBT) to I-CBT, what I-CBT therapy looks like for OCD, inferential confusion, doubt, the concept of reality sensing, can I-CBT be integrated with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), vulnerable self themes, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Mike:

Website: https://www.anxietyandstress.com/copy-of-abou t

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anxietyocdmaryland/

Mike’s first episode ‘OCD dating’

I-CBT Common Questions PDF

Resources:

Dr Kieron O’Connor on the podcast

Dr Frederick Aardema

ICBT online – https://icbt.online/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Mike Heady: Inference-based Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (I-CBT) (#377) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Ellen (#376)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 06:43:00 +0000

In episode 376 I chat with Ellen who has kindly shared her story with us.

We discuss pocd, intrusive thoughts, self harm, experiencing sexual abuse as a child, going to inpatient and residential treatment, sexual intimacy while having intrusive thoughts, a suicide attempt, getting an OCD diagnosis, arousal non-concordance, shame, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), compassion, the idea of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Ellen (#376) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: All spikes are created equal, however… (#375)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 375 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss why all OCD spikes are created equal, the different spikes themes Steve has found that may respond differently to therapy, we talk about certain themes of OCD: olfactory obsessions, metaphysical contamination, responsibility, just right, relationship, existential, and OCD staring. Steve shares his proof of an OCD god (this is a joke), ‘PTSD’ from the initial onset of OCD, and more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

OCD Staring episode

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: All spikes are created equal, however… (#375) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Dee Franklin: Are Eating Disorders Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Dee Franklin of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

In this episode we discuss what are eating disorders, are eating disorders OCD?, the overlap in criteria in the diagnostical statistical manual for mental disorders (DSM-V), how can viewing eating disorders as OCD help with treatment, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), a fear of swallowing and choking, when emotional intensity feels too intense to do exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), dealing with a harsh inner critic, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI (Dee and Jon):

Article: Are Eating Disorders Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? https://iocdf.org/expert-opinions/are-eating-disorders-ocd/

Website: https://www.nbiweston.com/

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

NBI Blog: https://www.nbiweston.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbiweston/

Dee: https://www.nbiweston.com/dee-ross-franklin

Article: Exposure & Response Prevention for OCD: Don’t Cheat Yourself or Someone You Love Out of Its Benefits

Jon on the podcast: OCD & comorbidities / Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / What is OCD?

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Dee Franklin: Are Eating Disorders Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jeremy Peterman: Emetophobia (#374)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 374 I chat with Dr Jeremy Peterman. Jeremy is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and co-director at the Marin center for anxiety and behavioral therapy.

We discuss what is emetophobia, phobia or OCD or both?, client therapy examples, trauma and emetophobia, the worries and compulsions that go along with emetophobia, the treatment for emetophobia, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Jeremy gives a lot of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) examples, we discuss values, disgust, shame and self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Books:

Free Yourself from Emetophobia: A CBT Self-Help Guide for a Fear of Vomiting by Alexandra Keyes and Professor David Veale https://amzn.to/3JWcciq

The Emetophobia Manual: Free Yourself from the Fear of Vomit and Reclaim Your Life by Ken Goodman https://amzn.to/3JCHtFI

Pay what you can peer support group

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jeremy Peterman: Emetophobia (#374) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: SJ (#373)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 373 I chat with SJ who has kindly shared their story with us.

We discuss their early OCD experiences, nightmares, SJ details many of their compulsions including praying, counting, organising visually, finding good numerical patterns, patterns of 3, restricting food, as well as more. We also discuss trichotillomania (hair pulling), intrusive thoughts around animals, online support groups, starting therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Lydia’s story

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: SJ (#373) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jeff (#372)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 372 I chat with Jeff who has kindly shared his story with us.

We discuss his story, getting a diagnosis, emetophobia, his role as a mental health counselor, suicidal themed OCD, peadophile themed OCD, sexual orientation themed OCD, depression, somatic themed OCD, worrying about panic, relationship themed OCD, meditation, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Dr Steven Phillipson – the top 6 emotions episode

Dr Adam Reid: https://cbteam.org/team/adam-reid/

Rumination is a compulsion

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jeff (#372) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg: Malan’s model of OCD (Part 2) (#371)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 371 I chat with Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a clinical psychologist who specialises in Rumination-Focused ERP.

We discuss what is Malan’s model of OCD, the triangle of conflict and the triangle of the person, he shares why this model is not parent shaming, why nothing real is ideal and that’s ok, how Malan’s ideas can inform exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), why OCD themes change from Michael’s view of Malan’s work, the concept of splitting, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Michael:

Michael’s website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

All articles: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

Malan’s model of OCD: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/malans-model-of-ocd/

Past episodes on our podcast:

Putting rumination and agency at the center of ERP

Somatic/sensorimotor OCD, and rumination

Malan’s model of OCD (Part 1)

Resources:

David Malan’s ‘Individual Psychotherapy and the Science of Psychodynamics’ book: https://amzn.to/3SRSFm9

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Greenberg: Malan’s model of OCD (Part 2) (#371) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kristen Bailey (#370)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 370 I chat with Kristen Bailey who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, how a panic attack triggered OCD, obsessing over hearing songs, harm intrusive thoughts, the fear of going crazy, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), doing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT), dealing with sneaky compulsions, learning to accept her internal experiences, seeing relapses as teachers, resistance to self compassion, shame, obsessions vs mental compulsions, and much more. Hope it helps.

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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Kristen:

Website: www.kristenbaileycounselling.com

Resources:

Jonny Say: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/ & Secondary spikes episode

Autism spectrum disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Kristen Bailey (#370) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz: What is OCD?

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:30:00 +0000

In this midweek special episode I chat with Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz who run the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in Florida.

In this episode we discuss why are we working together, what is OCD?, a discussion around this and the varying views that came up, what are obsessions and compulsions, common themes, is there a difference between obsessions and intrusive thoughts, the idea of experiential acceptance, preventative OCD treatment, some ways to view OCD, how their view of OCD changed, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about NBI:

Website: https://www.nbiweston.com/

NBI Ranch: https://www.nbiweston.com/intensive-nbiranch

NBI Blog: https://www.nbiweston.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbiweston/

Blink blink, clop clop audiobook book: https://theocdstories.com/episode/blink-blink-clop-clop/

Jon and Katia on the podcast:

OCD & comorbidities

The core of OCD treatment

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jonathan Hoffman and Dr Katia Moritz: What is OCD? appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nathan Peterson – Emotional Contamination OCD (#369)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 369 I chat with Nathan Peterson. Nathan is an OCD specialist who practices in Allen, Texas. He works with OCD, anxiety, tics and Tourettes, and BFRB’s such as hair pulling and skin picking. He has a YouTube channel where he posts weekly videos about OCD and other anxiety related disorders.

We discuss an update on him and his YouTube channel, what is emotional contamination themed OCD, magical thinking, some of the obsessions and compulsions of this theme, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) ideas and examples, working through resistance to treatment, how family and partners can support their loved one with this theme, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD and JS Health vitamins.

JS Health’s vitamin formulas are solution-focused, meaning they are designed to target your main health concerns and support a whole range of wellness goals. Get 15% off their entire range at www.jshealthvitamins.com and use the code OCDSTORIES at checkout.

Find out more about Nathan:

Website: https://www.ocdandanxietycounseling.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3ClvnrcrC-3wr27fz_HlIQ

Online courses: www.OCDandAnxietyOnline.com & www.BFRBOnline.com

First episode on the podcast: Doing an exposure (ERP) vs. being exposed

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nathan Peterson – Emotional Contamination OCD (#369) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Michael Schramm (#368)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 368 I chat Michael Schramm who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story.

We discuss his story, his earliest OCD memory, his varying OCD worries in childhood, getting his OCD diagnosis, getting into advocacy for OCD, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), what’s helped him the most recently, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD and JS Health vitamins.

Resources:

When a family member has OCD: Podcast: Podcast episode Book: https://amzn.to/3IhoPnH

OCD Kansas: https://ocdkansas.org/

OCD Gamechangers: https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcas t

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Michael Schramm (#368) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Chad LeJeune: “Pure O" OCD: Letting Go of Obsessive Thoughts with ACT (#367)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 367 I chat with Dr Chad LeJeune. Chad is a professor of psychology at the University of San Francisco, and author of the books The worry trap, and more recently, “Pure O” OCD: Letting Go of Obsessive Thoughts with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

We discuss what is Pure O, what is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), his book, when does a thought become an obsession, skills to defuse from sticky thoughts, his acronym LLAMP and how it can help, how to learn ACT skills so that they are remembered, learning to let go of fighting with horrible disturbing thoughts, discovering your values and how to live by them, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD and JS Health vitamins.

Find out more about Chad:

Website: http://www.anxietyhappens.com/

Book: “Pure O” OCD: Letting Go of Obsessive Thoughts with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy https://amzn.to/3HdqVTG

Past podcast: Worry, ACT and breathing

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Chad LeJeune: “Pure O" OCD: Letting Go of Obsessive Thoughts with ACT (#367) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg: Malan’s model of OCD (#366)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 366 I chat with Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a clinical psychologist who specialises in Rumination-Focused ERP.

In this episode we discuss Integrating psychoanalytical and behavioural perspectives, OCD and attachment theory, the fear of losing attachment, Malan’s model of OCD, unacknowledged normal healthy feelings, we both share a couple examples from our own lives, healthy aggression, and at the end we talk about rumination. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD and JS Health vitamins.

Find out more about Michael:

Michael’s website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

All articles: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

The Core fear: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/the-core-fear/

How are you justifying rumination: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/how-are-you-justifying-rumination/

Malan’s model of OCD: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/malans-model-of-ocd/

Three types of OCD cases: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/three-types-of-ocd-cases-2/

Anatomical models of rumination: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/anatomical-models-of-rumination/

Causal justifications: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/causal-justifications/

Defining and demarcating compulsion: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/defining-and-demarcating-compulsion/

RF-ERP order of operations: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/rf-erp-order-of-operations/

Past episodes on our podcast:

Rumination is a compulsion: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-rumination-is-a-compulsion-252/

Putting rumination and agency at the center of ERP: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-269/

Somatic/sensorimotor OCD, and rumination: https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-michael-greenberg-285/

Resources:

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Greenberg: Malan’s model of OCD (#366) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nils Thiessen (#365)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 365 I chat with Nils who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss Nil’s OCD story, including OCD themes: Hit and run OCD, contamination OCD with HIV fears, harm OCD, relationship OCD, and peadophile themed OCD. We discuss what helped him, seeing 9-10 psychologists and psychiatrists who didn’t identify OCD, Nils is a medical doctor (GP) so we discuss how he is helping his patients with OCD now, finding a therapist that could help him, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Nils:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nilsthiessen

Resources:

OCD Land https://www.ocdland.com/

Join our Patreon to see the video versions of the podcast ad-free and other perks: https://www.patreon.com/theocdstoriespodcast

All the best,

Stuart

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Story: Jenny (#364)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 364 I chat with Jenny who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her OCD story including themes false memory OCD and relationship OCD. Jenny shares her experience of Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), depression, how her fiancé responds in a helpful way to her OCD, and so much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Dr Patrick McGrath

Nathan Peterson

To purchase our logo merchandise, please visit our Spring store: https://theocdstories.creator-spring.com

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jenny (#364) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Lydia (#363)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 363 I interviewed Lydia who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss her story, including OCD themes: religious, relationship, somatic, contamination, peadophile, and health anxiety. Lydia talks about dermatillomania (skin picking), chronic pain, breath work, surfing, pilates, her faith, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

“Brain Lock” by Dr Jeffrey Schwartz

“Present over perfect” by Shauna Niequist

Liz Atkin

Dr Maggie Perry

Dr Emily O’Leary

The Anxiety Truth podcast – Survival or defiance mindset

Pay what you can support groups – https://www.paywhatyoucanpeersupport.com/

To purchase our logo merchandise, please visit our Spring store: https://theocdstories.creator-spring.com

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Lydia (#363) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say: Secondary spikes in OCD (#362)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 362 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist.

We discuss what he learned at the Sigmund Freud museum, secondary spikes in OCD with examples, recycling resistance, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) skills for secondary spikes, a theory on why the brain is doing this, and we discuss depression. Some secondary spikes discussed: Obsession switches form, analysing the technique, switches from a core fear of threat to a core fear of unhappiness, what if this isn’t OCD?, resentment, interactions with sensations. And much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three, four

Website: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvoYN3priYPLQ278FFu_J0w

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

Dr Steven Phillipson’s two tail spikes episode

Chrissie Hodges groinal and other physical symptoms of OCD episode

Russ Harris’s second edition of ‘The Happiness trap’ https://amzn.to/3FDTZ5O

Dr Steve Hayes

ACT workbook for teens with OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say: Secondary spikes in OCD (#362) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona: ACT for BPD and OCD – super-feelers, and emotional regulation (#361)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 24 Dec 2022 11:35:00 +0000

In episode 361 I chat with Dr Patricia Zurita Ona. Patricia is director of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center and adjunct professor at the Wright Institute. She is the author of several books including ‘Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder’.

We discuss what is borderline personality disorder (BPD) and super-feelers, what it’s like being a super-feeler, what is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), the 6 micro-skills Patricia teaches, emotional noise vs emotional awareness, OCD and super-feelers, she details some of the micro-skills, attachment, compassion, being a super-feeler while doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Patricia:

All her books: https://amzn.to/3KVd2Lp

Patricia’s websites – https://eastbaybehaviortherapycenter.com/ and https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/

Episodes with Patricia:

W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. in ACT based ERP

ACT for OCD panel

Perfectionism and high achieving behaviours

Resources:

Resources: https://theocdstories.com/resources/

Jon Hershfield episode on OCD and BPD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Patricia Zurita Ona: ACT for BPD and OCD – super-feelers, and emotional regulation (#361) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Penny (#360)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Dec 2022 08:35:00 +0000

In episode 360 I interviewed Penny who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss her story, sexual orientation themed OCD, relationship themed OCD, figuring out it’s OCD, getting married, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), working on issues in the relationship without OCD blowing them out of proportion, yoga, a reading of something she wrote, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

All the best,

Stuart

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Dr Steven Phillipson: The top 6 emotions of OCD (#359)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Dec 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 359 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss what’s new with Steve, the top 6 emotions often involved in OCD: anxiety, guilt, shame, depression, anger, and disgust. He discusses depersonalisation/derealisation (DPDR) and shares his experience of it, plus other emotions such as not having feelings, resentment, and desperation. Showing irrelevance to the brain voice, having an urge and impulse, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Sleep… The hostage of anxiety

Resources:

Resources

Josh Fletcher – What is anxiety episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: The top 6 emotions of OCD (#359) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jess (#358)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 358 I interviewed Jess who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss her story, her themes of OCD, her earliest memory of OCD, religious obsessions, health obsessions, some of the difficult experiences that exacerbated her OCD, relationship obsessions, the different therapies she did, figuring out her identity, medication, using NOCD therapy, creating notecards as reminders for therapy, how Jess deals with rumination, and much more. Hope that helps.

Resources:

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jess (#358) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Brooke Miller (#357)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 357 I interviewed Brooke who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss her story and journey through therapy, medication, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), panic, control and OCD, relationship themed OCD, over exercising as a punishment, developing intrusive thoughts around her therapist, having a psychotic episode, self harming, getting a bipolar 2 diagnosis, her son having OCD, and much more. Hope that helps.

Find out more about Brooke:

Website: https://smashingstigmas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookemillermha/

Resources:

Rogers Behavioral Health: https://rogersbh.org/what-we-treat/ocd-anxiety/ocd-and-anxiety-residential-services

OCD Wisconsin https://ocdwisconsin.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Brooke Miller (#357) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Amy Mariaskin – OCD and Sexual Intimacy (#356)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 356 I interviewed Dr Amy Mariaskin. Amy is a licensed clinical psychologist and director at The Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center.

In this episode we discuss her new book, ways OCD can affect intimacy, when taboo intrusive thoughts interrupt sex, issues with orgasms, sexual kinks and fantasies and how these may trigger OCD, obsessively worrying about getting pregnant, over analysing the quantity of sex in a relationship, groinal and other bodily stuff, when sex is a compulsion, contamination worries and sex, medication, relating to sexuality again after years of OCD affecting it, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Amy:

Past episodes: Gender identity themed OCD / 4-8 year olds with OCD / Thriving in relationships with OCD

Book: Thriving in Relationships When You Have OCD: How to Keep Obsessions and Compulsions from Sabotaging Love, Friendship, and Family Connections https://amzn.to/3g9XWH1

Website: https://www.ocdnashville.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdnashville/

Resources:

Kimberley Quinlan episode on OCD and sex

Esther Perel – https://www.estherperel.com/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Amy Mariaskin – OCD and Sexual Intimacy (#356) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh) – What is Anxiety? (#355)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 355 I interviewed Psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh).

We discuss his therapy story and mental health journey including OCD, what is anxiety, adrenaline and cortisol, panic attacks, wilful tolerance, meerkat mode, OCD taboo intrusive thoughts, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Josh:

Links to his books, podcast and more: https://schoolofanxiety.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anxietyjosh

Resources:

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Dr Claire Weekes

Dr Marty Seif

Dr Sally Winston

All the best,

Stuart

The post Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh) – What is Anxiety? (#355) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Chris (#354)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 08:47:00 +0000

In episode 354 I interviewed Chris who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

We discuss his OCD Story, depression, how seeing a therapist that didn’t understand OCD triggered his OCD, panic attacks, not being able to get a question out of his mind, seeing an old therapist again who noticed it was OCD, sexual orientation OCD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), rumination, the inner critic, what helped him, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), compassion, and much more.

Resources:

OCDLA – https://ocdla.com/

Website: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/jon-hershfield-mft/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Chris (#354) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield: OCD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) (#353)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 06:42:00 +0000

In episode 353 I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist and the director of The Center for OCD and Anxiety, at Sheppard Pratt. He is the author of six OCD books.

We discuss what’s new with Jon, his new book, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), OCD and BPD, common overlaps in traits, causes of BPD, how BPD may complicate therapy for OCD and how to navigate this, Dialectical behaviour Therapy (DBT), words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

Update: In the episode Jon said that people with OCD are 52% likely to have a comorbid disorder. He meant to specifically say are 52% likely to have a comorbid personality disorder according to this study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6343421/

Find out more about Jon:

New book: “The Unwanted Thoughts and Intense Emotions Workbook: CBT and DBT Skills to Break the Cycle of Intrusive Thoughts and Emotional Overwhelm” by Jon Hershfield and Dr Blaise Aguirre: https://amzn.to/3SLlgbm

Jon’s other books: https://amzn.to/3W3dRH7

Resources:

Dr Blaise Aguirre

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jon Hershfield: OCD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) (#353) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

5 million downloads: 18 guests (Wisdom & Hope) (#352)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In episode 352 I invited 18 past guests to share their words of wisdom or hope with you to celebrate reaching 5 million downloads since 2015. Thank you to all my past guests for sharing their stories or expertise, and thank you to you for listening or spreading the show with others. I hope this episode educates and inspires.

Therapists and advocates on this episode (in order) are: Dr Jon Abramowitz, Sheryl Paul, Sheva Rajaee, Laura Johnson, Jenna Overbaugh, Dr Michael Greenberg, Jonny Say, Margaret Sisson, Dr Steven Phillipson, Kimberley Quinlan, Alejandro Ibarra, Dr Michael Twohig, Dr Patricia Zurita Ona, Dr Sam Greenblatt, Chrissie Hodges, Aaron Harvey, Dr Amy Mariaskin, and Sean Shinnock.

Find out more about the guests on this show:

Dr Jon Abramowitz: http://www.jabramowitz.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Sheryl Paul: https://conscious-transitions.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Sheva Rajaee: https://www.caocd.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Laura Johnson: https://www.ocddoodles.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Jenna Overbaugh: https://www.treatmyocd.com/therapists/116756/jenna.overbaugh (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Michael Greenberg: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Jonny Say: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Margaret Sisson: http://www.rileyswish.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Steven Phillipson: https://www.ocdonline.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Kimberley Quinlan: https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Alejandro Ibarra: https://alejandroibarra.es/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Michael Twohig: https://www.utahact.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona: https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Sam Greenblatt: https://www.drsamgreenblatt.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Chrissie Hodges: https://chrissiehodges.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Aaron Harvey: https://www.madeofmillions.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Dr Amy Mariaskin: https://www.ocdnashville.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

Sean Shinnock: https://www.sshinnock.com/ (Their first appearance on the podcast)

All the best,

Stuart

The post 5 million downloads: 18 guests (Wisdom & Hope) (#352) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Robert Hudak: OCD and Schizophrenia (#351)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 351 I interviewed Dr Robert Hudak. Robert is a psychiatrist, and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the university of Pittsburgh.

We discuss his therapy story, what is schizophrenia, what is psychosis, he defines what hallucinations and delusions are, how to differentiate between an obsession and a delusion, how exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) is modified for OCD when the person also has a schizophrenia diagnosis, medication, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Robert:

Website: https://www.psychiatry.pitt.edu/about-us/our-people/faculty/robert-hudak-md

Iocdf article: https://iocdf.org/expert-opinions/schizophrenia-and-ocd-a-consideration-of-schizo-obsessive-disorder/

Resources:

Dr Jon Grayson and Bob Cianfrone: fear of going crazy episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Robert Hudak: OCD and Schizophrenia (#351) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Charlene Colwell: Integrating ERP with IFS for OCD (#350)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 350 I interviewed Charlene Colwell. Charlene is a therapist who uses Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) and Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS – level 1 trained) for OCD.

We discuss her therapy story, what is IFS, how IFS maps the mind, another way to view OCD, how IFS may be helpful for OCD, using IFS alongside ERP, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Charlene:

Website: https://www.restoringwaterscounseling.com/

Resources:

Robert Fox

IFS Youtube videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCJ2fBBavCJEoQPzbMIOuQ2luJDHrWPSL

All the best,

Stuart

The post Charlene Colwell: Integrating ERP with IFS for OCD (#350) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Anna (#349)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Oct 2022 06:50:00 +0000

In episode 349 I chat with Anna who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss some of her childhood mental health experiences, school anxiety, how OCD affected her work, she details some of her specific OCD experiences, depression, medication, postnatal/postpartum experiences of OCD, getting diagnosed, getting therapy, harm themed OCD, a relapse, hit and run themed OCD, getting therapy again, going inpatient, feeling suicidal, how menopause may have exacerbated some of her mental health symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Anna:

Instagram:

Her OCD account: https://www.instagram.com/hormones.on.her.mind_

Resources:

Book “Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder” by Professor David Veale and Rob Willson – https://amzn.to/3RrGHNV

Shannon Shy and his book Turning Points https://amzn.to/3dYtU7V

Menopause and perimenopause resources that Anna wanted to share at the end of the episode (her words below):

https://www.balance-menopause.com/ ….this is a brilliant website with so much evidence based information

https://thebms.org.uk/ ….The British Menopause Society

Books:

Preparing for the perimenopause and menopause by Dr Louise Newson https://amzn.to/3rkLKVz

Menopause and Madness: the truth about estrogen and the mind by Marcia Lawrence https://amzn.to/3rkLXYR

Apps:

Balance App …free app that has a ton of information about menopause, community chats, tracking your own symptoms and period tracker (you can print these charts out from the app to take to the doctor with you)

Instagram:

“Menopause_doctor”

Dr Louise Newson

Louise is a menopause specialist doctor who has a very keen interest in all aspects of menopause including mental health. Her podcast has many episodes focusing on the mental health aspects of menopause including suicide related to menopause. Louise has been fundamental in increasing awareness of menopause and hormone health amongst psychiatrists and has been doing training at the Maudsley and has recently helped write a hormone & mental health module for the royal college of psychiatrists.

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Anna (#349) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Shaun Flores (#348)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Sep 2022 06:49:00 +0000

In episode 348 I chat with Shaun Flores who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss his story, how a dream triggered OCD in a big way, sexual orientation themed OCD, suicidal themed OCD, harm themed OCD, ADHD, some of the possible reasons why people of colour are under represented in the OCD community, how he’s doing now, his advocacy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/episode/shaun-248

Find out more about Shaun:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshaunflores/

More links to Shaun’s work: https://linktr.ee/theshaunflores

Resources:

Orchard OCD

Break Free from OCD (Book)

Lily Bailey ‘When I see Blue‘ episode and book

Saleha Hansbhai story episode

Rewire your OCD brain (book)

Dr Lynne Drummond’s ‘Everything you need to know about OCD’ episode and book

OCD Action

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Shaun Flores (#348) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges: Groinal and other physical symptoms of OCD (#347)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 347 I interviewed Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Peer Support specialist, founder of OCD Gamechangers, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

We discuss some of the physical symptoms of OCD, worrying about telling her therapist about the physical symptoms that were manifesting for her, the groinal, compulsions around these bodily sensations, disgust and shame, when checking compulsions make you feel and think you acted on a worry, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Chrissie:

Chrissie interviews Chance McNeely

OCD Gamechangers: OCD Gamechangers

Chrissie on The OCD Stories part 1

Chrissie on The OCD Stories part 2

OCD Gamechangers episode

Jess interviews Chrissie

Trauma of OCD episode

Her book: https://amzn.to/3QTUJr4

Resources:

ACT workbook for teens with OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges: Groinal and other physical symptoms of OCD (#347) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona: Perfectionism and High-Achieving Behaviours (#346)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 346 I chat with Dr Patricia Zurita Ona. Patricia is director of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center and adjunct professor at the Wright Institute. She is the author of several books including her new book ‘Acceptance and Commitment Skills for Perfectionism and High-Achieving Behaviors: Do Things Your Way, Be Yourself, and Live a Purposeful Life’.

We discuss what are perfectionistic, and high achieving behaviours, fears of being a failure and not being good enough, what perfectionism can look like in relationships and friendships, harnessing the power of perfectionism without losing yourself, checking in with what matters, how these things have impacted Patricia’s life, choosing to show up to what matters in your life, her new book, finding your own rhythms, values based decisions, OCD and perfectionism, how these traits can impact exposure and response (ERP) therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Patricia:

Her new book: https://amzn.to/3emlQgX

All her books: https://amzn.to/3KVd2Lp

Patricia’s websites – https://eastbaybehaviortherapycenter.com/ and https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/

Episodes:

W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. in ACT based ERP

ACT for OCD panel

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Patricia Zurita Ona: Perfectionism and High-Achieving Behaviours (#346) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss) (#345)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Sep 2022 06:22:00 +0000

In episode 345 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss an update on his past relapse, his fire metaphor, processing the trauma of OCD, meta OCD, PTSD and OCD, identity and OCD, the idea of perceived fragility, loss and grief around OCD, figuring out what is normative, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Sam:

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Second episode: A potential way of improving ERP

Third episode: Cancel culture, and the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD

Resources:

Nami Ralph’s fire illustration https://theocdstories.com/illustrations/fire/

Dr Steve Hayes, and his book “A liberated mind” https://amzn.to/3RiPvWy

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: In the wake of OCD (Trauma, identity, loss) (#345) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Courtney Newman (#344)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 05:50:00 +0000

In episode 344 I chat with Courtney Newman who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her story, going to therapy, learning what OCD is, mental compulsions, harm worries around her family, covid related contamination worries, having a clean world and a dirty world, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, effective, convenient therapy available in the US and outside the US. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans, if they currently take your insurance, or to download their free app, head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Courtney Newman (#344) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Robert Fox: IFS – Witnessing the positive intent of parts (#343)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Aug 2022 06:53:00 +0000

In episode 343 I chat with Robert Fox. Rob is a therapist (LMHC) practicing in Woburn, USA. He specialises in internal family systems and EMDR therapy.

We discuss what is internal family systems (IFS), the idea of parts of us, feeling feelings, the positive intention of our parts, the idea that OCD is a sign post to something deeper that needs healing or attention, pushing down feelings in childhood, case examples and examples from his own life, caring for the parts of ourselves, expressing and witnessing emotions, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Rob:

Website: https://www.jobstresssolutions.com/

First appearance on the podcast

Resources:

Dr David Burns

All the best,

Stuart

The post Robert Fox: IFS – Witnessing the positive intent of parts (#343) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Sleep… the hostage of anxiety (#342)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Aug 2022 06:49:00 +0000

In episode 342 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specialises in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss why sleep is the hostage of anxiety, desperation around sleep, what is sleep and the stages of sleep, how sleep medication, alcohol, and benzodiazepines can affect sleep quality, using sleep as avoidance, insomnia, sleep as an independent system, how trying to sleep may be causing a lack of it, what Steve doesn’t like about the CBT sleep hygiene approach, Steve’s approach to helping his clients sleep, why sleep shouldn’t be the goal, getting an OCD spike at night, OCD in our dreams, and much more. Hope it helps.

This episode is supported by Cambridge University Press and Dr Lynne Drummond’s new book “Everything you need to know about OCD”. Get 20% off Lynne’s new book at cambridge.org/EverythingOCD. Simply use discount code OCDStories20 at checkout.

