Épisodes

  • 129. The OCD Awareness Scale: A Tool for Better Understanding

    129. The OCD Awareness Scale: A Tool for Better Understanding
    Feb 18 2025
    How well do we really understand the full spectrum of OCD? Many people—including professionals—struggle to recognize the various ways OCD can manifest beyond the commonly known themes. In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova welcomes Dr. Kimberly Glazier Leonte, PhD and Dr. Jacquelin Gouniai, PsyD, LPC, co-founders of The OCD Academy. They introduce the OCD Awareness Scale, a new tool designed to bridge the gap in OCD education by providing a more comprehensive look at the disorder's many forms. Dr. Leonte and Dr. Gouniai discuss their professional experiences with OCD, the challenges of misdiagnosis, and the importance of increasing awareness for individuals, loved ones, and professionals. Dr. Gouniai also shares about her personal experience with OCD. The conversation highlights how their research has led to a scale that not only validates individual experiences but also helps guide effective treatment. Whether you're seeking to understand your own OCD, support a loved one, or improve clinical awareness, this episode provides valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of OCD research and treatment. Tune in to discover how the OCD Awareness Scale can help uncover the hidden dimensions of OCD. In This Episode: [00:00:03] Introduction to the OCD Whisperer Podcast[00:01:02] Meet the Guests: Dr. Kimberly Glazier Leonte & Dr. Jacquelin Gouniai[00:02:16] Why OCD Is So Commonly Misdiagnosed[00:03:45] The Role of Research in Expanding OCD Awareness[00:05:32] What Is the OCD Awareness Scale?[00:07:10] Breaking the Stigma: Recognizing Lesser-Known OCD Themes[00:09:05] How the Scale Helps Individuals with OCD[00:10:45] Using the Scale for Loved Ones and Caregivers[00:12:25] How Clinicians Can Use the Scale for Better Diagnosis[00:14:30] OCD in Children: Can Parents Use the Scale?[00:16:00] Jacquelin's Personal Journey with OCD and Misdiagnosis[00:18:20] The Global Need for OCD Education and Accessible Resources[00:20:15] Where to Find the OCD Awareness Scale[00:22:00] Final Thoughts and Resources for Listeners Notable Quotes: "OCD can really latch onto anything. One of our goals was to create a tool that truly represents the full range of OCD themes and examples, so more people can recognize themselves in it." – Dr. Kimberly Glazier Leonte "If someone doesn’t see their symptoms listed in a standard assessment, they might think they don’t have OCD at all. Our hope is to make the diagnosis process more inclusive and accessible." – Dr. Jacquelin Gouniai "So many people go to primary care doctors or religious leaders first for help, and unfortunately, many don’t recognize OCD when they see it. This scale can help bridge that gap." – Dr. Jacquelin Gouniai "I didn’t think I had OCD because I wasn’t washing my hands all the time. It took me years to realize my intrusive thoughts and rumination were classic OCD." – Kristina Orlova Our Guests: Dr. Kimberly Glazier Leonte, PhD Kimberly is a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The OCD Academy. She specializes in OCD research, treatment, and education, focusing on increasing awareness of underrepresented OCD themes. Her research at McLean Hospital helped shape the OCD Awareness Scale, a tool designed to improve identification and treatment. Dr. Jacquelin Gouniai, PsyD, LPC Jacquelin is a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of The OCD Academy. With firsthand experience navigating OCD misdiagnosis, she is passionate about increasing OCD education, especially in underserved areas like Guam. Her work aims to improve access to proper OCD treatment and reduce stigma. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannelhttps://www.korresults.com/https://a.co/d/fMT6vte The OCD Academy https://www.instagram.com/the_ocd_academy/https://www.theocdacademy.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYWgau435BgPIf0DxZjW6e1kpldpTXf_wNo3bH3Cqh535Z2AtQe6NpSO8c_aem_q6OtBUV2jTmpxx4gLnOQyg 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 biweekly 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!
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    27 min
  • 128. Why Staying Silent in Therapy Is Costing You More Than You Think

