The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova

Can you build a global movement and lead a team while navigating the "fangs" of OCD In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Pavel Reppo, founder of A Fine Mind and a leader in international mental health. Together, they explore the intersection of high-stakes leadership, cultural expectations, and the persistent drive required to turn a diagnosis into a catalyst for social impact. Pavel opens up about: • His "gateway" symptoms at age 13, including severe hand-washing rituals triggered by household turbulence. • How cultural stigmas in Belarus and the Eastern Bloc shaped his initial understanding of mental health. • The "Alien" feeling of Relationship OCD and the cycle of debilitating confessions. • His transition from "camouflaging" through perfectionism to seeking professional therapy in his early 20s. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers a raw, unpolished look at the reality of high-functioning OCD and the hope that comes with finding a community that sees you for who you are. 📲 About Pavel Reppo (guest): • Executive Director - Finemind • CEO - Matchbox Fund • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pavelreppo/ • A Fine Mind org. : https://afinemind.org/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – The Global Leader’s Secret: Building a mental health empire while fighting a private war. [01:46] – The Divorce Catalyst: How a "turbulent home" forced a child to find control in rituals. [03:32] – The "Grit" Trap: Why the Eastern European mindset of "choosing happiness" fuels OCD. [06:20] – The Perfectionist Masquerade: Using straight A’s to hide the "Alien" feelings inside. [07:34] – The Relationship Punching Bag: When "Relationship OCD" turns confession into a toxic loop. [09:32] – The Therapy Shift: Why talk therapy failed and how the precision of ERP changed everything. [12:02] – The ACT North Star: How to stop listening to "sneaky" emotions and start living by values. [13:52] – Micromanagement Fangs: When OCD poisons remote leadership and global delegation. [15:47] – The 18-Hour Collapse: Reaching the breaking point—burnout, depletion, and starting over. [20:09] – The Double-Edged Sword: Does OCD-driven tenacity actually help you succeed? [21:39] – The New Fatherhood Filter: Re-learning balance and "holding back" for the next generation. [23:57] – Beyond the Highlight Reel: Why we need to stop presenting a "polished" version of recovery. ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords living with OCD Relationship OCD stories ERP therapy for perfectionism Pavel Reppo mental health high functioning OCD leadership Relationship OCD confessions ACT therapy for OCD © OCD Whisperer

Can you be terrified of the future and still move forward to build it? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Lauren Cook, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of Generation Anxiety. Together, they explore the unique mental health pressures facing Gen Z and Millennials, and how to navigate big life transitions without letting anxiety hold the steering wheel. Dr. Cook opens up about: • Her personal battle with Emetophobia (the fear of vomit) and how it nearly stopped her from becoming a mother. • The debilitating rituals and "Safety Taxes" that keep our worlds small. • Why ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) is the gold standard for reclaiming your life from specific phobias. • Her journey to parenthood and how she manages anxiety while raising a family. • Why ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) is the gold standard for reclaiming your life from specific phobias. • Her journey to parenthood and how she manages anxiety while raising a family. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition or struggling with a "hidden" phobia, this episode offers the psychological frameworks and distress tolerance tools you need to embrace the mess and find your liberated living. 📲 About Dr. Lauren Cook (guest): • Clinical Psychologist, Speaker, Consultant • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.laurencook/ • Heartship therapy: https://www.heartshipcounseling.com/ • Dr. Lauren's web page: https://www.drlaurencook.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – "What is Emetophobia?" Dr. Cook on the "hidden" fear of vomit. [03:06] – The Parenthood Crossroad: Why I almost wrote off motherhood because of my phobia. [04:34] – The Gen Z Trifecta: What are the biggest drivers of mental health stress today? [05:44] – "Social Atrophy": Why your social skills feel like a weak muscle post-pandemic. [06:16] – Adult Separation Anxiety: Why is this peaking in college students (not just kids)? [07:32] – The "Ready" Delusion: Why you have to embrace the mess before the fear goes away. [08:59] – The SUDS Strategy: How to challenge your biggest fears without being "flooded." [10:42] – The "Emotional Flu": A clinical reframe for surviving bad breakups and setbacks. [11:51] – The Achievement Paradox: Why "success" and perception aren't making us happy. [12:16] – Values vs. People-Pleasing: How to stop living a life designed by other people. [14:05] – Empowered Acceptance: Moving from "I'm a speck" to "I'm a movement." [16:25] – The "Both-And" Rule: How to hold global grief and personal joy at the same time. ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords emetophobia recovery Dr. Lauren Cook Generation Anxiety adult separation anxiety Gen Z mental health social anxiety muscles ERP for phobias distress tolerance skills anxious attachment recovery millennial stress management © OCD Whisperer

Can you stop being a "fixer" and start building your feeling muscle? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, a Naturopathic Physician, bodyworker, and author of The Feeling Muscle. Together, they explore the powerful intersection of mindfulness, parenting a child with OCD, and learning how to sit with the "just right" discomfort that keeps so many of us stuck in rituals. Dr. Jenn opens up about: • Her hidden battle with OCD as an adolescent in the 70s and 80s • The heartbreaking moment her 8-year-old son was swallowed by "Just Right" OCD • Why she had to go against every motherly instinct to stop accommodating his rituals • The reality of residential treatment and finding the "recipe" for her son's recovery Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself, supporting a child through treatment, or struggling to sit with uncertainty, this episode offers a profound roadmap for building the emotional strength to outlast the storm. 📲 About Jenn Rapkin (guest): • Naturopathic physician & bodyworker • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennrapkin/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575991456912 • Web Page: https://drjennrapkin.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – The Secret to Outlasting Pain: Can you build a "muscle" for your emotions? [01:57] – The 1970s Silent Struggle: Growing up in a "crowded" mind before OCD had a name. [04:38] – The Barcelona Nightmare: How COVID triggered an 8-year-old’s "Just Right" trap. [06:33] – The Resistance: Why adults (and kids) would rather ritual than feel. [08:49] – The Nuclear Option: When outpatient care fails and residential is the only way out. [10:32] – The Nurturer’s Dilemma: Why "helping" your child is keeping the OCD alive. [12:53] – The Grief of Parenting: Admitting your marriage and life have become "small." [14:58] – The Trigger Loop: What happens when a parent’s OCD meets their child’s. [18:58] – The Whiteboard Revelation: The "Bell Curve" secret to sitting with discomfort. [21:44] – The "Handshake" Method: A step-by-step guide to practicing with frustration. [26:07] – The Fleeting Truth: Why we trust our joy but believe our pain is permanent. [29:20] – The Witness vs. The Fixer: How to hold space for someone else’s storm. ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords parenting a child with OCD Just Right OCD treatment Dr. Jenn Rapkin Feeling Muscle how to sit with uncomfortable feelings SPACE treatment for parents childhood OCD recovery mindfulness for intrusive thoughts ERP for kids © OCD Whisperer

Is it OCD, or is your brain just wired differently?🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Jeremy Shuman, a psychologist and specialist in the intersection of Autism and OCD. Together, they explore the complex overlap between neurodevelopmental traits and obsessive-compulsive patterns. Dr. Shuman opens up about: • The definition of Autism and the shift toward the Neurodiversity Movement. • Why observable behaviors like "stimming" are often mistaken for OCD compulsions. • The internal experience of sensory seeking versus sensory rejecting. • The trait of Monotropism and how deep focus differs from clinical obsessions. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is neurodivergent, this episode offers essential tools and insights to help you understand the "why" behind the rituals. 📲 About Robyn Stern (guest): • Specialized treatment for OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and anxiety disorders • Web Page & all contacts: https://www.rlsterntherapy.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Welcome to the show: Meet Robyn Stern. [02:20] – "Before you knew it was BDD, what did you think was wrong with you?" [03:32] – "What was it like? Did you think it was just insecurity or that you were just anxious?" [07:22] – "What was the turning point that made you decide to seek help?" [11:07] – "Did you just stop talking to your friends altogether?" [12:57] – "Did you think you were just being vain or that you were broken?" [20:43] – "What is the actual therapy to get better?" (The difference between OCD and BDD treatment). [24:02] – The "Perfect Storm" of beauty standards and BDD [25:12] – "Is it a painful pill to swallow thinking this is just your lot in life?" [28:12] – "How can you have a relationship with a person when you're in a relationship with a body part?" [30:22] – How to connect with Robyn Stern and find resources. ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords Body Dysmorphic Disorder BDD recovery Robyn Stern LCSW lived experience BDD appearance OCD vs BDD mirror checking compulsions overcoming body shame BDD treatment and therapy © OCD Whisperer

Is it OCD, or is your brain just wired differently?🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Jeremy Shuman, a psychologist and specialist in the intersection of Autism and OCD. Together, they explore the complex overlap between neurodevelopmental traits and obsessive-compulsive patterns. Dr. Shuman opens up about: • The definition of Autism and the shift toward the Neurodiversity Movement. • Why observable behaviors like "stimming" are often mistaken for OCD compulsions. • The internal experience of sensory seeking versus sensory rejecting. • The trait of Monotropism and how deep focus differs from clinical obsessions. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is neurodivergent, this episode offers essential tools and insights to help you understand the "why" behind the rituals. 📲 About Dr. Jeremy Shuman (guest): • licensed psychologist, expert in OCD and anxiety disorders, autism and OCD • Web Page: https://mindfulstl.com/providers/jeremy-shuman-psy-d/ • OCD/Autism SIG Interest Form: https://www.tfaforms.com/5069768 ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Why what you know about Autism is wrong [03:05] – The DSM Trap: Why Autism diagnosis was designed for "School-age White Boys" (and who gets left out). [05:16] – Hidden Clues: Common behaviors in school and social life that scream "A deeper look is needed." [06:52] – Is it OCD or Autism? The "Locked Door" vs. the "Body Motion" (Distinguishing the two). [09:32] – The Golden Rule of Diagnosis: Is your behavior "Neutralizing a Threat" or "Regulating your Body"? [11:32] – Beyond ERP: Why a "Standard" OCD treatment plan might fail an Autistic client. [14:42] – The Case of the Circular Mind: When "Rumination" is actually a neurological focus trait. [18:37] – The "Car Breakdown" Analogy: A must-watch for families struggling to understand their loved one’s disability. [22:17] – The Big Question: Is OCD actually a form of Neurodivergence? (Dr. Shuman’s definitive answer). [25:26] – The "Scalpel vs. Weapon" Controversy: Can Exposure Therapy actually be harmful to the Autism community? ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords autism and ocd neurodivergent ocd monotropism ocd erp for autistic people distinguishing ocd and autism stimming vs compulsions neurodiversity movement mental health Dr. Jeremy Shuman ocd © OCD Whisperer

Is Perfectionism Hijacking Your Values? 🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, PsyD. Together, they explore the final pieces of the ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) puzzle: values and committed action, and how to integrate these tools into a long-term recovery journey. Dr. Mazza opens up about: • The critical difference between "Values" (directions) and "Goals" (destinations) • How perfectionism can turn your guiding principles into rigid, impossible rules • The "60–70% Rule"—why aiming for "good enough" is the secret to avoiding burnout • A breakdown of the 6 core processes of ACT: Presence, Values, Committed Action, Self-as-Context, Defusion, and Willingness Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers a clear, compassionate roadmap for moving away from a life ruled by fear and toward a life led by what truly matters to you. 📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – The "Success" Trap: Why your goals might actually be feeding your OCD. [02:01] – The North Star Method: Values vs. Goals (And why the difference is everything). [04:29] – The 60% Rule: How "Good Enough" is the ultimate weapon against perfectionism. [05:55] – The Life Basket Strategy: How to stop OCD from hijacking your entire energy supply. [09:24] – The "Miracle Morning" Test: A 60-second self-reflection to find your true self. [11:58] – The "Itty Bitty Step": How to move forward when you feel completely paralyzed. [14:56] – Courage is Fear Walking: Why you don't need to "feel ready" to start recovery. [16:54] – The Carrot Technique: Finding the "Big Purpose" that makes the pain of ERP worth it. [21:07] – Failing with Purpose: Why you need to get "good" at failing to get better. [24:20] – The Recovery Roadmap: What actually happens inside an ACT therapy session? [26:40] – Compulsion Math: Why short-term relief is stealing your long-term life [29:30] – The Real Timeline: How long does it actually take? (4 months vs. 1 year) [32:27] – The "Slow Food" Movement: Why rushing recovery is the fastest way to stay stuck ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords ACT for OCD Values vs Rules OCD Committed Action therapy OCD recovery roadmap Acceptance and Commitment Therapy tips Perfectionism and OCD Exposure and Response Prevention Dr. Marisa Mazza © OCD Whisperer