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Character Indictment OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Sleep… the hostage of anxiety (#342) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Lynne Drummond: Everything you need to know about OCD (#341)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 06:13:00 +0000

In episode 341 I chat Dr Lynne Drummond. Lynne is an honorary consultant psychiatrist at south west London and St George’s NHS Trust, and visiting Professor at the University of Hertfordshire.

We discuss her therapy story, her new book “Everything you need to know about OCD”, the stigma around OCD, raising awareness around OCD, a historical view of how OCD has been viewed, working with patients who have struggled with treatment in the past, how Lynne and her team were able to help these patients, medication, how Lynne explains exposure and response prevention (ERP), optimising ERP, living with uncertainty, and much more. Hope it helps.

Get 20% off Lynne’s new book at cambridge.org/EverythingOCD. Simply use discount code OCDStories20 at checkout.

Find out more about Lynne:

Book: “Everything you need to know about OCD” (Amazon UK) https://amzn.to/3zA5hp0 / (Amazon US) https://amzn.to/3zSkEKA

Or Get 20% off Lynne’s new book at cambridge.org/EverythingOCD. Simply use discount code OCDStories20 at checkout.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlmdrummond/

Resources:

Dr Isaac Marks

Dr David Veale

Dr Naomi Fineberg

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Lynne Drummond: Everything you need to know about OCD (#341) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Liam Moore (#340)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Jul 2022 06:36:00 +0000

In episode 340 I chat with Liam who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss his story, pedophile themed OCD (pOCD), violent intrusive thoughts, attending a support group, grief and loss, learning to see OCD not as a bully, his therapy journey and what he learned, setting up his own OCD support group, a suicide attempt, advocating about OCD at his work, and so much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Liam:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lijmoo/

Liam’s written story: https://theocdstories.com/stories/learning-to-give-thoughts-less-attention/

Resources:

London OCD support group: https://twitter.com/LondonOcd

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Liam Moore (#340) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Heather Sequeira: Trauma and OCD (PTSD, Complex and Developmental trauma) (#339)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Jul 2022 07:12:00 +0000

In episode 339 I chat to Dr Heather Sequeira. Heather is a consultant psychologist specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

We discuss her therapy story, trauma and OCD, what is post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), what is complex or developmental trauma, what’s going on in the brain with trauma, disgust in trauma and OCD, doubt and uncertainty, treating OCD and trauma together, the role of compassion, when the OCD theme directly links to the trauma, focusing on what we want to do now, shame around the freeze response, and much more. Hope helps.

Find out more about Heather:

Website: https://www.drheathersequeira.co.uk/

Trauma trainings for professionals: https://www.ptsdtraumaworkshops.co.uk/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Heather Sequeira: Trauma and OCD (PTSD, Complex and Developmental trauma) (#339) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jordan Levy & Dr Tatyana Mestechkina: What if this is not OCD?: Doubting the “Doubting Disease” (#338)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 06:22:00 +0000

In episode 338 I chat to Dr Jordan Levy and Dr Tatyana Mestechkina. Both Jordan and Tatyana are licensed clinical psychologists who treat OCD. We discuss their therapy story, we chat about the thought of what if this is not OCD and other thoughts that get in the way of therapy, such as, What if this time is different? What if I’m doing therapy the wrong way? What if this is the piece of “evidence” that leads my therapist to think this isn’t OCD after all? What if these thoughts are bad, and I’m a bad person for having them and letting them be there? What if my therapist doesn’t know what they’re talking about? We discuss how to navigate the thoughts, the back door spike, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jordan and Tatiana:

Dr Jordan Levy: https://www.drjordanlevy.com/

Dr Tatyana Mestechkina: https://www.cbtforbetterliving.com/

Article the podcast is based on: https://www.cbtforbetterliving.com/post/what-if-this-is-not-ocd-doubting-the-doubting-disease

Resources:

Dr Steve Phillipson and his Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy https://www.cognitivebehavioralcenter.com/

Made of Millions: https://www.madeofmillions.com/

Kim Quinlan

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jordan Levy & Dr Tatyana Mestechkina: What if this is not OCD?: Doubting the “Doubting Disease” (#338) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Geoff (#337)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Jul 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 337 I chat with Geoff who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss his story, depression, spending 20 years with a traditional psychoanalyst who did not help or recognise OCD within him, the red flags of this therapy for OCD, realising that there are different schools or types of therapy, and the trauma caused by this particular therapy relationship for Geoff, eventually finding some more helpful therapists, getting a cancer diagnosis, we discuss ethics in therapy, what’s helped him in his journey, doing movement therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

The mighty video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufqFO5B1vQY

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Geoff (#337) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lily Bailey: When I See Blue (#336)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Jul 2022 19:49:00 +0000

In episode 336 I chat with Lily Bailey about her new book ‘When I See Blue’. Lily also wrote the book called, ‘Because We Are Bad’.

We discuss her new book, Lily reads us a section of chapter 1 from her book, how the main character was inspired by some of Lily’s own story, the themes of OCD the main character Ben experiences, why Lily wrote more back story for Ben including other struggles, we discuss trauma and OCD, what she hopes readers will get from the book, and much more. Hope it helps.

Photo credit: Amy Shore

Find out more about Lily:

Lily’s appearances on The OCD Stories: first, second, live in Austin, Live in London

Lily’s books: “Because We Are Bad” https://amzn.to/3Oy76ZB & “When I See Blue” https://amzn.to/3AhoIEO

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LilyBaileyUK

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilybaileyuk/

Resources:

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Lily Bailey: When I See Blue (#336) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Traci (#335)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Jun 2022 06:12:00 +0000

In episode 335 I chat with Traci who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her story, misophonia, perfectionism, religious scrupulosity, starting with therapy, ADHD, sexual intrusive thoughts, unwanted arousal, groinal, needing to get therapy perfect, rumination, and so much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Traci:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/traci_higginbotham

Resources:

Book: “Brain Lock” by Dr Jeffrey Schwartz https://amzn.to/3xKJBp0

Book: “Get out of your mind and into your life” by Dr Steven Hayes https://amzn.to/3QC7SpN

https://iocdf.org/providers/olivardia-roberto/

Dr Elizabeth Forrester

Dr Sam Greenblatt

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Traci (#335) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say – Self-compassion, and building up psychological flexibility in OCD treatment (#334)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 11:57:00 +0000

In episode 333 I chat with Jonny Say. Jonny is a UK based therapist.

We discuss how he’s doing, Jonny’s mental health and how he practices self-compassion daily, we discuss shame around intrusive thoughts and in doing compulsions, the inner critic, self-compassion and how it can help, building up psychological flexibility skills before exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), values based exposure, dropping anchor, a compassionate approach to ERP, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s previous episodes: one, two, three.

Website: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvoYN3priYPLQ278FFu_J0w

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnysaytherapy/

Resources:

Russ Harris

Patricia Zurita Ona / Jonny and Patricia Instagram Lives https://www.instagram.com/actforocdandanxiety

Kimberley Quinlan – “The Self-Compassion Workbook for OCD” https://amzn.to/3OjiAQf

Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely – “Everyday mindfulness for OCD” https://amzn.to/3aWruEQ

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say – Self-compassion, and building up psychological flexibility in OCD treatment (#334) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Roberto Olivardia – ADHD and OCD (#333)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 14:08:00 +0000

In episode 333 I chat with Dr Roberto Olivardia. Roberto is a Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. He also maintains a private psychotherapy practice.

We discuss his therapy story, and personal story with ADHD, the school system and ADHD, what ADHD is, the comorbidity of OCD and ADHD together, how ADHD can feed into OCD, common OCD themes he sees with ADHD, how ADHD can undermine therapy for OCD if untreated, shame in ADHD and OCD, making accommodations for ADHD to enhance OCD treatment, medication for ADHD, why ADHD gets undiagnosed in OCD and more so in women, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Roberto:

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Roberto Olivardia – ADHD and OCD (#333) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kim and Jack (#332)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Jun 2022 11:23:00 +0000

In episode 332 I chat with Kim and Jack Vincenty who have kindly agreed to share their story, from the perspective of mother and son.

We discuss Jack’s story, Kim’s story as the parent, moral scrupulosity, being surrounded by triggers, going through multiple rounds of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), going to Colorado to do his biggest exposure, depression, where Jack’s at now, we discuss their new not-for-profit JACK, spreading ERP in Puerto Rico, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Kim and Jack:

Kim’s episode on the podcast

JACK MHA: https://jackmha.org/

Today show article: https://www.today.com/parents/essay/exposure-therapy-ocd-mother-rcna19365

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimvincenty / https://www.instagram.com/jack_mha

Resources:

OCD Jacksonville: https://ocdjacksonville.com/

Natural life: https://www.naturallife.com/collections/fearless-giveback-collection

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Kim and Jack (#332) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Art as healing: A live podcast with Catherine Benfield, Lily Bailey and Laura Johnson

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 09:27:00 +0000

In this special midweek episode of the podcast which was recorded at the OCD in Society event recently. I chat with these 3 OCD advocates and artists about who they are, what their creative expression for OCD is, dealing with imposter syndrome and self doubt, the benefits of creative expression, how art can help spread information about OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Catherine:

Catherine show: first time, second time, third time, fourth time

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherine_benfield/

Website: https://www.tamingolivia.com/

BBC article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/stories-45879034

Article in British journal of midwifery: https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/full/10.12968/bjom.2018.26.11.700

Find out more about Lily:

Lily on the show: first time, second time, Live from Austin

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilybaileyuk/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LilyBaileyUK

Books: Because we are bad (https://amzn.to/3x2Lezp) and When I see blue (https://amzn.to/3M7EQuS)

Find out more about Laura:

Laura on the show

Website: https://www.ocddoodles.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocddoodles/

Resources:

Eva’s episode on guilt: https://theocdstories.com/episode/eva-guilty-obsessions-307/

OCD in Society event: https://ocdinsociety.wixsite.com/home

All the best,

Stuart

The post Art as healing: A live podcast with Catherine Benfield, Lily Bailey and Laura Johnson appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Amanda (#331)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 331 I chat with Amanda who has kindly agreed to share her story.

We talk about her story, growing up catholic, sexual intrusive thoughts, fears of sinning, seeking help from her priest, some of her compulsions, hitting rock bottom and considering suicide, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), how her grandmother helped her, her grandmother’s own struggles, what else helps her, and much more.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/episode/amanda-331

The post Story: Amanda (#331) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Amita Jassi – OCD and ASD, and BDD (#330)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 May 2022 06:07:00 +0000

In episode 330 I chat with Dr Amita Jassi. Amita is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist at the National and Specialist OCD, BDD and Related Disorder Service for Children and Young People (South London and Maudsley NHS Trust).

We discuss her therapy story, adapting OCD therapy for people with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), she shares what ASD is, how rigid thinking in ASD can impact treatment, bringing in special interests into therapy, tracking feelings without the use of a 0-10 scale, disentangling what is OCD vs what is ASD in terms of symptoms, how the family members can help their loved ones with autism and OCD. We then change topics to Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), she shares what it is, the lack of insight in BDD, where BDD comes from, the unrealistic expectations/representations of beauty in the media, the therapy for BDD, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for BDD and how it differs from ERP for OCD, bringing compassion in, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Amita:

Book: Challenging OCD in young people with ASD https://amzn.to/3G2DUX9

Website: https://m.slam.nhs.uk/national-services/our-experts/dr-amita-jassi/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dr_amita_jassi

Resources:

ASD episode on the podcast

Beating BDD podcast: https://bddfoundation.org/category/beating-bdd-podcast/

Rob Willson on the podcast (OCD and BDD)

Professor David Veale on the podcast

BDD foundation: https://bddfoundation.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Amita Jassi – OCD and ASD, and BDD (#330) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Maya Tadross (#329)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 May 2022 07:27:00 +0000

In episode 329 I chat with Maya Tadross who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, being in residential treatment, her experiences of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), managing OCD alongside studying, living by her values, we talk about perfectionism, OCD symptoms changing form, her well being priorities, getting an ADHD diagnosis later in life, her experience of ADHD and how OCD masked it for her, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Maya:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overcoming_ocd

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Maya Tadross (#329) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Russ Harris: Rumination, urge surfing, and dropping anchor (#328)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 328 I chat with Dr Russ Harris. Russ is a medical practitioner, author of the international best-selling self-help book ‘The Happiness Trap’ (as well as nine others), and is a world-renowned trainer of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).

We discuss his book The Happiness Trap, the new second edition of the book, how ACT can help reduce rumination, Russ’s view of rumination, noticing and interrupting rumination during an exposure, he discusses the exercise dropping anchor, he guides us through dropping anchor live on the podcast, learning to make space for uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, we discuss learning to urge surf, how to stop techniques becoming compulsions, Russ shares personal examples of himself putting some of this into practice, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Russ:

The Happiness Trap 2nd edition: https://amzn.to/3kOVzIo

Free dropping anchor audio: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/free-stuff/free-audio/

His first episode on the podcast

Trauma-Focused ACT book: https://amzn.to/3LVrGSi

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Russ Harris: Rumination, urge surfing, and dropping anchor (#328) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Elise Petronzio (#327)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 327 I chat with Elise who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, her OCD themes, we chat about mental compulsions, compassion, the problem with comparing recovery journeys, learning to manage her workload, her advocacy brand OCDOPUS, being an advocate, when family don’t understand, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Elise:

Website: https://www.theocdopus.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theocdopus/

Resources:

Open path sliding scale therapists – https://openpathcollective.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Elise Petronzio (#327) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Geoff (#326)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 06:33:00 +0000

In episode 326 I chat with Geoff who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

In this episode we discuss his OCD story, harm obsessions, postnatal harm obsessions, working through grief for his brother, suicidal themed OCD worries, his compulsions, his advocacy in New Zealand, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Fixate Facebook group for New Zealanders – https://www.facebook.com/groups/533606270318161/

New Zealand advocacy website – http://www.ocd.org.nz/

Marion Maw’s episode on the podcast

Help New Zealand push ERP in their country by signing this petition:
https://our.actionstation.org.nz/petitions/support-people-living-with-ocd-ensure-access-to-erp-therapy

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Geoff (#326) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jessica Serber: Siblings, mindfulness and self-compassion in OCD treatment (#325)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 325 I chat with Jessica Serber. Jessica is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as the founder of Mindful CBT California.

In this episode we discuss her therapy story, being a sibling of someone with OCD, how she supported her sister, how Jessica brings mindfulness into the therapy room, working with mindfulness sticking points, she shares an ice cube exercise for learning to tolerate discomfort and uncertainty, we discuss self-compassion, self punishment, an exercise for self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jessica:

Website: https://www.mindfulcbtcalifornia.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourmindisamuscle

Resources:

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

Sibling (Dr Michelle Witkin) episode on The OCD Stories

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jessica Serber: Siblings, mindfulness and self-compassion in OCD treatment (#325) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Pamela (#324)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 324 I chat with Pamela who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, stress in childhood, growing up in a religious upbringing, getting a diagnosis, trichotillomania, depression and PTSD, her compulsions and worries, medication and exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Pamela:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mayflower__17

All the best,

Stuart

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Story: Meredith (#323)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 06:38:00 +0000

In episode 323 I chat with Meredith who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, sexual orientation theme, medication, the tough time she had going to a general inpatient facility, how OCD symptoms were impacting her relationships, support groups, creating a bespoke support system, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), how her family learned not to reassure her when she was compulsively asking, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for her depression, exercise and meditation, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Dr Lauren Wadsworth

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Meredith (#323) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Clarissa Ong and Dr Michael Twohig – OCD and The Anxious Perfectionist (#322)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 322 I chat with Dr Clarissa Ong, and Dr Michael Twohig. Clarissa obtained her Ph.D. in Clinical/Counselling Psychology at Utah State University and is currently completing her post-doctoral training at the Center for Anxiety Disorders at Boston University and CBTeam. Michael (Ph.D.) is a licensed psychologist in the state of Utah and a Professor of Psychology at Utah State University, where he co-runs the ACT Research Group (with Dr. Levin).

We discuss perfectionism, their new book ‘The Anxious Perfectionist’, what you’ll find in their book, the research behind the book, learning to use perfectionism when it’s helpful and learning to be more flexible with perfectionism when it’s not helpful, how perfectionism can interfere with therapy, ACT and ERP for finding the balance with perfectionism, and more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Clarissa and Michael:

Their book “The Anxious Perfectionist: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Skills to Deal with Anxiety, Stress, and Worry Driven by Perfectionism” – https://amzn.to/3Li3jO 9

Michael:

Lab website: https://www.utahact.com/

Michael’s books: https://amzn.to/3sntqcB

Michael’s episodes on The OCD Stories: ACT for OCD and ACT for OCD panel

Clarissa:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ongclarissaw

Research: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Clarissa-W-Ong-2104545994

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Clarissa Ong and Dr Michael Twohig – OCD and The Anxious Perfectionist (#322) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jenna Overbaugh – Postpartum OCD and ERP (#321)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Mar 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 321 I chat with Jenna Overbaugh. Jenna is a therapist who specialises in OCD, and is the clinical marketing director over at NOCD.

We discuss Jenna’s OCD story, postpartum OCD, how the US healthcare system could do more to recognise postpartum OCD, how her husband helped her, Jenna shares some of her intrusive thoughts, and some of her exposures (Exposure and Response Prevention – ERP), we discuss what Jenna wants you to know about OCD, finding time for exposures when you also have to raise a child, working at NOCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jenna:

Website: h ttps://www.jennaoverbaugh.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenna.overbaugh

Resources:

Catherine Benfield and her article in the British Journal of Midwifery https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/full/10.12968/bjom.2018.26.11.700

NOCD: https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Karina Dach and Postpartum OCD episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jenna Overbaugh – Postpartum OCD and ERP (#321) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Alexandra Reynolds (#320)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 07:29:00 +0000

In episode 320 I chat with Alexandra Reynolds who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, themes: contamination, relationship, health and taboo, we talk about her experiences of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), we discuss complex trauma (cPTSD) and doing a separate trauma therapy for it, her attachment style, how cPTSD affected her relationships, her attachment style in her relationship and working through this, disassociating in therapy, postpartum OCD, her experience of group therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Alexandra:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandraisobsesse d

Resources:

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

Dr Steven Phillipson and https://www.cognitivebehavioralcenter.com/

All the best,

Stuart

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Story: Taylor Glendenning (#319)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 319 I chat with Taylor Glendenning who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her story, hit and run themed OCD, her other themes including violence and harm, some of her compulsions, her therapy journey, what’s she learned in therapy, medication, the benefit of going to therapy multiple times a week for her, developing the skill of distress tolerance, words of hope, feeling shame, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

IOCDF – what is OCD? article https://iocdf.org/about-ocd/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Taylor Glendenning (#319) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say interviews Stuart Ralph on his OCD research (#318)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In episode 318 therapist Jonny Say interviews Stuart about his OCD research. Stuart’s research used data from the University of Roehampton’s ETHOS project.

We discuss the motivation for this research, what is humanistic counselling, the research and what was found, what humanistic (and person-centred) counselling can learn from CBT, and what CBT can learn from humanistic counselling, hopes for the research, and much more. Hope it helps.

The research:

Ralph, S., & Cooper, M. (2022). Brief humanistic counselling with an adolescent client experiencing obsessive compulsive difficulties: A theory-building case study. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research, 00, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1002/capr.12499

Or get access to a free PDF version here: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/357547369_Brief_humanistic_counselling_with_an_adolescent_client_experiencing_obsessive-compulsive_difficulties_A_theory-building_case_study

Find out more about Jonny:

Jonny’s website: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

Jonny’s episode on The OCD Stories: OCD, Mindfulness and compassion & ACT for OCD

Resources:

The ETHOS project: https://www.roehampton.ac.uk/ETHOS

Professor Mick Cooper

Dr David Burns

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jonny Say interviews Stuart Ralph on his OCD research (#318) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheryl Paul & Sheva Rajaee: Relationship OCD (#317)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 317 I chat with Sheryl Paul and Sheva Rajaee. Sheryl is a counselor informed by Jungian depth psychology, and author of the book The wisdom of anxiety. Sheva is a psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other related anxiety disorders, and author of the book Relationship OCD: A CBT-Based Guide to Move Beyond Obsessive Doubt, Anxiety, and Fear of Commitment in Romantic Relationships.

We discuss what is love, why settling for a partner is ok, highly sensitive people in love, what it means to be in a romantic relationship, ways of dealing with rOCD, learning to listen to the wise mind over the anxious mind, explaining to friends that it’s OCD and not normal relationship concerns, sharing relationship OCD with your partner without hurting their feelings, self-esteem and self-love, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Sheryl:

Sheryl’s book: The wisdom of anxiety https://amzn.to/3JEI8oM

Sheryl’s website: https://conscious-transitions.com/

Find out more about Sheva:

Sheva’s book: Relationship OCD https://amzn.to/3s0jskr

Sheva’s website: https://www.caocd.com/

Resources:

Internal family systems (IFS) episode

Guy Doron

Esther Perel

All the best,

Stuart

The post Sheryl Paul & Sheva Rajaee: Relationship OCD (#317) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Dr Sophie Suri (#316)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 316 I chat with Dr Sophie Suri who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, trauma from the loss of her parents, health and harm themes, starting therapy, her experience of trauma, starting to see triggers as opportunities to practice her therapy skills, Sophie shares some of the most helpful strategies she learned in therapy, her future research, and the book she’s writing, finding her purpose and why, we discuss intuition, what else helped her in her journey, and more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Sophie:

Sophie is a research associate in the School of Health and Life Sciences at Teesside University and a research fellow in the ‘Integrating Physical Health, Mental Health and Social Care’ theme of the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) Northeast and North Cumbria (NENC).

Website (including trauma article): https://sophiesuri.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiesuri/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-suri-62044621/

Follow my book journey: bit.ly/3oUzjQb

Work: https://arc-nenc.nihr.ac.uk/profiles/dr-sophie-suri/

Resources:

Shannon shy

Sean Shinnock

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Dr Sophie Suri (#316) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Annie Anderson (#315)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 315 I chat with Annie Anderson who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us.

We discuss her OCD story, relationship OCD, we discuss her religion (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) and how this played into her OCD, worries about her partners physical features and whether she felt in love, opening up to get help, a breakthrough she had, existential worries, finding effective therapy, what was helpful for her in therapy, her experience of group therapy over zoom, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Thinking the unthinkable article – https://www.ocdonline.com/rethinking-the-unthinkable

The center for cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy – https://www.cognitivebehavioralcenter.com/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Annie Anderson (#315) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Robert Fox: An Internal Family Systems (IFS) view of OCD (#314)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Jan 2022 08:29:00 +0000

In episode 314 I chat with Robert Fox. Rob is a therapist (LMHC) practicing in Woburn, USA. He specialises in internal family systems and EMDR therapy.

We discuss his own OCD story, shame, internal family systems (IFS) therapy, we discuss the idea of parts of ourselves, OCD as a protective part of us which may be possibly protecting exiled parts of us, what are exiled parts, he gives examples of IFS in action, we discuss anger, self-compassion, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Rob:

Website: https://www.jobstresssolutions.com/

IFS article: https://elemental.medium.com/inside-the-revolutionary-treatment-that-could-change-psychotherapy-forever-8be035d54770

All the best,

Stuart

The post Robert Fox: An Internal Family Systems (IFS) view of OCD (#314) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr David Burns: Exposure, and the hidden emotion model (#313)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 313 I chat with Dr David Burns. David is a psychiatrist, and is currently Adjunct Clinical Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine. He is the author of the best-selling book, Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy, as well as many other books, including the more recent book Feeling Great. David also developed the therapy TEAM-CBT.

We discuss his therapy story, his own journey with anxiety, he tells plenty of stories to illustrate this, we discuss motivation for doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), he gives client case examples, the hidden emotion model, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about David:

David’s website: https://feelinggood.com/

Feeling Good Institute: https://www.feelinggoodinstitute.com/

His books:

Feeling Good – https://amzn.to/3Img3lm

Feeling Great – https://amzn.to/33WX95r

When panic attacks – https://amzn.to/3fKTJ8K

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr David Burns: Exposure, and the hidden emotion model (#313) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Character Indictment OCD (#312)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 312 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss what is character indictment, the varied emotions behind OCD, confessing as a common compulsion of this theme, a different way to look at the concept of being a good or bad person, feeling like you don’t deserve nice things, what the brains trying to do with OCD, how we demonstrate to the brain we are safe, Steve gives examples of character indictment OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstevenphillipson

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two of the most common spike themes of OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Character Indictment OCD (#312) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt: Cancel culture (OCD), & the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD (#311)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In episode 311 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

We discuss his own OCD setback and the learnings he got from it, we discuss the fear of being cancelled, cancel culture more generally, how the worry of cancel culture started with the ‘me too’ movement, how some people’s OCD has latched on to this, using exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for this worry, we discuss the importance of focusing on the uncertainty not the themes, we then discuss pornography over utilisation to cope with OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Sam:

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it Second episode: https://theocdstories.com/episode/sam-greenblatt-281/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt: Cancel culture (OCD), & the overutilisation of pornography to cope with OCD (#311) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Sam (#310)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 08:27:00 +0000

In episode 310 I chat with Sam who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her story, a sexual assault that came before the OCD, worrying about getting an STI, pedophile themed OCD (pOCD), her compulsions, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), medication and self stigma, what else helps her, where she’s at now, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

Alegra Kastens

Shannon Shy (his book)

OCD Peers

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Sam (#310) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Emily Hemendinger – Cognitive flexibility for OCD, perfectionism, social anxiety and social media (#309)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In episode 309 I chat with Emily Hemendinger. Emily is a lead OCD therapist at the University of Colorado Health Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic.

We discuss her therapy story and mental health story including OCD and an eating disorder, cognitive flexibility, cognitive remediation therapy, working on perfectionism, social anxiety, social media and tips for the mindful use of it, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Emily:

Website: https://www.erp4ocd.com/ and https://som.ucdenver.edu/Profiles/Faculty/Profile/29092

All the best,

Stuart

The post Emily Hemendinger – Cognitive flexibility for OCD, perfectionism, social anxiety and social media (#309) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Angel Brown (#308)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:17:00 +0000

In episode 308 I chat with Angel Brown who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

We discuss her story, harm intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, health anxiety, her compulsions, fear of going crazy, doing exposure and response prevention (ERP), helping her family understand how to support her, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Angel:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angeleighbrown

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Angel Brown (#308) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Eva Surawy Stepney – Guilty obsessions, and the history of OCD (#307)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 10:43:00 +0000

In episode 307 I chat with Eva Surawy Stepney. Eva is a research student studying for her PhD at the University of Sheffield. Her thesis title is, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the foundations of ‘evidence-based’ practice in British Psychology, 1948-1990.

In this episode we discuss who she is and her PhD research, her article guilty obsessions, the history of OCD, the history of psychoanalysis and the development of other psychotherapies such as ERP, the importance of Sigmund Freud to the early development of the conceptualisation of OCD, what separates OCD from phobias, how other emotions like guilt, doubt and disgust can be drivers of OCD, how Freud originally said this but how mainstream psychiatry focused only on fear until in more recent years where the research is showing that other emotions play a role too, we discuss the idea of trauma and potential links to OCD, the history of ERP, and the conference OCD in Society. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Eva:

Website – https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/history/people/phd-researchers/eva-surawy-stepney

Guilty obsessions article: https://thepolyphony.org/2021/09/27/guilty-obsessions/

OCD in society conference: https://ocdinsociety.wixsite.com/home

Resources:

Dr Elvis Gomes

Here is that segment I mentioned about paradoxical intention by Dr Viktor Frankl in 1929, potentially being a precursor or similar to ERP (at least the exposure element of ERP):

“In paradoxical intention, the pathogenic fear is replaced by a paradoxical wish, thereby unhinging the vicious circle of anticipatory anxiety. We will cite the following case as an example. A woman, Mary B., had undergone various methods of treatment for 11 years yet her complaints, rather than decreasing, had increased. She suffered from attacks of palpitation accompanied by marked anxiety and anticipatory fears of a sudden collapse. After the first attack, she began to fear it would recur and consequently it did. The patient reported that whenever she had this fear, it was followed by palpitations. Her chief concern, however, was that she might collapse in the street. After her admission to the neurological department of the Polyclinic Hospital, Dr. Kurt Kocourek advised her to tell herself at such a moment, “My heart shall beat still faster! I would just love to collapse right here on the sidewalk!” Furthermore, the patient was advised deliberately to seek out places which she had experienced as disagreeable, or even dangerous, instead of avoiding them. Two weeks later the patient reported, ” I am quite well now and feel scarcely any palpitations. The fear has completely disappeared.” Some weeks after her discharge she reported, “Occasionally mild palpitations occur, but when they do I say to myself: ‘My heart should beat even faster,’ and at that moment the palpitations cease.” – Chapter 4, page 102 by Dr Viktor Frankl in Promoting change through paradoxical therapy edited by Dr Gerald Weeks (1985).