    128. Why Staying Silent in Therapy Is Costing You More Than You Think
    Feb 4 2025
    Many people struggle to speak up about their mental health needs, even when their treatment isn’t working. Why does self-advocacy feel so daunting? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova welcomes Jonathan Teller, a third-year clinical psychology PhD student at Northern Illinois University. Together, they explore the challenges of self-advocacy in healthcare and why it’s such an important skill for navigating mental health treatment. Jonathan shares thoughtful insights on overcoming barriers like fear of judgment or limited resources. From writing down concerns before appointments to involving trusted loved ones in therapy sessions, he offers practical strategies for making your voice heard. If accessing care feels out of reach due to financial or geographical limitations, they discuss creative solutions like self-study tools, free resources, and online communities. They also dig into the bigger picture: why treatment is just the beginning of the journey and how continued effort, especially after intensive programs, is key to lasting progress. This episode is packed with actionable advice and compassionate perspectives to empower you to take control of your mental health. Ready to find your voice and take the next step? Tune in now! In This Episode [00:00:03] Introduction to the podcast[00:01:18] Importance of self-advocacy[00:02:34] Barriers to self-advocacy[00:04:54] Strategies for effective communication[00:07:02] Accessing mental health care[00:10:02] Researching treatment options[00:11:39] Understanding levels of care[00:14:10] Challenges with insurance and treatment[00:15:29] Continuing care after treatment[00:18:09] Balancing family concerns and autonomy[00:18:22] The importance of education in OCD[00:19:35] Exploring treatment options[00:20:36] Flexibility in seeking help[00:22:31] Utilizing digital resources[00:22:59] Recommended podcasts[00:24:13] Feeling connected through stories[00:25:06] Closing remarks and resources Notable Quotes [00:02:00] "When I think of self-advocacy in healthcare settings, I think, for example, if one is in treatment for mental health and they are receiving a specific type of therapeutic intervention, and that intervention might not be working for them, it could be very difficult for the patient to speak up and say to the clinician, 'Hey, is it possible for us to try a different type of therapy modality?'" - Jonathan Teller [00:04:00] "I think there are internal and external barriers to self-advocacy. Internal barriers could be anxiety—'If I speak up, maybe I'll insult the therapist'—while external barriers could be family members, insurance, and other systemic factors." - Jonathan Teller [00:05:00] "One option for patients is to write down their concerns before a session. If they don’t feel comfortable sharing them out loud, they can hand the clinician a sheet of paper. That might be easier than speaking directly." - Jonathan Teller [00:06:00] "I’m a big fan of writing things down. My mom used to prepare pages of questions before seeing her doctor, and I used to make fun of her for it. But in hindsight, I realize how valuable it is—it helps you think through what you want to get out of the appointment." - Kristina Orlova [00:08:00] "If you have health insurance, you can call your provider and get a list of different clinicians in your area who take your insurance. If you don't, looking for pro bono work or online resources could be a starting point." - Jonathan Teller [00:13:00] "There's a common misconception that when one goes to a residential treatment facility and they leave, the work is done. But the work has really only started." - Jonathan Teller [00:17:00] "There’s a big misconception that once you complete a treatment program, you’re done. But OCD is a lifelong condition, and the real work begins when you leave treatment and start applying the tools in everyday life." - Kristina Orlova [00:18:00] "Education is critical for both patients and their families. Loved ones often accommodate compulsions because they think it’s the right thing to do. But once they understand OCD and how accommodation maintains symptoms, they can start making real changes." - Jonathan Teller Our Guest Jonathan Teller is a third-year clinical psychology PhD student at Northern Illinois University, specializing in the study of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD). His research focuses on uncovering the factors and mechanisms that influence the onset and maintenance of these conditions. With a strong interest in evidence-based practices, Jonathan is dedicated to exploring ways to enhance the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy to improve clinical outcomes. Beyond his research, Jonathan is deeply committed to expanding access to mental health care and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. He is a ...
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    26 min
  • 127. The Best Path to Recovery: Why Psychotherapy Outshines Medication for OCD