How can you stay present when your brain is screaming with OCD? 🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, PsyD. Together, they explore the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) concepts of Self-as-Context and Present Moment Awareness—and how to apply them even when anxiety feels overwhelming. Dr. Mazza opens up about: • Why "being present" feels threatening or impossible when you have OCD • The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise and how to use tactile sensations to anchor yourself • The concept of the "Observer Self" (Self-as-Context) and why you are the sky, not the weather • How to build a tolerance for uncomfortable internal experiences without fighting them Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers practical tools, grounding strategies, and a path toward living a full, present life. 📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – The "Being Present" Trap: Why Mindfulness Feels Scary [02:16] – The Goal of ACT: You Don’t Have to be Perfect [03:12] – The 5-4-3-2-1 Reset: Grounding Your Physical Body [03:35] – Tactile vs. Internal: What to do when "Feeling" is Overwhelming [06:32] – Micro-Mindfulness: Success in Just 30 Seconds [10:23] – Sky vs. Weather: Why Your Thoughts Aren't "The Truth" [11:29] – Zooming Out: You Are More Than Your Intrusive Thoughts [14:52] – The Tennis Match Metaphor: Stop Swinging at Every Thought [16:32] – Real-Life Application: Staying Present Mid-Trigger [18:32] – From Fusion to Freedom: Reclaiming Your Power to Choose ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD mindfulness Present moment awareness OCD ACT therapy for OCD Self-as-context explained Dr. Marisa Mazza Grounding techniques for anxiety Intrusive thoughts recovery Observer self mindfulness © OCD Whisperer

Can You Really Accept a Thought You Hate? 🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, a psychologist and expert in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Together, they explore the "how-to" of diffusion and acceptance—the tools that transform your relationship with intrusive thoughts from a battle into a peaceful coexistence. [Dr. Mazza opens up about]: • The Thought Machine: Why your brain is hardwired to produce automatic, often negative thoughts, and why you can't just "turn it off" • The Velcro Effect: Understanding the evolutionary biology behind why negative thoughts stick while positive ones slide away • Defusion Strategies: Practical ways to "unhook" from obsessions using labels, billboards, and even silly voices like Mickey Mouse • True Acceptance: Why accepting a thought doesn't mean you like it, want it, or agree with it—it simply means you're willing to have it By the end of this episode, you’ll realize that while you can’t control the "Thought Machine," you can absolutely control how you respond to it. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers tangible strategies and a mindset shift toward psychological flexibility. 📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – The Cure Lie: Why thoughts are 100% automatic [04:57] – Velcro Brain: Why your mind clings to the negative [07:31] – The Unhooking Hack: Simple phrases to detach instantly [08:56] – Mental Billboards: Stripping the power from intrusive thoughts [12:31] – The OCD Compass: Your fears reveal your deepest values [16:44] – The Acceptance Trap: Willingness vs. wanting the thought [21:53] – Brain Labeling: Turning off the internal panic alarm [26:07] – The 4-Step Script: How to handle a massive spike [28:45] – Not Your Fault: Reclaiming your life from OCD ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD Recovery Mental Health Podcast Anxiety Relief Overcoming OCD OCD Treatment Psychology Therapy Tips OCD Whisperer © OCD Whisperer

🧠Is the opposite of anxiety actually trust? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute and author of The ACT Workbook for OCD. Together, they explore Psychological Flexibility—the core of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—and how it integrates with ERP to help you live a "big, beautiful life" even with OCD. Key points covered: • Defining Psychological Flexibility: Understanding the 6 core processes of ACT (Presence, Values, Committed Action, Self-as-Context, Diffusion, and Acceptance). • The ERP + ACT Integration: Why symptom reduction isn't always enough and how ACT addresses the "day-to-day living" aspect of recovery. • The "Flashlight" Metaphor: Shifting your focus from internal control to values-based living. • Slowing Down to Heal: Why we use busy-ness as a distraction and how to safely sit with the "scary" silence. Recovery isn't just about stopping compulsions; it’s about having the flexibility to roll with life’s punches. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers a philosophical and practical roadmap for moving beyond just "getting by" to truly thriving. 📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] - The OCD Whisperer x Dr. Marisa Mazza [03:12] - Psychological Flexibility: The "Game Changer" in Treatment [05:26] - A New Relationship with Your "What Ifs" [09:13] - Beyond Symptom Reduction (ACT vs. ERP) [13:12] - The "Grief" Example: Putting Acceptance into Action [16:32] - Why "Slowing Down" Feels So Dangerous [22:47] - The Silent Retreat Test: Facing What We Run From [27:26] - The Ultimate Reframe: Trust vs. Anxiety [29:40] - Your "Itty Bitty Baby Step" for Today ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD Recovery Mental Health Podcast Anxiety Relief Overcoming OCD OCD Treatment Psychology Therapy Tips OCD Whisperer © OCD Whisperer

🧠Can OCD trick even a trained medical professional? What happens when your worst fear actually comes true—and your OCD tells you it’s your fault? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Sarah Michelle Boes, nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, mother, and OCD advocate. Together, they explore what it’s like to live for decades with undiagnosed OCD, how pregnancy intensified obsessive thinking, and how recovery is possible even after hitting rock bottom. Sarah opens up about: • Living with OCD symptoms since childhood without knowing it • Being misdiagnosed until adulthood • How pregnancy and motherhood intensified magical thinking OCD • The moment she realized OCD—not reality—was running the show • Entering intensive ERP treatment and rebuilding her life This is an honest, vulnerable conversation about living through fear, uncertainty, and doubt—and learning how to move forward anyway. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, clarity, and practical insight into long-term recovery. 📲 About Sara Boes (guest): • NP, mental health advocate, author, Founder • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmichelleboes/?hl=en • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-michelle-boes/ • Web Page: https://sarahmichelleboes.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] Meet Sarah Boes [01:10] The First Signs of OCD No One Recognized [03:31] Pregnancy Triggered My Worst OCD Ever [04:27] The Baby Shower That Broke My Brain [05:10] When OCD “Got It Right” About My Child [07:22] Life After a Severe OCD Diagnosis [10:08] Hitting Extreme OCD and Entering Intensive Treatment [11:52] What Actually Helped Me Recover From OCD [13:39] Losing the Constant Feeling of Urgency [15:39] Who Am I Without My OCD? [17:02] Doing the Things OCD Tried to Take Away [20:01] OCD Remission, Relapse, and Real Recovery [21:52] When OCD Targets What You Love Most [25:35] The Sneaky Ways OCD Comes Back [27:34] Reassurance, Relationships, and Setting Boundaries [30:09] Final Thoughts and Where to Find Sarah ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD recovery living with OCD ERP therapy for OCD intrusive thoughts magical thinking OCD postpartum OCD OCD personal story anxiety and OCD reassurance seeking OCD acceptance and OCD © OCD Whisperer

🧠Can you really accept OCD thoughts without agreeing with them? And what does “acceptance” actually look like when your mind is attacking you nonstop? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova, LMFT, speaks with Dr. Sarah Brungardt, psychologist and founder of Calm OCD. Together, they explore one of the most misunderstood (and feared) concepts in OCD recovery: accepting intrusive thoughts without engaging in compulsions. Dr. Brungardt breaks down what acceptance truly means, why fighting thoughts keeps OCD stronger, and how learning to tolerate uncomfortable emotions can give you your life back. Dr. Sarah opens up about: • Why the goal of OCD therapy is not eliminating thoughts or emotions • How emotional reasoning keeps people stuck in compulsive loops • Why rumination is one of the most overlooked compulsions in OCD • What real acceptance looks like in daily life (and why it feels impossible at first) Acceptance doesn’t mean approval. It doesn’t mean giving up. It means learning how to live with uncertainty instead of letting OCD control your choices. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight into how acceptance actually works in recovery. 📲 About Sara Brungardt (guest): • CEO of "calmocd" • OCD & Anxiety Specialist • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calmocd/ • CalmOCD web page: https://www.calmocd.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Meet Dr. Sarah Brungardt: Your Guide to Understanding OCD [01:17] – Why “Acceptance” Sounds Impossible at First [03:23] – Sitting With Feelings That Feel Unbearable [05:47] – How Can You Avoid Engaging with Thoughts [08:03] – Acceptance Is the First Exposure [09:59] – How Long OCD Recovery Really Takes [12:10] – How can I feel positive emotions during OCD attacks [13:51] – How can you stop trying to figure out OCD thoughts [16:29] – When Acceptance Becomes the Obsession ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD acceptance intrusive thoughts OCD rumination OCD ERP therapy for OCD mental compulsions OCD recovery tools accepting intrusive thoughts OCD psychoeducation © OCD Whisperer

🧠What If OCD Isn’t About Uncertainty—But About Doubting the Wrong Things? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova, LMFT shares her personal journey living with OCD and how her understanding of treatment has evolved over time. Drawing from both lived experience and nearly a decade of clinical work with OCD, Kristina breaks down ERP, ICBT, ACT, and why learning how OCD actually works mattered more than chasing themes or subtypes. This conversation dives into: • Living with relationship OCD, morality OCD, and “feeling off” OCD • Why rumination was her most powerful (and invisible) compulsion • How ERP—especially imaginal exposures—changed her relationship with intrusive thoughts • What it really meant to reach recovery and live without being ruled by OCD Kristina shares how learning to spot rumination, tolerate uncomfortable body sensations, and stop feeding imaginary stories helped her step out of OCD’s internal world and back into real life. Whether you’re living with OCD, supporting someone who is, or trying to decide which treatment approach is right for you, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight into what recovery can actually look like. ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – I Didn’t Know I Had OCD (Even as a Therapist) [02:52] – Why Understanding OCD Matters More Than Knowing Your “Subtype” [05:17] – Why ERP Helped Me (And What People Get Wrong About It) [07:32] – The Compulsion No One Talks About: Rumination [09:52] – When Your Brain Starts Searching for Problems That Don’t Exist [12:07] – Exposure to Feelings: Letting Anxiety Exist Without Fixing It [14:32] – The Breakthrough I Had With I-CBT [16:55] – Obsessional Doubt vs Real-Life Uncertainty [20:27] – The Moment I Stopped Believing Every Story My Mind Created [22:42] – How to Tell When You’re Doubting Normally vs Obsessionally [24:42] – Why There Is No “One Right” Way to Treat OCD [27:32] – Recovery Is Possible (And What I Want You to Take From This) ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD recovery relationship OCD ERP therapy for OCD ICBT for OCD rumination OCD obsessional doubt intrusive thoughts OCD living with OCD OCD treatment options © OCD Whisperer

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Is your child’s OCD hiding behind good behavior and perfectionism? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Katherine Schooland, LMFT, founder and director of Raising Brave Kids, a multi-state practice specializing in child and teen anxiety and OCD. Together, they explore how childhood OCD can quietly hide in high-functioning, compliant, and “well-behaved” kids — and why it’s so often missed. Katherine shares deep clinical insight into how OCD actually shows up in children, especially when it doesn’t look anxious, disruptive, or obvious. Katherine breaks down: • How childhood OCD can hide behind reassurance-seeking, perfectionism, and compliance • Why mental compulsions and rumination are so hard for parents to spot • The difference between normal developmental worries and OCD “stickiness” • How ERP-informed parenting can interrupt the OCD cycle early • What happens when childhood OCD goes unrecognized into adolescence and adulthood Whether you’re parenting a child with OCD, suspect something deeper than “just anxiety,” or supporting a family navigating uncertainty, this episode offers clarity, hope, and concrete tools to help kids — and parents — move forward. 📲 About Katherine (guest): • LMFT, founder and director of Raising Brave Kids • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingbrave.kids • Raising Brave Kids: https://www.raisingbravekids.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – When OCD Hides in “Good Kids” [01:36] – The Reassurance Trap Parents Don’t Realize They’re In [04:10] – When Perfectionism Isn’t a Strength Anymore [06:02] – Avoidance That Doesn’t Look Like Avoidance [07:01] – The Mental Rituals No One Sees [09:17] – How Loving Parents Accidentally Feed OCD [10:47] – Supporting Your Child Without Becoming the Anxiety Regulator [13:23] – Why Parents Must Regulate Themselves First [14:16] – What Happens When Childhood OCD Is Missed [16:49] – Why Early Skills Change Everything [17:40] – The Biggest Gaps in OCD Treatment Today [20:09] – You’re Not Failing—There Is a Way Forward ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords childhood OCD OCD in children parenting a child with OCD reassurance seeking OCD mental compulsions ERP for kids family accommodation OCD anxiety vs OCD in children © OCD Whisperer