All the best,

Stuart

The post Eva Surawy Stepney – Guilty obsessions, and the history of OCD (#307) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Eli Lebowitz – SPACE for OCD (Families) (#306)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Dec 2021 09:32:00 +0000

In episode 306 I chat with Dr Eli Lebowitz. Eli created the treatment approach SPACE which stands for Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions. SPACE is a parent-based treatment program for children and adolescents with anxiety, OCD, and related problems. Eli is director of the Program for Anxiety Disorders at the Yale Child Study Center.

We discuss his therapy story, why he focused on helping families of people with OCD, what is SPACE, the negative consequences of accommodation, what SPACE consists of, the two core elements of SPACE which are to respond in a supportive manner and reduce accommodation, he gives case examples, sticking points in SPACE and ways to overcome them, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Eli and SPACE:

Website: https://medicine.yale.edu/profile/eli_lebowitz/

SPACE website: https://www.spacetreatment.net/

Book: Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents https://amzn.to/32TgvZ3

Resources:

Jon Hershfield – When a family member has OCD

Dr Jon Abramowitz – Family guide to getting over OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Eli Lebowitz – SPACE for OCD (Families) (#306) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Sidney Aburi (#305)

Nami — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 14:38:00 +0000

In episode 305 I chat with Sidney Aburi who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss his OCD story, intrusive thoughts around religion, avoiding school, the severity of his compulsions, worrying about leaving his country, studying abroad, suicidal themed OCD, sexual orientation themed OCD, his journey of finding effective therapy, panic, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Sidney:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/Sidneyabu ri

Resources:

Ashley Annestedt

Beyond Borders CBT https://beyondborderscbt.com/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Sidney Aburi (#305) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Katie Strang (OCD Illustrated) (#304)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 08:11:00 +0000

In episode 304 I chat with Katie Strang. Katie is a therapist, who advocates on Instagram through the account OCD Illustrated.

We discuss her OCD story, her themes, going to inpatient care, social anxiety, learning to take her symptoms less seriously, how she structures ERP now after therapy, we discuss how friends and family reducing accommodation can make OCD better, the value in connecting with people who have other symptoms than your own, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Katie:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdillustrated

Resources:

Rogers behavioural health: https://rogersbh.org/what-we-treat/ocd-anxiety/ocd-and-anxiety-residential-services

Book “Up and down the worry hill” by Dr Aureen Wagner https://amzn.to/3kKUzFo

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Katie Strang (OCD Illustrated) (#304) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Tapio Antere (#303)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 08:13:00 +0000

In episode 303 I chat with Tapio Antere. Tapio is an aspiring film director from Finland. He has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

We discuss his story, sexual orientation themed OCD, health anxiety, gender identity themed OCD, going to inpatient treatment, meditation, having friends with OCD and sharing humour in tough times, how he views intrusive thoughts, words of hope, his core fear, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Tapio:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tapioantere

Website: www.tapioantere.com

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Tapio Antere (#303) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Amy Mariaskin: Thriving in relationships with OCD (#302)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Nov 2021 09:40:00 +0000

In episode 302 I chat with Dr Amy Mariaskin. Amy is a licensed clinical psychologist and director at The Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center.

We get an update on Amy, Thriving in relationships with OCD, her book, attachment in relationships, relationship themed OCD, the importance of relationships, OCD and friendships, developing exposures to face OCD and strengthen relationships, values and committed action towards our values, disclosing OCD, and more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. NOCD offers affordable, 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://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Amy:

Amy’s website – https://www.ocdnashville.com/

OCD Nashville’s instagram: @OCDNashville

Amy on the podcast – Gender Identity themed OCD

Amy on the podcast – 4 – 8 year olds with OCD

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Amy Mariaskin: Thriving in relationships with OCD (#302) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Lucy (#301)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 08:48:00 +0000

In episode 301 I chat with Lucy who has kindly agreed to share her story.

In this episode we talk about her story, developing an eating disorder, going to residential treatment, using substances, the effects and trauma from abusive relationships including sexual assault, suicidal themed OCD, somatic OCD, harm themed OCD, some of her compulsions, getting diagnosed, her experience of doing exposure and response prevention (ERP), worrying about coronavirus and moral scrupulosity, obsessing over medication, the powerful moments in therapy that resonated with her, the trauma of OCD, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Lucy:

Lucy’s written story: https://www.madeofmillions.com/articles/tangled-in-the-safety-net

Instagram: https://instagram.com/_lucywelch_

Resources:

Moral scrupulosity

Trauma of OCD episode with Chrissie Hodges

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Lucy (#301) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Special episode: Aaron Harvey interviews Crystal Anderson about her OCD story and intrusive thoughts

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 07:46:00 +0000

In this special episode, Aaron Harvey interviews Crystal Anderson. Aaron chats with Crystal about her story, violent intrusive thoughts, going to inpatient treatment, getting diagnosed in her thirties, how her themes change week to week, getting intrusive thoughts about her dog, sexual orientation and existential themed OCD, they talk about race and culture and how this can impact access to care and community, they discuss advocacy, when people use the term “I’m so OCD”, depression, and much more. Hope it helps.

Thanks to OCDPeers for sponsoring this week’s special edition of the podcast. To find out about their peer support groups for OCD, and to meet others head to www.ocdpeers.com

Find out more about Aaron:

Made of Millions – https://www.madeofmillions.com/

Aaron on the podcast first and second time.

Find out more about Crystal:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/beerbottles_chainsaws

Website – https://www.averygoodjob.co/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Special episode: Aaron Harvey interviews Crystal Anderson about her OCD story and intrusive thoughts appeared first on The OCD Stories.

A sit and chat with Stuart (#300)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Oct 2021 13:32:00 +0000

In episode 300 I took some time to reflect on the last 6 years and 300 episodes. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for listening, and to acknowledge where the shows been, and where’s it’s going.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

All the best,

Stuart

The post A sit and chat with Stuart (#300) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Special episode: Dr Patrick McGrath interviews Dr Alec Pollard

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:31:00 +0000

Dr Patrick McGrath head of clinical services at NOCD interviews Dr Alec Pollard Founding Director of the Center for OCD & Anxiety-Related Disorders (COARD).

In this episode they talk about Alec’s therapy story, what areas of OCD have his interest currently, developing an approach to help families of loved ones who refuse therapy, developing his OCD institute in St Louis, why it’s exposure and response prevention (ERP) not exposure therapy, the importance of the RP of ERP, the influence of Joseph Wolpe to OCD therapy, how anger inhibits anxiety, panic disorder, learning to adapt to uncertainty, and much more. Hope that helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Dr Patrick McGrath:

Website – https://www.treatmyocd.com/about-us/team/

“The OCD Answer Book” by Dr Patrick McGrath

Patrick telehealth podcast

Patrick on the podcast – “It’s ok to be uncomfortable“

Patrick on the podcast – “Answers to top OCD questions”

Find out more about Dr Alec Pollard:

Website: https://slbmi.com/about-us/our-staff/clinical-team/#pollard

Resources:

Dr Charlie Mansueto

All the best,

Stuart

The post Special episode: Dr Patrick McGrath interviews Dr Alec Pollard appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Justin Hughes: Walking faithfully as a Christian while doing OCD treatment (#299)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 299 I chat with Justin Hughes. Justin is a licensed professional counsellor in Dallas, Texas who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

In this episode I chat with Justin about some of the barriers that get in the way of Christians seeking treatment, he share’s some relevant scripture, why OCD is not a spiritual problem, seeing a therapist regardless of their own faith, the concept of common grace, we discuss miracles, uncertainty and Christianity, doing exposure and response prevention (ERP) without crossing the client’s religious and personal values, dealing with the guilt and shame of having had certain intrusive thoughts, speaking with family member’s who are hesitant about therapy, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Justin:

Website: https://www.justinkhughes.com/

Justin’s first episode on the podcast: https://theocdstories.com/episode/justin-hughes-faith-spirituality-religion-ocd-therapy-250/

Resources:

Micah Howe’s episode

IOCDF faith page: https://iocdf.org/ocdandfaith/

Jon Seidl “Finding rest” https://amzn.to/3aNIgTz

Ted Witzig – https://accounseling.org/

Brene brown – Listening to shame

All the best,

Stuart

The post Justin Hughes: Walking faithfully as a Christian while doing OCD treatment (#299) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Special episode: Chrissie Hodges interviews Chance McNeely – childhood trauma, & the trauma of OCD

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 07:45:00 +0000

In this episode peer support specialist Chrissie Hodges interviews Chance McNeely.

Chrissie chats with Chance about his story, how culture can develop/influence themes, childhood trauma, their upbringings, struggling to speak up as children, self-compassion, trauma from OCD, shame, peer support, and much more. Hope it helps.

Thanks to OCDPeers for sponsoring this week’s special edition of the podcast. To find out about their peer support groups for OCD, and to meet others head to www.ocdpeers.com

Find out more about Chance:

Chance’s story podcast episode

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chancemcneely/

Find out more about Chrissie:

OCDPeers.com – www.ocdpeers.com

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/pureochrissie/

Trauma of OCD podcast episode

Resources:

Brene Brown – Listening to shame

Aaron Harvey

All the best,

Stuart

The post Special episode: Chrissie Hodges interviews Chance McNeely – childhood trauma, & the trauma of OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jason Krompinger: ERP, ACT and FAP for OCD (#298)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Oct 2021 07:26:00 +0000

In episode 298 I interviewed Dr Jason Krompinger. Jason is a clinical psychologist at the OCD institute at McLean hospital.

I chat with Jason about his therapy story, case formulation vs diagnosis, barriers to accessing exposure and response prevention (ERP), perfectionism, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), we discuss the role of the ‘self’, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Jason:

Website: h ttps://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/jason-krompinger

Resources:

Dr Chad LeJeune “Worry trap” book / his episode on the podcast

Nate Gruner

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Jason Krompinger: ERP, ACT and FAP for OCD (#298) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Special episode: Catherine Benfield interviews Steve Brumwell

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 08:01:00 +0000

In this special edition of The OCD Stories former guest and OCD advocate Catherine Benfield interviews Steve Brumwell. Steve is a writer and director, he is currently working on his short film about OCD called ‘Waving’.

In this episode they discuss Steve’s story, hiding the disorder, how a documentary helped him understand what was going on, they discuss harm intrusive thoughts, becoming a parent, self-harm, how his OCD interfered with some of his therapy, men’s mental health, they talk about his short film ‘Waving’, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Steve:

Steve’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevebwrites

Find out more about Catherine:

Catherine’s first appearance on the podcast: https://theocdstories.com/episode/catherine-benfield-perinatal-and-postnatal-ocd-ep114/ and her second appearance: https://theocdstories.com/episode/catherine-benfield-stigma-reduction-the-bbc-ocd-ep154/ and her third appearance: https://theocdstories.com/episode/catherine-benfield-live-from-the-ocd-action-conference/

Taming Olivia blog – https://www.tamingolivia.com/

Resources:

Find out more about OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Find out more about OCD UK – https://www.ocduk.org/

Pure

All the best,

Stuart

The post Special episode: Catherine Benfield interviews Steve Brumwell appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan: Self-Compassion for OCD (#297)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 07:15:00 +0000

In episode 297 I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. Kim is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and related disorders, Eating Disorders and Body Focused Repetitive Disorders. She runs her own podcast called Your Anxiety Toolkit. She also runs CBTschool.com.

In this episode we talk about her new book ‘The Self-Compassion Workbook for OCD’, the roadblocks to self-compassion, applying self-compassion to Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), some of the exercises and practices in the book, why Jon Hershfield wrote the foreword to the book, Kim guides us through a self-compassion practice, how self-compassion can help you lean into fear, setting boundaries as an act of self-compassion, feeling like you don’t deserve compassion, we discuss self-criticism, when Kim has had to practice self-compassion for herself recently, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Kim:

Kim’s book: https://amzn.to/3kSiUd2

Kimberley’s podcast – http://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/podcast-blog/

Kimberley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youranxietytoolkit/

Kimberley Quinlan on the podcast – Your anxiety toolkit, Badass radical acceptance, OCD and eating disorders, It’s a beautiful day to do hard things, Let’s talk about self-love.

Kimberley’s course – CBTSchool.com

Resources:

Chance McNeely

All the best,

Stuart

The post Kimberley Quinlan: Self-Compassion for OCD (#297) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

A self-compassion practice from Kimberley Quinlan

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:16:00 +0000

Full episode out this Sunday. We discuss her new book 'The Self-Compassion Workbook for OCD: Lean into Your Fear, Manage Difficult Emotions, and Focus On Recovery'.

Kimberley's new book: https://amzn.to/3kSiUd2

Disclaimer - this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please seek treatment from a trained professional.

The post A self-compassion practice from Kimberley Quinlan appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Nicola Petrocchi: Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) for OCD (#296)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 07:28:00 +0000

In episode 296 I interviewed Dr Nicola Petrocchi. Nicola is a licensed CBT psychotherapist based in Rome, Adjunct Professor of Psychology at John Cabot University (Rome) and student counsellor.

We discuss his therapy story, what is compassion-focused therapy (CFT), the evolutionary view of the mind, how CFT fits in with other therapies, his study: what it is, what it found. We talk about viewing OCD from a compassionate lens, the science behind compassion, we discuss different types of guilt, different exercises in CFT, working with the inner critical voice, we discuss some of the resistances to doing CFT, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Nicola:

Website: https://www.johncabot.edu/faculty/nicola-petrocchi

His study: Compassion-Focused Group Therapy for Treatment-Resistant OCD: Initial Evaluation Using a Multiple Baseline Design htt ps://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.594277/full

Compassionate Mind Foundation Italy: https://www.compassionatemind.it/

Compassionate Mind Foundation: https://www.compassionatemind.co.uk/

Resources:

Francesco Mancini

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Nicola Petrocchi: Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) for OCD (#296) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Jamie Lewis (#295)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 07:03:00 +0000

In episode 295 I interviewed Jamie Lewis who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

I chat with Jamie about his story, building up the courage to speak to a doctor, pure O, somatic OCD, relationship OCD, perfectionism, derealisation, working with Dr Steven Phillipson, we talk about Steve’s podcast episode brain voice vs gatekeeper, peer support, the concept of irrelevance, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

Brain Lock by Dr Jeffrey Schwartz

Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice episode

Website: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/jon-hershfield-mft/

NICE Guidelines for OCD (UK) https://www.ocduk.org/overcoming-ocd/nice-guidelines-for-the-treatment-of-ocd/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Jamie Lewis (#295) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield – False memory (& real event) OCD (#294)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 08:10:00 +0000

In episode 294 I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist and the director of The Center for OCD and Anxiety, at Sheppard Pratt. He is the author of six OCD books, including his most recent book the 2nd edition of “The mindfulness workbook for OCD”.

I chat with Jon about what’s new with him, what is false memory OCD, real event OCD, the problem with compulsively reviewing memories or thoughts, how this theme of OCD links into moral scrupulosity, some of the compulsions linked to this theme, dealing with the uncertainty, rumination, when you’re worried to go to therapy, mindfulness around this theme, why the difference between a false memory or a real one doesn’t matter and why we shouldn’t try to figure it out, why drinking alcohol can make OCD worse, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Jon:

His books: https://amzn.to/3otaCHE

Jon’s false memory OCD article: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/news-views/story/did-we-already-discuss-false-memories-and-ocd/

Resources:

Real event OCD episode

Moral scrupulosity and covid episode with Jon Hershfield

Dr Jon Grayson / book: Freedom from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

All the best,

Stuart

The post Jon Hershfield – False memory (& real event) OCD (#294) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Micah Howe (#293)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Sep 2021 07:42:00 +0000

In episode 293 I interviewed Micah Howe who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

I chat with Micah about his OCD story, growing up as an evangelical Christian, his early memories of anxiety, fears of perfection, worries of offending people, how OCD impacted his faith, hoarding behaviours, scrupulosity, health anxiety, the process of getting therapy, advocacy, medication, setting up an IOCDF affiliate in IOWA, words of hope, and much more.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Micah:

Instagram: @mentalhealthmhe

OCD Iowa e-mail: info@ocdiowa.org

Resources:

Chrissie Hodges – Trauma of OCD episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Micah Howe (#293) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nathan Peterson – Doing an exposure (ERP) vs. being exposed (#292)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 07:22:00 +0000

In episode 292 I interviewed Nathan Peterson. Nathan is an OCD specialist who practices in Allen, Texas. He works with OCD, anxiety, tics and Tourettes, and BFRB’s such as hair pulling and skin picking. He has a YouTube channel where he posts weekly videos about OCD and other anxiety related disorders.

I chat with Nathan about his therapy journey, the difference between doing an exposure (ERP) vs. being exposed, examining the day ahead to find opportunities for proactive ERP and identifying compulsions, why it’s important to actively do ERP vs being exposed, the importance of reducing compulsions to help our brains learn new information around the things we worry about, ideas for sticking to ERP homework, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Nate:

Private Practice: www.OCDandAnxietyCounseling.com

YouTube Channel: www.YouTube.com/OCDandAnxiety

Online courses: www.OCDandAnxietyOnline.com & www.BFRBOnline.com

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nathan Peterson – Doing an exposure (ERP) vs. being exposed (#292) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Two of the most common spike themes of OCD (#290)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 08:47:00 +0000

In episode 290 I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

We discuss two of the most common spike themes of OCD: What if this never goes away, and how do I know this is OCD and not an authentic concern?, he normalises the process of OCD and the emotions that fuel it, the mistakes some people make in their recovery mindset, when OCD pops up in your mind when you wake, we discuss the idea of irrelevance, the recovery mindset, he shares plenty of examples and illustrations, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Brain voice vs gatekeeper voice

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Two of the most common spike themes of OCD (#290) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Malia (#289)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 07:27:00 +0000

In episode 289 I interviewed Malia who has kindly agreed to share her story.

I chat with Malia about her story, her earliest OCD memory, emetophobia, somatic obsessions, medication, how the themes of OCD changed over the years, postpartum OCD, depersonalisation/derealisation, feeling guilty because of the thoughts, going through intensive outpatient treatment, how her husband also meet with other family members for OCD support, how her mindset of OCD has changed, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Malia:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mamaeventhrough/

Resources:

Cornerstone OCD – https://cornerstoneocd.com/

Mary Torres

Aaron Harvey episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Malia (#289) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Elizabeth Forrester – Rumination (#288)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 09:12:00 +0000

In episode 288 I interview Dr Elizabeth Forrester. Liz is a consultant clinical psychologist in London.

I chat with Liz about her therapy story, her research into rumination, normalising intrusive thoughts, the difference between thinking and thought, the process of rumination, examples of rumination, healthy vs unhealthy distraction, what actually is exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Liz:

Website: http://dreforrester.co.uk/

Book: How to deal with OCD https://amzn.to/3iM5Fbq

Resources:

Dr Michael Greenberg: Rumination is a compulsion episode

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Elizabeth Forrester – Rumination (#288) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Saleha Hansbhai (#287)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 09:25:00 +0000

In episode 287 I interviewed Saleha Hansbhai who has kindly agreed to share her story.

I chat with Saleha about her story, her earliest OCD memory, violent intrusive thoughts, religious themed OCD, seeking reassurance, checking, confessing, getting multiple incorrect diagnoses, having suicidal thoughts, medication, later on experiencing suicidal themed OCD, getting hospitalised, eventually getting the right diagnosis, starting Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), going to the IOCDF conference, meeting others with OCD, relapsing, how her father now uses her experience to educate others in the Muslim community who are suffering, why she shares her story, words of hope, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

Book – “Is Fred in the refrigerator” / Podcast – “Is Fred in the refrigerator”

Reid Wilson

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Saleha Hansbhai (#287) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Marion Maw – Advocacy in New Zealand (#286)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Jul 2021 10:46:00 +0000

In episode 286 I interviewed Marion Maw who has kindly agreed to share her family story and advocacy in New Zealand.

In this episode I chat with Marion about her daughter’s OCD story, and her parent story, moral worries (scrupulosity), getting therapy for her daughter, what she learned as a parent of a child experiencing OCD, sharing common feelings together, getting started in advocacy, the advocacy initiatives she’s involved with in New Zealand, how she uses her unique experience to advocate, her experience of advocating, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Marion and her advocacy:

Fixate Facebook group for New Zealanders – https://www.facebook.com/groups/533606270318161/

New Zealand advocacy website – http://www.ocd.org.nz/

New Zealand advocacy email – ocd.org.nz@gmail.com

Resources:

“Everyday mindfulness for OCD” book by Shala Nicely and Jon Hershfield – https://amzn.to/3hy4BbE

Jon Hershfield – Moral Scrupulosity OCD article – https://www.sheppardpratt.org/news-views/story/moral-scrupulosity-ocd-part-one/

International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) – https://iocdf.org/

Voices of Hope (New Zealand) – https://www.thevoicesofhope.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Marion Maw – Advocacy in New Zealand (#286) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg – Somatic/Sensorimotor OCD, and rumination (#285)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Jul 2021 09:32:00 +0000

In episode 285 I interviewed Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a licensed clinical psychologist.

In this episode I chat with Michael about his reflections on his first episode, Michael’s articles, what is somatic/sensorimotor OCD, depersonalisation/derealisation, how rumination can maintain somatic symptoms, the difference between awareness and attention, he reads his exercise from the article ‘how to stop paying attention’, the 6 things that get in the way when trying not to ruminate, how he treats somatic OCD, removing analysis and avoidance, we discuss mindfulness and why it may not be good for OCD in Michael’s opinion, practicing reducing rumination, and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Michael:

Michael’s website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

Michael’s article: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

Articles mentioned:

How to stop ruminating: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/how-to-stop-ruminating/

Awareness, attention, distraction, and rumination: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/awareness-attention-distraction-and-rumination/

How to stop paying attention: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/how-to-stop-paying-attention/

Treating sensorimotor OCD: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/treating-sensorimotor-ocd-aka-somatic-ocd/

Resources:

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Greenberg – Somatic/Sensorimotor OCD, and rumination (#285) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Catherine Benfield LIVE from the OCD Action conference

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:26:00 +0000

This is a live interview I did with Catherine Benfield at the OCD Action conference.

We discuss her story, maternal OCD, getting support from her husband, starting her advocacy journey, raising awareness of perinatal OCD among midwives, working on kindness and self-compassion because of the way she felt about herself, her blog Taming Olivia, changing the perception of OCD, becoming an executive producer on a short film about OCD, and much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Catherine:

Taming Olivia blog – https://www.tamingolivia.com/

Resources mentioned:

Find out more about OCD Action – https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Living with perinatal OCD – Journal of Midwifery https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/full/10.12968/bjom.2018.26.11.700

Ruji Rahman podcast episode – https://theocdstories.com/episode/ruji-rahman-cbt-compassion-and-uncertainty-ep156/

Maternal OCD charity – https://maternalocd.org/

Ethan Smith on the podcast – https://theocdstories.com/episode/ethan-smith-if-i-can-then-you-can-too-ep118/

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy – https://theocdstories.com/episode/nate-gruner-283/

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Catherine Benfield LIVE from the OCD Action conference appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Gen Skeja (#284)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:47:00 +0000

In episode 284 I interviewed Gen Skeja who has kindly agreed to share his story.

I chat with Gen about his story, sexual intrusive thoughts, sexual orientation OCD, moving abroad to avoid the thoughts, finding out about OCD, reading about OCD, interviewing therapists to find a good match, panic attacks, the process of therapy, and much much more.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Gen:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdshqip/

Resources:

Rose Cartwright – Pure

Books:

Dr Jon Grayson “Freedom from obsessive-Compulsive Disorder” https://amzn.to/3wbi1yz

Dr Sally Winston and Marty Seif “Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts” https://amzn.to/3qD0rlP

IOCDF questions to ask a therapist: https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/how-to-find-the-right-therapist/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Gen Skeja (#284) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nate Gruner – Functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP) for OCD (#283)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Jun 2021 08:11:00 +0000

In episode 283 I interviewed Nate Gruner. Nate is a staff Behavioral Therapist at McLean OCD institute.

We talk about his therapy story, what is functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), the interpersonal aspects of therapy, the importance of the therapeutic relationship, how FAP can be useful for OCD, he gives client in-session examples, using FAP, ACT and ERP together, doing exposures to build intimacy, we discuss clinically relevant behaviours (CRBs), and much much more.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Nate:

Website: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/nate-gruner

FAP for OCD training for therapists led by Nate and Meaghan: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/fapforocd

Resources:

McLean OCDI https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute

Dr Chad Wetterneck IOCDF 2017 FAP talk https://vimeo.com/226574675

Dr Kieron O’Connor – Inference based therapy

Reid et al. 2021 study https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33618297/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Nate Gruner – Functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP) for OCD (#283) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Twohig, Dr Patricia Zurita Ona and Jonny Say: ACT for OCD (#282)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Jun 2021 06:18:00 +0000

In episode 282 I interviewed Dr Michael Twohig, Dr Patricia Zurita Ona and Jonny Say. Michael is a licensed psychologist and researcher, Patricia is a clinical psychologist, and Jonny is an integrative counsellor.

In this episode I chat with Michael, Patricia and Jonny about their backgrounds and what brought them to acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), where ACT adds value to OCD treatment, how they use ACT alongside exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), we discuss the compulsion of rumination and how ACT can target it, how ACT targets other difficult emotions that can go alongside OCD, how ACT can work on other issues alongside OCD, how values can be useful to guiding life decisions, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about them:

Dr Michael Twohig

Lab website: https://www.utahact.com/

Michael’s books: https://amzn.to/3sntqcB

Michael’s episode on The OCD Stories: ACT for OCD

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona

Patricia’s websites – https://eastbaybehaviortherapycenter.com/ and https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/

Patricia’s books https://amzn.to/2U3Y5QC

Patricia’s episodes on The OCD Stories: ACT and ERP for teens with OCD and W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. in ACT based ERP

Jonny Say

Jonny’s website: https://jonnysaytherapy.com/

Jonny’s episode on The OCD Stories: OCD, Mindfulness and compassion

Resources:

Dr Russ Harris & Dropping anchor exercise audio

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Michael Twohig, Dr Patricia Zurita Ona and Jonny Say: ACT for OCD (#282) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt – A potential way of improving ERP: habituation model versus inhibitory learning theory (#281)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 07:49:00 +0000

In episode 280 I interviewed Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam is a licensed clinical psychologist.

I chat with Sam about the effectiveness of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the habituation model of ERP, why habituation isn’t always needed, what is the inhibitory learning theory model of ERP, why has it improved on the habituation model, how inhibitory learning theory looks in a therapy session, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Sam:

Sam’s first episode: Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it

Resources:

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz

Michelle Craske

Book: “Freedom for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder” – Dr Jon Grayson https://amzn.to/3vaGjYP

All the best,

Stuart

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt – A potential way of improving ERP: habituation model versus inhibitory learning theory (#281) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Brian Sullivan (#280)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 07:57:00 +0000

In episode 280 I interviewed Brian Sullivan who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

I chat with Brian about his story, divorce, bullying, depression, medication, suicidal ideation, working with the wrong therapist, then finding a helpful therapist, hospitalisation and how Brian found that helpful, what Brian has learned in therapy about OCD and life, going back to studying, we talk about Asexuality, words of hope, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

Chance McNeely episode

Dr Michael Greenberg episode

Jon Hershfield https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/jon-hershfield-mft/ and Molly Schiffer at Sheppard Pratt https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/molly-schiffer-lcpc/

Chrissie Hodges – Trauma of OCD episode

Find out more about “But/And”: https://joshuanhook.com/2021/01/05/replace-but-with-and/

ACT DNA model https://dnav.international/

Thanks,

Stuart

The post Story: Brian Sullivan (#280) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheryl Paul – The wisdom of anxiety (and intrusive thoughts) (#279)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 May 2021 13:35:00 +0000

In episode 279 I chat with Sheryl Paul. Sheryl is a counselor informed by Jungian depth psychology, and author of the book The wisdom of anxiety.

In this episode we chat about her story, transitions such as marriage, birth, death and the anxiety they can bring. We discuss the highly sensitive person, we talk a lot about relationship anxiety, we explore differing views of OCD and the integration of certain therapies with CBT, we discuss a Jungian view of OCD, the spirituality and beauty of ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and facing fear as an innate human skill, the timetable of healing, emptiness, the Jungian idea of gathering gold, and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Sheryl:

Book: The wisdom of anxiety https://amzn.to/3hXN1P6

Website: https://conscious-transitions.com/

Gathering gold podcast https://conscious-transitions.com/gathering-gold-podcast/

Resources:

Elaine Aron – The highly sensitive person https://amzn.to/3hVyh3d

Pete Weiss episode

Viktor Frankl https://www.viktorfrankl.org/

Recipes for a perfect marriage by Kate Kerrigan https://amzn.to/2RGr7VT

All the best,

Stuart

The post Sheryl Paul – The wisdom of anxiety (and intrusive thoughts) (#279) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Eeva Edds – Loved ones of people with OCD (#278)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 May 2021 10:24:00 +0000

In episode 278 I chat with Eeva Edds. Eeva is a licensed professional counselor.