    127. The Best Path to Recovery: Why Psychotherapy Outshines Medication for OCD
    Jan 21 2025
    Did you know that many people with OCD still turn to medication as a first option, even though psychotherapy could be just as effective, if not more so? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina is joined by Dr. Amy Huberman, a psychiatrist specializing in OCD, anxiety, and trauma. Dr. Huberman discusses her journey from prescribing medication to focusing solely on psychotherapy as a way to treat OCD. In their conversation, Dr. Huberman shares how her initial belief in the necessity of medication shifted after observing the remarkable progress some patients made through intensive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She describes how, during her residency at Johns Hopkins, she learned that OCD, anxiety, and depression were often treated with medication, but over time, she began to see the power of psychotherapy in helping patients regain their agency—allowing them to take control of their lives and symptoms. Dr. Huberman also opens up about her decision to stop prescribing medication and dedicate her practice to providing intensive psychotherapy. She reflects on the benefits and challenges of this decision, emphasizing that therapy, especially tailored CBT techniques, can have a profound and lasting impact on patients. This episode offers insight into a psychiatric professional's personal and professional journey toward providing more holistic and individualized care. Whether you're struggling with OCD yourself or working in the mental health field, this conversation is a deep dive into the evolving treatment options for OCD and anxiety. In This Episode [00:01:00] Meet Dr. Huberman[00:01:36] Medication debate[00:02:07] Dr. Huberman's decision to focus on psychotherapy.[00:02:48] Residency training influence[00:04:48] Experiencing recovery through therapy[00:05:47] Understanding agency[00:06:56] Realization about treatment[00:07:32] Pursuit of psychotherapy[00:08:34] Initial practice approach[00:10:21] Challenges with medication[00:12:04] Therapy's effectiveness[00:14:34] Pandemic impact on practice[00:16:07] Learning new approaches[00:16:37] Embracing psychotherapy[00:18:09] Understanding and acceptance[00:20:08] Key elements for self-acceptance[00:22:21] The paradoxical agenda-setting[00:23:03] Facing fears and self-identity[00:23:58] Finding Dr. Huberman[00:24:23] Closing remarks and resources Notable Quotes [00:02:48] "So I trained at Johns Hopkins, and there the message was very strong. Exactly what that person said in that comment is that everyone with OCD or anxiety disorders or depression should receive medication." - Dr. Amy Huberman[00:04:48] “I saw patients fully getting their lives back, really recovering in a sustained and full way, that was in the few months when I received some training in cognitive behavioral therapy.” - Dr. Amy Huberman[00:08:34] “So when I left residency and sort of started my own practice, I, you know, despite the fact that I was already so excited about psychotherapy and questioning a little bit, at least the message that I had taken away from my training of medication must always be a part of treating somebody with OCD or anxiety." - Dr. Amy Huberman[00:14:34] “The things that people were telling me was most helpful to them were not actually the medication pieces but the psychotherapy, which has honestly always been the part that I really loved about working with patients.” - Dr. Amy Huberman[00:21:38] “Understanding what our symptoms say about us, reveal about us, that's actually really important and positive.” - Dr. Amy Huberman[00:23:03] “When I hold a knife up to my loved one's neck and I don't do the thing that I think I'm going to do, that process itself can reveal, 'Oh right, this is actually the person I am, somebody who would never want to do that.'” - Dr. Amy Huberman Our Guest Dr. Amy Huberman, a skilled psychiatrist on the volunteer faculty at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, brings her expertise to individuals through private practice in Maryland. Specializing in individually tailored psychotherapy and coaching, she focuses on treating OCD, anxiety, and trauma, offering a refreshing break from the traditional 15-minute session model. Dr. Huberman's approach is personalized and intensive, allowing for deep healing. While her psychotherapy services are available to those in Maryland, her coaching extends globally, empowering clients worldwide to overcome challenges and thrive. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannelhttps://www.korresults.com/ Dr. Amy Huberman https://www.amyhubermanmd.com/ Mentioned Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner 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 ...
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    25 min
  • 126. From Fear to Freedom: Conquering Magical Thinking OCD