🤰These Thoughts Don’t Mean You Want to Harm Your Baby In this second of two episodes about perinatal OCD on The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova is joined again by Betty Flores, LCSW, a perinatal mental health specialist and founder of Perinatal Wellness, for an honest and deeply needed conversation about perinatal OCD, intrusive thoughts, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health. Betty shares her own lived experience with undiagnosed perinatal OCD—including how both she and her therapist initially missed the signs—and how that journey ultimately led her to specialize in helping parents who feel terrified by thoughts they don’t understand. Betty opens up about: • Experiencing intrusive thoughts during postpartum that were misunderstood as “normal worry” • Why perinatal OCD is often missed or minimized—even by trained professionals • Taboo intrusive thoughts involving harm and why they don’t reflect intent • How reassurance, checking, and mental review quietly fuel the OCD cycle • Why ERP therapy and proper education changed everything Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, supporting a loved one, or trying to understand intrusive thoughts, this conversation offers clarity, education, and relief—without minimizing how real and painful this experience can be. 📲 About Betty Flores (guest): • Certified in Perinatal Mental Health | EMDR | ERP • Perinatal OCD/Anxiety, Reproductive Trauma, Grief & Loss • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perinatal_wellness/ • Perinatal Wellness: https://www.perinatal-wellness.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – When the Expert Misses OCD in Herself: A Therapist’s Undiagnosed Perinatal OCD [03:19] – Why Perinatal OCD Is So Often Misdiagnosed (Even by Professionals) [05:40] – Normal Parent Worry vs OCD: The One Difference That Changes Everything [07:25] – OCD Is the Doubting Disease: How “What If” Thoughts Take Over [08:15] – Can You Control OCD During Pregnancy? What Actually Helps [09:25] – What Postpartum OCD Really Looks Like (Thoughts, Urges, and Checking) [10:37] – Responsibility, Parenthood, and OCD’s Biggest Trap [13:20] – How Common Is Perinatal OCD (And Why Parents Stay Silent) [14:59] – Can Postpartum OCD Turn Into Psychosis? Clearing Up a Common Fear [16:58] – Baby Blues vs Postpartum Depression: The Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords perinatal OCD postpartum OCD intrusive thoughts pregnancy harm OCD parents ERP therapy for OCD postpartum anxiety vs OCD OCD intrusive thoughts baby maternal mental health © OCD Whisperer

🤰Are these protective instincts… or is it postpartum OCD? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Betty Flores, LCSW, a perinatal mental health specialist from Perinatal Wellness. Together, they explore how postpartum and pregnancy OCD show up, why intrusive thoughts feel so convincing during this stage of life, and how parents can tell the difference between normal worry and an OCD-driven threat response. Betty breaks down: • What intrusive thoughts in pregnancy and postpartum actually look like • How perinatal OCD disguises itself as “being a good parent” • The difference between normal protective instincts and OCD-driven urgency • Why reassurance-seeking, checking, and mental reviewing fuel the cycle If you’re pregnant, postpartum, trying to conceive, or supporting someone who is — and struggling with frightening thoughts that don’t match who you are — this episode offers clarity, normalization, and hope. You are not broken, dangerous, or failing as a parent. And help is available. 📲 About Betty Flores (guest): • Certified in Perinatal Mental Health | EMDR | ERP • Perinatal OCD/Anxiety, Reproductive Trauma, Grief & Loss • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perinatal_wellness/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Normal Protective Instinct or OCD? Why This Question Confuses Almost Every Parent [02:32] – The “What If” Spiral: Intrusive Thoughts in Pregnancy & Postpartum Explained [05:02] – Why Mental Compulsions Are Harder to Spot Than Physical Ones [05:52] – “If I Say This, Will I Be Reported?” Why Parents Stay Silent About Intrusive Thoughts [07:42] – Do These Thoughts Mean I Want to Harm My Baby? How to Tell the Difference [09:45] – What OBs, Midwives, and Doctors Often Get Wrong About Perinatal OCD [11:00] – Why Perinatal OCD Is So Often Misdiagnosed as “Just Anxiety” [12:26] – Does Perinatal OCD Ever Go Away? What Actually Helps [14:02] – ERP in Pregnancy & Postpartum: Why It Works (And Why People Fear It) [14:34] – Final Takeaway: You’re Not Dangerous — You’re Stuck in an OCD Loop ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords postpartum OCD perinatal OCD intrusive thoughts postpartum pregnancy anxiety vs OCD ERP for postpartum OCD intrusive thoughts about baby maternal mental health © OCD Whisperer

💔Can OCD convince you that you’re incapable of love? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Zack Tucker, OCD advocate and creator of OCDestigmatize. Together, they explore relationship OCD, health anxiety, shame, and what real recovery actually looks like when OCD never fully disappears—but stops controlling your life. Zack opens up about: • Relationship OCD and the fear of “not really loving” partners • How intrusive thoughts destroyed past relationships and self-esteem • Promiscuity, avoidance, and using control to cope with emotional pain • ERP, exposure, and redefining what recovery truly means • Living with OCD long-term while still building love, confidence, and meaning Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, perspective, and reassurance that you can live fully—even with uncertainty. 📲 About Zack Tucker (guest): • popular mental health Instagram page owner • OCD survivor • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdestigmatize/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Meet Zach & Why He Started Speaking Publicly About OCD [01:22] – Relationship OCD: Believing You’re Incapable of Love [02:42] – How OCD Destroys Relationships Without Anyone Seeing It [04:22] – Real Doubt vs OCD Doubt: Why Relationship OCD Feels So Convincing [05:57] – The First Breakup That Wasn’t Caused by OCD [08:17] – What Recovery Actually Looks Like (Thoughts Still Exist) [10:12] – From POCD to Health OCD: When Themes Shift but Fear Stays [12:12] – Living With Real Risk: Health OCD, Rabies, and Uncertainty [15:32] – Vietnam as Exposure Therapy: Facing Every Fear at Once [17:42] – Why Recovery Isn’t Cold Turkey (And Why Self-Compassion Matters) [20:07] – Ending Shame by Putting OCD on the Internet [22:02] – What He’d Tell His Younger Self About OCD and Recovery ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords relationship OCD OCD recovery intrusive thoughts ERP therapy for OCD health anxiety OCD living with OCD managing OCD long-term OCD and relationships © OCD Whisperer

🧠Can social media trigger your OCD without you even realizing it? In this solo episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova explores how social media interacts with OCD, compulsions, and obsessive thoughts. She shares strategies for scrolling with intention, not on autopilot, and how to reclaim control over your digital habits. Kristina opens up about: • How a quick scroll can spark OCD spirals and leave you feeling anxious or empty • The sneaky ways social media hijacks compulsions and triggers obsessions • Why intention-focused use is more effective than avoidance • Simple, actionable steps to reclaim control over your scrolling habits Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers practical strategies, awareness tools, and encouragement to transform your social media use into a value-driven practice. 💪Listener Challenge: Before bed tonight, pause and screenshot your home screen. Circle the app you reach for first when you feel triggered and post it (or save privately). Then write: “I’m choosing intention — not autopilot.” Let’s show social media who’s really in charge. 📲 About Krista Reed (guest): • OCD/BDD/BFRB Specialist in KS • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristaruthreed/?hl=en • Breathe Between Battles: A Daily Reflection Journal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FSL41QCR?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&bestFormat=true ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – What happens when social media feels like a drug? [00:28] – Why can a “quick scroll” leave us anxious and empty? [02:02] – How do endless scrolling and notifications hijack our attention? [02:37] – Can heavy social media use harm our mental health? [04:04] – How does OCD interact with compulsions and comparison triggers online? [05:02] – Why does a quick glance spiral into self-critique and rumination? [07:16] – How are OCD symptoms evolving with technology? [08:09] – What’s the difference between intentional use and avoidance? [09:02] – How can we use social media with awareness and intention? [09:50] – How can small actions help reclaim control over our mind? [10:49] – Listener Challenge — you MUST try this [12:07] – How can community support help in taking back social media? 📚 Research Sources Mentioned in This Episode: • Primack et al. (2017). Social media use across multiple platforms linked to higher depressive symptoms. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4853817/ • Keles et al. (2020). Social media associated with anxiety, depression, loneliness, and lower well-being. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7785056/ • Giraldo-Luque et al. (2023). Excessive social media use connected to stress, poor sleep, and emotional distress. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10129173/ • Lin et al. (2017). Using more social media platforms predicts higher anxiety/depression. https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.pn.2017.1b16 • Hunt et al. (UPenn). Cutting social media to 30 min/day reduces anxiety, depression, loneliness. (summary) https://www.news.iastate.edu/news/cutting-back-social-media-reduces-anxiety-depression-loneliness • Dalvi-Esfahani et al. (2022). Compulsive social media use positively correlated with OCD symptoms. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9407245/ • Garcia & Thibedeau (2018). OCD symptoms increasingly include digital compulsions. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6120640/ • Frontiers Review (2022). Problematic social media use linked to OCD, ADHD, anxiety. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1106004/full ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords social media and OCD living with OCD managing compulsions mindful social media use OCD awareness strategies intentional scrolling OCD recovery tips © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Can grief and OCD completely change your sex drive, intimacy, and connection with your partner? In this powerful episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Krista Reed, licensed therapist and trauma specialist, about how grief, trauma, cortisol, and the nervous system directly affect sexuality, desire, and emotional intimacy in people with OCD. ❤️This episode explores: • Why grief and OCD can shut down desire — or make it feel overwhelming • How cortisol and chronic stress disrupt arousal and connection • The role of sex, intimacy, and orgasm in nervous system regulation • Why shame around desire is so common in OCD • How trauma stored in the body blocks emotional and sexual safety This is one of the most honest conversations we’ve had about OCD, grief, and sex — and how to begin healing at the nervous system level. 📲 About Krista Reed (guest): • OCD/BDD/BFRB Specialist in KS • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristaruthreed/?hl=en • Breathe Between Battles: A Daily Reflection Journal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FSL41QCR?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&bestFormat=true ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Why Grief and OCD Can Completely Disrupt Desire [00:42] – Lowering Cortisol: The Foundation of Emotional and Sexual Regulation [01:53] – What Chronic Stress Does to Libido and Arousal [02:39] – Journaling the Thoughts You’re Too Ashamed to Say Out Loud [03:28] – When Your Mind Is Loud but Your Body Feels Numb [05:02] – Creativity, Fantasy, and Sexual Energy as Emotional Escape [06:08] – Discipline vs Avoidance in Mental and Sexual Health [07:41] – Showing Up for Your Body Even When You Don’t Want To [08:36] – Mood Swings, Hormones, and Emotional Intimacy [09:24] – Burnout, Attraction, and Feeling Disconnected From Pleasure [10:34] – The Body’s Natural Drive for Physical Release [11:28] – Sex as Stress Relief: When It Helps and When It Becomes Escape [11:57] – The Nervous System, Orgasms, and Temporary Calm [12:32] – Shame, Desire, and Wanting Comfort at the Same Time [13:20] – Using Sex for Safety After Emotional Loss [14:43] – Physical Connection as a Shortcut to Feeling Alive [15:36] – When Pleasure Becomes Regulation, Not Destruction [16:12] – Emotional Regulation Through Touch, Not Self-Punishment [17:37] – There Is No “Wrong” Way to Feel Arousal During Grief [18:49] – Alcohol, Hookups, and Numbing Emotional Pain [19:56] – Dopamine, Sex, and the Trap of Chasing Relief [20:44] – Cultural Shame Around Grief, Desire, and Coping [22:08] – When Sex Feels Like Healing but Turns Into Avoidance [24:12] – The Line Between Connection and Self-Destruction [26:12] – OCD’s Role in Sexual Intrusive Thoughts and Guilt [26:54] – Letting Arousal Exist Without Turning It Into Compulsion [27:40] – Harm Reduction in Sex, Dating, and Emotional Coping [29:16] – Why Control Feels Safer Than Surrender [30:33] – Writing About Sex, Loss, and Shame Without Censoring Yourself [31:43] – What Sexual Self-Compassion Actually Means [32:56] – Forgiveness, Healing, and Reclaiming Desire [33:45] – Boundaries in Intimacy and Emotional Safety [34:38] – You’re Not Broken for Wanting Relief Through Your Body [35:42] – Final Reflections on Grief, OCD, Sex, and the Nervous System ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD and sex intimacy and OCD grief and sex drive trauma and desire nervous system and arousal OCD relationships sexual shame and OCD © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Can you grieve “correctly” when you have OCD? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Krista Reed, clinical social worker and specialist in OCD, BFRBs, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Together, they explore how grief, loss, and real-life emotional pain interact with OCD — and how deeply the experience can impact identity, relationships, and recovery. ❤️Krista opens up about: • The childhood loss that first ignited her OCD • How witnessing traumatic events shaped her fears • The return of old compulsions — and the arrival of new ones — after recent family deaths • The struggle of balancing caregiving, parenting, and severe OCD during her father’s hospitalization Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers compassion, insight, and the reminder that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. 📲 About Krista Reed (guest): • OCD/BDD/BFRB Specialist in KS • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristaruthreed/?hl=en • Breathe Between Battles: A Daily Reflection Journal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FSL41QCR?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_SKM3AA2QVVQ5B5MHYS9Q&bestFormat=true ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Krista’s Story: Becoming an OCD Specialist Because She Had No Choice [00:40] – Why We’re Talking: Real-Life Grief Colliding With OCD [02:19] – The Moment It All Started: A Childhood Death That Changed Everything [04:42] – Misunderstood Trauma: When a Small-Town Tragedy Sparks Lifelong OCD [07:48] – The Hospital Nightmare: Krista’s Dad Nearly Dies and OCD Explodes [08:17] – “What If I Want Him to Die?” The Darkest OCD Thoughts No One Talks About [10:39] – The Heartbreaking Moment: Her Dad Wakes Up and Doesn’t Know Who She Is [13:15] – Masking While Falling Apart: Parenting Through an OCD Spiral [14:25] – Pre-Grief, Fear, and the Reality of Being in the Unknown [15:55] – When OCD Comes Back After New Losses: Two Deaths in Two Weeks [18:22] – “Your Food Is Contaminated”: New Compulsions That Come Out of Nowhere [20:19] – Grieving Wrong? How OCD Makes You Doubt Your Own Emotions [21:30] – Conflicting Feelings: Relief, Sadness, Gratitude, and Guilt All at Once [24:20] – When Two Family Members Die but the Pain Feels Different Each Time [28:09] – Kristina’s Story: Losing Her Mom and Feeling Everything at Once [31:36] – Being Told You’re “Too Much”: The Hidden Shame of Deep Feelers [34:18] – Why People With OCD Often Feel Grief More Deeply Than Others [37:21] – The Empathy Factor: Why Some People Cry for Strangers and Feel Everything [37:39] – What Grief Really Triggers in People With OCD [39:23] – What to Do When OCD Hijacks Your Grief [39:45] – When Old Traumas Return Out of Nowhere: OCD Has No Timeline [42:01] – The 2020 Spiral: OCD Convinces Krista Her Dad Will Die Again [43:00] – Planning a Funeral That Isn’t Happening: OCD’s Wildest Curveball [43:13] – Breaking the Spell: How Krista Finally Called OCD’s Bluff [44:01] – Even Clinicians Get Stuck: Why This Disorder Is So Relentless [44:20] – Final Thoughts: Normalizing Your Grief, Your Feelings, and Your Journey ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD and grief intrusive thoughts during grief managing OCD during loss anticipatory grief OCD emotional intensity and OCD grief processing with OCD OCD recovery stories © OCD Whisperer