In this episode, we talk about her therapy story, what is caregiver burnout, how to prevent caregiver burnout, self-care, understanding your loved one’s experience of OCD, understanding accommodation, how the loved one can help the person with OCD, self-compassion, values, and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Eeva:

Website: https://www.houstoncenterforvaluedliving.com/home/hcfvl/eeva-edds-lpc/

Resources:

McLean OCD Institute Houston – https://houstonocdprogram.org/

UNSTUCK kids movie – https://www.ocdkidsmovie.com/

Podcasts for family members:

Jon Hershfield – When a family member has OCD

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz – The family guide to getting over OCD

Books:

Loving someone with OCD – https://amzn.to/3f3FHzt

When a family member has OCD – https://amzn.to/3owOkpr

The family guide to getting over OCD – https://amzn.to/3wmrNy6

All the best,

Stuart

The post Eeva Edds – Loved ones of people with OCD (#278) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kyle (#277)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 May 2021 09:15:00 +0000

In episode 277 I interviewed Kyle who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

In this episode, we talk about his story, health/contamination worries, panic attacks, work stress, worries of harm coming to his kids, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Inference Based Therapy (IBT), what else helps him, opening up to his wife, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Kyle:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passengers_on_the_bus/

Resources:

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Kyle (#277) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Rachel Huber (#276)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 May 2021 05:03:00 +0000

In episode 276 I interviewed Rachel Huber. Rachel has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode, we talk about her OCD story, maternal (Postpartum) OCD, worrying about the health and safety of her children, her therapy journey, and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Rachel:

Her article on the IOCDF: https://iocdf.org/blog/2021/05/03/to-resist-is-to-persist/

Resources:

Maternal OCD charity – https://maternalocd.org/

More resources

All the best,

Stuart

The post Story: Rachel Huber (#276) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson: Brain Voice vs Gatekeeper Voice (#275)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 May 2021 07:06:00 +0000

In episode 275 I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

In this episode, we talk about his thinking around the brain voice vs gatekeeper voice, knowing the difference between the brain voice and the gatekeeper voice, we do a role play using one of the areas that cause me anxiety, he uses this role play to demonstrate the brain voice vs the gatekeeper voice, the idea of writing the headline with the gatekeeper, the paradox of anxiety, self-compassion for the brain voice, and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Found out more about Steve:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD)

Resources:

Albert Ellis – https://albertellis.org/

All the best,

Stuart

Next monthly zoom hangout with Stuart is on Saturday 5th June. Come chat about the show. Pay what you can/want: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-ocd-stories-monthly-zoom-catchup-with-stuart-ralph-tickets-153180630389 See you then.

The post Dr Steven Phillipson: Brain Voice vs Gatekeeper Voice (#275) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Shai Friedland – OCD in South Africa (#274)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 10:06:00 +0000

In episode 274 I interviewed Shai Friendland. Shai is a clinical psychologist in Johannesburg, South Africa. He specialising in the treatment of OCD.

In this episode we talk about his OCD story, contamination worries, what led him to become a psychologist, we talk about OCD in South Africa, increasing advocacy in the country, living with uncertainty, words of hope, and much more more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Found out more about Shai:

Shai’s Website

Resources:

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) – https://www.sadag.org/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Shai Friedland – OCD in South Africa (#274) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Twohig – ACT for OCD (#273)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 07:56:00 +0000

In episode 273 I interviewed Dr Michael Twohig. Michael is the co-director of the USU ACT Research Group, a licensed psychologist in the state of Utah, and a Professor of Psychology at Utah State University.

In this episode I chat with Michael about his research and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) story, his experience of training under Dr Steven Hayes, what is ACT, why he studied ACT initially as a sole intervention for OCD and what he found, he breakdowns the 8 session ACT protocol he used in his research, we talk about psychological flexibility and why it’s important, we talk about cognitive defusion, integrating ACT with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), how bringing in values into therapy can helpful, some of the metaphors he likes for OCD, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by and sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Michael:

Lab website: https://www.utahact.com/

Journal on ACT findings for OCD mentioned in the episode: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/upimages/Twohig_et_al._-_2015_-_Exposure_therapy_for_OCD_from_an_acceptance_and_commitment_therapy_(_ACT_)_framework.pdf

Michael’s books: https://amzn.to/3sntqcB

Resources:

Book: Get out of your mind and into your life by Dr Steven Hayes https://amzn.to/3mOQhMY

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Michael Twohig – ACT for OCD (#273) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Elke Atzpodien (#272)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Apr 2021 07:48:00 +0000

In episode 272 I interview Elke Atzpodien. Elke shared her story in episode 102 back in 2017, and she has come on to give us an update.

In this episode I chat with Elke about an update on her story, her experiences of Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), group therapy, support groups, meeting Margot her therapy buddy, mixing exposure homework with valued activities, stopping asking for reassurance, how her husband had also suffered and decided to go to therapy to help process the 20 years of experiencing OCD in the home, her peer support training, stigma and self stigma, dealing with OCD during supporting her father through cancer treatment, the ideas of OCD treatment that helped her, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Elke:

Elke’s story episode 102

OCD campers episode

Resources:

The OCD Camp – https://theocdcamp.com/

Hop honest open proud – http://www.comingoutproudprogram.org/

All the best,

Stu

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Dr Ben Sedley – Stuff that’s loud (#271)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Apr 2021 16:51:00 +0000

In episode 271 I interview Dr Ben Sedley. Ben is a clinical psychologist from New Zealand. He has authored two books, and runs a private practice called ACT Wellington.

In this episode I chat with Ben about his therapy journey, what is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), how Relational Frame Theory (RFT) underpins ACT, how ACT can be useful for OCD, Ben gives examples of how ACT enhances ERP, ACT’s view of suffering, we talk about grief and OCD, his and Lisa Coyne’s book ‘Stuff that’s loud’ an ACT book for teens with OCD, his book ‘Stuff that sucks’, the importance of listening to teens, the ACT metaphors Ben likes, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Ben:

Personal website: https://bensedley.com/

Clinic website in Wellington: http://actwellington.co.nz/

His and Lisa’s book: Stuff that’s loud https://amzn.to/3wfTNV5

Stuff that sucks book https://amzn.to/2OabSTa

Resources:

“Man’s search for meaning” by Viktor Frankl https://amzn.to/3uh9Q3d

Steven Hayes

Louise Hayes https://www.louisehayes.com.au/

Lisa Coyne

McLean OCD Institute https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute

Michelle Craske – Inhibitory Learning Theory

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Ben Sedley – Stuff that’s loud (#271) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Laura Johnson – OCD Doodles (#270)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 07:28:00 +0000

In episode 270 I chat with Laura Johnson. Laura is the creator of OCD Doodles and has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode I chat with Laura about her story, her earliest experience, existential and superstitious worries, how as a kid seeing a school shooting on TV triggered worries of harm coming to her family, how OCD impacted her family as a child, contamination worries, relationship worries, drinking alcohol to self-medicate, seeking help, taking medication, her treatment journey from getting the wrong types of therapy, her negative experiences of working with a coach, finally getting therapy with a qualified therapist experienced in OCD, feeling guilty around harm OCD, parenting while dealing with OCD, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Laura:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocddoodles/

Resources:

Rogers Behavioural Health https://rogersbh.org/what-we-treat/ocd-anxiety

Find OCD charities here: Resources

Catherine Benfield

Peace of Mind foundation

Margaret Session and Dr Patrick McGrath

All the best,

Stu

The post Laura Johnson – OCD Doodles (#270) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg – Putting Rumination and Agency at the center of ERP (#269)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 11:02:00 +0000

In episode 269 I chat with Dr. Michael J. Greenberg. Michael is a licensed clinical psychologist. He is the director of OCD Associates, a practice specializing in Rumination-Focused ERP.

In this episode I chat with Michael about why rumination is a compulsion, rumination focused exposure and response prevention (RF-ERP), how his approach to treating OCD doesn’t fit with the habituation model of ERP but how it’s closer to the inhibitory learning model approach, he gives examples how he does ERP, how and why he focuses on getting his client’s anxiety close to zero before doing an ERP exercise, why he focuses on eliminating rumination first before physical compulsions, the difference between thinking normally and ruminating, noticing when you are ruminating, and much much more. Hope it helps.

A note from Michael: When Stu asked why rumination is a compulsion, I should have given a much simpler answer than I did, which is that rumination is a compulsion because it’s something you’re doing, not something that’s happening to you.

Find out more about Michael:

Website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

Articles: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/articles/

His first episode on the show “Rumination is a compulsion”

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Michael Greenberg – Putting Rumination and Agency at the center of ERP (#269) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Neil Hemmer (#268)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Mar 2021 09:35:00 +0000

In episode 268 I chat with Neil Hemmer. Neil is a therapist with a masters in social work, and has plenty of personal experience with OCD. He has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

In this episode I chat with Neil about his story, his early memories, contamination OCD, he gives his candid account of intrusive thoughts, his faith, religious OCD, medication, self medicating with alcohol, relationship OCD, obsessive worries about having sexually assaulted someone, harm OCD, suicidal ideation, hitting rock bottom, addiction and OCD, going inpatient for OCD and addiction, smart recovery for addiction, writing scripts in exposure and response prevention theory (ERP), he shares some graphic stories of his clients in the aim to give hope, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

His article on Alison Dotson’s website – https://alisondotson.com/2020/05/31/laughing-despite-and-about-ocd-neil-hemmer/

Riley’s Wish (OCD and addiction) charity – http://www.rileyswish.com/

Simon Jencius

Amita Foglia – https://www.amitahealth.org/foglia/

OCD Peers – http://ocdpeers.com/

Liz McIngvale

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Neil Hemmer (#268) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Lou (#267)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 12:15:00 +0000

In episode 267 I chat with Lou who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode I chat with Lou about her story, ruminating, reassurance seeking, not feeling good enough, self medicating at a young age with alcohol and drugs, how the birth of her first child triggered an OCD episode, peadophile themed OCD (pOCD), worries of her and others harming her baby (postpartum OCD/maternal OCD), feeling like a bad person, getting therapy, dealing with anger, discovering Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), eventually deciding to take medication and her experiences, the various triggers around her children, telling her husband something wasn’t feeling right, a fear of upsetting people, the OCD camp, what else helps her with her well being, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Ashley Annestedt

Matt Haig – http://www.matthaig.com/

The OCD Camp – https://theocdcamp.com/

Maternal OCD charity – https://maternalocd.org/

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Lou (#267) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Abramowitz: The family guide to getting over OCD (#266)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 08:51:00 +0000

In episode 266 I chat with Dr Jonathan Abramowitz. Jonathan is a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Chapel Hill, NC specializing in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He is also Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina. And author of several bookings including Getting over OCD, and The family guide to getting over OCD.

In this episode I chat with Jon about why he wrote this book, how the family system plays into OCD and vice versa, he writes the book from two perspectives: one, the loved one with OCD wants to get better, and two, the loved one with OCD doesn’t want to do treatment, we discuss family accommodation and why it’s not helpful, how to stop accommodating your loved one, we discuss treatment refusal (when someone refuses to get help), we discuss the difference between a reward and a bribe for children, setting boundaries, how to get family life back on track even if a loved one refuses to get help, how to listen to and talk to your loved one with OCD, what areas of OCD research Jon is excited by, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jon:

Jon’s website: http://www.jabramowitz.com/

Books:

The family guide to getting over OCD: https://www.guilford.com/books/The-Family-Guide-to-Getting-Over-OCD/Jonathan-Abramowitz/9781462541362

Jon’s other books: https://amzn.to/2ZNU4j9

Jon on the podcast:

Getting over OCD

Living the CBT lifestyle

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jon Abramowitz: The family guide to getting over OCD (#266) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Chance McNeely (#265)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 09:53:00 +0000

In episode 265 I chat with Chance McNeely who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

In this episode I chat with Chance about his OCD story, themes – sexual orientation OCD, harm OCD, relationship OCD, pedophile OCD, growing up in an anxious household, compulsively overthinking things, finding out about intrusive thoughts, peer support, self-compassion as his saving grace, becoming a certified peer, working for OCD Peers, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is made possible by and sponsored by NOCD. NOCD are now in the UK. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

Brene Brown – https://brenebrown.com/

Tara Brach – https://www.tarabrach.com/

All the best,

Stu

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Story: Mike Vatter (#264)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Feb 2021 08:24:00 +0000

In episode 264 I chat with Mike Vatter who has kindly agreed to share his story with us. Mike is on the board of OCD Jacksonville.

In this episode I chat with Mike about his OCD story, things having to be just right, panic attacks, hitting breaking point, pulling hair, how his first therapist thought he didn’t have OCD, how a hit and run OCD episode helped him get an OCD diagnosis, using humour to make it easier, meeting his biological parents, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

OCD Jacksonville – https://ocdjacksonville.com/

Kim Vincenty podcast episode

All the best,

Stu

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD) (#263)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Feb 2021 09:25:00 +0000

In episode 263 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

In this episode I chat with Steven about what is somatic (sensorimotor) OCD, neutral obsessions, obsessions and compulsions of this theme, how depersonalisation/derealisation may be a subset of this theme, how certain personality styles may play into this theme, how often he sees this theme in his private practice, he gives case examples, the focus of therapy for this theme, examples of exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), why Steve gets his patients to record each therapy session, what he wishes he knew when he started his journey in therapy, Steve’s biggest life influences, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook) / Choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD involves others

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – Somatic OCD (Sensorimotor OCD) (#263) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – Peer support for OCD (#262)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 12:43:00 +0000

In episode 262 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a certified peer and family support specialist in Colorado, and co-founder of OCDPeers.com. Chrissie was awarded the hero award by the IOCDF for her advocacy work.

In this episode I chat with Chrissie about what’s new with her and her work, what’s new with the OCD Gamechangers, what is (certified) peer support, what it is not, what does a peer conversation look like, how peer support can support the therapy process, what is OCD peers, the most attended group topics at OCD peers, what Chrissie has learned about OCD in the last 12 months, her learnings about advocacy, and much much more. Hope it helps.

This episode is sponsored by OCD Jacksonville and Natural Life. Shop the Fearless collection of apparel and gifts here https://www.naturallife.com/collections/fearless-giveback-collection. Use code “FEARLESS” at the checkout for 20% off the Fearless range. To find out more about OCD Jacksonville click here: https://ocdjacksonville.com/

Intro song by Harper. Check out the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POSKsBnsdXQ&t

Find out more about Chrissie:

A penny for your intrusive thoughts

Group peer support: OCDPeers.com

OCD Gamechangers: OCD Gamechangers

Chrissie on The OCD Stories part 1

Chrissie on The OCD Stories part 2

Jess interviews Chrissie

Chrissie on The OCD Stories ‘Trauma of OCD‘

Resources:

Alejandro Ibarra

Ashley Annestedt – Beyond borders CBT

Maggie Perry – Huddle Care

Michael Greenberg

The OCD camp (UK) – https://theocdcamp.com/

All the best,

Stuart

The post Chrissie Hodges – Peer support for OCD (#262) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Elizabeth (#261)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 12:14:00 +0000

In episode 261 I chat with Elizabeth who has kindly agreed to share her story.

In this episode I chat with Liz about her story, her experiences growing up including the death of her dad, and school bullying, her experiences with OCD, the fear of being judged, contamination worries, getting a diagnosis, hit and run OCD, what’s been helping her, her journey of finding the right treatment fit, dealing with the discomfort of seeking help, the experience of telling her family about her experiences, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Resources:

Mara Wilson podcast episode

Ted talk Liz mentions

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Elizabeth (#261) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ashley and Felipe: Beyond Borders CBT (#260)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 09:18:00 +0000

In episode 260 I chat with Ashley Annestedt and Felipe. Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and Neurobehavioral Disorders. Ashley is the founder of Beyond Borders CBT. She is joined by Felipe Malaco de Oliveira a former client from Brazil who has agreed to share his story.

In this episode I chat with Ashley and Felipe about what is beyond borders CBT and why set it up, Felipe’s OCD story, sexual orientation OCD, doing exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), living with uncertainty, a relapse after the birth of his son, postnatal violent and sexual intrusive thoughts, OCD and Brazil, Ashley’s take on Felipe’s therapy, opening up to his wife about OCD, increasing the global access to ERP, and much much more.

Find out more about Ashley:

Website: https://beyondborderscbt.com/

Podcasts: Treatment ready and Teletherapy

Resources:

Website: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/jon-hershfield-mft/

All the best,

Stu

The post Ashley and Felipe: Beyond Borders CBT (#260) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield – The mindfulness workbook for OCD & The OCD Workbook for Teens (#259)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 10:42:00 +0000

In episode 259 I chat with Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist and the director of The Center for OCD and Anxiety, at Sheppard Pratt. He is the author of six OCD books, including his most recent book the 2nd edition of “The mindfulness workbook for OCD”, and his upcoming book “The OCD Workbook for Teens”.

In this episode I chat with Jon about what’s new with him, The mindfulness workbook for OCD, what the book about, what’s new with this 2nd edition, Jon’s personal experiences with meditation and mindfulness, why he broke the book down by themes. We discuss The OCD workbook for teens, what it’s about, Sean Shinnock’s illustrations in the book, exercises in the book, how he works with teens, staying in the present moment, dealing with uncertainty, living joyfully, and much much more.

Find out more about Jon:

His books: https://amzn.to/3otaCHE

Resources:

Kim Vincenty on the podcast

Sean Shinnock’s first episode on the podcast

All the best,

Stu

The post Jon Hershfield – The mindfulness workbook for OCD & The OCD Workbook for Teens (#259) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Hoffman – Autism Spectrum Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (#258)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Jan 2021 13:38:00 +0000

In episode 258 I chat with Dr Jonathan Hoffman. Jon is a licensed psychologist in the states of Florida, New York, and Utah. He is Chief Clinical Officer of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI) in South Florida, and director and founder of the NBI ranch residential program. He is author of the book Stuck: Asperger’s Syndrome and Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors.

In this episode I chat with Jon about what he’s been up to, what is Autism Spectrum Disorder, where OCD and ASD can overlap, Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors, how Covid has impacted people with ASD and OCD, exposure and response prevention (ERP) for OCD with ASD modifications, the NBI ranch, words of advice on getting the most out of your therapist, advice for parent and families, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Find out more about Jon:

Book: Stuck: Asperger’s syndrome and obsessive-compulsive behaviors https://amzn.to/2WS8yNd

Jon’s first episode on The OCD Stories podcast

IOCDF OCD/ASD Town Hall, Volume 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjfu71EXOVo

Resources:

Blink blink clop clop free audiobook

IOCDF – https://iocdf.org/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jonathan Hoffman – Autism Spectrum Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (#258) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stefan Batorijs – Shinrin Yoku and Ecotherapy (#257)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 13:05:00 +0000

In episode 257 I chat with Stefan Batorijs. Stefan is an Integrative Psychotherapist and founder of Nature and therapy UK. He is an associate Lecturer at Plymouth University, where he teaches the role of Nature and benefits of natural immersion for mental health and recovery from trauma on the clinical psychology doctorate programme.

In this episode I chat with Stefan about why he became a therapist specifically doing ecotherapy, his relationship with nature, what is Shinrin Yoku, the benefits of being in nature and practicing Shinrin Yoku, Stefan shares some examples of working therapeutically with individuals in nature, why Shinrin Yoku and ecotherapy can be deep serious work, being prepared when going out in nature, appreciating nature close to home, start small and build up, anxiety and the woods, nature as a restorative environment, advice for people in cities, what Stefan wants you to know about nature, and much much more.

Find out more about Stefan:

Website: https://natureandtherapy.co.uk/

All the best,

Stu

The post Stefan Batorijs – Shinrin Yoku and Ecotherapy (#257) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sam Greenblatt – Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it (#256)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Dec 2020 08:48:00 +0000

In episode 256 I chat with Dr Sam Greenblatt. Sam specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD and other anxiety disorders. Sam works at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

In this episode I chat with Sam about what got him into therapy, why some other therapies may not work for OCD, fully embracing the uncertainty of Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), the importance of not white knuckling through exposures, inhibitory learning theory to explain how ERP works, why anxiety doesn’t always need to go down to see improvements in ERP, the back door spike, treat the problem not the symptoms, being mindful of the wording we use in therapy, and much much more.

Find out more about Sam:

T he ACT Workbook for Teens with OCD: Unhook Yourself and Live Life to the Full

Email: samccbp@gmail.com

Video that inspired this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz9aKaHQG-I&ab_channel=SamuelGreenblatt

Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy: https://www.cognitivebehavioralcenter.com/

Resources:

Pete Weiss – Contemporary psychoanalysis podcast

Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Sam Greenblatt – Frequent reasons therapy doesn’t work, and how to improve it (#256) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona – W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. in ACT based ERP (#255)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 16:21:00 +0000

In episode 255 I chat with Dr Patricia Zurita Ona. Patricia is director of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center and host of the playing it safe podcast. She is the author of several books including “The ACT Workbook for Teens with OCD” and her new book “Living Beyond OCD Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: A Workbook for Adults”.

In this episode I chat with Patricia about what is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), what is Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), facing ones fears in service of what matters to them, blending ACT and ERP, her acronym W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. and how she uses it with her clients, misconceptions about ACT, a values based exposure menu, inhibitory learning theory as a way to understand how ERP works, she gives plenty of OCD theme examples, and much much more.

Find out more about Patricia:

Patricia’s websites – https://eastbaybehaviortherapycenter.com/ and https://www.thisisdoctorz.com/ (find out about her podcast here)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.z.passionatebehaviorist/

W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S.:

W – watch your obsessions: Did I watch my obsessions or do I get hooked on it?

I – invite your obsessions: Did I make room for my obsession?

S – stay with your experience: Did you stay with your experience?

E – either towards or away from your values: Did I remember that I can choose?

M – make a choice: Did I make a choice? What was my choice?

O – observe what comes with the choice: What show up under my skin with this choice?

V – value your choice with self-compassion: How did I appreciate my choice?

E – engage with what’s next: what was the next thing I decided to engage?

S – soften up with self compassion

Books:

Living Beyond OCD Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: A Workbook for Adults

Patricia’s other books

Resources:

http://www.ashleyannestedtlcsw.com/

Michelle Craske – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4114726/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Patricia Zurita Ona – W.I.S.E. M.O.V.E.S. in ACT based ERP (#255) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

5 Years of the podcast. What’s next?

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Dec 2020 08:39:00 +0000

In this special 5-year anniversary episode I share my thoughts on the evolution of the podcast, my own journey with the show, my wish for you the listener, future direction of the show, and of course a thanks to you for listening to the podcast.

Thanks to all my guests, listeners and people that have supported the show – it’s appreciated.

Thanks for listening,

Stu

Image credit – IOCDF Conference

The post 5 Years of the podcast. What’s next? appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Stephen Johns (#254)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 10:01:00 +0000

In episode 254 I chat with Stephen Johns who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

In this episode I chat with Stephen about his story: violent, sexual orientation and self harm/suicidal intrusive thoughts, getting ineffective treatment, eventually finding a therapist that helped, working hard in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), he goes into details into the lengths he went with his compulsions, his medications, how the suicide of one of his favourite musicians triggered a relapse for him, how perfectionism impacted his therapy, how the experience of OCD taught him to slow down in his life, words of hope and much much more.

Find out more about Steve:

His blog: https://snjohns.wordpress.com/category/mental-health/

Resources:

Reid Wilson

Dr Felicity Sapp – https://drfelicitysapp.com/

Dr Steven Phillpson – Choice podcast / Choice audiobook / Choice article

Viktor Frankl “Man’s search for meaning” https://amzn.to/36i6TGd

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Stephen Johns (#254) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD Involves Others (#253)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 16:25:00 +0000

In episode 253 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

In this episode I chat with Steven about when other people are the focus of one’s obsessions, he sets up the episode by explaining his view of OCD for context, Dr Phillipson gives a lot of different therapy examples across many themes, how people’s OCD themes involve others, advice and words of hope for the partners and family members who may be the recipient of one’s obsessions, some of the compulsions that may be paired with these obsessional themes, misophonia, I ask him 3 questions about himself and his therapy practice at the end and much much more.

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – When OCD Involves Others (#253) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Michael Greenberg – Rumination is a compulsion (#252)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 10:25:00 +0000

In episode 252 I chat with Dr Michael Greenberg. Michael is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

In this episode I chat with Michael about his OCD journey, the line between obsession and compulsion, what is rumination, why rumination is a compulsion, advice on stopping rumination, the idea of a core fear in OCD, the importance of understanding the core fear, how understanding the idea that OCD is a strategy to keep you safe allows you to start to let it go, how rumination may be the core of OCD, the idea of letting go of rumination when scared, how to stop ruminating about ruminating, the issues that may getting in the way of stopping rumination, why it matters how we talk about OCD, words of hope and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Michael:

Website: https://drmichaeljgreenberg.com/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Michael Greenberg – Rumination is a compulsion (#252) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ashley Annestedt – Teletherapy for OCD (#251)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Nov 2020 13:01:00 +0000

In episode 251 I chat with Ashley Annestedt. Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and Neurobehavioral Disorders. Ashley is licensed to provide therapy in 6 US states, and the founder of Beyond Borders CBT.

In this episode I chat with Ashley about what’s new with her, teletherapy, when teletherapy may be useful, how it can help people do exposures where they are triggered, tips for getting the most out of teletherapy, when teletherapy may not be right, using the interactive features of video therapy platforms, tips for therapists transitioning to teletherapy, what to prepare before your first teletherapy session so that is runs smoothly, words of hope, and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Ashley:

Websites:

https://beyondborderscbt.com/

Resources:

Dr Steven Phillipson – teletherapy podcast episode – https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-steven-phillipson-teletherapy-for-ocd-ep162/

OCD Gamechangers – https://ocdgamechangers.com/

All the best,

Stu

The post Ashley Annestedt – Teletherapy for OCD (#251) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Justin Hughes – Faith, spirituality and religion in OCD therapy (#250)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 18:44:00 +0000

In episode 250 I chat with Justin Hughes. Justin is a licensed professional counsellor in Dallas, Texas who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

In this episode I chat with Justin about his therapy story, how faith/spirituality and therapy can work together, when OCD shakes someone’s faith, Christian scriptures around fear, worry and uncertainty, working with shame from the taboo nature of intrusive thoughts, living with uncertainty, words of hope, and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Justin:

Website: https://www.justinkhughes.com/

Resources:

IOCDF article “how to find the right therapist” https://iocdf.org/ocd-finding-help/how-to-find-the-right-therapist/

All the best,

Stu

The post Justin Hughes – Faith, spirituality and religion in OCD therapy (#250) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Ivy Ruths – Therapy For OCD (#249)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 08:08:00 +0000

In episode 249 I chat with Dr Ivy Ruths. Ivy is a licensed psychologist and licensed specialist in school psychology specializing in treating anxiety, depressive, and OCD-related disorders.

In this episode I chat with Ivy about why she got into working with people with OCD, living by ones values, the therapeutic relationship, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), the importance of doing therapy homework, living with uncertainty, motivation in therapy, words of hope and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Ivy:

Website: https://www.drivyruths.com/

Resources:

McLean OCD Institute Houston

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Ivy Ruths – Therapy For OCD (#249) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story – Katy Marciniak (#248)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 18:36:00 +0000

In episode 248 I chat with Katy Marciniak who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode I chat with Katy about her OCD story, how seeing a school shooting on TV triggered her harm worries, googling symptoms and finding relief in what she found, going to get professional help, relationship worries that focused on her marriage, finding an OCD specialist and how that helped her, learning to face the things she was avoiding for years, working on a fear of getting pregnant, the process of recovery, how her husband helps her, working hard at self compassion, words of hope and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Katy:

Instagram @navigatinguncertainty

Katy’s Blog: https://navigatinguncertaintyblog.wordpress.com/

Resources:

Katy on Kimberley Quinlan’s podcast https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/ep-138-10-things-i-have-learned-about-recovery-with-katy-marciniak/

All the best,

Stu

The post Story – Katy Marciniak (#248) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP (#247)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 11:52:00 +0000

In episode 247 I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy in New York.

In this episode I chat with Steve about why some people get more from Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) quicker than others, what is ERP and why it works, what are some common reasons that complicate the success of ERP, he gives plenty of OCD theme examples, when the need to do therapy right can become a secondary obsession itself, the idea of irrelevance, how the therapeutic relationship can affect treatment outcomes, the importance of homework, the importance of doing response prevention when doing exposures, why it’s ok if you don’t get anxious when doing an exposure, mental compulsions, educating significant others, an ideal mindset for doing ERP, getting more out of the sessions from recording them (with your therapist’s permission), why starting too high up the hierarchy may not be a good thing, why building on success in therapy is helpful, how desperation and control can interfere with therapy, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Steven:

Steven’s website – OCDOnline.com / choice article

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – What actually is OCD?