    126. From Fear to Freedom: Conquering Magical Thinking OCD
    Jan 7 2025
    Ever had a moment where you felt like something bad would happen unless you did a specific thing—like touching a door handle just right or counting to a certain number? Now imagine that feeling controlling your every action, from the smallest decisions to the biggest ones. This is what life is like for those with magical thinking OCD. But how can you tell the difference between these intense fears and harmless superstitions? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina sits down with Dr. Regina Lazarovich, a clinical psychologist and founder of Compass CBT to talk about magical thinking OCD. They explore how this subtype of OCD involves irrational beliefs that certain thoughts or actions can influence outcomes. Dr. Lazarovich distinguishes it from cultural superstitions and discusses its impact on daily life. She outlines treatment approaches, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (IB-CBT). The episode emphasizes understanding and compassion in managing OCD, offering hope and practical guidance for those affected. In This Episode [00:00:01] Introduction to magical thinking OCD [00:02:15] Understanding magical thinking OCD [00:03:44] Examples of magical thinking OCD [00:05:17] Distinction between superstitions and OCD [00:06:01] Impact on functioning and quality of life [00:08:08] Urgency in OCD compulsions [00:10:06] Internal vs. external compulsions [00:10:59] Treatment options for magical thinking OCD [00:11:34] Explaining exposure and response prevention [00:14:15] Cognitive behavioral therapy for OCD [00:16:29] Tracing the origin of OCD compulsions [00:17:32] Addressing the possibility of harm [00:19:06] Relevance of possibility in OCD [00:19:15] Understanding Inference in OCD [00:20:55] The role of personal experience [00:22:01] Contextual factors in OCD [00:23:25] Belief formation in OCD [00:25:00] Complexity of OCD treatment [00:26:14] Compassion in therapy [00:27:06] Finding the right treatment [00:28:08] Connecting with Dr. Regina Lazarovich Notable Quotes [00:07:22] “It’s not about the superstition itself but the intense fear and urgency. With OCD, it’s like something catastrophic will happen if the ritual isn’t done.” -Kristina [00:13:37] “In ERP, we face the fear systematically, like writing the lyrics of an 'unlucky' song, then listening to it, all while not engaging in compulsions. It’s about regaining control over life.” - Dr. Regina Lazarovich [00:16:29] “With ICBT, we trace back to when the compulsion started. It’s often rooted in something deeply understandable, like a childhood fear. Once we understand it, we stop falling for OCD's 'trick.'” - Dr. Regina Lazarovich[00:19:15] “An inference is an educated guess based on evidence. With OCD, we over-rely on possibility and dismiss actual evidence. Slowing down can help us make better-informed conclusions.” - Kristina[00:27:49] “It’s not about making OCD disappear but transforming your relationship with it. You learn to live your life without letting it dictate your every move.”- Kristina Our Guest Dr. Regina Lazarovich is a clinical psychologist and the founder of Compass CBT, where she serves clients across California, Florida, and New York. With a deep commitment to helping individuals struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, perfectionism, disordered eating, and body image issues, she utilizes evidence-based practices like CBT and ACT. Dr. Lazarovich approaches therapy with a Health at Every Size perspective, particularly for clients dealing with food and body image challenges. Her compassionate, client-centered approach fosters lasting change and personal growth. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannelhttps://www.korresults.com/https://www.onlineocdacademy.com Dr. Regina Lazarovich https://www.compasscbt.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-lazarovich Mentioned Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Overbaugh ICBT with Kristina Orlova and Christina Ennabe OCD CBT Journal Tracker and Planner 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 biweekly 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!
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    29 min
  • 125. Our Psychedelic Journey That Changed Everything