🧠 *Can self-compassion really help you recover from OCD?* In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Lukasz, known online as Intrusive OCD Memes. Together, they explore how humor, community, and self-awareness play a role in managing OCD, and how sharing personal experiences can help both yourself and others. Lucas opens up about: • First symptoms of OCD as a child and struggles with contamination fears • How intrusive thoughts and mental compulsions impacted his relationships • His journey toward seeking therapy after years of coping alone • Using humor and memes as a form of self-therapy and community support Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone else, this episode offers hope, insight, and tools to show that connection, humor, and community can make a real difference. 📲 About Lukasz Czajkowski (guest): • IOCDF Advocate with OCD/ROCD • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intrusiveocdmemes?igsh=dDFyOGl6eXNyNmVz • YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@intrusiveocdmemes ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Meet Lucas: The Man Behind Intrusive OCD Memes [00:40] – How a Meme Account Became a Lifeline for OCD [02:11] – Why He Waited YEARS to Get an OCD Diagnosis [04:38] – The Dark Side of Air OCD and Pandemic Struggles [06:56] – OCD Almost Destroyed His Relationship… Here’s What Happened [08:55] – Shocking OCD Symptoms From His Childhood [10:01] – Living With OCD in Poland: The Cultural Reality [12:45] – Stigma, Misunderstandings, and Why Most People Don’t Get OCD [15:34] – How Memes Are Actually Helping People With OCD [17:13] – Bringing OCD Awareness to Thousands at Work [19:33] – Mental Health Is Not Linear: Prepare for Setbacks [21:05] – Reading the Recipe vs. Making the Apple Pie: OCD Therapy Explained [22:37] – Panic in a New City: Why Environment Matters [23:53] – Self-Compassion and Patience: The Secret Weapons for OCD [25:15] – Hidden Cultural Pressures You Didn’t Know About [26:04] – You’re Not Alone: Finding Community When Struggling [27:47] – Follow Lucas Online for Memes and OCD Resources ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords self-compassion and OCD OCD recovery tools mindfulness for OCD CBT for OCD intrusive thoughts and self-kindness reducing OCD suffering Kimberley Quinlan OCD OCD Whisperer Podcast © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Can self-compassion really help you recover from OCD? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova speaks with Kimberley Quinlan, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, creator of CBT School, and author of The Self-Compassion Workbook for OCD. Together, they explore how learning to treat yourself with kindness can transform your relationship with OCD and emotional suffering. Kimberley opens up about: • Why self-compassion is not weakness or self-indulgence • How criticizing yourself actually increases stress hormones • What it means to “be a safe place” for your own emotions • Simple ways to start practicing compassion without triggering compulsions Whether you’re living with OCD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers real strategies to reduce suffering, calm your nervous system, and heal with compassion. 📲 About Kimberley Quinlan (guest): • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youranxietytoolkit/ • YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@youranxietytoolkit • CBT school: https://www.cbtschool.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] Meet Kimberley Quinlan — Therapist, Author, and OCD Expert [01:18] What “Self-Compassion for OCD” Really Means (and Why People Get It Wrong) [03:00] Why Being Kind to Yourself Isn’t Weak — It’s Actually Science [04:40] The Stress Hormone Secret: How Self-Criticism Fuels OCD Suffering [07:25] Real Compassion vs. Compulsions — The Long-Term You Strategy [08:55] Becoming a Safe Place for Yourself: Handling Guilt, Shame & Emotions [11:05] The Surprising Power of Doing Nothing With Your Emotions [13:10] Why People Struggle to Accept Themselves (Even When They “Know” How) [16:25] When OCD Tricks You Into Thinking Self-Kindness Is Dangerous [19:00] Step-by-Step: The Self-Compassion Break That Calms Intense Feelings [21:30] “You’re Not Alone” — The Humanity Behind Anxiety & Intrusive Thoughts [23:10] Gentle Self-Kindness vs. “Screw You, Anxiety!” — Finding Your Style [25:30] The Fear of Feeling Itself — Breaking the Cycle of Emotional Avoidance [28:10] The Real Goal: Becoming a Safe Space for Every Emotion [30:05] Where to Find Kimberley — “Your Anxiety Toolkit” Resources ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords self-compassion and OCD OCD recovery tools mindfulness for OCD CBT for OCD intrusive thoughts and self-kindness reducing OCD suffering Kimberley Quinlan OCD OCD Whisperer Podcast © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Do you ever feel like something is wrong — even when nothing happened? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Heather Brown, LCSW, OCD and trauma specialist. Together, they explore Just Right OCD, magical thinking, somatic anxiety, and how OCD can sometimes feel like trauma. Heather opens up about: • Her personal experience living with Just Right OCD • Sensations-based OCD: when the fear isn’t a thought, but a feeling • Magical thinking OCD & “what if something bad happens?” spirals • ERP, ACT, Brainspotting & CPT for trauma-related OCD symptoms Whether you're navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers powerful insight, tools, and hope for healing and self-trust. 📲 About Heather Brown (guest): • OCD, anxiety, trauma, & perfectionism therapy • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evoluercounseling/ • Evoluer Counseling: https://www.evoluercounseling.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] Meet Heather — The Therapist Who Actually Has OCD [00:22] “Just-Right OCD” — The Invisible OCD Nobody Talks About [01:30] When Everyday Tasks Feel Wrong — The Hidden Somatic OCD Signs [02:28] Shower Shock — When OCD Strikes Out of Nowhere [03:25] The Symptom Everyone Misses: “Nothing Happened… So WHY Do I Feel This Way?” [03:44] The OCD You Don’t See — Why So Many Cases Get Missed [04:25] It’s NOT Just Anxiety — The Quiet OCD That Hides in Your Body [04:53] When Thoughts Loop Forever — The Difference Between Worry & OCD [06:05] “If I Don’t Do This, Something Terrible Happens” — OCD’s Magic-Thinking Trap [07:00] Real Story — The Carpool Lane OCD Panic Moment [07:47] What Is Magical Thinking OCD? Explained Simply [08:52] “My Thoughts Could Cause Disaster” — Why It Feels So Real [09:21] Can OCD Cause Trauma? Shocking Truth Explained [10:10] When Trauma and OCD Join Forces — And What Actually Helps [11:04] The Brain Under Fire — How OCD Shakes Your Identity [12:20] How OCD Rewrites Your Beliefs About Yourself [13:15] Trauma Treatment + OCD Treatment — When You Need Both [14:20] ERP, ACT, Brainspotting — What REALLY Works? [15:07] The Surprising Therapy That Helps Trauma + OCD [16:35] “Is My OCD Trauma?” — How Clinicians Decide [18:27] Obsession vs Worry — How to Tell the Difference FAST [19:33] Can Treatment Work? Heather’s Recovery & Honest Answer [20:25] When OCD Comes Back — Expert Shares What She Does [21:40] OCD Explained in Kid-Language — The Monster Analogy [23:00] The Cookie Monster OCD Trick — Why Compulsions Backfire [24:06] “How Do I Even Start?” — First Step for Anyone Struggling [25:17] Where to Find Heather — Therapist Who Gets It ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords Just Right OCD Magical Thinking OCD Somatic OCD OCD and trauma OCD in children Feeling-based OCD OCD without intrusive thoughts OCD sensations ERP therapy Brainspotting OCD ACT for OCD How to treat Just Right OCD OCD parenting support OCD recovery stories © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Could Your Child’s Sudden OCD Be Something Else? Understanding PANS & PANDAS In this powerful episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Angela Henry, therapist and PANS/PANDAS specialist, and Lindsay Forsyth, a mother and advocate who has navigated this journey with her own child. Together, they shed light on how sudden-onset OCD, tics, and anxiety in children may sometimes point to something deeper — an autoimmune or inflammatory disorder known as PANS or PANDAS. Angela and Lindsay open up about: • How PANS/PANDAS can mimic OCD and anxiety — and why it’s often misdiagnosed • The emotional toll families face when doctors can’t find answers • How infection-triggered inflammation can alter behavior overnight • What every parent should know about early warning signs of PANS/PANDAS Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or clinician, this episode offers clarity, validation, and practical tools to navigate the confusing intersection of OCD, PANS, and PANDAS. 📲 About Angela Henry (guest): • Certified EMDR Therapist • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctr_for_collaborative_healing/ • Webpage: https://angelahenrylcsw.com/ 📲 About Lindsey Forsyth (guest): • Mom of 2 kids with PANS/PANDAS. • Pandas network: https://pandasnetwork.org/ • PANS PANDAS Advocacy, Community & Support Aspire • Neuro Immune: https://neuroimmune.org/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] Welcome — Meet Lindsay, Angela, and Kristina [01:05] PANS & PANDAS Revealed — How Your Child’s Brain Can Turn Against Them Overnight [01:50] The Infection Trigger — Strep, Viruses, and Environmental Factors That Can Hijack a Child’s Mind [02:57] Recognizing Abrupt Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Kids [03:24] PANS vs PANDAS — The Shocking Differences You Need to Know [03:42] “Something’s Not Right” — How Parents Can Spot the Early Warning Signs [05:05] Lindsey’s Story — From Meltdowns to Mystery Illness [07:48] The Specialists Who Saved Our Child [09:12] Lifelines for Parents [10:02] Why Your Child Can Suddenly Regress Without Warning [10:45] Tracking the Chaos — Growth Charts, OCD Scores, and Why Labs Don’t Always Show the Truth [11:06] The Hidden Diagnosis — Blood Work Says “Normal” but Your Child Isn’t [12:27] Advocacy 101 — How to Get Answers When Doctors Don’t Have Them [14:13] How to Make Sure Your Pediatrician Takes You Seriously [15:53] Therapy That Helps — How to Support Children [17:54] Not Just Bad Behavior — Why Your Child Isn’t Misbehaving [20:09] Supporting the Whole Family [22:00] Covert OCD Revealed — When Your Child’s Obsessions Don’t Look Like OCD [23:47] Why ERP Can Backfire During a Flare [25:12] Pediatric OCD Exposed — Obsessions, Separation Anxiety, and the Hidden Signs [27:44] Heavy-Hitter Symptoms — Emotional Outbursts, Bedwetting, ADHD... [29:03] Are Some Kids Genetically Predisposed? [30:26] Could Family History Play a Role? [31:17] Step-by-Step Guidance — Therapy [32:24] Get Help Now —How to Contact Lindsay and Access Real-World Resources [33:32] Therapist Support & Networks — Angela’s Consultation Groups for Families and Professionals [35:09] Closing Words — Hope, Awareness, and Why You’re Not Alone ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • PANS and PANDAS OCD • sudden onset OCD in children • pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders • OCD vs PANS • children’s mental health • autoimmune inflammation and OCD • OCD parenting support • anxiety in kids © OCD Whisperer