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Two tail spikes in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (audiobook)

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention

Podcast: Dr Steven Phillipson – Call me Steve (The therapeutic relationship)

Resources:

Study/Research: Common Pitfalls in Exposure and Response Prevention (EX/RP) for OCD: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3423997/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – Things that complicate the success of ERP (#247) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story – Jaclyn Steinmann (#246)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 08:58:00 +0000

In episode 246 I chat with Jaclyn Steinmann who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode I chat with Jaclyn about her OCD story, suicidal themed obsessions, reassurance seeking, harm obsessions, sexual orientation obsessions, maternal harm obsessions, the different therapies she’s tried, finding Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), doing ERP with NOCD, the experience of doing teletherapy, how helpful she found ERP, deciding to go on medication for OCD, continuing therapy with a different therapist, what else Jaclyn does to support her mental well being, reducing caffeine and sugar, an existential upbringing, words of hope, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Jaclyn:

Her story on NOCD – https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/overcoming-several-forms-of-ocd/

Resources:

NOCD – https://www.treatmyocd.com/

“Everyday mindfulness for OCD” by Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely https://www.amazon.com/dp/1626258929

Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered states of consciousness episode

Jon Grayson and Bob Cianfrone – Fear of going crazy episode

Chrissie Hodges – Trauma of OCD episode

“Is Fred in the refrigerator” by Shala Nicely https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CQ66T6F

“The OCD answer book” by Dr Patrick McGrath https://www.amazon.com/OCD-Answer-Book-Professional-Obsessive-Compulsive-ebook/dp/B0024CEZI0/

All the best,

Stu

The post Story – Jaclyn Steinmann (#246) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Pete Weiss – Contemporary psychoanalysis and CBT – is integration possible? (#245)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 10:49:00 +0000

In episode 245 I chat with Pete Weiss. Pete is a therapist who specialises in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as other mental health disorders. He is the co-founder of camp DCO, an annual OCD wilderness camp. Pete is a graduate of the Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI), and is currently a doctoral candidate at the Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis in Los Angeles, where he is working on integrating behavior therapy and contemporary psychoanalytic theory.

In this episode we discuss why as a CBT therapist of many years he decided to train in contemporary psychoanalysis, Pete explains his progression of understanding, he uses examples to explain his thinking, how differing levels of trauma may have an input on some peoples OCD, the idea “committee of the mind”, Pete’s perspective on Sigmund Freud’s view of OCD, nature and nurture as influences on OCD, how running his OCD camp influenced him to approach OCD relationally, shame in OCD, connecting with others as a way to process shame, empathy in OCD treatment, the idea around a core fear of death and loneliness, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Pete:

Email: peteweiss@me.com

Seattle OCD camp: https://teenocdcamp.com/

Article mentioned in the episode: https://anxietyresourcecenter.org/2019/05/human-connection-an-underdeveloped-ingredient-in-exposure-therapy/

His first appearance on the podcast

His second appearance on the podcast

Resources:

The OCD Camp (UK) https://theocdcamp.com/

Travis Osborne (camp co-leader) https://ebtseattle.com/team/travisosborne/

All the best,

Stu

The post Pete Weiss – Contemporary psychoanalysis and CBT – is integration possible? (#245) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Meg and Matt (#244)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Sep 2020 10:22:00 +0000

In episode 244 I chat with Meg and Matt who have kindly agreed to share their story from the point of view of husband and wife.

In this episode we discuss Meg’s OCD story, losing a friend to suicide, contamination and harm worries, having the support of her dog, also getting worries around her dog, finding out it was OCD, going for inpatient treatment, talking with others with OCD, medication, how she never believed she could get to where she has got to, Matt’s story, how Matt supports Meg, how Meg focused on therapy while also being a new parent, relationship boundaries around OCD, words of advice for partners, words of hope and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Resources:

McLean Hospital (OCD Institute) https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Meg and Matt (#244) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Ian Johnson – Basketball & OCD (#243)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 14:47:00 +0000

In episode 243 I chat with Ian Johnson. Ian kindly shares his OCD story with us.

In this episode I talk with Ian about his OCD story, homosexual and relationship themed OCD, his childhood experiences, feeling suicidal, playing professional basketball while experiencing OCD, superstitious thinking, getting therapy, opening up and talking about his pain with a therapist, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), words of wisdom for athletes with OCD, feeling connected with others with OCD, mindfulness, his book The bounce and the echo, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Ian:

Hi book “The bounce and the echo” https://amzn.to/3hd8yzf

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ian_johnson_22

Resources:

Guy Doron – ROCD podcast 1

Guy Doron – ROCD podcast 2

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Ian Johnson – Basketball & OCD (#243) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Amy Mariaskin – 4-8 year olds with OCD (#242)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 11:42:00 +0000

In episode 242 I chat with Dr Amy Mariaskin. Amy is a licenced clinical psychologist and director at The Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center.

In this episode I chat with Amy about what OCD looks like in 4-8 year olds, compulsions and obsessions, animism – inanimate objects having personalities, how 4-8 year olds conceptualise OCD, looking out for autism spectrum disorder, how OCD can impact other areas of this age groups lives, how Amy explains OCD to these kids, how therapy for children with OCD differs from adults, talking back to OCD, making exposures fun, utilising play in therapy, calling exposures bravery challenges, homework and rewards, getting parents and carers involved, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Amy:

Amy’s website – https://www.ocdnashville.com/

OCD Nashville’s instagram: @OCDNashville

Amy on the podcast – Gender Identity themed OCD

Resources:

Jennifer Freeman https://vivo.brown.edu/display/jbfreema#Research

Anne Garcia https://vivo.brown.edu/display/agarciap

Josh Spitalnick https://theocdstories.com/episode/dr-josh-spitalnick-ocd-in-children-and-its-treatment-ep202/

POTS Jr trial – Family-based treatment of early childhood obsessive-compulsive disorder https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24759852/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Amy Mariaskin – 4-8 year olds with OCD (#242) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story – Izzy Mather (#241)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 13:23:00 +0000

In episode 241 I chat with Izzy Mather who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode I chat with Izzy about her story, intrusive thoughts around abuse, false memory OCD, getting therapy through the NHS, her compulsions, relapse, her first panic attack, getting ineffective therapy for OCD privately, starting medication, seeing a psychiatrist, getting therapy again on the NHS, changing medications with the doctor during pregnancy, understanding how her brain was working to better understand OCD, starting exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), how family members can help those with OCD, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Izzy:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isabelmather/

Resources:

Anna Foster’s podcast episode

Priory Hospital UK: https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health

All the best,

Stu

The post Story – Izzy Mather (#241) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

John Tessitore – Leading With Love (JCK Foundation) (#240)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 10:30:00 +0000

In episode 240 I chat with John Tessitore from the JCK foundation who has kindly agreed to share his and his foundation’s story with us.

In this episode I chat with John about his OCD story, depression, religious, sexual and suicidal themed intrusive thoughts, meeting someone else with OCD, dealing with the suicide of a close friend, going through CBT therapy, starting the JCK foundation and the work he does with the foundation, leading with love, helping de-stigmatise mental health in schools, starting the JCK clinic in Uganda, words of hope for people with OCD, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about John

Website: https://jckfoundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jckfoundation/

Resources:

Sean Shinnock

Aaron Harvey

All the best,

Stu

The post John Tessitore – Leading With Love (JCK Foundation) (#240) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Margaret & Patrick – OCD & Substance Use

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 09:07:00 +0000

In episode 239 I have Dr Patrick McGrath head of clinical services at NOCD, and Margaret Sisson founder of the not-for-profit Riley’s Wish, which she started to honour the memory of her son Riley, who was a passionate advocate for people with OCD and addiction.

In this episode I chat with Margaret and Patrick about who they are, why they are passionate about helping people with OCD and substance use, how common OCD and substance use is, stigma of substance use, symptoms of addiction, treating addiction along with OCD, what inpatient treatment may look like for OCD and substance use, ideas for when you are afraid to tell your therapist about substance use, harm reduction or abstinence, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics anonymous, SMART recovery, things to consider with medication, words of hope, words of hope/advice for family members of people affected by this and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Patrick:

Website: https://www.treatmyocd.com/about-us/team/

“The OCD Answer Book” by Dr Patrick McGrath

Patrick telehealth podcast

Patrick on the podcast – “It’s ok to be uncomfortable“

Patrick on the podcast – “Answers to Top OCD Questions”

Find out more about Margaret:

Riley’s Wish Website: RileysWish.com

Riley’s Wish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rileyswish/

IOCDF Riley Sisson Conference Scholarship Fund – Find out more here

Margaret on the podcast – “OCD & Addiction (Riley’s Wish Foundation)”

Resources:

AMITA Health Foglia Family Foundation Residential Treatment Center https://www.amitahealth.org/services/behavioral-medicine-institute/conditions-treated/foglia-family-foundation-residential-treatment-center/

Lori Johnson podcast episode on OCD and substance use

@apenny4yourintrusivethoughts

All the best,

Stu

The post Margaret & Patrick – OCD & Substance Use appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan – OCD and Sex

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Aug 2020 10:12:00 +0000

In episode 238 I have Kimberley Quinlan. Kimberley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and related disorders, Eating Disorders and Body Focused Repetitive Disorders. She runs her own podcast called Your Anxiety Toolkit. She also runs CBTschool.com.

In this episode I chat with Kim about sex and OCD. I asked her many questions I got from some of the listeners of the show. We talk about when OCD impacts your ability to connect with your partner, sexual intrusive thoughts and anxiety’s impacts on sexual expression, why it may be difficult to enjoy sex, working through intrusive thoughts that interfere with sex, avoidance of sexual intercourse because of obsessions, cognitive distortions around sex, influence of porn, worrying about pregnancy during sex, contamination worries, sexually transmitted disease worries, when sex can be a compulsion, medications possibly affecting sex, letting go of extra expectations of what sex should be like, how to relate and create a better relationship to sexuality, how partners can help, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Kimberley:

Kimberley’s website and podcast – http://kimberleyquinlan.com

Kimberley’s Instagram @kimberley_quinlan_lmft

Kimberley Quinlan on the podcast – Your anxiety toolkit, Badass radical acceptance, OCD and eating disorders, It’s a beautiful day to do hard things, Let’s talk about self-love

Kimberley’s course – CBTSchool.com

Resources:

“Come as you are” by Emily Nagoski https://amzn.to/3im0PQq

All the best,

Stu

The post Kimberley Quinlan – OCD and Sex appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Emily O’Leary – Thoughts That Seem Mad, Bad and Dangerous

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 07:47:00 +0000

In episode 237 I chat with Dr Emily O’Leary. Emily is a Clinical Psychologist and the founder of four psychology clinics, including The OCD Clinic Brisbane and Anxiety House.

In this episode we chat about her therapy story, her research, bringing humour and authenticity into the treatment of OCD, metacognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), ERP sticking points/challenges, OCD content vs OCD process, avoiding pitfalls of circular arguments, when you and your child has OCD, living with uncertainty, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Emily:

Emily’s website: https://dremilyoleary.com/

Emily’s clinics:

The OCD Clinic Brisbane: https://ocdclinicbrisbane.com.au /

Anxiety House Brisbane: https://anx ietyhouse.com.au/

Oxford Clinic: https://oxfordclinic.com.au/

Anxiety House Sunshine Coast: https://anxietyhouse-sc.com.au/

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Emily O’Leary – Thoughts That Seem Mad, Bad and Dangerous appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Tori Chavira

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 09:08:00 +0000

In episode 236 I chat with Tori Chavira who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode Tori shares her OCD story, opening up about her sexuality, contamination and harm worries, obsessions about driving, avoidance of driving, resistance to therapy, getting therapy, group therapy, her first session, mindset towards recovery, and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Tori:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thetorichavira/

Resources:

Chris Trondsen on the podcast

Gateway Institue – https://www.gatewayocd.com

Resources (Tori wanted to share):

Websites:

Made Of Millions – https://www.madeofmillions.com/conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder

OCD Center of LA – https://ocdla.com

International OCD Foundation – https://iocdf.org/about-ocd/

Podcasts:

Your Anxiety Toolkit – https://kimberleyquinlan.com/?page_id=82

The OCD Stories – https://theocdstories.com/

Books:

The Obsessive Outsider by Kerry Osborn (https://amzn.to/2MSfG7d)

Instagram Accounts:

@obsessivelyeverafter

@life_without_anxiety

@yourmindisamuscle

@theocdcafe

@notalonenotes

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Tori Chavira appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Molly and Cali Gambrel (#235)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 10:39:00 +0000

In episode 235 I chat with Molly and Cali Gambrel. Who have kindly agreed to share their OCD story from the point of view of mother and daughter. And to talk about their book “Practice being brave”.

In this episode I chat with Molly and Cali about Cali’s story, getting therapy, Cali’s first therapy session, Molly’s parental worries, naming her OCD, what Cali liked about therapy, what Molly learned about OCD and parenting, what Molly does that helps Cali, their book, words of hope, and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about their book:

Practice being brave: Owning my OCD

Resources:

UNSTUCK – An OCD kids movie

More OCD resources

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Molly and Cali Gambrel (#235) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Thomas Smalley (#234)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Jul 2020 07:39:00 +0000

In episode 234 I chat with Thomas Smalley. Thomas won the IOCDF’s hero award in 2019 for his OCD advocacy. He has kindly agreed to share his OCD story.

In this episode I chat with Thomas about his OCD story, his advocacy, getting therapy, dealing with shame, tracking progress in therapy, his experience of teletherapy, how physical exercise and faith were helpful outlets for him, finding his identity after he got his time back from compulsions, dealing with stigma, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Thomas:

Documentary: https://youtu.be/s7wbem2r384

Instagram: @WTBSmalls

Resources:

IOCDF

Chris Trondsen

Thanks for listening,

Stuart

The post Story: Thomas Smalley (#234) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop: An OCD Storybook

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 11:59:00 +0000

This is audiobook is a children’s OCD storybook called “Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop” by Dr Katia Moritz.

This audiobook was produced by and for The OCD Stories podcast with kind permission from Dr Katia Moritz.

Special thanks to the voice over artists:

Henrietta the chicken = Dr Elizabeth McIngvale
Daisy the cow and Maybelle the cow = Natalie Rubenstein
Snort the pig, other pigs, and Farmer Brown = Ethan Smith
Biscuit the horse and Trotter the horse = Dr Steven Poskar
O.C.Flea and Hoot the owl = Dr Jonathan Hoffman
Nervous little chick = Nami Ralph
Tips for fighting O.C.Flea = Dr Fugen Neziroglu
Narration = Stuart Ralph

If you are interested in the backstory of why I created this audio book please listen here

If you want to buy a print copy of “Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop” you can do so here: https://amzn.to/2Oc052Z

Listen to my podcast with Dr Katia Moritz

Find out more about Katia – NBIWeston.com

For more OCD resources please visit: https://theocdstories.com/resources/

Hope it helps

Stu

The post Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop: An OCD Storybook appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Introduction to Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop: An OCD Storybook

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 11:55:00 +0000

This is an introduction to the audiobook of the children’s OCD storybook called “Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop” by Dr Katia Moritz released on The OCD Stories podcast.

This audiobook was produced by and for The OCD Stories podcast with kind permission from Dr Katia Moritz.

You can listen to the audiobook on the podcast, or on our website: https://theocdstories.com/episode/blink-blink-clop-clop

Special thanks to the voice over artists:

Henrietta the chicken = Dr Elizabeth McIngvale
Daisy the cow and Maybelle the cow = Natalie Rubenstein
Snort the pig, other pigs, and Farmer Brown = Ethan Smith
Biscuit the horse and Trotter the horse = Dr Steven Poskar
O.C.Flea and Hoot the owl = Dr Jonathan Hoffman
Nervous little chick = Nami Ralph
Tips for fighting O.C.Flea = Dr Fugen Neziroglu
Narration = Stuart Ralph

If you want to buy a print copy of “Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop” you can do so here: https://amzn.to/2Oc052Z

For more OCD resources please visit: https://theocdstories.com/resources/

Hope it helps

Stu

The post Introduction to Blink, Blink, Clop, Clop: An OCD Storybook appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Lauren Wadsworth – pOCD (#233)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 11:27:00 +0000

In episode 233 of the podcast I speak with Dr Lauren Wadsworth. Lauren is a licensed clinical psychologist specialising in treating people with OCD and related disorders.

We discuss her therapy story, what is peadophile themed OCD (pOCD), how common are these worries, types of obsessions and compulsions, the groinal response, intrusive images, ERP for this theme, mental compulsions, shame, how it can affect people’s sex lives, how families can help their loved ones with OCD, words of wisdom for living with uncertainty, and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Lauren:

Website – https://laurenwadsworth.com/

Genesse Valley Psychology Website – https://gviproc.org/

Resources:

Jayme Valdez – Peadophilia OCD episode

Real event OCD episode

IOCDF

Made of Millions

Chrissie Hodges Youtube

Thanks for listening,

Stuart

The post Dr Lauren Wadsworth – pOCD (#233) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Sophie (#232)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 10:28:00 +0000

In episode 232 of the podcast I have Sophie who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

I chat with Sophie about her OCD story, perinatal OCD, intrusive harm thoughts around her child, her compulsions, reaching out for help, the importance of finding help from professionals who understand OCD, the power of speaking up, how getting a diagnosis was the best thing that ever happened to her, doing research, getting CBT therapy, learning to be dismissive of the thoughts, her advocacy, words of hope, and much much more.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Sophie:

Twitter: @TheOCDFight

Resources:

Maternal OCD charity: https://maternalocd.org/

“Living with perinatal OCD” article for Midwives to understand OCD: h ttps://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/full/10.12968/bjom.2018.26.11.700

Taming Olivia (Catherine Benfield): https://www.tamingolivia.com/

Resources for perinatal OCD: https://www.tamingolivia.com/postnatal-maternal-ocd

Catherine Benfield on the podcast

The OCD parents project – Facebook support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1530875293747398/

Thanks for listening,

Stu

The post Story: Sophie (#232) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Reid Wilson – 8 OCD Self Help Principles (#231)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Jun 2020 13:27:00 +0000

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

In episode 231 I chat with Dr Reid Wilson. Reid is a licensed psychologist and director at the Anxiety Disorders Treatment Center in North Carolina. Reid is the author of many books including ‘Stopping the noise in your head’.

In this episode I discuss with Reid his 2019 IOCDF conference speech about these principles:

Acceptance speech-OCD Conference 2019: “The 5-Minute Version of 8 Self-Help Principles”

1. In the beginning, this work is frightening, difficult, and takes courage.

BUT it’s not complicated. It’s simple once you learn it.

2. You gotta treat this as a mental game. You can win this game.

You have a challenger. It has a strategy. Learn it’s strategy.
Create your counter-strategy.
You will be saying to OCD, “I’m not playing your game!”

3. Don’t do exposure. Exposure doesn’t work. Do exposure with attitude. That works!

What’s the core attitude? “I want to do this.”
“I want what I don’t want.” “I want whatever scares me.”

4. Own this work.

Don’t follow the steps out of a book. Make sense of them!
Don’t comply with your therapist’s instructions. Collaborate!
Decide on your plan. Defend the logic of your plan. And then want to do what you should do.
Own this work!

5. This is an aggressive sport. You need an attacking offense.

You gotta bring it.
“Hey, OCD, if I’ve got to take what you’re dishing out, then give me two servings, and give them to me NOW!”

6. Don’t say, “Maybe I locked the door, maybe I didn’t; I can handle uncertainty.” Or, “Maybe I ran someone over with my car and killed them, maybe I didn’t; I can handle uncertainty.” Nobody can handle THAT.

The good news is: This work has NOTHING to do with your theme, your topic, your content. NOTHING!
It’s about anxious uncertainty. Not uncertainty “about” anything. Just plain, old, fearful uncertainty.
Go find uncertainty! Do something that gives you doubt. Then walk on, without answering that question.
What do you say in those moments? “Good. I’m here to handle uncertainty.”

7. You win this game moment-by-moment.

Don’t worry about the long-term; don’t worry about the future. It’s about right now.

8. Again, obsessions are terrifying in the beginning. I know it. You know it. But if we can make it simple… Here’s how it looks and sounds…

OCD: “Boo!”

YOU: “ACK!”

YOU: “I’m going to call that an obsession.”

YOU: “I’m so done with that.” Turn away

YOU: “Yikes! Feeling uncertain is hard! But I can do it.”

REPEAT

Find out more about Reid:

Twitter: DrReidWilson

Reid’s website – Anxieties.com

“Don’t Panic” by Dr Reid Wilson (Amazon.co.uk/Amazon.com)

“Stopping the noise in your head” by Dr Reid Wilson (Amazon.co.uk/Amazon.com)

“8 OCD self help principles in 5 minutes” video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfGeHfMThSQ

Reid’s first time on the podcast

Resources:

Dr Steven Hayes on the podcast

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Reid Wilson – 8 OCD Self Help Principles (#231) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nora Shalaway Carpenter (#230)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 13:06:00 +0000

In episode 230 I chat with Nora Shalaway Carpenter who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

In this episode Nora shares her OCD story, trauma, going through OCD and pregnancy, her book, the characters in her book, CBT therapy, medication, how her partner held her accountable with therapy homework, feeling understood in therapy, how what she learned about anxiety helped in her parenting, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Nora:

Website – https://www.noracarpenterwrites.com/

Her book “The edge of anything”

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Nora Shalaway Carpenter (#230) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Alegra Kastens – 5 roadblocks to acceptance in the treatment of OCD (#229)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 09:02:00 +0000

In episode 229 I chat with Alegra Kastens. Alegra is an associate Marriage and family therapist specialising in the treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders. Alegra is also an OCD advocate, and a blogger on Psychology Today.

In this episode we discuss her OCD story, why she became a therapist, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, medication, pedophile themed OCD, how the OCD Gamechangers event inspired her to open up, acceptance of the disorder (OCD), the groinal response, intrusive thoughts, images, words and phrases. Alegra shares her advice for future OCD therapists who have OCD, we discuss 5 Roadblocks to acceptance in the treatment of OCD, dealing with shame, OCD advocacy, words of hope and much more. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Find out more about Alegra:

Instagram: @ObsessivelyEverAfter

Website – AlegraKastens.com

Psychology today blogs

Resources:

Made of millions

Jayme Valdez – Pedophilia themed OCD podcast

OCD Gamechangers

David Adam – The man who couldn’t stop

https://theocdstories.com/podcast/natasha-daniels-parenting-children-and-teens-with-ocd/

All the best,

Stu

The post Alegra Kastens – 5 roadblocks to acceptance in the treatment of OCD (#229) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Mary-Lyn Kieffer (#228)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 May 2020 08:49:00 +0000

In episode 228 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Mary-Lyn Kieffer. Mary-Lyn Director at Made of Millions Canada who has kindly agreed to share her story with us.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-mary-lyn-kieffer

The post Story: Mary-Lyn Kieffer (#228) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Sam Jones (#227)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 May 2020 08:15:00 +0000

In episode 227 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Sam Jones. Sam has kindly agreed to share his story with us. Hope it helps.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD, their therapy plans and if they currently take your insurance head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-sam-jones

The post Story: Sam Jones (#227) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Amanda Petrik-Gardner – Colouring in taboo OCD themes (#226)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 May 2020 09:37:00 +0000

In episode 226 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Amanda Petrik-Gardner. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who specialises in OCD, anxiety and related disorders. Amanda is author of the book “An OCD Exposure Coloring Book: Coloring Exposures for Sexual, Harming, Relationship, Religious, and Scrupulous Intrusive Thoughts”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/amanda-petrik-gardner-colouring-in-taboo-ocd-themes

The post Amanda Petrik-Gardner – Colouring in taboo OCD themes (#226) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Aaron Harvey – No one told me (#225)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 May 2020 09:34:00 +0000

In episode 225 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Aaron Harvey. Aaron is the founder of MadeofMillions.com a not-for-profit that brings together sufferers, advocates, and professionals on a mission to change how the world perceives mental health. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/aaron-harvey-no-one-told-me

The post Aaron Harvey – No one told me (#225) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – Trauma of OCD (#224)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 May 2020 09:41:00 +0000

In episode 224 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker, Peer Support Coach, Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-trauma-of-ocd/

The post Chrissie Hodges – Trauma of OCD (#224) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stacey Kuhl Wochner – Real Event OCD (#223)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 10:40:00 +0000

As seen on a Sussex Directories Inc site

In episode 223 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Stacey Kuhl Wochner. Stacey is director of OCD Specialists a private psychotherapy practice, treating adolescents and adults with OCD and related disorders.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/stacey-kuhl-wochner-real-event-ocd

The post Stacey Kuhl Wochner – Real Event OCD (#223) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield – Coronavirus (Covid-19) & Moral Scrupulosity (OCD)

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 16:20:00 +0000

In this special episode of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. He is the author five OCD books, including his most recent book “Overcoming Harm OCD”. I got Jon on the show to address some questions around the Coronavirus and moral scrupulosity OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-coronavirus-covid-19-moral-scrupulosity-ocd

The post Jon Hershfield – Coronavirus (Covid-19) & Moral Scrupulosity (OCD) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chris and Jodi Langellotti – Two sides of one story (#222)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Apr 2020 10:05:00 +0000

In episode 222 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Chris and Jodi Langellotti who have kindly agreed to share their OCD story from the point of view of husband and wife.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chris-and-jodi-langellotti-two-sides-of-one-story

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their therapy plans (and to book a free call) head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Chris and Jodi Langellotti – Two sides of one story (#222) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – (Call me Steve) The therapeutic relationship

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Apr 2020 10:06:00 +0000

In episode 221 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. He co-founded the first Support group for OCD sufferers in the New York area in 1987. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy.

Show notes: h ttps://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-the-therapeutic-relationship

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – (Call me Steve) The therapeutic relationship appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patrick McGrath – Answers to Top OCD Questions (#220)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 09:36:00 +0000

In episode 220 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Patrick McGrath. Patrick is head of clinical services at NOCD. Patrick is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board and the Conference Planning Committee of the International OCD Foundation, as well as author of “The OCD Answer Book: Professional Answers to More Than 250 Top Questions about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-patrick-mcgrath-answers-to-top-OCD-questions

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their therapy plans (and to book a free call) head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Dr Patrick McGrath – Answers to Top OCD Questions (#220) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Nathalie Maragoni – OCD therapy for children, young people & adults (#219)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 13:30:00 +0000

In episode 219 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Nathalie Maragoni. Nathalie is an associate marriage and family therapist specialising in Cognitive-Behavioural therapy for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other anxiety and OC-related disorders. Nathalie has also be an OCD advocate under the name Mindonfire_OCD on instagram for many years.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/nathalie-maragoni-ocd-therapy-for-children-young-people-and-adults

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their therapy plans (and to book a free call) head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Nathalie Maragoni – OCD therapy for children, young people & adults (#219) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheva Rajaee – Relationship themed OCD (#218)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In episode 218 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Sheva Rajaee. Sheva is a psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other related anxiety disorders. Sheva did a Ted Talk called “Addicted to the answer – anxiety in the age of information“ which made up the core of our first podcast together.

Sheva’s book “Relationship OCD“.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/sheva-rajaee-relationship-themed-ocd

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their therapy plans (and to book a free call) head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Sheva Rajaee – Relationship themed OCD (#218) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Grayson – Coronavirus (Covid-19) & OCD

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 23:28:00 +0000

In this special episode of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Jonathan Grayson. Jon has been specializing in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) for more than 40 years and is the author of Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jon-grayson-coronavirus-covid-19-ocd/

The post Dr Jon Grayson – Coronavirus (Covid-19) & OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Celin Gelgec – Getting unstuck from OCD (#217)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 12:14:00 +0000

In episode 217 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Celin Gelgec. Celin is a Clinical Psychologist and director at the Melbourne Wellbeing Group. She is the author of the book “Treating OCD – a clinician’s guide to getting unstuck”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-celin-gelgec-getting-unstuck-from-ocd

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their therapy plans head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

The post Dr Celin Gelgec – Getting unstuck from OCD (#217) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Pete Roberts (#216)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 14:00:00 +0000

In episode 216 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Pete Roberts who has kindly agreed to share his story with us. Pete is the author of the book ‘Unknown Forces the heartfelt story of a man struggling with mental health and his battle to live a normal life’.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-pete-roberts

The post Story: Pete Roberts (#216) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Meet me in Denver & Jacksonville

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 18:57:00 +0000

Gamechangers Denver event info + tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-ocd-gamechangers-tickets-82657196901

OCD Jacksonville event info + tickets: http://bit.ly/ocdstories

The post Meet me in Denver & Jacksonville appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mike Heady – Dating with OCD (#214)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 12:04:00 +0000

Find out more about the OCD Gamechangers 2020 event

In episode 214 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Mike Heady. Mike is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and associate director at The Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/mike-heady-dating-with-ocd

The post Mike Heady – Dating with OCD (#214) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Bryan Piatt (#213)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Feb 2020 15:39:00 +0000

Find out more about the OCD Gamechangers 2020 event

In episode 213 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Bryan Piatt who has kindly agreed to share his story with us. Bryan is a producer over at KARE 11 News, and co-founder of the Refresh Network, a mental health media platform.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-bryan-piatt

The post Story: Bryan Piatt (#213) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Stephen Smith (NOCD Founder) (#212)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Feb 2020 12:18:00 +0000

In episode 212 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Stephen Smith who has kindly agreed to share his story with us. Stephen is the founder and CEO of NOCD.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their treatment plans head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-stephen-smith-nocd-founder

The post Story: Stephen Smith (NOCD Founder) (#212) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Grayson and Bob Cianfrone – A fear of going crazy (#211)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 13:01:00 +0000

In episode 211 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Jonathan Grayson and Bob Cianfrone. Jon has been specializing in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) for more than 40 years and is the author of Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. He is on the podcast today to talk about the OCD subtype around the fear of going ‘crazy’, and is joined by Bob to share his experience.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their treatment plans head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-grayson-and-bob-cianfrone-a-fear-of-going-crazy

The post Jon Grayson and Bob Cianfrone – A fear of going crazy (#211) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Natasha Daniels – Parenting children and teens with OCD (Ep210)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Jan 2020 13:00:00 +0000

On the podcast today I have Natasha Daniels. Natasha is a child and teen therapist. Creator of atparentingsurvival.com a website and podcast dedicated to helping families and parents understand and support their children with OCD and anxiety.