    125. Our Psychedelic Journey That Changed Everything
    Dec 17 2024
    What if the secret to overcoming OCD and mental health challenges isn’t just about managing symptoms, but truly understanding the whole person—mind, body, and spirit? Can therapy that treats us as a complete individual really lead to healing? Ever considered the role psychedelics, like ketamine, could play in mental health care? Or maybe a holistic approach to therapy is the game-changer you’ve been looking for but didn’t know you needed? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Christina Ennabe back to the show! If you missed her last appearance, go back and check it out—her insights are something you won’t want to miss. Christina Ennabe and host Kristina Orlova dive deep into their personal and professional journeys with OCD and mental health. They talk about the life-changing effects of EMDR therapy, why it's essential to address comorbidities, and their explorations with psychedelic-assisted therapy. Kristina opens up about her journey through grief and spirituality, while Christina shares her recovery story and recent EMDR training. Together, they explore a holistic approach to mental health, offering valuable insights and encouragement for anyone facing their challenges. Tune in now to hear this powerful conversation, and if you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode filled with practical tools for your mental health journey! In This Episode [00:00:03] Introduction to the episode[00:00:55] Updates from Christina[00:01:26] Exploring EMDR therapy[00:01:54] Life-changing aspects of EMDR[00:03:57] Clarifying EMDR's role in OCD treatment[00:05:07] Holistic view of mental health[00:06:56] Introduction to psychedelic-assisted therapy[00:09:55] Personal reflections on loss and purpose[00:11:49] Christina's experience with ayahuasca[00:12:53] Navigating the experience of psychedelics[00:15:05] Surrendering to the process[00:16:22] Christina's struggles with control during therapy[00:18:40] The impact of loss on coping mechanisms[00:19:56] Navigating grief and emotional release[00:21:08] Feeling to heal in EMDR therapy[00:22:26] Spirituality and personal journey[00:24:25] The role of spirituality in OCD recovery[00:25:46] Staying curious and open[00:26:37] Sharing personal experiences[00:27:25] Finding resources and support Notable Quotes [00:02:40] “I felt like maybe that's a missing piece of the puzzle, so I reached out, found an EMDR therapist, and did a nine-hour intensive over two days. It was so different from any other therapy I've ever done.” - Christina Ennabe [00:10:12] “I lost my mom to cancer this year. It was July 31st. It's been quite a year, and it really made me question, what's the point. What's the purpose?” - Kristina Orlova [00:18:40] “Once you have a loss, that's it. You can't undo anything. You're put in a position where you have no option but to go through the experience.” - Kristina Orlova [00:19:56] “I have to let the feelings and all the things go through my body because they're there. I can't deny them. The more I push them off, it's just going to prolong the process.” - Kristina Orlova [00:21:08] “You have to feel to heal and create that space and container to just feel. Get out of your head and into your body.” - Christina Ennabe Our Guest Christina Ennabe is a licensed therapist and coach specializing in OCD, anxiety, and trauma. With a compassionate, holistic approach, she offers online therapy and coaching to high achievers, helping them overcome mental health struggles like perfectionism and self-doubt. Using evidence-based methods such as I-CBT, ERP, EMDR, and ACT, Christina empowers clients to find confidence, reclaim control, and achieve lasting recovery. She serves clients in New Hampshire, Maine, Florida, and globally through her coaching programs. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannelhttps://www.korresults.com/https://www.onlineocdacademy.com Christina Ennabe https://www.christinaennabe.com/ https://www.instagram.com/christinacounsels/ Mentioned Sneaky Rituals with Jenna Bell CBT Masterclass with Kristina and Christina Ennabe 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 biweekly 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!
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    28 min
  • 124. Transforming Challenges of Just Right OCD with Andrew Cohen

    124. Transforming Challenges of Just Right OCD with Andrew Cohen
    Dec 3 2024

    When we think about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), common themes like contamination fears or checking rituals often come to mind. However, there is another form of OCD—"Just Right OCD"—which centers on achieving an elusive sense of balance or correctness.