Is everything you’ve been told about OCD wrong? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova sits down with Elysse Lescarbeau, writer, advocate, and author of OCD Exposed: 10 Myths and Misconceptions About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Together, they uncover the hidden sides of OCD—from misunderstood symptoms to the powerful truth about recovery. Elysse opens up about: • Being misdiagnosed and discovering OCD later in life • Living with mental compulsions and invisible obsessions • The breaking point that led to her diagnosis and healing • How ERP, ACT, and ICBT changed her life and mindset This honest conversation dives into: • The biggest myths and misconceptions about OCD • The hidden forms of OCD most people never see • How OCD recovery rewires your brain and restores hope • Real stories of survival, recovery, and empowerment Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers hope, clarity, and practical tools for real recovery. 📲 About Elysse Lescarbaugh (guest): Certified life coach + future therapist OCD & Anxiety Survivor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocd.or.just.me Webpage: https://www.ocdorjustme.com/ ✂️ TIMESTAMPS [00:00] “I Thought My Brain Was Broken” — Meet Elysse, Who Discovered OCD at 29 [00:57] The Childhood Moment That Changed Everything: Protecting Her Little Brother Became an Obsession [01:45] Silent Struggles: Living Decades with OCD No One Could See [02:30] The Breaking Point: When Compulsions Suddenly Stopped Working in Europe [03:15] “I Don’t Want to Live Anymore” — The Night She Finally Asked for Help [03:45] The Doctor Who Changed Her Life With One Sentence: “Have You Ever Considered OCD?” [04:30] The Power of Honesty: How One Conversation Opened the Door to Recovery [05:15] From Despair to Diagnosis — The Moment Everything Made Sense [05:50] Why OCD Isn’t About Cleaning or Order — The Biggest Myth Everyone Believes [06:45] How the Media Got OCD All Wrong (and Why It Still Hurts Real People) [07:30] The Hidden Type of OCD No One Talks About: Mental Compulsions & Rumination [08:40] The Book That’s Changing the Conversation — OCD Exposed: 10 Myths & Misconceptions [09:35] Why OCD Doesn’t Define Who You Are — And How to See It Clearly [10:14] The Human Side of OCD: Real Survivor Stories from Around the World [11:00] The Truth About OCD Recovery: It’s Not Easy, But It’s Possible [11:50] What OCD Really Feels Like — Beyond the Stereotypes and Statistics [12:40] The Science of Recovery: How ERP, ACT & ICBT Rewire the Brain [13:30] “I Still Get Intrusive Thoughts… But They Don’t Control Me Anymore.” [14:40] OCD and the Brain: Why It’s Not a Personality Flaw, But a Biological Cycle [15:55] Breaking the Cycle: What Actually Helps the Brain Heal from OCD [17:00] Freedom Over Fear: How to Live Fully Even When OCD Shows Up [18:15] Why Recovery Isn’t About Getting Rid of OCD — It’s About Taking Your Life Back [19:20] Applying OCD Tools to Everyday Life — From Therapy to Surfing in Hawaii [20:25] How OCD Recovery Teaches You to Live Stronger, Freer, and More Present [21:15] How ERP Helped Kristina Heal Her Own Grief After Losing Her Mom [22:45] The Real Secret: Empowerment Through Discomfort and Acceptance [23:30] “I’ve Never Felt More Empowered Than in My OCD Recovery.” — Elysse’s Message of Hope [24:20] Where to Find Elysse, Her Book OCD Exposed, and Why This Story Matters ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • OCD myths and misconceptions • OCD recovery stories • Intrusive thoughts and mental compulsions • ERP and ACT therapy • ICBT for OCD • Living with OCD • How to recover from OCD • OCD Awareness Week © OCD Whisperer

What happens when your mind turns against you — and fills you with thoughts you can’t control? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Maurice, creator of the Obsessless app — a powerful new tool designed to support people living with OCD. Maurice opens up about his terrifying first intrusive thoughts, years of misdiagnosis, and how ERP therapy and mindset work helped him turn pain into purpose. Together, we explore: • The hidden side of OCD most people never see • How intrusive thoughts can completely take over your life • What it really takes to heal when therapy isn’t immediately available • The creation of Obsessless — and why tech could change OCD recovery forever Whether you’re currently navigating OCD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers raw truth, hope, and tools for reclaiming your mind. 📲 About Mourice Schuurmans (guest): Co-founder of ObsessLess OCD Survivor & Advocate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obsessless_mourice/ ObsessLess App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/obsessless-ocd-treatment-app/id6742539895 ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] From Suffering to Solution: Meet Maurice, Creator of Obsessless [00:57] “Something’s Not Right…” — The Childhood Clues Everyone Missed [01:45] 21 Years of Misdiagnosis: When OCD Hides Behind “General Anxiety” [02:30] The Date That Changed Everything: When Intrusive Thoughts Strike Out of Nowhere [03:20] “I Thought I’d Hurt Someone” — Living Through the Scariest OCD Theme [04:15] Waiting 8 Months for Help: What Happens When the System Fails You [06:45] Rock Bottom: Trapped on a Chair, Fighting Thoughts You Can’t Escape [07:30] How His Dad Accidentally Did Exposure Therapy in the Backyard [08:20] The Turning Point: Finding Mark Freeman & Discovering He Wasn’t Alone [09:00] “I Wouldn’t Wish This on My Worst Enemy” — The Real Pain of OCD [10:15] ERP Therapy Explained: What Actually Helped Him Heal [11:06] Why EMDR Isn’t for OCD (and What Is) [11:48] The Harsh Truth: Why OCD Recovery Takes Time (and Why That’s Okay) [13:30] How to Stop Being Afraid of Your Own Thoughts [15:42] The Secret to Living Peacefully With Intrusive Thoughts [16:40] “I Still Get the Thoughts… I Just Don’t Care Anymore.” [18:10] From Patient to Creator: How Obsessless Was Born [19:22] Inside the App: The SOS Feature That Saves People in Crisis [20:43] Meet OLLIE — The AI OCD Companion That Won’t Reassure You [22:22] “We’re Lowering the Barrier to OCD Treatment.” — Maurice’s Mission [22:55] Where to Find Maurice & The Obsessless App ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • OCD intrusive thoughts • ERP therapy for OCD • OCD recovery story • Obsessless app • overcoming harm OCD • mindfulness for OCD • Kristina Orlova OCD Whisperer © OCD Whisperer

Have you ever felt ashamed of a habit you couldn’t control? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Aneela Idnani, co-founder of HabitAware and mental health advocate. Aneela opens up about living with trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder), how shame kept her silent for decades, and how awareness and acceptance transformed her recovery journey. Aneela shares: • Her early experiences with hair pulling and intrusive thoughts • The hidden shame and secrecy that fueled her struggle for 20+ years • How pregnancy and stress intensified her compulsions • The turning point—finally opening up to her husband and seeking help • How HabitAware’s Keen Smart Bracelet helps build awareness and break the cycle This conversation also dives into: • Why awareness is the first step to any lasting change • The role of self-care, mindfulness, and acceptance in recovery • How shifting perspective can turn struggle into strength • The importance of removing shame and embracing your full self Whether you’re navigating OCD, BFRBs (Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors), or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, tools, and strategies for healing. 📲About Aneela Idnani (guest): Co-founder of HabitAware Long-time lived experience: pulled hair since adolescence; integrated intrusive thoughts and self-soothing behaviors into her journey HabitAware: habitaware.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aneelaidnani ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:30] Aneela’s Untold Story [01:39] When Hair Pulling First Began—and Why No One Saw It [03:46] Living in Silence: The Hidden Shame No One Talks About [06:11] The Moment Everything Changed—Her Husband Finds Out [07:33] From Struggle to Solution: How HabitAware Was Born [11:01] The Game-Changer: Turning Awareness Into Freedom [14:18] ADHD, Intrusive Thoughts & The Spiral of Self-Criticism [15:55] Shutting Down the Inner Bully: Mindfulness That Works [20:47] From Self-Hate to Self-Grace: Reframing the Struggle [24:43] Losing It All, Finding Meaning: Processing Grief Differently [26:47] Want to Heal? Here’s How to Reach Aneela & HabitAware ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • trichotillomania recovery • hair pulling disorder help • body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) • OCD and shame • awareness in OCD recovery • HabitAware Keen Smart Bracelet • living with OCD and BFRBs © OCD Whisperer

What is Response Prevention and why is it the most important part of ERP? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with therapist Natalia Aiza. Together, they explore Response Prevention (the RP in ERP therapy)—why it’s the most crucial step in breaking free from OCD cycles, and how to actually apply it in daily life. Natalia opens up about: • Why exposures without response prevention don’t work • The difference between physical vs. mental compulsions • Tools for handling rumination, avoidance, and reassurance-seeking • How “good enough” ERP (not perfection) helps real people recover This conversation also dives into: • How to identify sneaky mental rituals disguised as “thinking” • Why delaying compulsions builds brain flexibility • The power of uncertainty, creativity, and new discoveries in recovery Whether you’re struggling with OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and hope to guide your recovery journey. 📲 Natalia Aiza (guest): LPC, Founder of Kairos, specializes in OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and parent coaching for all ages. OCD Colorado: https://www.kairoswellnesscollective.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalk.ocd ✂️TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Welcome back + today’s focus on Response Prevention [01:07] – What is response prevention in ERP? [01:45] – Mental vs. physical compulsions [03:19] – Building a response prevention “ladder” [04:17] – Identifying mental rituals as compulsions [05:50] – Why belief in compulsions makes ERP harder [07:01] – Rumination-focused ERP & breaking mental loops [08:57] – Mental distortions + using CBT to challenge analysis [10:47] – Sitting with not knowing vs. “maybe, maybe not” [13:10] – Distress tolerance + uncertainty in recovery [15:52] – Opposite action vs. “good enough” ERP [17:37] – When OCD flares up again: going back to basics [19:21] – Why response prevention matters long-term [21:29] – Designing RP: adaptive vs. compulsive behaviors [22:29] – Reality anchoring: using trusted people as baselines [23:50] – Creative RP examples & individualizing ERP ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • response prevention OCD • ERP therapy explained • mental compulsions OCD • breaking OCD cycles • rumination and OCD • uncertainty in OCD recovery © OCD Whisperer

What if the story that makes you feel most ashamed… is the exact story you need to face? This episode includes some words that platform may flag as problematic. We have muted them to prevent issues with the platform. These edits are purely for compliance and do not change the meaning or therapeutic purpose of the script. In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova continues her conversation with clinical director Natalia Aiza in part three of the ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) series. Together, they explore live exposures — the practice of confronting OCD fears in real time instead of avoiding them. Natalia shares her journey of: • Facing intrusive fears head-on with live ERP • Learning to trust herself again after doubting her safety around loved ones • Why “breaking OCD’s rules” is key to recovery • What it really feels like to sit in the discomfort and not perform compulsions This episode also dives into: • Why ERP feels counterintuitive — but works • How OCD uses secrecy and avoidance to stay powerful • The role of courage and compassion in confronting fears • Why recovery means learning to live with uncertainty Whether you’re struggling with OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and hope to guide your recovery journey. 📲 Natalia Aiza (guest): LPC, Founder of Kairos, specializes in OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and parent coaching for all ages. OCD Colorado: https://www.kairoswellnesscollective.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalk.ocd ✂️TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Welcome & Introduction [01:30] – Why ERP gets “fun & creative” outside the therapy room [02:35] – Pe*ophilia OCD & Harm OCD: You’re NOT who OCD says you are [03:05] – Babysitting kids as exposure?! Saying yes instead of no [04:00] – Why “belief” matters before facing taboo fears [05:30] – Parents avoiding their own children: breaking the cycle fast [06:15] – Intentional vs. organic exposures: what’s the difference? [07:00] – Life throws exposures at you daily — here’s how to use them [07:30] – Breaking OCD rules & sitting in raw discomfort [08:30] – Her scariest thought: “What if I throw my kids out the window?” [09:30] – Why your body reacts & what habituation really means [10:45] – Urge surfing: riding the wave without compulsions [12:30] – Facing identity & sexual orientation OCD with exposures [14:20] – Justice-based ERP: tailoring therapy without harm [16:30] – Faith & ERP: therapy that respects your religion [19:00] – The #1 job of ERP: teach the brain what’s truly safe [19:50] – Where to find Natalia & episode wrap-up ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords • OCD live exposures • ERP therapy for OCD • intrusive thoughts recovery • OCD treatment strategies • facing fears in OCD • Kristina Orlova OCD Whisperer © OCD Whisperer