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their treatment plans head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

Show notes:

The post Natasha Daniels – Parenting children and teens with OCD (Ep210) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Nicole Falcone (Ep209)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Jan 2020 09:00:00 +0000

The podcast is sponsored by NOCD. To find out more about NOCD and their treatment plans head over to https://go.treatmyocd.com/theocdstories

In episode 209 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Nicole Falcone who has kindly agreed to share her OCD story and poetry with us.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-nicole-falcone

The post Story: Nicole Falcone (Ep209) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ryan Glode – Family accommodation in OCD treatment (Ep208)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Jan 2020 12:32:00 +0000

In episode 208 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Ryan Glode. Ryan is a licenced mental health counselor at RICBT a group psychotherapy practice specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He is the president and founder of OCD Rhode Island, an Official Affiliate of the IOCDF.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ryan-glode-family-accommodation-in-ocd-treatment

The post Ryan Glode – Family accommodation in OCD treatment (Ep208) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Amy Diener (Ep207)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Jan 2020 12:31:00 +0000

In episode 207 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Amy Diener who has kindly shared her story with us. We talk about her OCD story, mental health in Asia and her art. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-amy-diener

The post Story: Amy Diener (Ep207) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patricia Zurita Ona – The ACT (& ERP) Workbook for Teens with OCD (Ep206)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Dec 2019 16:44:00 +0000

In episode 206 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Patricia Zurita Ona. Patricia is director of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center and adjunct professor at the Wright Institute. She is the author of several books including Escaping the Emotional Roller Coaster, and her new book “The ACT Workbook for Teens with OCD: Unhook Yourself and Live Life to the Full”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-patricia-zurita-ona-act-and-erp-for-teens-with-ocd

The post Dr Patricia Zurita Ona – The ACT (& ERP) Workbook for Teens with OCD (Ep206) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jon Grayson & Sarah – OCD Staring (Ep205)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 14:41:00 +0000

In episode 205 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Jonathan Grayson. Jon with his wife, Cathy founded the LA treatment centre for anxiety and OCD. Jon has been working with people with OCD for 35 years and is the author of Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. He founded the support group GOAL and is also known for his idea virtual camping. He is on the podcast today to talk about a subtype called OCD staring, and is joined by Sarah to share her experience.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jon-grayson-and-sarah-ocd-staring

The post Dr Jon Grayson & Sarah – OCD Staring (Ep205) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Karina Dach – Postpartum OCD (Ep204)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Dec 2019 12:41:00 +0000

In episode 204 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Karina Dach. Karina is a licensed therapist in Colorado, and Florida.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/karina-dach-postpartum-ocd

The post Karina Dach – Postpartum OCD (Ep204) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Sally Winston – Compulsive Checking and Reassurance Seeking (Ep203)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 203 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Sally Winston. Sally co-founded The Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland in 1992. She is co-author of “Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts”, and co-author of the new book “Needing to Know for Sure: A CBT-Based Guide to Overcoming Compulsive Checking and Reassurance Seeking”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-sally-winston-compulsive-checking-and-reassurance-seeking

The post Dr Sally Winston – Compulsive Checking and Reassurance Seeking (Ep203) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Josh Spitalnick – OCD in children and its treatment (Ep202)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Dec 2019 13:47:00 +0000

In episode 202 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Josh Spitalnick. Josh is a licensed psychologist, owner and clinical director at the Anxiety Specialists of Atlanta, an outpatient clinic.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-josh-spitalnick-ocd-in-children-and-its-treatment

The post Dr Josh Spitalnick – OCD in children and its treatment (Ep202) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chris Trondsen Shares his Story, Advocacy and Becoming a Therapist (Ep201)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 16:35:00 +0000

In episode 201 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Chris Trondsen. Chris is psychotherapist at the Gateway institute, an OCD and anxiety treatment center. He currently serves as the Vice President of the IOCDF Southern California Affiliate – OCD So Cal, leading efforts in OCD awareness and education in the local community.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chris-trondsen-shares-his-story-advocacy-and-becoming-a-therapist

Support this show

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention (Ep200)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Nov 2019 10:09:00 +0000

Episode 200 is here. The timing is perfect, as we broke 2 million downloads last night. Thank you so much for being on this journey with the show. It’s been a long and rewarding 4 years. I hope the podcast continues to support and inspire you in your recovery. I appreciate you!

In episode 200 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. He co-founded the first Support group for OCD sufferers in the New York area in 1987. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-exposure-and-response-prevention

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – Exposure and Response Prevention (Ep200) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jayme Valdez – Pedophilia themed OCD (Ep199)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Nov 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 199 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Jayme Valdez. Jayme is the owner of Clearview OCD Counseling, a private psychotherapy practice just outside Boston. Jayme is a licensed mental health counselor and serves on the Board of Directors for OCD Massachusetts and OCD Rhode Island.

Shownotes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jayme-valdez-pedophilia-themed-ocd

The post Jayme Valdez – Pedophilia themed OCD (Ep199) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lori Johnson – Family support and boundaries (Ep198)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 16:22:00 +0000

In episode 198 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Lori Johnson. Lori is a therapist based in the Denver area who specialises in OCD, anxiety and addiction. Lori runs a private practice called In Focus Counselling.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/lori-johnson-family-support-and-boundaries

The post Lori Johnson – Family support and boundaries (Ep198) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield – Existential themed OCD (Ep197)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Oct 2019 16:01:00 +0000

In episode 197 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. We talk about what is existential themed OCD, common obsessions and compulsions, ERP for this theme, how families can support their loved one with OCD, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-existential-themed-ocd

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Lucy and Jess – Mental Health Gardening (Ep196)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 13:21:00 +0000

In episode 196 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Lucy Clark from Mind Food, and Jess about her experience with mental health gardening. Mind Food is a not-for-profit that runs nature based courses that support people to manage & improve their mental wellbeing.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/lucy-and-jess-mental-health-gardening

The post Lucy and Jess – Mental Health Gardening (Ep196) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield & Shala Nicely – Meditation and Mindfulness for people with OCD (Ep195)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 195 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely. Jon and Shala are both therapists who specialise in OCD. They co-wrote a book called “Everyday mindfulness for OCD: Tips, Tricks, and Skills for Living Joyfully”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-shala-nicely-meditation-and-mindfulness-for-people-with-ocd

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Dr Charles Brady – Suicidal Themed OCD (Ep194)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Oct 2019 07:50:00 +0000

In episode 194 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Charles Brady. Charles is the director of the OCD and anxiety program at the Lindner Center of HOPE; vice-president at OCD Midwest an IOCDF affiliate, associate professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioural neuroscience at the University of Cincinnati college of medicine.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-charles-brady-suicidal-themed-ocd

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A Penny for Your Intrusive Thoughts (Ep193)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 14:32:00 +0000

In episode 193 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with the creators of the advocacy initiative A Penny for Your Intrusive Thoughts, who I will refer to as C and D. We chat about their OCD stories, their project: A Penny for Your Intrusive Thoughts, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/a-penny-for-your-intrusive-thoughts

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Story: Zoe Homonoff (Ep192)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Sep 2019 12:22:00 +0000

In episode 192 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Zoe Homonoff who has kindly agreed to share her story with us. We talk about her OCD story, getting a diagnosis, CBT, DBT, self-care: knitting and socialising, sharing her story, her blog, erasing stigma, words of hope and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-zoe-homonoff/

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Dr Josh Spitalnick – Health Anxiety (Ep191)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Sep 2019 14:31:00 +0000

In episode 191 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Josh Spitalnick. Josh is a licensed psychologist, owner and clinical director at the Anxiety Specialists of Atlanta, an outpatient clinic.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-josh-spitalnick-health-anxiety

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Story: James Hervey (Ep190)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Sep 2019 18:31:00 +0000

In episode 190 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with James Hervey who has kindly agreed to share his story with us.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-james-hervey

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Mara Wilson's OCD Story (Ep189)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 189 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Mara Wilson. Mara is an actor who was in films such as Matilda and Mrs Doubtfire, she is also a writer, and OCD advocate. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/mara-wilsons-ocd-story

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Dr Michelle Witkin – Siblings and OCD

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Aug 2019 15:24:00 +0000

Photo credit: Renee Bowen

In episode 188 of The OCD Stories podcast I chat with Dr Michelle Witkin. Michelle is a licensed psychologist who specialises in working with children, teens, and adults with anxiety disorders. She has a special interest in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. We talk about siblings and OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-michelle-witkin-siblings-and-ocd

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Choice (Audiobook) (Ep187)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 10:00:00 +0000

In episode 187 of The OCD Stories podcast I share Dr Steven Phillipson audio of his article on “Choice”. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. He writes “In both the treatment of OCD and in living a disciplined life, there is no word more important than “choice.” Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-choice-audiobook

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Shmuel Fischler – Religious OCD, and Scrupulosity (Ep186)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 16:31:00 +0000

In episode 186 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Shmuel Fischler. Shmuel is the owner and lead clinician at CBT Baltimore. We talk about religious themed OCD, and Scrupulosity. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/shmuel-fischler-religious-ocd-and-scrupulosity

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Lily Bailey – Live from Austin (Ep185)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Aug 2019 13:26:00 +0000

In episode 185 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Lily Bailey, in front of an audience at the IOCDF conference in Austin. Lily is a model, OCD advocate and author of the book “Because we are bad: OCD and a girl lost in thought”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/lily-bailey-live-from-austin

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Dr Amy Mariaskin – Gender Identity themed OCD (Ep184)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 10:23:00 +0000

In episode 184 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Amy Mariaskin. Amy is a licenced clinical psychologist and director at The Nashville OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center. We talk about gender identity themed OCD, sometimes referred to as trans OCD or transgender OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-amy-mariaskin-gender-identity-themed-ocd

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Magical thinking in OCD (Ep183)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 14:00:00 +0000

In episode 183 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. In this episode Steven talks about magical thinking and thought-action fusion. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-magical-thinking-in-ocd

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Two Tail Spikes in OCD (Ep182)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Jul 2019 13:52:00 +0000

In episode 182 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. We talk about two tail spikes in OCD. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-two-tail-spikes-in-ocd

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Kimberley Quinlan – Let’s talk about self-love (Ep181)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

In episode 181 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. Kimberley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and related disorders. In this episode we talk about self-love. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kimberley-quinlan-lets-talk-about-self-love

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Dr Charles Mansueto – OCD Treatment (Ep180)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 15:38:00 +0000

In episode 180 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Charles Mansueto. Charles is the founder and director of the Behavior Therapy Center of Greater Washington. He currently serves on the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board for the IOCDF.

Shote notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-charles-mansueto-ocd-treatment

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Dr Lisa Coyne – ACT and ERP (for children & adolescents) (Ep179)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 19:52:00 +0000

In episode 179 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Lisa Coyne. Lisa is an assistant professor of psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, and is a senior clinical consultant at the Child and Adolescent OCD Institute at McLean Hospital. Lisa is the founder of the New England Centre for OCD and anxiety.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/category/podcast/dr-lisa-coyne-act-and-erp-for-children-and-adolescents

The post Dr Lisa Coyne – ACT and ERP (for children & adolescents) (Ep179) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Chad Brandt – Bergen format (Ep178)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Jun 2019 20:44:00 +0000

Disclaimer – This podcast is for exploratory purposes only. The Bergen format is still being studied, and the success rate against weekly therapy is yet to be tested. If you are in therapy with a licensed therapist who understands OCD, and is using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) you have the best treatment backed by decades of robust science whether you do that 1 hour a week, or in 3-week intensive.

In episode 178 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Chad Brandt. Chad is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in treating anxiety based disorders. He works at the Houston OCD program. We talk about his experience of being a therapist on the Bergen format, facing scary things and why you are normal. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-chad-brandt-bergen-format

The post Dr Chad Brandt – Bergen format (Ep178) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

What words of hope do you have for those with OCD? (Ep177)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 21:25:00 +0000

In episode 177 of The OCD Stories podcast I was at the OCD Action conference in London, and I interviewed anyone who wanted to answer the questions “What’s your one bit of advice for those with OCD?” and “What words of hope do you have for those with OCD?”. On today’s episode I share the answers to the second question. Hope it helps.

This episode is sponsored by UNSTUCK: an OCD Kids Movie. Check out the website for information on how to rent the film. And if you are a therapist you can buy the film to show to all your clients, UNSTUCK have given us a code to use when purchasing the film for your practice, use code APR19UNS to get 20% off. Visit https://www.ocdkidsmovie.com/ to find out more!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/category/podcast/what-words-of-hope-do-you-have-for-those-with-ocd

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Story: Max Hawker – Rory Hobble and the Voyage to Haligogen (Ep176)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 18:30:00 +0000

In episode 176 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Max Hawker. Max has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us, and talk about his new book “Rory Hobble and the Voyage to Haligogen” which features a character with OCD.

To support Max and get a copy of his book “Rory Hobble and the Voyage to Haligogen” visit this link https://unbound.com/books/rory-hobble-and-the-voyage-to-haligogen/ to find out more and use code “OCDACTION20” to get 20% off.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-max-hawker-rory-hobble-and-the-voyage-to-haligogen

The post Story: Max Hawker – Rory Hobble and the Voyage to Haligogen (Ep176) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mary Torres – ERP in Groups (Ep175)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 May 2019 12:38:00 +0000

In episode 175 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Mary Torres. Mary is a licensed mental health counsellor based in south of Seattle where she runs her private practice Cornerstone OCD and anxiety. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/mary-torres-erp-in-groups

The post Mary Torres – ERP in Groups (Ep175) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

What's your one bit of advice for those with OCD? (Ep174)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 May 2019 09:27:00 +0000

In episode 174 of The OCD Stories podcast I was at the OCD Action conference in London, and I interview anyone who wanted to answer the questions “What’s your one bit of advice for those with OCD?” and “What words of hope do you have for those with OCD?”. On today’s episode I share the answers to the first question. Hope it helps.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Riley’s Wish. To find out more including Riley’s story, to find resources or make a donation please visit RileysWish.com.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/whats-your-one-bit-of-advice-for-those-with-ocd

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Rose Cartwright – PURE (The TV show) (Ep173)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 May 2019 20:31:00 +0000

In episode 173 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Rose Cartwright. Rose is a writer and author of the book “PURE”, which is now a channel 4 comedy-drama series. Rose is also a director over at intrusivethoughts.org, and Madeofmillions.com.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Riley’s Wish. To find out more visit RileysWish.com.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/rose-cartwright-pure-the-tv-show

The post Rose Cartwright – PURE (The TV show) (Ep173) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jayme Valdez – Addiction, taboo OCD themes, ERP and ACT (Ep172)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 May 2019 10:03:00 +0000

In episode 172 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Jayme Valdez. Jayme is the owner of Clearview OCD Counseling, a private psychotherapy practice just outside Boston. Jayme is a licensed mental health counselor and serves on the Board of Directors for OCD Massachusetts and OCD Rhode Island. Jayme is particularly interested in providing inclusive treatment for all persons living with OCD, including those with substance use disorders, self-harming behaviors, suicidality, as well as those in the LGBTQ, Persons of Color and other underserved communities.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jayme-valdez-addiction-taboo-ocd-themes-erp-and-act

The post Jayme Valdez – Addiction, taboo OCD themes, ERP and ACT (Ep172) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Mark-Ameen Johnson (Ep171)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 08:33:00 +0000

In episode 171 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Mark-Ameen Johnson. Mark has kindly agreed to share his OCD story, and his advocacy work. In this episode I chat with Mark about his OCD story, CBT, scrupulosity, his advocacy in sexual orientation OCD, OCD is OCD, words of hope, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-mark-ameen-johnson

The post Story: Mark-Ameen Johnson (Ep171) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Hoffman – OCD & Comorbidities (Ep170)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 16:00:00 +0000

In episode 170 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Dr Jonathan Hoffman. Jon is a licensed psychologist in the states of Florida, New York, and Utah. He is Clinical Director of the Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI), which he co-founded with Dr. Katia Moritz.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jonathan-hoffman-ocd-comorbidities

The post Dr Jonathan Hoffman – OCD & Comorbidities (Ep170) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Gerd Kvale and Bjarne Hansen – The Bergen OCD Format (Ep169)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Apr 2019 08:56:00 +0000

In episode 169 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Gerd Kvale and Bjarne Hansen, both professors and psychologists at the University of Bergen and at Haukeland University Hospital Bergen, Norway. They have created the Bergen OCD treatment format.

Show note: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/gerd-kvale-and-bjarne-hansen-the-bergen-ocd-format

The post Gerd Kvale and Bjarne Hansen – The Bergen OCD Format (Ep169) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Karina Dach – Compassion, respect, and humor in OCD treatment (Ep168)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Apr 2019 09:13:00 +0000

In episode 168 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Karina Dach. Karina is a licensed therapist in Colorado, and Florida. We talk about her therapy story, how she applies exposure therapy in her own life, advice for someone starting ERP, staying consistent with exposure therapy after therapy, dealing with difficult emotions, acknowledging your progress, living with uncertainty, creative exposure exercises, what is parent training, support groups, being in nature, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/karina-dach-compassion-respect-and-humor-in-ocd-treatment

The post Karina Dach – Compassion, respect, and humor in OCD treatment (Ep168) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Matt Shoobridge (Ep167)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 08:53:00 +0000

In episode 167 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Matt Shoobridge. Matt hosts his own radio show on mental health called ‘Mind over matter’. He has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-matt-shoobridge

*Update September 2022 on the sponsor of this episode*

Dr. Perry founded Huddle.care, an online individual and group psychotherapy platform for anxiety disorders and OCD. Huddle.care was acquired by venture-backed Mindful Health Solutions, a prominent psychiatric practice in California. She started and led their psychotherapy business line, including hiring and managing a team of psychotherapists.

Now back in independent practice in Denver, she provides individual psychotherapy to adults with anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders. You can find out more about her at www.drmaggieperry.com

…..

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Dr Maggie Perry – huddle.care, group therapy & teletherapy (Ep166)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 09:21:00 +0000

“Search and Destroy avoidance”

In this episode I chat with Maggie about her therapy story, huddle.care, how playing baseball inspired huddle.care, we talk about the inner workings of OCD, anxiety, social anxiety and panic, we discuss shame, and guilt, ERP, group therapy, teletherapy and Maggie’s words of hope. Hope it helps.

*Update September 2022*

Now back in independent practice in Denver, she provides individual psychotherapy to adults with anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders. You can find out more about her at www.drmaggieperry.com

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-maggie-perry-huddle-care-group-therapy-and-teletherapy

The post Dr Maggie Perry – huddle.care, group therapy & teletherapy (Ep166) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sean Shinnock – Hope, Vulnerability & OCD Advocacy (Ep165)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Mar 2019 13:00:00 +0000

In episode 165 of The OCD Stories podcast I interview Sean Shinnock. Sean is an artist, advocate, and creator of the monster initiative, with Draw your monster being a project under that umbrella. He has kindly agreed to talk with us again about hope, vulnerability, OCD advocacy and so much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/sean-shinnock-hope-vulnerability-and-ocd-advocacy

The post Sean Shinnock – Hope, Vulnerability & OCD Advocacy (Ep165) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Not Alone Notes – Morgan Rondinelli & Molly Fishback (Ep164)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Mar 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In episode 164 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Morgan Rondinelli and Molly Fishback to talk about their initiative Not Alone Notes.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/not-alone-notes-morgan-rondinelli-and-molly-fishback

The post Not Alone Notes – Morgan Rondinelli & Molly Fishback (Ep164) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD (Ep163)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode I chat with Steven about altered states of consciousness (ASC) which can occur after heavy usage of cannabis, or magic mushrooms (Psilocybin). We discuss how this lesser known symptom of OCD can manifest itself, and how to recover from it using CBT. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-altered-states-of-consciousness-and-ocd

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – Altered States of Consciousness & OCD (Ep163) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD (Ep162)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 12:54:00 +0000

In this episode of The OCD Stories podcast I talk with clinical psychologist Dr Steven Phillipson about teletherapy for OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-teletherapy-for-ocd

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – Teletherapy for OCD (Ep162) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – Gamechangers 2019 (Ep161)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 15:07:00 +0000

In episode 161 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker, Peer Support Coach, Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference in San Fran.

Gamechanger’s tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ocd-gamechangers-the-emotional-side-tickets-54807755472

Journal of hope: https://fundrazr.com/d1SbI4?ref=fb_97sTgb_ab_6ZuHCJT7DNc6ZuHCJT7DNc

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-gamechangers-2019

The post Chrissie Hodges – Gamechangers 2019 (Ep161) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Your ERP Questions Answered – Part 2 With Dr Joan Davidson (Ep160)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

In episode 160 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Joan Davidson. Joan is a licensed psychologist and author of the book “daring to challenge OCD: overcome your fear of treatment and take control of your life using ERP”. In this episode I chat with Joan about ERP. She answers many questions that were submitted by the listeners a while back. We hope you find this episode useful in answering some of your ERP questions. Hope it helps.

Show notes for (Ep160) part 2 here: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/your-erp-questions-answered-part-2-with-dr-joan-davidson

Part 1 of Your ERP questions answered – with Shala Nicely

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Story: Alex Culafi (Ep159)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Feb 2019 21:42:00 +0000

In episode 159 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Alex Culafi. Alex has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-alex-culafi

The post Story: Alex Culafi (Ep159) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jonny Say – OCD, Mindfulness and Compassion (Ep158)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Jan 2019 09:58:00 +0000

In episode 158 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jonny Say. Jonny is a mindfulness teacher and has been practicing mindfulness and meditation for over 17 years. He is currently training as a psychotherapist. Jonny also has lived experience with OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jonny-say-ocd-mindfulness-and-compassion/

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Sean Shinnock – OCD Story & The Monster Initiative (Ep157)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 15:30:00 +0000

In episode 157 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Sean Shinnock. Sean is an artist, advocate, and creator of The Monster Initiative, with Draw Your Monster being one of the projects. He has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/sean-shinnock-ocd-story-the-monster-initiative

The post Sean Shinnock – OCD Story & The Monster Initiative (Ep157) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ruji Rahman – CBT, Compassion and Uncertainty (Ep156)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 17:25:00 +0000

In episode 156 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Ruji Rahman. Ruji is a London based CBT therapist. As well as being a psychotherapist Ruji herself has lived experience with OCD.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ruji-rahman-cbt-compassion-and-uncertainty

The post Ruji Rahman – CBT, Compassion and Uncertainty (Ep156) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Katia Moritz – The Core of OCD Treatment (Ep155)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 20:22:00 +0000

In episode 155 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Katia Moritz. Katia is a Clinical Director of the NeuroBehavioral Institute in Florida and is a licensed psychologist who treats OCD. She also wrote the children’s OCD book “blink, blink, clop, clop”. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-katia-moritz-the-core-of-ocd-treatment

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Catherine Benfield – Stigma reduction, the BBC & OCD (Ep154)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Dec 2018 13:49:00 +0000

In episode 154 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Catherine Benfield for the second time. Catherine runs the blog Taming Olivia, where she blogs about her experiences with OCD, focusing on perinatal and postnatal OCD, as well as advocates hard for the destigmatisation of OCD.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/catherine-benfield-stigma-reduction-the-bbc-and-ocd

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Jon Hershfield – Overcoming Harm OCD (Ep153)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Dec 2018 16:54:00 +0000

In episode 153 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is a psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder. He is the author four books and in this episode he talks about his new book “Overcoming Harm OCD: Mindfulness and CBT Tools for Coping with Unwanted Violent Thoughts”. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-overcoming-harm-ocd

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Story: Jo Edge (Ep152)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

In episode 152 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jo Edge. Jo has kindly agreed to share her OCD story with us. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-jo-edge/

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Dr Russ Harris – The Happiness Trap (Ep151)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Dec 2018 15:28:00 +0000

In episode 151 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Russ Harris. Russ is a medical practitioner, author of the international best-selling book ‘The Happiness Trap’, and is an world-renowned trainer of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-russ-harris-the-happiness-trap

The post Dr Russ Harris – The Happiness Trap (Ep151) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jessica Emily – Littlest Lady (Redefining Trauma, & OCD) (Ep150)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 18:10:00 +0000

In episode 150 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jessica Emily. Jessica is the creator of LittlesLady.com, and she’s kindly agreed to share her OCD and mental health story with us. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jessica-emily-littlest-lady-redefining-trauma-ocd

The post Jessica Emily – Littlest Lady (Redefining Trauma, & OCD) (Ep150) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Elvis Gomes – Understanding experiences of OCD (Ep149)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 16:40:00 +0000

In episode 149 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Elvis Gomes. He was on episode 15 where he shared his OCD story and talked about his experience on the TV show Switzerland’s Got Talent. He is now studying for his PhD at Queen Mary University of London.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/elvis-gomes-understanding-experiences-of-ocd

The post Elvis Gomes – Understanding experiences of OCD (Ep149) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kim Vincenty – A worried mother does better research than the FBI (Ep148)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 18:27:00 +0000

In episode 148 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Kim Vincenty. Kim is Vice president of OCD Jacksonville, an IOCDF affiliate. She has worked alongside the clothing brand Natural life to create the fearless collection, a range of products that target stigma and fear of anxiety disorders – as well as raise money for OCD Jacksonville.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kim-vincenty-a-worried-mother-does-better-research-than-the-fbi

The post Kim Vincenty – A worried mother does better research than the FBI (Ep148) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Robin Roblee-Strauss (What If?) (Ep147)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 16:19:00 +0000

In episode 147 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Robin Roblee-Strauss who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story, and talk about his film “What if?”.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-robin-roblee-strauss-what-if

The post Story: Robin Roblee-Strauss (What If?) (Ep147) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

When OCD affects you at work (with charity OCD Action) (Ep146)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 20:34:00 +0000

In episode 146 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed 5 members of staff and volunteers from the charity OCD Action about when OCD affects you at work. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/when-ocd-affects-you-at-work-with-charity-ocd-action

The post When OCD affects you at work (with charity OCD Action) (Ep146) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: David Murphy (Ep145)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 20:23:00 +0000

In episode 145 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed David Murphy who has kindly agreed to share his OCD story with us. In this episode I chat with David about his OCD story, his recovery journey, OCD in Ireland, getting the right treatment, the importance of seeing a qualified therapist who understands OCD, mindfulness and meditation, being in nature, exercise and connecting with others. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-david-murphy/

The post Story: David Murphy (Ep145) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges and Jess discuss OCD (Ep144)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 13 Oct 2018 21:50:00 +0000

In episode 144 of The OCD Stories podcast my guest interviewer (Jess) interviewed Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker, Peer Support Coach, Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder’. Chrissie was awarded the Hero award at the 24th IOCDF conference.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-and-jess-discuss-ocd

The post Chrissie Hodges and Jess discuss OCD (Ep144) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lori Johnson – OCD and Substance Use Disorders (Ep143)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 21:08:00 +0000

In episode 143 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Lori Johnson. Lori is a therapist based in the Denver area who specialises in OCD, anxiety and addiction. Lori runs a private practice called In Focus Counselling. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/lori-johnson-ocd-and-substance-use-disorders

The post Lori Johnson – OCD and Substance Use Disorders (Ep143) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ashley Annestedt – Treatment Ready (Ep142)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 16:16:00 +0000

In episode 142 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Ashley Annestedt. Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and Neurobehavioral Disorders. Ashley is licensed to provide therapy in 6 US states.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ashley-annestedt-treatment-ready

The post Ashley Annestedt – Treatment Ready (Ep142) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Alejandro Ibarra – OCD Treatment (Tratamiento de TOC) (Ep141)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Sep 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 141 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Alejandro Ibarra. Alejandro is a psychologist from Seville, in Spain. He specialises in treating OCD, and if you speak Spanish you may recognise him from his wonderful youtube channel where he talks about OCD and OCD treatment.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/alejandro-ibarra-ocd-treatment-tratamiento-de-toc

The post Alejandro Ibarra – OCD Treatment (Tratamiento de TOC) (Ep141) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Kevin Putman (RUN OCD) (Ep140)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 19:50:00 +0000

In episode 140 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Kevin Putman. Kevin is known for his advocacy work with RUN OCD a grassroots movement motivated to educate, support and raise awareness about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. As part of this Kevin ran ping pong tournaments called Ping Pong 4 OCD at the IOCDF conferences and other events. In 2015 he won the hero award from the IOCDF.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-kevin-putman-run-ocd

The post Story: Kevin Putman (RUN OCD) (Ep140) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Michelle Massi – ERP, Self-Compassion, and Common Humanity (Ep139)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 21:08:00 +0000

In episode 139 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Michelle Massi. Michelle is a therapist specialising in the treatment of OCD, and anxiety disorders. As well as working in private practice, Michelle also works at the UCLA OCD Adult Intensive Treatment Program. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/michelle-massi-erp-self-compassion-and-common-humanity

The post Michelle Massi – ERP, Self-Compassion, and Common Humanity (Ep139) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival: OCD and creativity (Ep138)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 02 Sep 2018 15:14:00 +0000

In episode 138 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Lucy Danser and Sam Ross about their OCD stories, their plays and creativity. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/edinburgh-fringe-festival-ocd-and-creativity

The post Edinburgh Fringe Festival: OCD and creativity (Ep138) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

What this person without OCD wants you to know (Ep137)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 15:28:00 +0000

In episode 137 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed my friend Eliot who attended and supported The OCD Camp. At the camp he got to spend 48hrs with many people with OCD. As he’s someone who doesn’t have OCD I wanted to get him on to find out his take on OCD, and people with OCD after getting to know many people with OCD. We also discuss his own mental health, how people can break down stigma, and his words of hope. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/category/podcast/what-this-person-without-ocd-wants-you-to-know

The post What this person without OCD wants you to know (Ep137) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Patrick McGrath – It's ok to be uncomfortable (Ep136)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 136 of the podcast I chat with Dr Patrick McGrath about treating OCD and addiction together, virtual reality, mindfulness, why it’s ok to be uncomfortable, ERP, how families can get involved in treatment, and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-patrick-mcgrath-its-ok-to-be-uncomfortable

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Patrick McGrath – It's ok to be uncomfortable (Ep136) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Anna Foster (Ep135)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Aug 2018 15:08:00 +0000

In episode 135 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Anna Foster. Anna is a presenter for BBC radio Newcastle. She shares her OCD story for the first time. It’s a heartfelt and honest conversation. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-anna-foster

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Anna Foster (Ep135) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

1 million downloads: A heartfelt thank you

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 22:20:00 +0000

Thank you…

The post 1 million downloads: A heartfelt thank you appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Aaron Harvey – Intrusive Thoughts (Ep134)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 20:19:00 +0000

In episode 134 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Aaron Harvey. Aaron is the founder of the wonderful IntrusiveThoughts.org a not for profit website that brings together sufferers, advocates, professionals and loved ones of people with OCD in order to save lives. Aaron shares his OCD story in an honest and open way. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/aaron-harvey-intrusive-thoughts

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Aaron Harvey – Intrusive Thoughts (Ep134) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Con (Day 3)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 14:32:00 +0000

Here is the final instalment of a 3 part mini series on my reflections, and learnings from the IOCDF conference in Washington, DC.