    In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova sits down with Andrew Cohen, a licensed marriage and family therapist and OCD specialist, to explore the nuanced experience of Just Right OCD. Andrew draws from both his personal and professional journeys to discuss the challenges and breakthroughs in managing this subtype of OCD. Together, they dive into the role of mindfulness, acceptance, and exposure therapy in fostering resilience and balance for individuals with Just Right OCD.

    Tune in to gain actionable strategies for coping with Just Right OCD and learn how mindfulness and self-awareness can lead to meaningful change.

    In This Episode

    • [00:00:00] Introduction to Andrew Cohen and his experience with OCD
    • [00:01:15] What is Just Right OCD?
    • [00:02:48] Differentiating Just Right OCD from Perfectionism
    • [00:05:11] Compulsions and the pursuit of balance
    • [00:09:10] Recognizing OCD in uncommon themes
    • [00:13:51] Key signs of OCD to look out for
    • [00:19:31] Tools to handle Just Right OCD
    • [00:22:13] The importance of mindfulness and acceptance
    • [00:27:06] Learning to coexist with contradictory emotions
    • [00:32:47] Resources for OCD support

    Notable Quotes

    • [00:18:13] “Awareness allows us to notice the discomfort, but attention is what empowers us to focus on what truly matters.” – Andrew Cohen
    • [00:01:15] “It’s not about catastrophic fears—it’s about feeling right, and tolerating the discomfort of being off.” - Andrew Cohen
    • [00:10:14] “If you feel urgency and there’s no real danger, chances are it’s OCD knocking.” - Andrew Cohen

    Our Guest

    Andrew Cohen is a dedicated OCD and Anxiety specialist with extensive training and a wealth of professional and personal experience dealing with OCD. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a board member (Treasurer) of OCD SoCal, Andrew is deeply committed to providing effective treatment and providing advocacy and community building to individuals suffering from OCD and related disorders.

    Resources & Links

    Kristina Orlova, LMFT

    • https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/
    • https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel
    • https://www.korresults.com/
    • https://www.onlineocdacademy.com

    Andrew Cohen

    • www.cohenocdtherapy.com
    • https://www.instagram.com/cohenocdtherapy/

    Mentioned

    • OCD SoCal: www.ocdsocal.org
    • International OCD Foundation: www.iocdf.org

    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 biweekly 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!
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    34 min
  • 123. The Upside of OCD: How Emotional Sensitivity and Imagination Become Superpowers