What if the scariest story your mind tells… could actually set you free? *This episode includes a live imaginal script. Some words that algorithm may flag as problematic have been muted to prevent issues with the platform. These edits are purely for compliance and do not change the meaning or therapeutic purpose of the script.* In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova sits down with Natalia for part two of a four-part series on ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). Together, they dive into the misunderstood practice of imaginal exposures — a therapeutic tool that helps people face OCD’s darkest fears on paper, reclaim power from intrusive thoughts, and build true resilience. Natalia opens up about: • Writing an imaginal script around her most feared intrusive thoughts • How OCD convinced her she could be a danger to her own children • Why telling the “fear story” in detail reduced its power • What it feels like to desensitize through repetition This conversation also dives into: • Why OCD thrives on avoidance and secrecy • How imaginal exposures flip the power dynamic over intrusive thoughts • The role of compassion and creativity in ERP therapy Whether you are navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers clarity, tools, and hope to help you understand ERP and take the first step toward recovery. 📲 Natalia Aiza (guest): LPC, Founbder of Kairos, specializes in OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and parent coaching for all ages. OCD Colorado: https://www.kairoswellnesscollective.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalk.ocd ✂️TIMESTAMPS: [00:30] – Introduction to ERP Series & Guest Natalia [01:05] – What is ERP? Understanding the basics [02:35] – Why would anyone face their fears? [05:40] – Misconceptions: Is ERP “torture”? [07:57] – How ERP is structured step by step [09:23] – Willingness vs distress levels: where to begin [11:30] – Helping clients move past fear and resistance [14:08] – Different approaches & therapist styles in ERP [17:08] – Starting with the least threatening exposures [18:21] – Distress tolerance vs compulsions: key nuance [20:09] – Examples of distress tolerance exercises [21:32] – Flexibility in ERP: adapting to clients’ needs [23:45] – Getting into the right mindset for ERP [25:04] – How long does ERP take to start showing relief? [28:20] – Closing reflections & key ERP takeaways ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords OCD imaginal exposures ERP therapy for OCD intrusive thoughts recovery OCD treatment strategies facing taboo fears in OCD Kristina Orlova OCD Whisperer © OCD Whisperer

Can ERP really help you face your biggest fears? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Natalia, a therapist specializing in OCD treatment. Together, they explore the foundations of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy and why it is considered first line treatment for OCD. Natalia opens up about: The basics of ERP and how it actually works in practice Why people fear ERP and worry it will feel “torturous” How therapists can guide clients step by step without overwhelming them Strategies for building confidence and willingness in the recovery journey This conversation also dives into: Common misconceptions about ERP and OCD treatment The importance of flexibility, creativity, and pacing in therapy How ERP is not about “beating you down” but about empowering lasting change Whether you are navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers clarity, tools, and hope to help you understand ERP and take the first step toward recovery. 📲 Natalia Aiza (guest): LPC, Founbder of Kairos, specializes in OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and parent coaching for all ages. OCD Colorado: https://www.kairoswellnesscollective.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalk.ocd ✂️TIMESTAMPS: [00:30] – Introduction to ERP Series & Guest Natalia [01:05] – What is ERP? Understanding the basics [02:35] – Why would anyone face their fears? [05:40] – Misconceptions: Is ERP “torture”? [07:57] – How ERP is structured step by step [09:23] – Willingness vs distress levels: where to begin [11:30] – Helping clients move past fear and resistance [14:08] – Different approaches & therapist styles in ERP [17:08] – Starting with the least threatening exposures [18:21] – Distress tolerance vs compulsions: key nuance [20:09] – Examples of distress tolerance exercises [21:32] – Flexibility in ERP: adapting to clients’ needs [23:45] – Getting into the right mindset for ERP [25:04] – How long does ERP take to start showing relief? [28:20] – Closing reflections & key ERP takeaways ✅ Free Resources & Links 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/ ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/ 📲 Stay Connected Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults Website: www.korresults.com/ 📩 Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! My channel covers OCD recovery, intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT, anxiety management, and mindfulness tools. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. 🔑 SEO Keywords ERP therapy for OCD OCD recovery tools OCD treatment explained exposure and response prevention managing intrusive thoughts facing OCD fears OCD therapist tips © OCD Whisperer

What does it mean to succeed while living with OCD? In this episode, Kristina Orlova sits down with Scott Stirret, founder and CEO of Venture for Canada and author of The Uncertainty Advantage, to explore how OCD and uncertainty intersect with ambition, business, and personal growth. Scott opens up about his diagnosis during the pandemic, how OCD shaped his thoughts and rituals long before he had a name for it, and why getting evidence-based treatment through ERP was life-changing. He also shares candidly about setbacks, recovery, and what it means to manage OCD as a lifelong condition. Together, Kristina and Scott unpack the sneaky ways OCD shows up, the power of mindfulness and self-compassion, and how embracing uncertainty can actually become a strength rather than a fear. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers hope, practical strategies, and a powerful reminder that success and OCD are not mutually exclusive. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why healing from OCD is a gradual process and not about “making thoughts go away.” How mindfulness and self-compassion can help untangle mental compulsions. Practical tools Scott uses like exercise, rest, and relationships—to manage OCD while leading a successful career. In This Episode [00:01] Kristina’s welcome and introduction [00:36] Meet today’s guest, Scott [01:32] Scott’s OCD diagnosis and journey [04:08] Learning that OCD management is long-term [06:39] Writing The Uncertainty Advantage and the fear of uncertainty [08:26] Navigating OCD while building a business [09:58] How OCD manifests for Scott [11:21] Untangling mental rituals and compulsive thinking [13:22] Labeling compulsions with gentleness [14:20] Daily practices for ongoing management [16:01] Finding meaning in OCD and writing the book [18:47] Sitting with difficult feelings instead of running from them [20:44] Developing empathy through lived experience [21:13] Where to find Scott and his new book Our Guest Scott Stirret is the founder and CEO of Venture for Canada, a national charity that helps young people build entrepreneurial skills and careers. Over the past decade, the organization has raised over $80M and supported more than 10,000 youth across Canada. Scott is also the author of The Uncertainty Advantage, a book that guides early career professionals to build resilience by embracing uncertainty. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Scott Stirrett LinkedIn The Uncertainty Advantage on Amazon Substack Personal Website – with his Uncertainty Quiz Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Pregnancy and postpartum bring a unique set of challenges, especially for those struggling with OCD. How can you navigate the overwhelming changes while managing intrusive thoughts? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova, LMFT, is joined by Gina Abbondante, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP, a therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the perinatal and postpartum periods. Gina shares her expertise on how OCD manifests during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and how neurodivergent individuals can be supported through a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Together, Kristina and Gina dive into how therapies like Inference-Based CBT (ICBT) can be tailored to address the unique challenges faced by expectant and new mothers, and why holistic strategies, such as managing sleep and embracing self-compassion, are essential for long-term healing. If you’re a new or expecting parent struggling with OCD, this episode provides invaluable insights, practical tools, and an empathetic approach to managing your mental health through this transformative life stage. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: How OCD manifests uniquely during pregnancy and postpartum. Why sleep management is crucial for those managing OCD during the perinatal period. Practical ways to blend evidence-based therapies with neurodiversity-affirming practices for more holistic support. In This Episode [02:00] Gina’s background and approach to OCD treatment [04:50] OCD during pregnancy and postpartum: unique challenges [07:30] The impact of neurodivergence on OCD in new parents [10:15] How Inference-Based CBT can be used in pregnancy and postpartum [13:00] Gina’s personal experience with neurodivergence and OCD [16:00] The role of sleep and managing stress in OCD recovery [20:00] Practical tools for new parents managing OCD [24:30] Closing and final thoughts Our Guest Gina Abbondante, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP is the Founder and Clinical Director of Change of Mind Counseling, specializing in the treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders, particularly during pregnancy and postpartum. Gina is trained in various therapeutic modalities, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based CBT (ICBT), and is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, offering neurodiversity-affirming assessments for ADHD and autism. As a parent and partner to neurodivergent family members, Gina brings both personal and professional experience to her work, helping others navigate the challenges of mental health during life’s most transitional moments. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Gina Abbondante, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP Website Instagram Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

What does it feel like when your mind gets stuck on a loop, telling you again and again that you’re a bad person? That’s the reality of Pure OCD. In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova sits down with Sah D’Simone, spiritual teacher, humanitarian, and creator of the Somatic Activated Healing method, for an open and heartfelt conversation. Sah shares his journey with intrusive thoughts that made him question his worth, how growing up in a Buddhist culture shaped his experience, and how the loss of his mother made everything even more intense. Instead of letting OCD take over, he’s leaned into Buddhist wisdom, somatic healing, and service to others as powerful ways to heal. Together, Kristina and Sah unpack how OCD fuels cycles of self-obsession and why real healing often begins with learning to slow down, relax, and be present. They talk about the role of evidence-based treatments like ERP and ACT, while also highlighting holistic practices that calm the nervous system and nurture recovery. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own thoughts, this conversation offers hope, practical tools, and a fresh perspective on what healing can truly look like. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why relaxation and not constant productivity is crucial for calming an OCD brain. How Pure OCD manifests and why labels can be both freeing and limiting. Practical ways to balance evidence-based OCD treatments with Buddhist-inspired mindfulness and self-compassion. In This Episode [00:01] Introduction and guest welcome [58] Sah’s background and work [03:09] OCD and self-obsession [04:03] Sah’s personal OCD story [04:54] Pure OCD and identity [07:16] Cultural and religious influences [09:04] OCD manifestations and coping [09:53] Kristina’s OCD experience [10:45] The internal experience of OCD [12:51] Relaxation and cultural challenges [15:21] The importance of true relaxation [16:18] Blending Buddhist wisdom with evidence-based OCD therapies [17:57] Mind wandering and savoring the moment [18:57] Closing and farewell Our Guest Sah D’Simone is a spiritual teacher, grief educator, humanitarian, and creator of the Somatic Activated Healing Method, which blends Buddhist teachings, dance, and social justice. With a mission to bring love where love is not, Sah has dedicated his life to both personal transformation and global humanitarian service, supporting communities from Los Angeles to Nepal and India. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Sah D’Simone Website Instagram Somatic Activated Healing Online Membership, which comes with a 7-day free trial Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) the only way to treat OCD? What if there’s another evidence-based approach that works differently and might even feel more intuitive to some? In this episode of the OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova brings together a panel of seasoned OCD clinicians: Mike Heady, Christina Ennabe, Mike Parker, Carl Robbins, and Bronwyn Shroyer. Together, they unpack the essentials of Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ICBT) and how it compares to ERP. They bust common myths like whether ICBT is just arguing with your thoughts and explain how it helps people move out of imagined fears and back into reality. They also dive into when ERP might still be helpful, how ICBT handles doubt differently, and what the research says about its effectiveness. Whether you're new to ICBT or trying to figure out which approach fits you best, this conversation brings depth, clarity, and a refreshing perspective on OCD treatment. The 4 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why mixing ICBT and ERP can be confusing if you don’t fully understand both How ICBT focuses on obsessional doubt rather than just intrusive thoughts What “reality sensing” really means and why it’s not the same as doing exposures What the research says about ICBT’s effectiveness and how it compares to ERP In This Episode [00:31] Meet the panelists [03:56] Can CBT and IBT/ICT be used together? [07:29] Is CBT arguing with OCD? [11:09] Doubt vs. intrusion in OCD [17:49] Reality sensing vs. exposure [20:40] Normal vs. obsessional doubt [24:30] Reassurance in therapy [26:22] Research and evidence for IBT/ICT [36:07] Core fears and feared possible self [37:34] Closing remarks and resources Guests Featured Mike Heady, Co-owner and co-director of the Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute (ASDI), co- chair for ICBT SIG at IOCDF Carl Robbins, Director of Training at ASDI and veteran OCD clinician Christina Ennabe, Licensed therapist specializing in OCD and trauma, Board Member OCD New Hampshire Mike Parker, Private practice owner focused on OCD using ICBT, ERP, and ACT. Host of the YouTube channel, OCD Space Bronwyn Shroyer, LCSW, ICBT trainer, and co-founder of OCD Training School, co- chair for ICBT SIG at IOCDF Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Christina Ennabe Website LinkedIn https://www.christinaennabe.com/icbt-course-ocd-escaping-rabbit-hole Mike Heady Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute LinkedIn Mike Parker Website LinkedIn https://www.icbttrainingonline.com Carl Robbins Website LinkedIn Bronwyn Shroyer Website LinkedIn OCD Training School Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