Hope it helps.

Stu

The post OCD Con (Day 3) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan – It’s a beautiful day to do hard things (Ep133)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 133 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. In this episode I chat with Kimberley about how OCD can affect people’s sex lives, giving yourself permission to be imperfect, why it’s a beautiful day to do hard things, social anxiety, honouring your pain, self-love and much much more. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kimberley-quinlan-its-a-beautiful-day-to-do-hard-things

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Kimberley Quinlan – It’s a beautiful day to do hard things (Ep133) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Con (Day 2)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 04:40:00 +0000

Here is the second instalment of a 3 part mini series on my reflections, and learnings from the IOCDF conference in Washington, DC.

Hope it helps.

Stu

The post OCD Con (Day 2) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Con (Day 1)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 23:18:00 +0000

Here is the first instalment of a 3 part mini series on my reflections, and learnings from the IOCDF conference in Washington, DC.

Hope it helps.

Stu

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/shala-nicely-is-fred-in-the-refrigerator-taming-ocd-and-reclaiming-my-life

The post OCD Con (Day 1) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Solome Tibebu (Anxiety in Teens) (Ep132)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 22:54:00 +0000

In episode 132 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Solome Tibebu. Solome shares her OCD story, and her initiative Anxiety in Teens. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-solome-tibebu-anxiety-in-teens

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Solome Tibebu (Anxiety in Teens) (Ep132) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheva Rajaee – Some questions can't be answered (Ep131)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 22:33:00 +0000

In episode 131 I chat with Sheva about her OCD story, superstition in relation to OCD, avoidance, acceptance around unanswered questions, why the two words “So What” are the most powerful in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/sheva-rajaee-some-questions-cant-be-answered

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Sheva Rajaee – Some questions can't be answered (Ep131) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz – Living the CBT lifestyle (Ep130)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Jul 2018 23:07:00 +0000

In episode 130 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Jonathan Abramowitz for the second time about his book “Getting over OCD” and I ask him some listener questions. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jonathan-abramowitz-living-the-cbt-lifestyle

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jonathan Abramowitz – Living the CBT lifestyle (Ep130) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jenny Yip – OCD Treatment (Ep129)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 18:31:00 +0000

In episode 129 of the podcast I chat with Dr Jenny Yip about her OCD story including postpartum OCD. Her experience as an OCD therapist, the role families can play in recovery and much much more. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jenny-yip-ocd-treatment

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jenny Yip – OCD Treatment (Ep129) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Kevin Chapman – Recognising culture in the effective treatment of OCD (Ep128)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 22:32:00 +0000

In this episode 128 I chat with Dr Kevin Chapman about the importance of understanding the role culture plays in the effectiveness of OCD treatment. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-kevin-chapman-recognising-culture-in-the-effective-treatment-of-ocd

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Kevin Chapman – Recognising culture in the effective treatment of OCD (Ep128) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Spenser Gabin (Ep127)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Jun 2018 10:26:00 +0000

In episode 127 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Spenser Gabin. In this story edition of the podcast Spenser shares his OCD story. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-spenser-gabin

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Spenser Gabin (Ep127) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Harris Goldberg – Relapse, stress and recovery (Ep126)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 19:47:00 +0000

In episode 126 of The OCD Stories podcast I had a second conversation with Harris Goldberg who is a scriptwriter and director in Hollywood. We discuss the topics of relapse, stress and much much more. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/harris-goldberg-relapse-stress-and-recovery

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Harris Goldberg – Relapse, stress and recovery (Ep126) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kirsten Pagacz – Leaving The OCD Circus (Ep125)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 20:09:00 +0000

In episode 125 of The OCD Stories podcast I had a conversation with Kirsten Pagacz who is the author of the book “Leaving the OCD circus”. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kirsten-pagacz-leaving-the-ocd-circus

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Kirsten Pagacz – Leaving The OCD Circus (Ep125) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The OCD Camp – My conversation with 6 campers (Ep124)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 26 May 2018 22:38:00 +0000

In episode 124 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed 6 of the campers who attended the first UK OCD camp, to find out more about their experiences and what they learned. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/the-ocd-camp-my-conversation-with-6-campers

Interested in The OCD Camp? Check out TheOCDCamp.com

All the best,

Stu

The post The OCD Camp – My conversation with 6 campers (Ep124) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr David Sherman – Medication (Ep123)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 May 2018 20:03:00 +0000

Disclaimer – This episode is not a replacement for medical advice. When making choices around medication please speak to a psychiatrist.

In episode 123 of The OCD Stories podcast I chatted Dr David Sherman. David is a psychiatrist practicing in New York City for around 15 years, and for much of that time he was also an assistant professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University Medical Centre. He has kindly agreed to come on the show to answer your questions around medication.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-david-sherman-medication

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr David Sherman – Medication (Ep123) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Shala Nicely – Is Fred in the Refrigerator?: Taming OCD and Reclaiming My Life (Ep122)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 May 2018 20:03:00 +0000

In episode 122 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Shala Nicely. We chat about her new book “Is Fred in the Refrigerator?”, and discuss some of the learnings from the book. Hope it helps.

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Shala Nicely – Is Fred in the Refrigerator?: Taming OCD and Reclaiming My Life (Ep122) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Richard Taylor

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 May 2018 20:26:00 +0000

In episode 121 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Richard Taylor. In this story edition of the podcast I chat with Richard about his OCD story, and his recovery journey. He shares some wonderful wisdom and hope for those struggling with OCD. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-richard-taylor

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Richard Taylor appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – "I'm a bit OCD". What actually is OCD? (Ep120)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 29 Apr 2018 08:38:00 +0000

In episode 120 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. We talk about what Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) actually is, what Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is and how they differ. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-what-actually-is-ocd

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – "I'm a bit OCD". What actually is OCD? (Ep120) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Rose (Bretécher) Cartwright – Pure (Ep119)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Apr 2018 07:30:00 +0000

In episode 119 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Rose Cartwright. Rose is a writer and author of the book “Pure” published under the surname Bretécher, which is now a Channel 4 drama series. Rose is also a director over at intrusivethoughts.org. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/rose-cartwright-pure

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Rose (Bretécher) Cartwright – Pure (Ep119) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ethan Smith – If I Can Then You Can Too (Ep118)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 17:34:00 +0000

In episode 118 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Ethan Smith. Ethan is a professional Writer/Director/Producer. Ethan is a national ambassador for the charity the IOCDF. We talk about his OCD story, his recovery and what helped him. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ethan-smith-if-i-can-then-you-can-too

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Ethan Smith – If I Can Then You Can Too (Ep118) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Marco Maggioni (Ep117)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 117 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Marco Maggioni. Marco Kindly agreed to share his story with us. In this episode I chat with Marco about his OCD story, his recovery journey, how meditation has played a role in his recovery, tips for meditating, letting thoughts be, and the importance of kindness and compassion. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-marco-maggioni

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Marco Maggioni (Ep117) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Fred Penzel – Succeeding in Your OCD Treatment (Ep116)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Apr 2018 15:52:00 +0000

In episode 116 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Fred Penzel for the second time. We discuss how to succeed in OCD treatment covering many recovery focused topics. Hope it helps.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-fred-penzel-succeeding-in-your-ocd-treatment

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Fred Penzel – Succeeding in Your OCD Treatment (Ep116) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Margaret Sisson – OCD & Addiction (Riley's Wish Foundation) (Ep115)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 17:16:00 +0000

In episode 115 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Margaret Sisson. Margaret founded the charity Riley’s Wish which helps sufferers of OCD and addiction. The charity was started in honour and memory of her son Riley, who was a passionate advocate for people with OCD and addiction. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/margaret-sisson-ocd-addiction-rileys-wish-foundation

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Margaret Sisson – OCD & Addiction (Riley's Wish Foundation) (Ep115) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Catherine Benfield – Perinatal and Postnatal OCD (Ep114)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Mar 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 114 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Catherine Benfield. Catherine runs the blog Taming Olivia, where she blogs about her experiences with OCD, focusing on perinatal and postnatal OCD. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/catherine-benfield-perinatal-and-postnatal-ocd

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Catherine Benfield – Perinatal and Postnatal OCD (Ep114) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Grayson – Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Ep113)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Mar 2018 19:20:00 +0000

In episode 113 I got Dr Jonathan Grayson on the show for the second time to talk about OCD recovery, treatment resistance and to answer listener questions. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jonathan-grayson-freedom-from-obsessive-compulsive-disorder

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jonathan Grayson – Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Ep113) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Story: Lillie Fergus (Ep112)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Mar 2018 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 112 I interviewed Lillie Fergus. This is the first part in a long series of OCD stories, where I interview people with OCD about their recovery journey. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/story-lillie-fergus

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Story: Lillie Fergus (Ep112) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Edna Foa – The treatment, research and history of OCD recovery (Ep111)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 111 I interviewed Dr Edna Foa. Edna is a Professor of Clinical Psychology in Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety. She has devoted her academic career to study the psychopathology and treatment of anxiety disorders, primarily obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social phobia. In 2010 TIME magazine named Edna one of their 100 most influential people in the world. In 2011 she was awarded the Outstanding Career Achievement Award by the IOCDF. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-edna-foa-the-treatment-research-and-history-of-ocd-recovery

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Edna Foa – The treatment, research and history of OCD recovery (Ep111) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stuart Ralph – Behind the scenes of The OCD Stories (Ep110)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Feb 2018 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 110 I was interviewed by a good friend and fellow podcaster Lawrence Neal. Lawrence asked me questions about running The OCD Stories, what I learned from my guests, what it’s like training in therapy, my hopes for the show, The OCD Camp and the biggest opportunity for OCD therapists. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/stuart-ralph-behind-the-scenes-of-the-ocd-stories

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Stuart Ralph – Behind the scenes of The OCD Stories (Ep110) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz – Getting over OCD (Ep109)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 13:50:00 +0000

In episode 109 I interviewed Dr Jonathan Abramowitz. Jonathan is a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Chapel Hill, NC specializing in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He is also Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina. Jonathan has written two self-help books and published over 250 scientific articles, books, and book chapters. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jonathan-abramowitz-getting-over-ocd

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Jonathan Abramowitz – Getting over OCD (Ep109) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – OCD Gamechangers (Ep108)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 18:18:00 +0000

In episode 108 I interviewed Chrissie Hodges. In this interview Chrissie answered some listener questions about OCD recovery. We also chat about her OCD Gamechangers event in March. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-ocd-gamechangers-ep108

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Chrissie Hodges – OCD Gamechangers (Ep108) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Kevin Chapman – Having GRIT in OCD recovery (Ep107)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 06:00:00 +0000

In episode 107 I interviewed Dr Kevin Chapman. Kevin is a Licensed Psychologist in Kentucky. He specialises in the treatment of anxiety disorders using CBT, and ERP for OCD. Kevin is on the board of the nOCD app and is the sports psychologist for Louisville City Football Club. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-kevin-chapman-having-grit-in-ocd-recovery

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Kevin Chapman – Having GRIT in OCD recovery (Ep107) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice (Ep106)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 14:43:00 +0000

In episode 106 I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson for the second time. In this episode with Steven we discuss how ERP works, developing a champion mindset in recovery, the power of choice, living by your values, Viktor Frankl, the phrase “If I’m not choosing it, let it be!”, and staying centred in emotional turmoil. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-how-erp-works-and-the-power-of-choice

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Steven Phillipson – How ERP works, and the power of choice (Ep106) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Peter Weiss – Camping, Nature and OCD (Ep105)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 23:47:00 +0000

In episode 105 I interviewed Peter Weiss. Pete is an OCD therapist based in Seattle. He has been co-running camps for kids and adults with OCD for 10 years. He was one of the therapists in the 2013 documentary Extreme OCD Camp. Pete is helping me set up a camp for adults with OCD in the UK. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/peter-weiss-camping-nature-and-ocd

Camp – TheOCDCamp.com

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

All the best,

Stu

The post Peter Weiss – Camping, Nature and OCD (Ep105) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Elizabeth McIngvale – Peace of Mind (Ep104)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 15:36:00 +0000

In episode 104 I interviewed Dr Elizabeth McIngvale. Liz is the founder of the not for profit Peace of Mind foundation which is dedicated to serving the OCD community. She has a Phd in social work and is assistant professor at Baylor university. At the age of 17 she became the national spokesperson for the international OCD foundation. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-elizabeth-mcingvale-peace-of-mind

Camp – TheOCDCamp.com

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All the best,

Stu

The post Dr Elizabeth McIngvale – Peace of Mind (Ep104) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The OCD Stories in 2018 (Ep103)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 103 I wanted to take the time to share with you my plans for 2018. I find that you guys help me shape the show, so I want to be more transparent with you. In this episode I talk about the new site (not built yet), why I decided to shut down my personal YouTube channel, my aims to do more face to face meet ups with listeners around the world, The OCD Camp, guests and doing more with Patreon. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/2018

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post The OCD Stories in 2018 (Ep103) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Elke – Recovering from (Contamination) OCD (Ep102)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 11:11:00 +0000

In episode 101 I interviewed Elke. Elke is a scientist for a biotech company and we know each other from Patreon where I have had the privilege of getting to know her and her story over the last year. On the podcast she shares her OCD story, and how she made progress in her recovery. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/elke-recovering-from-contamination-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Elke – Recovering from (Contamination) OCD (Ep102) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Ashley Smith – CBT, OCD recovery and a blind quest (Ep101)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 14:56:00 +0000

In episode 101 I interviewed Dr Ashley Smith about OCD recovery, treatment and CBT. We also chatted about personal development and overcoming the feeling of shame. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-ashley-smith-cbt-ocd-recovery-and-a-blind-quest

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Ashley Smith – CBT, OCD recovery and a blind quest (Ep101) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Thank you (Ep100)

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 28 Nov 2017 14:18:00 +0000

In episode 100 I took the opportunity to thank you all sincerely for your support over the last two years, and reflect on the growth of The OCD Stories. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/thank-you

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

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Dr Steven Phillipson – Recovery From Thinking The Unthinkable (Ep99)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 11:08:00 +0000

In episode 99 I interviewed Dr Steven Phillipson. Steven is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD. He co-founded the first CBT/Support group for OCD sufferers in the New York area in 1987. Steven is the Clinical Director at the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy.Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-steven-phillipson-recovery-from-thinking-the-unthinkable

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

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Emily Byrnes – A Strangely Wrapped Gift (Ep98)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 11:09:00 +0000

In episode 98 I interviewed Emily Byrnes. Emily is a teacher and poet. Her new book “A strangely wrapped gift” is a collection of poems including some on OCD and mental health. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/emily-byrnes-a-strangely-wrapped-gift

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

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Zoe Gillis – Disconnect to Reconnect (Ep96)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 05 Nov 2017 19:11:00 +0000

In episode 96 I interviewed Zoe Gillis. Zoe is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who runs nature and mindfulness wilderness retreats. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/zoe-gillis-disconnect-to-reconnect

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Zoe Gillis – Disconnect to Reconnect (Ep96) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Shannon Shy – Overcoming OCD (Ep94)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 08:14:00 +0000

In episode 94 I interviewed Shannon Shy.Shannon is the president of the board of directors for the IOCDF and an OCD peer support specialist. We talk about Shannon’s story and overcoming OCD. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/shannon-shy-overcoming-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Shannon Shy – Overcoming OCD (Ep94) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan – OCD and Eating Disorders (Ep93)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 18:00:00 +0000

In episode 93 I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. Kimberley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and eating disorders. We talk about dealing with OCD and an eating disorder. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kimberley-quinlan-ocd-and-eating-disorders

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Kimberley Quinlan – OCD and Eating Disorders (Ep93) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan – Badass Radical Acceptance for OCD (Ep92)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 12:46:00 +0000

In episode 92 I interviewed Kimberley Quinlan. Kimberley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who treats people with OCD and related disorders. We talk about the idea of radical acceptance. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kimberley-quinlan-badass-radical-acceptance-for-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Kimberley Quinlan – Badass Radical Acceptance for OCD (Ep92) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Aneela Kumar – Trichotillomania and the Keen Smart Bracelet (Ep91)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Oct 2017 12:41:00 +0000

In episode 91 I interviewed Aneela Kumar. Aneela is the inspiration for HabitAware. The company behind “Keen” a smart bracelet that gently vibrates when you start to pick, pull or bite, to draw your attention to the unconscious habit. Aneela has had trichotillomania for 20+ years. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/aneela-kumar-trichotillomania-and-the-keen-smart-bracelet

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Aneela Kumar – Trichotillomania and the Keen Smart Bracelet (Ep91) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely – Everyday mindfulness for OCD (Ep90)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Sep 2017 09:07:00 +0000

In episode 90 I interviewed Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely. Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely talked about their new book “Everyday mindfulness for OCD: Tips, Tricks, and Skills for Living Joyfully”. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-and-shala-nicely-everyday-mindfulness-for-ocd

This week’s episode is sponsored by the Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland. If you are in the Baltimore area and are looking for treatment head over to anxietyandstress.com.

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Jon Hershfield and Shala Nicely – Everyday mindfulness for OCD (Ep90) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Courtney Paré – Homeopathy and OCD (Ep89)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 07:00:00 +0000

Disclaimer – this episode is for exploratory purposes only, and not medical advice. Please seek the advice of a licensed medical professional when considering any medical treatment.

In episode 89 I interviewed Dr Courtney Paré. Courtney is a naturopathic doctor who specialises in the treatment of mental health conditions, with a focus on anxiety and OCD. Courtney explains what homeopathy is, how it can work with SSRIs, the importance of therapy, being self-compassionate and mindful. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-courtney-pare-homeopathy-and-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Courtney Paré – Homeopathy and OCD (Ep89) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield – When a family member has OCD (Ep88)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 17:41:00 +0000

In episode 88 I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is a pyschotherapist based in Maryland who specialises in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder. He is the author of three books “The mindfulness workbook for OCD” and “When a family member has OCD”. This episode is dedicated to supporting and helping family members of those with OCD. To one, support themselves, and two, support their loved ones with OCD more effectively.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/jon-hershfield-when-a-family-member-has-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Jon Hershfield – When a family member has OCD (Ep88) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ryan Dumont – The Missing Peace: A Patient’s Guide to Recovery (Ep87)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 15:47:00 +0000

In episode 87 I interviewed Ryan Dumont. Ryan is an OCD wellness advocate, CEO of Dumont Innovative Technologies, and the author of the forthcoming book, “The Missing Peace: A Patient’s Guide to Recovery”. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ryan-dumont-the-missing-peace-a-patients-guide-to-recovery

This week’s episode is sponsored by CBT Solutions. They are based in Maryland. Find out more here –CBTBaltimore.com

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Ryan Dumont – The Missing Peace: A Patient’s Guide to Recovery (Ep87) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Sheva Rajaee – OCD and anxiety in the age of information (Ep86)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 26 Aug 2017 22:26:00 +0000

In episode 86 I interviewed Sheva Rajaee. Sheva is a psychotherapist at the OCD Center of Los Angeles. We talk about how not to let information cause anxiety, living with uncertainty and many OCD related topics. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/sheva-rajaee-ocd-and-anxiety-in-the-age-of-information

This week’s episode is sponsored by The Gateway Institute. They have locations in Orange County, San Francisco and Phoenix. Find out more here – GatewayOCD.com

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Sheva Rajaee – OCD and anxiety in the age of information (Ep86) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Beyond the doubt course – Jeff Bell and Shala Nicely (Ep85)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 85 of the podcast I talk with Jeff Bell and Shala Nicely about their online course Thriving with OCD: four keys out when locked in doubt. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/the-beyond-the-doubt-course

Get 25% off Jeff and Shala’s course exclusive for The OCD Stories listeners: Find out more >>

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Beyond the doubt course – Jeff Bell and Shala Nicely (Ep85) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – Pure O (Part 2) (Ep84)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Aug 2017 20:14:00 +0000

In episode 84 of the podcast I interview Chrissie Hodges for the second time in two weeks, as a part two of our interview on Pure O and OCD recovery. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-pure-o-part-2

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Chrissie Hodges – Pure O (Part 2) (Ep84) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Chrissie Hodges – Pure O (Part 1) (Ep83)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 09:15:00 +0000

In episode 83 I chat with Chrissie Hodges. Chrissie is a mental health advocate, peer support coach and she raises awareness around Pure O. We cover Pure O and many other topics. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/chrissie-hodges-pure-o-part-1

Ep83 is sponsored by theocdclinics.com (Locations: Dallas Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio/Austin metro areas)

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Chrissie Hodges – Pure O (Part 1) (Ep83) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Ariz Rojas – Treating Childhood OCD (Ep82)

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 14:10:00 +0000

In episode 82 I interviewed Dr Ariz Rojas. Dr Rojas is a licensed psychologist in the Division of Tics, OCD, and Related Disorders in the Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. We talk about childhood OCD, ERP for kids and other childhood related OCD topics.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-ariz-rojas-treating-childhood-ocd

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Ariz Rojas – Treating Childhood OCD (Ep82) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

UNSTUCK: A family that fights OCD together, beats OCD together (Ep81)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 11:35:00 +0000

In episode 81 I did my first face to face interview. UNSTUCK is a documentary about childhood OCD, with the unique angle of the kids as the experts. Kelly Anderson and Chris Baier started this project two years ago to shed some much needed light on how OCD affects children, and how they can recover. In this episode I chat with Chris, and his two daughters Vanessa and Charlotte.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/unstuck-a-family-that-fights-ocd-together-beats-ocd-together

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post UNSTUCK: A family that fights OCD together, beats OCD together (Ep81) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

My experience of the IOCDF conference in San Fran (Ep80)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 16:31:00 +0000

In episode 80 I share my experience of the IOCDF conference in San Francisco. I talk about the two podcasts I recorded in person (a first for me), and some of the things I learned from the conference. I had a wonderful time, and met so many lovely people. The spirit of the conference was inspiring, and hopeful.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/my-experience-of-the-iocdf-conference-in-san-fran

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The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post My experience of the IOCDF conference in San Fran (Ep80) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Harris Goldberg – OCD in Hollywood (Ep77)

Stuart Ralph — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 22:05:00 +0000

In episode 77 of the podcast I chat with Harris Goldberg. Harris is a writer, producer and director, having worked on several Hollywood hits. In 2007 he wrote and directed the film Numb, which was a biopic about his mental health experiences. We talk about OCD, depersonalisation and mental health in Hollywood. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/harris-goldberg-ocd-in-hollywood

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Harris Goldberg – OCD in Hollywood (Ep77) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kimberley Quinlan – Your Anxiety Toolkit (Ep76)

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 13:16:00 +0000

In episode 76 of the podcast I chat with Kimberley Quinlan about her podcast “Your anxiety toolkit”, her approach to therapy, and she answers your questions about OCD recovery. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kimberley-quinlan-your-anxiety-toolkit

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Kimberley Quinlan – Your Anxiety Toolkit (Ep76) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mark Freeman – The Mind Workout (Ep75)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 10:16:00 +0000

In episode 75 of the podcast I chat with Mark Freeman about his new book “The Mind workout”. We discuss his book, and various insights from it. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/mark-freeman-the-mind-workout

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Mark Freeman – The Mind Workout (Ep75) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Charities: OCD Action (Ep72)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 May 2017 01:00:00 +0000

In episode 72 of the podcast I interview Olivia Bamber from the charity OCD Action. Olivia is the media and communications officer for the charity. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ocd-charities-ocd-action

The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post OCD Charities: OCD Action (Ep72) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Charities: The IOCDF (Ep70)

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 04 May 2017 18:53:00 +0000

In episode 70 of the podcast I interviewed Jeff and Ethan from the International OCD Foundation. I ask them how the IOCDF can be of service to you, and how you can be of service to them. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ocd-charities-the-iocdf

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The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post OCD Charities: The IOCDF (Ep70) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Your ERP Questions Answered – Part 1 with Shala Nicely (Ep68)

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 21:36:00 +0000

In episode 68 of the podcast I interviewed Shala Nicely.I got Shala on the show to answer some of your ERP questions. I asked the community what their ERP questions were. 36 people answered, with a collective 78 questions. This is part one in answering these questions. Enjoy!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/your-erp-questions-answered-part-1-with-shala-nicely

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The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Your ERP Questions Answered – Part 1 with Shala Nicely (Ep68) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Professor Paul Gilbert – Compassion and OCD (Ep67)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 15:57:00 +0000

In episode 67 of the podcast I interviewed Professor Paul Gilbert. We talk about how compassion can improve mental health, and help with Exposures. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/professor-paul-gilbert-compassion-and-ocd

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The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Professor Paul Gilbert – Compassion and OCD (Ep67) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Epifania Rita Gallina – Taking back your life through ERP (Ep66)

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 14:50:00 +0000

In episode 66 of the podcast I interviewed Epifania Rita Gallinata. We talk about her OCD story, her recovery and her advice for taking your life back from OCD.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/epifania-rita-gallina-taking-back-your-life-through-erp

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The OCD Stories book: https://theocdstories.com/book

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Epifania Rita Gallina – Taking back your life through ERP (Ep66) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Donald Robertson – OCD, and Stoicism (Ep64)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 17:00:00 +0000

In episode 64 of the podcast I interview Donald Robertson. Donald is a therapist and author. We talk about the origins of CBT, stoicism and OCD recovery. Donald shares some great advice. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/donald-robertson-ocd-and-stoicism

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Donald Robertson – OCD, and Stoicism (Ep64) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Allen Weg – OCD Treatment Through Storytelling (Ep63)

Stuart Ralph — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 11:27:00 +0000

In episode 63 of the podcast I interviewed Dr Allen Weg. I talked with Allen about using story telling in the treatment of OCD. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-allen-weg-ocd-treatment-through-storytelling

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Allen Weg – OCD Treatment Through Storytelling (Ep63) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Eric Kupers – The Dharma of OCD (Ep62)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 10 Mar 2017 13:39:00 +0000

In episode 62 of the podcast I interviewed Eric Kupers. I talked with Eric about a philosophical piece of writing he did called “The Dharma of OCD”. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/eric-kupers-the-dharma-of-ocd

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To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Eric Kupers – The Dharma of OCD (Ep62) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Storytime – My 40 Year Journey With OCD

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 21:50:00 +0000

Welcome to the Wednesday story edition of The OCD Stories podcast. In this storytime edition I read Eric’s OCD story.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/storytime-my-40-year-journey-with-OCD

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Storytime – My 40 Year Journey With OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Adam Shaw – Pulling The Trigger (OCD Recovery) (Ep61)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 03 Mar 2017 13:28:00 +0000

In episode 61 of the podcast I interviewed Adam Shaw. Adam shares his OCD story, and talks about his book “Pulling the trigger” and charity “The Shaw Mind Foundation”. Hope it helps!