What if the most powerful way to help your anxious child isn’t to fix them—but to change you? In this episode of the OCD Whisperer podcast, host Kristina Orlova welcomes licensed therapist and anxiety expert Robyn Isman to discuss the SPACE protocol (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). Robyn, certified in SPACE, explains how this evidence-based approach helps reduce childhood anxiety by focusing solely on parents' behaviors rather than direct child intervention. She breaks down the SPACE framework, emphasizing how parental accommodations—such as avoiding triggers or providing excessive reassurance—unintentionally reinforce anxiety cycles. Robyn highlights key steps in SPACE, including educating parents about anxiety as an interpersonal dynamic, identifying accommodations, and creating targeted plans to reduce them. She stresses the importance of "supportive language," which validates a child's fears while expressing confidence in their ability to cope. The conversation also tackles common challenges, such as managing meltdowns during the process and reframing accommodation reduction as an act of love. Robyn shares inspiring success stories and teases her upcoming membership program for parents seeking guidance. Listeners will gain practical insights into fostering resilience in anxious children by stepping back—with compassion—to let them grow.. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why reducing accommodations—not increasing them—is key to helping your anxious child. How to shift from "fixing your kid" to examining your own role in the anxiety cycle. Actionable tools from the SPACE method: mapping accommodations, supportive language, stress testing, and more. In This Episode [00:00] Introduction and free OCD resources [00:45] Meet Robyn Iseman, SPACE-certified therapist [01:10] What is the SPACE method and how does it work? [02:20] Understanding anxiety as interpersonal [04:30] Parental accommodations: what they are and why they matter [07:50] Mapping accommodations and setting target behaviors [10:20] How to handle meltdowns and anger using SPACE [14:00] Emotional regulation—for parents [17:50] How to respond when your child gets upset [20:30] Supportive language and delayed response techniques [23:30] Creating distance from anxiety through externalization [25:50] Addressing safety, stress-testing, and tapping out as parents [28:45] The power of the “announcement” and doing this with love [33:00] Real-life results: How SPACE transforms family dynamics [35:11] Robyn’s upcoming membership and where to find her Our Guest Robyn Isman is a licensed therapist and anxiety expert certified in the SPACE method, with over a decade of experience working with children, teens, and families. Through her private practice and upcoming membership platform, Robyn equips parents with tools to confidently support their anxious children—without reinforcing the anxiety itself. She offers education, strategy, and compassion in equal measure. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Robyn Isman Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Parenting The Anxious Child Membership Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Have you ever caught yourself picking at your skin, biting your nails, or pulling out a hair—then wondered why you can’t seem to stop? You’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova sits down with Juliet Gustafson , a Michigan-based OCD therapist and professor, to explore the often-misunderstood world of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)—like hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking, and nail biting. Far from mere "bad habits," these behaviors are complex disorders tied to emotions, sensory triggers, and even biology. Juliette breaks down the five key drivers behind BFRBs: sensory satisfaction, cognitive patterns, emotional states, motor habits, and environmental cues. You'll learn how to distinguish between occasional grooming and compulsive behaviors, discover practical strategies for intervention (like replacement movements and awareness tools), and explore compassionate approaches to self-management. The episode also highlights vital resources, including the TLC Foundation, HabitAware’s smart bracelets, and supportive communities like BFRB Changemakers. Whether you’re struggling with BFRBs or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and actionable steps to reclaim control—plus a reminder: healing is possible. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why BFRBs are more than habits—they’re coping mechanisms. How to identify your personal triggers and replace harmful behaviors. Where to find support, tools, and expert-backed solutions. In This Episode [00:00] Introduction [00:45] Juliette’s academic and professional background [01:12] Defining body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) [02:22] Recognizing BFRBs and their impact [03:28] Identifying and understanding BFRBs in yourself [04:19] Managing and exploring BFRBs [05:29] Functions and triggers of BFRBs [09:04] Replacing and modifying BFRB habits [10:58] Awareness and control in BFRBs [12:54] Intervening and self-compassion [13:44] Tools and resources for BFRBs [15:20] Additional BFRB resources and communities [17:27] Encouragement and self-kindness [18:28] The Fidget Podcast and more resources [18:28] OCD representation in media [19:23] Closing and podcast outro Our Guest Juliet Gustafson is a licensed OCD therapist based in Michigan, a part-time professor at Wayne State University’s School of Social Work, and co-host of the Intrusive Plots podcast, which explores OCD representation in film and TV. With a deep passion for helping people better understand and manage OCD and related conditions, Juliette brings both clinical expertise and lived experience into her work. Through therapy, advocacy, and education, she’s helping break the stigma around misunderstood struggles like BFRBs. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Juliet Gustafson Website LinkedIn Instagram Patreon Community Podcast Mentioned Cognitive Therapy for OCD Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe TLC Foundation for BFRBs Picking Me Foundation BFRB Changemakers HabitAware & Keen Bracelet The Fidget Podcast with Jason Yu Film (Exposure, Director: Peter Cannon)

Did you know OCD is like an overprotective friend—one that targets what you love most? It sounds strange, doesn’t it? In this episode of the OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova is joined by Dr. Thomas Ballas, a clinical psychologist specializing in OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma. Dr. Ballas provides therapy via telehealth across 42 states and brings a practical, evidence-based perspective to the discussion. Together, they explore the concept of theme shifting in OCD—how intrusive thoughts often jump from one obsession to another—and why ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) remains effective even as themes evolve. The conversation also covers Relationship OCD, highlighting ways to differentiate between genuine relationship concerns and OCD-driven doubt. The episode concludes with a discussion on rebuilding self-trust and confidence after years of navigating OCD. If you've ever found yourself second-guessing your thoughts, your feelings, or even your relationships, this conversation offers clarity, practical tools, and a fresh way to understand what’s really going on. Let’s jump into it! The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: Why OCD themes change and how to apply ERP no matter what your brain latches onto What differentiates real relationship concerns from Relationship OCD and how to tell the difference How to build mood-independent confidence and make values-based decisions despite doubt In This Episode [00:32] Introduction to Dr Thomas Ballas [01:23] What OCD theme shifting is and why it happens [02:01] Why OCD attacks what we value most [03:29] The internal false alarm system and shifting fear [05:07] How to apply ERP even when themes change [06:11] Noticing the same patterns behind different thoughts [07:05] Navigating taboo and emotionally charged OCD themes [08:19] “But this time it feels different” – how to manage doubts that seem real [09:23] Diving into Relationship OCD and distinguishing it from real concerns [11:14] Real dysfunction vs. OCD-fueled rumination [13:07] Self-doubt, shame, and the role of mood-independent choices [14:25] Confidence, compassion, and choosing values-based actions [15:28] Where to find Dr. Thomas Ballas online Our Guest Dr. Thomas Ballas is a clinical psychologist based in New York and New Jersey, specializing in OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma. Through telehealth, he serves clients in over 42 states. His approach emphasizes evidence-based techniques like ERP and values-driven recovery. Dr. Ballas is passionate about helping people regain self-trust and build resilience on their journey with OCD. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Dr. Thomas Ballas Website Instagram LinkedIn Mentioned Cognitive Therapy for OCD Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

In this powerful and candid episode of the OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova sits down with Hussain, the founder of The Struggling Warrior, a platform dedicated to raising awareness and educating people about OCD. With over a decade of personal experience, Hussain shares his journey from the onset of his OCD at a young age to his eventual path to therapy and recovery. Hussain opens up about the challenges of dealing with intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and the isolation that came with his OCD. He discusses his struggles through college, how his OCD affected his academic life, and the turning point when he finally reached out for help. In this conversation, Kristina and Hussain explore how therapy, ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), and medication ultimately helped him regain control of his life. Additionally, Hussain shares his passion for supporting others living with OCD and his mission behind creating his platform and writing his book, Listen Up: OCD is Talking. He discusses his book's unique approach, personalizing OCD, and offering readers insights into how OCD functions, its tricks, and ways to challenge it. Whether you're on your own OCD journey or seeking inspiration and guidance, this episode offers hope, vulnerability, and practical advice. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: How OCD can evolve and worsen over time, and the importance of seeking help before hitting rock bottom Why finding the right therapist is crucial for recovery and the impact of a supportive, understanding relationship Hussain’s innovative approach to understanding OCD through his book Listen Up: OCD is Talking and his Unbound OCD Toolkit In This Episode [00:03] Introduction and guest introduction [01:08] Hussain’s early experiences with OCD and intrusive thoughts [03:42] The development of compulsive behaviors and the impact on his school life [06:07] Hitting rock bottom during college and the decision to reach out for help [08:21] The turning point: reaching out to his family and seeking therapy [09:24] The struggles with stigma and the mental health system [12:05] Medication changes and how his OCD evolved [14:52] Finding the right therapist and the introduction of ERP [16:22] How Hussain’s book and resources aim to help others living with OCD [20:47] Conclusion and how to reach out to Hussain and access his resources Our Guest Hussain is the founder of The Struggling Warrior, a platform aimed at educating and raising awareness about OCD. With over a decade of personal experience, he is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and offering practical tools for managing OCD. Hussain is also the author of Listen Up: OCD is Talking and the creator of the Unbound OCD Toolkit. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Hussain Al Abdullah Website Listen Up: OCD is Talking Unbound OCD Toolkit Instagram LinkedIn Mentioned Cognitive Therapy for OCD Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

In this deeply personal and enlightening episode of the OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova sits down with Crystal Propes—a wife, mother of three, and passionate mental health advocate. Crystal shares her lifelong experience with emetophobia (fear of vomiting), OCD, ADHD, and PTSD, offering a raw and honest look at what it’s like to live with intersecting conditions—and how healing is possible. Crystal opens up about the early onset of emetophobia and how it later intertwined with health and contamination OCD, particularly as a mother. She walks us through the long road to diagnosis, the gap between recognizing OCD and finally seeking help, and the breakthrough she experienced using Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT). You’ll hear about how CBT modules, especially those on reality sensing and alternative narratives, helped her stop ruminating and reconnect with the present. Kristina and Crystal also dive into the nuanced differences between OCD and ADHD, offering clarity and validation for listeners who might be navigating both. Whether you’re exploring treatment options, parenting with OCD, or trying to make peace with uncertainty, this episode is filled with hope, humor, and empowering insights. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: How emetophobia and OCD often intertwine—and why it can escalate during parenthood Why ERP isn’t one-size-fits-all, and how CBT reality-sensing exercises helped Crystal stop compulsive rumination The surprising differences between OCD-driven behaviors and ADHD tendencies—and how understanding both leads to self-compassion In This Episode [00:03] Introduction and guest introduction [01:08] Crystal ’s early experiences with OCD and phobia [02:04] Teenage years and OCD development [03:38] Realization and diagnosis of OCD [04:17] College years and OCD struggles [06:16] Seeking treatment and therapy journey [08:46] CBT modules and life-changing insights [12:05] Managing doubt and realistic fears [14:44] Acceptance and setting boundaries [16:28] OCD and ADHD intersection [18:32] ADHD symptoms and coping strategies [20:28] Conclusion and contact information Our Guest Crystal Props is a wife, mom of three, and passionate advocate living with OCD, emetophobia, ADHD, and PTSD. Through her candid storytelling and social media presence, she helps others feel seen in their mental health journeys, breaking stigma and offering relatable, real-life tools for navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, and parenting. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Crystal Propes Instagram Mentioned Cognitive Therapy for OCD I-CBT Training Online Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Living with OCD isn’t just about managing anxiety—it’s about reclaiming your life through your values. In this powerful episode of the OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova welcomes OCD therapist Lennon Jones, founder of Golden Hour OCD and Anxiety, to explore how personal values bring clarity, purpose, and resilience to Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. ERP, first line treatment for OCD treatment, can often feel grueling, especially when it’s reduced to simply "sitting with anxiety." Lennon shares why this approach can feel torturous without an internal compass—and how integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) shifts the focus from fear to meaning. Together, Kristina and Lennon unpack how clarifying your values (like connection, creativity, or service) can turn exposures from hollow tasks into empowering acts of self-trust. They dive into psychological flexibility, the antidote to OCD’s rigid thinking, and offer real-life examples of how values-based actions—even small ones—can help you live with purpose, despite intrusive thoughts. Whether you're just starting treatment or navigating setbacks, this episode offers hope, compassion, and actionable guidance for building a life driven by what matters most. Tune in to learn how to stop living for certainty—and start living for your values. The 3 things you’ll learn in today’s episode: What makes OCD treatment feel torturous—and how a simple mindset shift can change everything The surprising mistake many people make with exposure therapy (and what to do instead). Why saying “maybe I am a terrible person” might actually be the path to healing. In This Episode [00:00:01] Introduction and guest welcome [00:01:10] The importance of values in ERP [00:03:57] Meaning behind exposures [00:05:48] Blending ERP and ACT: Facing daunting thoughts [00:09:25] Building a solid values base [00:10:13] Evolution of ERP and incorporating values [00:11:45] Values in relationship OCD [00:12:33] Values are not perfection [00:14:19] Introducing psychological flexibility [00:15:13] CBT, ERP, and psychological flexibility [00:18:33] Recognizing rigidity and all-or-nothing thinking [00:20:17] Practical values-based tool [00:24:05] Exposure to your true self [00:25:41] Autonomy and making choices [00:26:44] Trusting yourself and closing thoughts [00:27:03] How to find Lennon Notable Quotes [02:15] "Exposure therapy should not be torture. And if it doesn't have those values, beliefs, that trust in yourself behind it, a lot of times it can be torturous for people." —Lennon [23:59] "Sometimes the exposure we’re trying to do is exposing yourself to who you really are.." — Lennon [11:48] "If I'm having a relationship-based OCD and not sure about my partner, but I know connection is a value for me, then yeah, maybe I’m going to go and spend time with my partner even though I'm feeling anxious and uncomfortable."— Kristina [12:47] "A value per se is not measurable. Like you can't reach a certain level of perfection in the value." — Lennon [13:59] "Psychological flexibility... is the goal of exposure therapy. We want to be more flexible in these situations. We want to just enjoy our lives." — Lennon [21:58] "I’m open about my OCD. There’s still a certain way I thought, and next thing you know, you’re right back in this anxious state that just feels horrendous.'." — Kristina [23:12] "Even in an area where your senses can't detect anything, the reasonable, rational way to live is to do that functional certainty thing and just to assume you're okay." — Mike Parker Our Guest Lennon Jones is a licensed OCD and anxiety therapist based in Southern Utah and the founder of Golden Hour OCD and Anxiety, a digital platform offering support and education for those navigating OCD recovery. She specializes in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), helping clients move from fear-driven behavior to values-based living. Lennon is also involved in global mental health efforts, providing free therapy to Ukrainian refugees. Her approach is grounded in compassion, psychological flexibility, and helping clients reconnect with who they are beyond OCD. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT Instagram YouTube OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner Website Lennon Jones Website Facebook Instagram YouTube Mentioned Cognitive Therapy for OCD I-CBT Training Online Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

🧠 Episode Summary: Struggling with feeling ugly, ashamed, or alone? In this episode, Dr. Sony Khemlani-Patel shares insights from 25+ years of treating OCD and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Discover how BDD affects self-worth, why it’s often misunderstood, and what real recovery looks like. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: • How Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) differs from body image issues and eating disorders • Why people with BDD often suffer in silence—and what keeps them from speaking up • The impact of social media, AI, and perfection culture on self-perception • Real-life insights from clinical practice, including powerful patient stories • How shame, trauma, and brain biology intertwine in BDD • What therapy approaches work best—and how to break the comparison cycle • How to recognize the signs of BDD and take the first step toward healing ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00:23] Introduction to the episode [00:01:48] BDD vs Body Image vs Eating Disorder: Understanding the Differences [00:03:36] Eating Disorders and BDD: How They Overlap and What Makes Them Different [00:05:10] BDD and Distorted Perception: Seeing Flaws That Aren’t Really There [00:05:51] Is BDD in the Brain? The Biological Side of the Disorder [00:06:53] Best Real-Life Example of BDD in Everyday Life [00:07:26] Hyperfocusing: When the Brain Locks Onto Details and You Zoom Out [00:07:53] The Patient Who Was a Photographer: A Unique BDD Story [00:08:25] What to Say When Someone’s “Flaw” Isn’t Just in Their Head [00:09:46] Is BDD Caused by Trauma or Is it Something Else? [00:10:52] Understanding the Gap Between Appearance and Body Image [00:12:07] Looking in the Mirror: Carrying the Weight of Childhood and Environment [00:12:53] Spotting BDD in Yourself: Key Warning Signs and Actions [00:15:36] What Percentage of People with BDD Experience Suicidal Thoughts? [00:16:08] Why People Hide Their BDD from Doctors and Loved Ones [00:17:13] The Comparison Trap: AI, Social Media, and Unrealistic Perfection [00:19:04] How to Stop Comparing Yourself and Find Peace [00:19:59] What Therapy Works Best for BDD? Expert Recommendations [00:21:44] Managing Heavy Emotions and Shame in BDD Treatment [00:23:13] Closing Reflections and Final Thoughts 🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned: 🎁 Free Download: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 📓 OCD Journal: https://shorturl.at/7pUxB ✅Bio Behavioral Institute: 👉Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bio.behavioral/ 👉Website - www.biobehavioralinstitute.com 👤 About the Host: The OCD Whisperer Podcast is hosted by Kristina Orlova, LMFT, a licensed therapist who has helped hundreds of clients with OCD and anxiety using ERP, ACT, and ICBT. 🌐 Learn more: www.korresults.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer 📧 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 🎧 Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! 🟢 Spotify → https://shorturl.at/k5kEq 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://shorturl.at/C30wn 📻 All platforms → https://ocdwhisperer.podbean.com/ 🔔 Youtube → https://www.youtube.com/@OCDWhisperer ⚠️Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. © OCD Whisperer

🧠 Episode Summary: What if your own mind was the biggest mystery you ever had to solve? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova sits down with writer and director Dillon Tucker, creator of the narrative feature film PURE O. Diagnosed with OCD himself, Dillon shares how the chaos, fear, and obsessive spirals of his own mind became the raw material for a deeply personal and groundbreaking movie. Together, they explore the power of storytelling to humanize OCD, break stigma, and reach those silently suffering. This isn’t just a film—it’s a lifeline for people who feel misunderstood, unseen, and trapped in their own thoughts. Because sometimes the most healing thing we can do… is turn pain into art. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: • How turning OCD pain into art can be healing for you and others • Why films like PURE O matter in breaking OCD stigma • What makes OCD storytelling different from typical mental health narratives • How OCD can be reframed as a superpower through creativity and advocacy ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00:01] Introduction to the episode [00:01:35] Did Dillon Expect the Film to Be Therapeutic for Others? [00:03:00] What Viewers Said After Watching Film [00:04:05] Dilan’s Emotional Response to Seeing the Finished Film [00:04:15] The Purpose Behind Making This Movie [00:05:30] Where the Film Stands Now & What’s Coming [00:06:30] Why Everyone Should Watch This Movie — Not Only People with OCD [00:07:20] We Need More Stories, Films, and Resources on OCD [00:08:05] What to Know Before Making Something Similar / Manage Emotional Weight [00:10:00] OCD as a Superpower: Boosting Your Potential [00:11:25] First Time Screening the Film in a Movie Theater [00:13:00] How Family Reacted to the Film’s Premiere [00:13:30] Dilon's OCD Advocacy and Impact Today [00:14:28] The Community Built Through OCD Advocacy [00:14:47] OCD Is Gaining Awareness and Acceptance [00:15:46] Why Mainstream Media Representation of OCD Matters [00:17:36] Movie Characters Development Explained [00:18:28] OCD and the Pain of Social Isolation / Educating Loved Ones About OCD [00:20:04] Other Popular Films and Series Featuring Disorders [00:21:27] Where Can You Watch the Film? / Where Can You Reach Out to Them? [00:22:20] Closing Reflections and Final Thoughts 🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned: 🎁 Free Download: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 📓 OCD Journal: https://shorturl.at/7pUxB ✅Dillon Tucker: 👉Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dillontucker/ ✅Pure O Movie: 👉Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pure_o_movie/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw%3D%3D 👉Buy/rent a movie - https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CVR6M2NJ/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r 👉Watch on Tubi -https://shorturl.at/C5PGX 👤 About the Host: The OCD Whisperer Podcast is hosted by Kristina Orlova, LMFT, a licensed therapist who has helped hundreds of clients with OCD and anxiety using ERP, ACT, and ICBT. 🌐 Learn more: www.korresults.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer 📧 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 🎧 Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! 🟢 Spotify → https://shorturl.at/k5kEq 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://shorturl.at/C30wn 📻 All platforms → https://ocdwhisperer.podbean.com/ 🔔 Youtube → https://www.youtube.com/@OCDWhisperer ⚠️Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. © OCD Whisperer

Episode Summary: Do you feel trapped in endless loops of “what if”? Like your brain is constantly playing out worst-case scenarios, you can’t prove, but can’t ignore either? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Frederick Aardema, clinical psychologist, OCD researcher, and co-creator of Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ICBT). Together, we unpack how faulty reasoning and imagination, not just intrusive thoughts, drive OCD. Dr. Aardema shares how ICBT offers a powerful path back to reality, trust, and your authentic self—without relying on fear-based exposures. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: Why OCD is more about reasoning than anxiety How imagination overrides perception in OCD The concept of “functional certainty” and how it heals obsessional doubt How ICBT differs from ERP and when to use which Why your OCD may be rooted in a “false self” and how to reconnect with who you really are 🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned: OCD Journal → https://shorturl.at/7pUxB Guest: Dr. Frederick Aardema’s Books → Resolving OCD Vol. 1 & Resolving OCD Vol. 2 ICBT Online Resource Center → https://icbt.online ICBT Masterclass → https://www.korresults.com/icbtmasterclass Sneaky Rituals Masterclass → https://www.korresults.com/sneakyrituals 📩 Take Action: 👉 Subscribe to the newsletter → https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 👤 About the Host: The OCD Whisperer Podcast is hosted by Kristina Orlova, LMFT, a licensed therapist who helps people with OCD and anxiety using ERP, ACT, and ICBT. 🌐 Learn more: www.korresults.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer 📧 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 🎧 Subscribe & Follow: 🟢 Spotify → https://shorturl.at/k5kEq 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://shorturl.at/C30wn 📻 All platforms → https://ocdwhisperer.podbean.com/ 🔔 Youtube → https://www.youtube.com/@OCDWhisperer Disclaimer Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

🧠 Episode Summary: In this podcast episode, two close friends delve into a journey of battling OCD, confronting alcohol dependency, and the transformative power of support. They discuss the daily challenges of living with obsessive-compulsive disorder, the spiral into substance use, and how a steadfast friendship became the cornerstone of recovery. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: The difference between mental compulsions and real problem-solving Response prevention and OCD limits Strategies that helped manage OCD How to respond when intrusive thoughts hit [00:00:01] Introduction to the episode [00:01:45] Childhood with OCD: daily struggles [00:02:20] The descent into alcohol use and memory loss [00:04:15] Developing a new obsession [00:05:41] Opening up to a trusted friend [00:06:30] Realizing it’s OCD & taking the first step [00:07:34] Obsessing over OCD and facing new problems [00:08:54] Turning point towards healing [00:09:20] Friendship that changed everything [00:10:05] What helped the most in recovery [00:12:50] Strategies that helped manage OCD [00:14:50] The power of not answering OCD [00:17:23] How a friend found a way to help [00:19:13] Lessons learned and moving forward [00:21:27] OCD has no limits: response prevention [00:22:20] Encouragement for those struggling [00:23:20] Closing reflections and final thoughts 👤 About the Host: The OCD Whisperer Podcast is hosted by Kristina Orlova, LMFT, a licensed therapist who has helped hundreds of clients with OCD and anxiety using ERP, ACT, and ICBT. 🌐 Learn more: www.korresults.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer 📧 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/KcTxM 🎧 Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! 🟢 Spotify → https://shorturl.at/k5kEq 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://shorturl.at/C30wn 📻 All platforms → https://ocdwhisperer.podbean.com/ 🔔 Youtube → https://www.youtube.com/@OCDWhisperer 🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned: 📓 OCD Journal → [Insert link] https://shorturl.at/7pUxB 🧠 Guests: Liam & Kirby 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/sharedmindspodcast/ 🔔 Youtube → https://www.youtube.com/@SharedMindsPodcast 🟢 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/1fIUNuUyovjDJM3bIaqCKu Disclaimer Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy. Stay tuned for weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!