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Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/adam-shaw-pulling-the-trigger-ocd-recovery

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Adam Shaw – Pulling The Trigger (OCD Recovery) (Ep61) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Storytime – On Avoiding Writing This Essay

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 20:33:00 +0000

Welcome to the Wednesday story edition of The OCD Stories podcast. In this storytime edition I read Morgan’s OCD story.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/storytime-on-avoiding-writing-this-essay

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Storytime – On Avoiding Writing This Essay appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Liz Atkin – From Compulsive Skin Picking to Compulsive Charcoal (Ep60)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 18:51:00 +0000

In episode 60 of the podcast I interviewed Liz Atkin. Liz talks about her experience with compulsive skin picking, her 1 minute charcoal drawings and recovery tips. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/liz-atkin-from-compulsive-skin-picking-to-compulsive-charcoal

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Liz Atkin – From Compulsive Skin Picking to Compulsive Charcoal (Ep60) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Rob Willson – Overcoming OCD and BDD (Ep59)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Feb 2017 17:12:00 +0000

In episode 59 of the podcast I interviewed therapist Rob Willson. Rob has written many books on OCD and BDD, and offers lots of great advice for both overcoming OCD and BDD. Hope it helps!

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Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/rob-willson-overcoming-ocd-and-bdd

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Rob Willson – Overcoming OCD and BDD (Ep59) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Their One Piece Of Advice (Ep58)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 19:41:00 +0000

In episode 58 of the podcast I have compiled some of my guests recent answers to the question “What would you tell someone with OCD you meet in an elevator (30 second elevator ride)?”. Hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/their-one-piece-of-advice

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Their One Piece Of Advice (Ep58) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Storytime – February Fifteenth: My Obsession With Obsession

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 13:33:00 +0000

Welcome to the Wednesday story edition of The OCD Stories podcast. In this storytime edition I read PJ’s OCD story.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/storytime-february-fifteenth

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Storytime – February Fifteenth: My Obsession With Obsession appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Storytime – From Contamination OCD To The BBC

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 23:29:00 +0000

Welcome to the Wednesday story edition of The OCD Stories podcast. In this storytime edition I read Louise’s OCD story.

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Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/storytime-from-contamination-ocd-to-the-bbc

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Storytime – From Contamination OCD To The BBC appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Professor David Veale – OCD Psychiatry and Research (Ep55)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 10:43:00 +0000

In episode 55 of the podcast I interviewed research and psychiatrist David Veale. David has added a lot to the research field of OCD and had some great answers to my questions. I hope it helps!

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Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/professor-david-veale-ocd-psychiatry-and-research

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Professor David Veale – OCD Psychiatry and Research (Ep55) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Alison Dotson – Being Me With OCD (Ep54)

Stuart Ralph — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 14:01:00 +0000

In episode 54 of the podcast I interviewed Alison Dotson. Alison is an OCD advocate and author of the book “Being me with OCD: How I learned to obsess less and live my life”. I hope it helps!

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/alison-dotson-being-me-with-ocd

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Alison Dotson – Being Me With OCD (Ep54) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Storytime – "It all started when I was 3 years old" (Ep 53)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 15:12:00 +0000

In episode 53 of the podcast I read out Sofi’s OCD story. I share what I found inspiring about it, and what we can learn to use in our own recovery from OCD. I hope it helps!

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ocd-storytime-it-all-started-when-i-was-3-years-old

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post OCD Storytime – "It all started when I was 3 years old" (Ep 53) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Kat Nicole – OCD 1 Year On (Ep 52)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 18:24:00 +0000

In episode 52 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed YouTuber (Shalom Aleichem) and OCD blogger Katlyn Nicole on her journey of recovery from OCD for the second time. I hope it helps!

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kat-nicole-ocd-1-year-on

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Kat Nicole – OCD 1 Year On (Ep 52) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Advice for an Amazing Life (OCD Recovery)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 01:35:00 +0000

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

This is a mini episode made up of some of the answers to the question “what advice do you have for people to live an amazing life?”. I hope you find this helpful and inspiring to your OCD recovery.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/advice-for-an-amazing-life

The post Advice for an Amazing Life (OCD Recovery) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Kieron O’Connor – Inference Based Therapy (Ep 49)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 09:33:00 +0000

Please note: Inference-based therapy (IBT) has since been rebranded to Inference-based cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT).

In episode 49 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Kieron O’Connor. Kieron is a key researcher behind Inference Based Therapy (IBA) which he created to treat OCD. He shares the principles behind the therapy and insight into OCD. I hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/kieron-oconnor-inference-based-therapy

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Kieron O’Connor – Inference Based Therapy (Ep 49) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Stephen Smith – Treat My OCD (Ep48)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Nov 2016 19:04:00 +0000

In episode 48 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Stephen Smith. Stephen is the co-founder of the app nOCD. On this epsiode he shares with us the new features of the app and also some advice. I hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/stephen-smith-treat-my-ocd

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Stephen Smith – Treat My OCD (Ep48) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

A day in the life of Stuart Ralph (Ep 46)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Nov 2016 18:36:00 +0000

In episode 46 of The OCD Stories podcast I was interviewed by Chetna of The East Bay Behavior Therapy Center. Chetna asked me some great questions about recovery, OCD, what the behind the scenes of The OCD Stories looks like and motivation. I hope it helps!

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/a-day-in-the-life-of-stuart-ralph

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post A day in the life of Stuart Ralph (Ep 46) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Jonathan Grayson – OCD Recovery, Uncertainty and Virtual Camping (Ep45)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Nov 2016 23:23:00 +0000

In episode 45 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Jonathan Grayson. We chat about virtual camping, ERP, motivation in recovery and much much more. I hope it helps!

Show notes: theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-jonathan-grayson-ocd-recovery-uncertainty-and-virtual-camping

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Jonathan Grayson – OCD Recovery, Uncertainty and Virtual Camping (Ep45) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Becky Beaton – Hoarding, Trauma and OCD (Ep43)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 23 Oct 2016 20:00:00 +0000

In episode 43 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Becky Beaton. We discuss motivation in recovery, approaching treatment from many angles and mindfulness, among much much more. Enjoy.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-becky-beaton-hoarding-trauma-and-ocd

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Becky Beaton – Hoarding, Trauma and OCD (Ep43) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Reid Wilson – Stopping the noise in your head (Ep42)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 16 Oct 2016 17:48:00 +0000

In episode 42 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Reid Wilson. We chat about his approach to treating OCD. He offers some brilliant advice, for dealing with OCD.

Show notes – https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-reid-wilson-stopping-the-noise-in-your-head

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Dr Reid Wilson – Stopping the noise in your head (Ep42) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Shala Nicely Answers Your OCD Recovery Questions (Ep41)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 09 Oct 2016 15:39:00 +0000

In episode 41 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Shala Nicely. You guys sent in some great questions which I asked Shala. Topics include sleep, starting ERP, mental checking and much much more.

Show notes – https://theocdstories.com/podcast/shala-nicely-answers-your-ocd-recovery-questions

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Shala Nicely Answers Your OCD Recovery Questions (Ep41) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ashley Fulwood (OCD UK) – Recovery Is Possible (Ep39)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 25 Sep 2016 23:09:00 +0000

In episode 39 of the podcast I chat with OCD UK CEO Ashley Fulwood. Ashley shares some great advice for challenging OCD.

Show notes – https://theocdstories.com/podcast/ashley-fulwood-ocd-uk/

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Ashley Fulwood (OCD UK) – Recovery Is Possible (Ep39) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Morgan Rondinelli – My OCD Voice (Ep 38)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 18 Sep 2016 19:56:00 +0000

In episode 38 of the podcast I chat with Morgan Rondinelli. Morgan is an OCD advocate and blogger. We talk about her recovery, what helped her and ERP therapy. Hope it helps…

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/morgan-rondinelli-my-ocd-voice

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Morgan Rondinelli – My OCD Voice (Ep 38) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mark Freeman – Internet Addiction, OCD and Living in Uncertainty (Ep37)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 11 Sep 2016 22:45:00 +0000

In episode 37 of the podcast I chat with Mark Freeman. Mark internet addiction and what this means to OCD. We discuss meditation and mindfulness, as well as acceptance and living by your values. Hope it helps.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Mark Freeman – Internet Addiction, OCD and Living in Uncertainty (Ep37) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Duncan CJ – OCD, and Living a Fulfilled Life (Ep36)

Stuart Ralph — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 23:00:00 +0000

In episode 36 of the podcast I chat with Duncan CJ. Duncan is the host of the Spirit Pig podcast. He interviews people all over the world about fulfilment. He doesn’t have OCD but I wanted to get him on the show to share his advice for living a fulfilled life. Hope it helps…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Duncan CJ – OCD, and Living a Fulfilled Life (Ep36) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Adam Strauss – Comedy, Recovery and Psychedelics (Ep35)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 10:48:00 +0000

DISCLAIMER – This is an exploratory interview into the potential of psychedelics. This is NOT a how to guide. If you take psychedelics, you do so at your own risk.

In episode 35 of the podcast I chat with comedian Adam Strauss about his use of psychedelics as a potential treatment for OCD. We discuss the legality of it all and the future potential. Adam also shares the importance of acceptance and ACT. Hope it helps.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Adam Strauss – Comedy, Recovery and Psychedelics (Ep35) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Julia Gottwald – Adolescent OCD (Ep 34)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 17:56:00 +0000

In episode 34 of the podcast I chat with Julia Gottwald. Julia is researching Adolescent OCD. We discuss why teenagers with OCD are different from adults with OCD. We look at why teenagers with OCD could have a different treatment plan from adults. This is an interesting and inspiring conversation about OCD and OCD research. Hope it helps.

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Julia Gottwald – Adolescent OCD (Ep 34) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jeff Bell – When in doubt, make belief (Ep 33)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 10:17:00 +0000

In episode 33 of the podcast I chat with Jeff Bell, author of two books on OCD. Jeff shares his great advice for recovery from OCD, including the importance of purpose and service. We talk about his book “When in doubt, make belief”. Hope it helps.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

The post Jeff Bell – When in doubt, make belief (Ep 33) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Recovery from OCD is possible – Motivation

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 13:58:00 +0000

I may have a sore throat but I didn't want to let that stop me from sharing something. Recovery from OCD is possible. I hope this mini-episode inspires you.

To your success,
Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Recovery from OCD is possible – Motivation appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Say No to OCD with the nOCD app (Ep 30)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Jul 2016 14:58:00 +0000

Download the nOCD app (free): http://m.treatmyocd.com/ocdstories

In episode 30 of The OCD Stories podcast I talked with Stephen Smith. Stephen co-founded the app nOCD. The app tracks and measures obsessions and compulsions. It’s a great app and is free -check it out. Stephen also shares some great advice from his own OCD journey. Enjoy.

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Say No to OCD with the nOCD app (Ep 30) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Catlin Palmer – Accept anything and you can transcend everything (Ep29)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 18:03:00 +0000

In episode 29 of The OCD Stories podcast I talked with Catlin A. Palmer. Catlin is part native American. We discuss his culture and how this impacted his mental health. Catlin is a life coach with a background in social work. He talks about his battles with Pure O, depression and social anxiety. We also discuss addiction, and how to overcome it. Enjoy.

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Catlin Palmer – Accept anything and you can transcend everything (Ep29) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

OCD Books, Books, Books (Ep 28)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Jul 2016 22:33:00 +0000

In episode 28 of the podcast I discuss some of the OCD books that I’ve read, in the hopes it helps you decide your next book for your recovery!

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post OCD Books, Books, Books (Ep 28) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Guy Doron on ROCD and the ROCD App (Ep27)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 26 Jun 2016 09:21:00 +0000

In episode 27 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Guy Doron. I first interviewed Guy in January for episode 5. Guy is one of the leading researchers in relationship OCD (rOCD), and along with his team he his uncovering important information about this subtype of OCD. He has recently co-created an app for ROCD recovery. This episode offers general OCD advice, so don’t worry if you don’t suffer with ROCD. OCD is OCD.

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Dr Guy Doron on ROCD and the ROCD App (Ep27) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Ed's Story: The Truth of OCD (Ep 26)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 19 Jun 2016 17:00:00 +0000

In episode 26 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Ed Renshaw. Ed first wrote his OCD story for the website in 2015. I’ve since got to know Ed well, and wanted to get him on the show to share his journey and inspiration with you. Enjoy…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Ed's Story: The Truth of OCD (Ep 26) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

The OCD Maestro (Ep 25)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 12 Jun 2016 22:42:00 +0000

In episode 25 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Andy. Andy is an artist, photographer and the illustrator behind the popular OCD Instagram account OCD Maestro. Enjoy…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post The OCD Maestro (Ep 25) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lily Bailey "Because We Are Bad" (Ep 24)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 06:41:00 +0000

In episode 24 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Lily Bailey. Lily is a model and author. I interviewed her in episode 12 of the podcast to hear her story, and find what helped her in her journey. In this episode we talk about her new book “Because we are bad: OCD and a girl lost in thought”.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Lily Bailey "Because We Are Bad" (Ep 24) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Mary on OCD Recovery, The Arts and Leaning In (Ep 22)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 23 May 2016 20:35:00 +0000

In episode 22 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Mary. Mary was featured in the book "Daring to challenge OCD", and has some wonderful advice to share. Enjoy...

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Mary on OCD Recovery, The Arts and Leaning In (Ep 22) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Chad LeJeune on Worry, ACT and Breathing (Ep 20)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 08 May 2016 10:36:00 +0000

In episode 20 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Chad LeJeune. Chad is a professor of psychology at the University of San Francisco. He has more than 20 years experience treating people with anxiety problems. Chad is also the author of the book “The Worry Trap” which is reviewed at 4.9 stars out of 5.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Dr Chad LeJeune on Worry, ACT and Breathing (Ep 20) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Eric Kupers on Meditation, ERP, EMDR and OCD! (Ep19)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 01 May 2016 17:39:00 +0000

In episode 19 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Eric Kupers. Eric is Associate Professor, at Cal State University East Bay, in the Department of Theatre. He is also Dance Co-Director, at the Dandelion Dance theater. We talk about his recovery, medication, EMDR and relationships.

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Eric Kupers on Meditation, ERP, EMDR and OCD! (Ep19) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Katie d'Ath on Managing OCD With CBT (Ep 18)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 18:04:00 +0000

In episode 18 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Katie d’Ath. Katie is an author and OCD therapist. We talk about CBT, sleep, diet and exercise as well as much much more. Enjoy…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Katie d'Ath on Managing OCD With CBT (Ep 18) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Courtney Paré on Naturopathic Medicine for OCD (Ep 17)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 17 Apr 2016 18:32:00 +0000

Disclaimer – this episode is for exploratory purposes only, and not medical advice. Please seek the advice of a licensed medical professional when considering any medical treatment.

In episode 17 of the podcast I interviewed Dr Courtney Paré. Courtney specialises in naturopathic medicine, and has had her own battles with OCD. She shares her advice for getting better form OCD naturally. Enjoy…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Dr Courtney Paré on Naturopathic Medicine for OCD (Ep 17) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Elvis Gomes – Switzerland's Got Talent and Sexual Orientation OCD

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 07:14:00 +0000

In episode 15 of the podcast I interviewed Elvis Gomes. Elvis is a singer songwriter and 2015 performed his song “Let me go” on Switzerland’s Got Talent. We talk about his recovery, his song and the alternative recovery methods. Enjoy…

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Elvis Gomes – Switzerland's Got Talent and Sexual Orientation OCD appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Joan Davidson on Daring To Challenge OCD (Ep 14)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 27 Mar 2016 19:48:00 +0000

In episode 14 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Joan Davidson. Joan is author of the book “Daring to challenge OCD: overcome your fear of treatment and take control of your life using ERP”

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-joan-davidson-daring-to-challenge-ocd

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The post Dr Joan Davidson on Daring To Challenge OCD (Ep 14) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Fred Penzel on Homosexual OCD, BDD & Zen (Ep 13)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 20:03:00 +0000

In episode 13 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Fred Penzel. Fred is a psychologist and founding member of the International OCD Foundation. He has authored a book on OCD and one on Trichotillomania.

Show notes: https://theocdstories.com/podcast/dr-fred-penzel-on-homosexual-ocd-bdd-zen

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The post Dr Fred Penzel on Homosexual OCD, BDD & Zen (Ep 13) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Lily Bailey – Because We Are Bad: OCD & A Girl Lost In Thought (Ep 12)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 13 Mar 2016 09:56:00 +0000

In episode 12 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Lily Bailey. Lily is a writer and model. She is the author of the book Because we are bad: OCD and a girl lost in thought.

Show notes:

Lily’s OCD story (1:25)

Lily’s experiential approach to treatment and CBT (3:10)

Psychotherapy (7:00)

ACT for OCD (9:00)

Advice for those struggling with ERP (14:00)

Lily’s OCD turning point (17:00)

Why Lily made lists (19:40)

Lily and religious OCD (22:00)

About the book Because we are bad (28:00)

Lily’s one piece of advice (31:20)

What Lily would have on her billboard (32:40)

Find out more about Chris and Kelly:

Lily on Twitter – @LilyBaileyUK

Lily’s book: Because we are bad: OCD and A Girl Lost In Thought (Amazon & Canbury Press)

Resources mentioned:

Ashley on Twitter

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Lily Bailey – Because We Are Bad: OCD & A Girl Lost In Thought (Ep 12) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Beyond The Doubt – Jeff Bell & Shala Nicely

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 06 Mar 2016 08:54:00 +0000

In episode 11 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jeff Bell & Shala Nicely. Jeff and Shala have a personal and professional journey with OCD, and have come together to create Beyond The Doubt.

Show notes:

Shala & Jeff’s OCD story (2:10)

What worked other then ERP/CBT? (14:20)

The importance of meaning (17:10)

Seeing the Universe as friendly (22:45)

Power of personal responsibility (26:30)

How to deal with dull looming anxiety (38:00)

“The only way to effectively manage uncertainty, is to embrace uncertainty?” (32:30)

Advice for conquering ERP (41:40)

The ultimate goal for OCD recovery (46:30)

Shala’s advice for changing careers and becoming a therapist (49:20)

The purpose behind BeyondTheDoubt.com (56:30)

The one piece of advice (59:30)

What Jeff and Shala would have on their billboard (1:01:00)

Find out more about Chris and Kelly:

Beyond The Doubt – BeyondTheDoubt.com

Twitter: Jeff / Shala

Shala’s website – ShalaNicely.com

Jeff’s initiative – Adversity to Advocacy

Jeff’s books: Rewind, replay, repeat (Amazon.co.uk/Amazon.com) & When in doubt, make belief (Amazon.co.uk/Amazon.com)

Resources mentioned:

Steven Hayes’ podcast episode

Viktor Frankl’s book Man’s search for meaning (Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com)

Tamar Chansky’s book Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (Amazom.co.uk/Amazon.com)

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The post Beyond The Doubt – Jeff Bell & Shala Nicely appeared first on The OCD Stories.

UNSTUCK: An OCD Kids Movie (Ep 10)

Stuart Ralph — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 22:29:00 +0000

In episode 10 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Kelly Anderson and Chris Baier. Chris and Kelly are creating the documentary called UNSTUCK: An OCD Kids Movie. A documentary featuring entirely a cast of children, showing the wisdom and bravely that youth brings.

Show notes:

Chris & Kelly’s OCD story (1:40)

Aim of the documentary (4:30)

Documentary structure (6:30)

How OCD affects the siblings (8:00)

The documentary will show anxiety is much a part of OCD as obsessions and compulsions (12:20)

The documentary is about describing the journey of recovery (13:35)

How Chris and Kelly’s kids got diagnosed (17:40)

Benefits of kids with OCD hanging out with other kids with OCD (24:00)

Why only kids will be in the film (32:30)

OCD in school (34:30)

Advice for parenting a kid with OCD (36:40)

The one piece of advice for the parent and the one piece of advice for the kid struggling with OCD (44:10)

What Chris and Kelly would write on their billboard (46:30)

Find out more about Chris and Kelly:

The film website and trailer: OCDKidsMovie.com

OCD Kids Movie Facebook

Twitter: Chris / Kelly

Resources mentioned:

Mount Sinai hospital OCD treatment

Project UROK

To your success,

Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post UNSTUCK: An OCD Kids Movie (Ep 10) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

David Adam "The Man Who Couldn't Stop" (Ep 9)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 13:12:00 +0000

In episode 9 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed David Adam. David is an editor and author of the book “The man who couldn’t stop”.

Show notes:

David’s OCD story (2:10)

Medication (3:45)

What started David’s recovery (4:05)

Group therapy (5:40)

OCD and HIV obsessions. How the media can play a part in new obsessions (8:20)

How David Researched his book (11:15)

David’s ERP pyramid (14:20)

David’s advice for doing ERP (16:00)

Accepting uncertainty, and why you are already great at it! (22:40)

Relaxation and distraction (26:40)

“What would most people do?” phrase (29:40)

Advice for not reassurance seeking (32:50)

Ignorance that is pure, and how to deal with it (36:30)

How David describes OCD to someone (39:00)

The one piece of advice David would give to someone with OCD (41:10)

What David would have one his billboard (45:00)

Find out more about David:

David on Twitter @DavidNeilAdam

His book: The man who couldn’t stop: OCD and the true story of a life lost in thought (Amazon.co.uk/Amazon.com)

Resources mentioned:

David’s talk at the OCD Action conference

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post David Adam "The Man Who Couldn't Stop" (Ep 9) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jack Pridmore on the BBC Documentary Extreme OCD Camp, and Recovery

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:04:00 +0000

In episode 8 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jack Pridmore. Jack was in the 2013 BBC documentary ‘Extreme OCD Camp‘. Jack is now focusing on getting his degree, and raising awareness for OCD.

The audio cuts out the recording a couple times for a few seconds. This was due to bad internet signal. If it goes silent for a few seconds please keep listening

Show notes:

Jack’s OCD story (3:10)

Jack on contamination OCD and unplanned exposures (8:35)

Living alone and living with others (11:00)

Jack on ERP, therapy and group therapy for addiction (12:10)

The benefits of group therapy for OCD (13:30)

Jack on his attitude going into the ‘extreme OCD camp’ (17:15)

How group therapy removes the need to hide your OCD (18:20)

Jack on further OCD treatments and ACT (22:45)

Jack on Peter Weiss and Travis Osborne’s compassionate approach to therapy (30:00)

How Jack got on the documentary, and his thoughts on the TV show Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners (33:50)

Doing ERP while been filmed (40:35)

Doing therapy in nature (48:25)

Jack’s tips for doing ERP successfully (51:50)

Jack’s favourite moment from the trip (56:15)

Jack’s 2015 charity adventure (58:45)

Jack’s 2016 charity walk – I walked a mile in my shoes (1:11:00)

What just would say if he met someone with OCD (1:14:20)

What Jack would have on a billboard (1:15:00)

Jack’s future plans (1:16:00)

Find out more about Jack:

Jack’s Twitter – @JackJPridmore

ididmymile.co.uk

@ididmymile on Twitter

Resources:

OCD Action

OCD UK

Mind charity

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Jack Pridmore on the BBC Documentary Extreme OCD Camp, and Recovery appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Peter Weiss On The BBC Documentary Extreme OCD Camp (Ep 7)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 20:11:00 +0000

In episode 7 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Peter Weiss. Pete is a therapist who works with people who have OCD, ADHD and Autism. He is the founder of Blue Compass Camps, and in 2013 the BBC did a documentary about one of his OCD camps.

Show notes:

Pete’s OCD Story (2:40)
What Pete thinks about the documentary (12:00)
What it was like doing therapy in front of a camera (15:30)
What inspired Pete to help people with OCD and why it’s common to have have mental health issues with OCD (19:00)
Why camping in the wild improves recovery times (26:40)
How to speak with people are are anxious (35:25)
The power of “Maybe” (38:00)
ERP is important, but it is only a tool (43:00)
The importance of assessing the ERP challenge before you attempt it (47:50)
How to boost self-esteem for OCD treatment (52:00)
How to not let anxiety get to you when you are helping someone who is anxious and parenting a child with OCD (1:01:20)
The challenges facing someone who has OCD and depression. Also Pete’s advice (1:06:30)
The future of OCD Camps (1:09:45)
Pete’s one piece of advice (1:13:40)
What Pete would have on their billboard (1:17:40)

Find out more about Peter:

Pete’s private practice – Seattle Child Therapy

Blue Compass Camps

Teen OCD Camp

Resources mentioned:

Travis Osbourne

Extreme OCD Camp documentary – Part 1/Part 2

Jeffrey Schwartz – Brain Lock (Amazon UK/Amazon US) & You Are Not Your Brain (Amazon UK/Amazon US)

The CBT article on The Guardian

International OCD Foundation – IOCDF.org

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

Get exclusive podcasts and content by becoming a member of the podcast find out more here >>

The post Peter Weiss On The BBC Documentary Extreme OCD Camp (Ep 7) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Jon Hershfield On Mindfulness, ERP And Acceptance For OCD (Ep 6)

Stuart Ralph — Sun, 31 Jan 2016 20:30:00 +0000

In episode 6 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Jon Hershfield. Jon is the author of two books on OCD and a therapist who specialises in OCD treatment.

Show notes:

Jon’s OCD Story (1:30)
What Jon did before he retrained into therapy (7:10)
Risk and OCD (9:00)
What mindfulness is, and how can it be used to treat OCD (11:40)
Mindfulness and ACT (14:45)
Jon’s tips to stay on track with mindfulness training (16:15)
Using mindfulness for anger (22:00)
Good meditations for beginners (26:40)
How to meditate even though you are getting intrusive thoughts (31:50)
How mindfulness can work alongside ERP (39:20)
Jon’s tip for starting and sticking with ERP (44:20)
The acceptance script and how to use it (51:20)
Mental reviewing, scenario bending, mental rehearsal and mental hoarding (1:00:30)
The one bit of advice Jon would give if he only had 30 seconds (1:12:00)
Jon’s new book “When a family member has OCD” (1:14:15)
What Jon would have written on his billboard (1:16:40)

Find out more about Jon:

Jon’s website – OCDBaltimore.com
Jon on Twitter – @CBTOCD
The mindfulness workbook for OCD (Amazon UK/Amazon USA)
When a family member has OCD (Amazon UK/Amazon USA)

Resources mentioned:

OCD Georgia talk
Peaceful warrior film
Dr James Claiborn
Headspace
10% happier app and book (Amazon UK/Amazon USA)
IOCDF
Shala Nicely

To your success, Stuart and The OCD Stories team

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The post Jon Hershfield On Mindfulness, ERP And Acceptance For OCD (Ep 6) appeared first on The OCD Stories.

Dr Guy Doron Talks About All Things rOCD (Ep 5)

Stuart Ralph — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 06:02:00 +0000

In episode 5 of The OCD Stories podcast I interviewed Dr Guy Doron. Guy is one of the leading researchers in relationship OCD (rOCD), and along with his team he his uncovering important information about this subtype of OCD.

Show notes:

Guy’s OCD Story (1:00) Finding rOCD in research (4:30) How rOCD also covers relationship with God (6:40) Type 1 vs Type 2 rOCD, and why someone would get one over the over (8:20) New study: embarrassability and OCD (11:40) Why an OCD sufferer seeks rightness in the relationship (12:50) How rOCD can affect dating not just the relationship (15:05) How distorted views of love affects relationships (19:50) How someone tells if they have rOCD or a bad relationship? (24:20) How rOCD can make relationships better (28:30) How to explain to your partner that you are trying your best to deal with the OCD (31:30) How ERP can be used to treat rOCD (35:20) The one thing rOCD sufferers can do today to improve their lives (41:20) Guy’s most astonishing finding from his research (44:45) What guy would want written on his billboard (47:00)

Find out more about Dr Steven Hayes:

Guy’s site – ROCD.net

Resources mentioned:

Dr Danny Derby – www.dr-derby.com