    123. The Upside of OCD: How Emotional Sensitivity and Imagination Become Superpowers
    Nov 19 2024
    When we think about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), our minds often go straight to the difficulties it brings—the obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions that can disrupt daily life. But what if there’s a side of OCD that’s rarely discussed, one that offers unique strengths? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Dr. Michael Alcée, a clinical psychologist and mental health educator at the Manhattan School of Music, helps us rethink our view of OCD. Through insights from his forthcoming book, The Upside of OCD, Dr. Alcée shares how the intense emotional sensitivity and vivid imagination often seen in individuals with OCD can be seen as valuable assets rather than limitations. Together, Dr. Alcée and Kristina dive deep into the heart of OCD, exploring how understanding the emotional roots behind its symptoms can foster greater self-awareness and more compassionate self-care. Dr. Alcée discusses how setting healthy boundaries and embracing one’s unique traits can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling life, shifting the focus from “disorder” to the richness of experience that OCD may offer. Tune in to gain a compassionate new outlook on OCD, and if this resonates, don’t forget to subscribe and share with others who might need a fresh perspective! In This Episode [01:12] Introduction to Dr. Michael Alcée[02:06] The upside of OCD[02:58] Emotional sensitivity and imagination in OCD[03:19] Understanding OCD symptoms[04:18] The role of feelings in OCD[05:11] Nuanced emotional awareness[06:16] Imagination and the OCD mind[07:21] Case study: Navigating driving fear[08:28] Contextualizing different aspects of OCD[09:34] The richness of the OCD mind[10:38] Exploring ERP and exposure exercises[11:32] Differences in managing OCD feelings[12:04] Balancing loss and love in OCD[13:30] The nature of compulsions[15:12] Coping with emotional overextension[16:04] Understanding underlying stress causes[17:08] Recognizing the importance of conflict awareness[18:10] OCD’s distraction mechanism[19:02] Nurturing boundaries for emotional health[20:17] Reclaiming healthy agency and empowerment[24:19] Mindfulness and self-reflection[25:16] Self-awareness for personal growth[27:06] The poet's soul Notable Quotes [02:06] “We don't focus enough on the person who has OCD; we focus a lot on the disorder. The upside is this wonderful kind of spark of emotional sensitivity and imaginative range.” - Dr. Michael Alcée[04:18] “Most people with OCD feel so much, but they don't have someone to help them mirror it back. By the time they catch up with it, it's already converted itself into all these terrible obsessions and compulsions.” - Dr. Michael Alcée[12:38] “People with OCD have a precocious existential sensitivity. They notice death way earlier, and it's almost like they never had the language to understand it. I want to highlight and celebrate that rich capacity to live.” - Dr. Michael Alcée[17:59] “When I realized I wasn't listening to my feelings, the obsession melted away.” - Dr. Michael Alcée[22:17] “People with OCD have an extremely enormous heart, but they don't always trust it and give it away too easily.” - Dr. Michael Alcée[27:06] “I want people with OCD to realize that they have poet souls.” - Dr. Michael Alcée Our Guest Dr. Michael Alcée is a clinical psychologist and mental health educator at the Manhattan School of Music in New York. Known for his innovative approach, he blends psychology with artistry, encouraging clients to see mental health as a creative process. His book Therapeutic Improvisation explores how therapists interact with clients like jazz musicians, and his upcoming work, The Upside of OCD, redefines OCD as a unique sensitivity. Dr. Alcée's insights have been featured in outlets like Psychology Today, NPR, and the New York Times, enriching our emotional and existential awareness understanding. Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannelhttps://www.korresults.com/https://www.onlineocdacademy.com Dr. Michael Alcee https://michaelalcee.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-alcee-14417755/https://www.instagram.com/mike_drop_/https://www.facebook.com/livelifecreatively2/ Mentioned Therapeutic Improvisation: How to Stop Winging It and Own It as a TherapistThe Upside of OCD: Flip the Script to Reclaim Your Life 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 biweekly 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!
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    28 min
  • 122. Unmasking Moral Scrupulosity in OCD

    122. Unmasking Moral Scrupulosity in OCD
    Nov 5 2024

    Have you ever struggled with feelings of guilt, shame, or an overwhelming need to "do the right thing"? For individuals experiencing moral scrupulosity, a subset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), this focus on morality can become a debilitating cycle of self-doubt and fixation on being a "good person." In this episode, host Kristina Orlova welcomes Dr. Rachel LaFleur, a licensed psychologist specializing in OCD and telehealth services, to explore this often misunderstood OCD theme.

    Together, they uncover the roots of moral scrupulosity, how it can intersect with other OCD types like contamination and "just right" OCD, and the psychological impact of this fixation on morality. Dr. LaFleur also shares practical advice on accessible treatment pathways, including self-help resources, therapy groups, and ways to find affordable OCD care. Tune in to learn how to build self-compassion, recognize OCD's influence on morality, and access valuable tools for managing these thoughts.

    In This Episode
    • [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Rachel LaFleur and her work in OCD therapy
    • [02:34] Understanding moral scrupulosity in OCD
    • [04:05] How moral scrupulosity overlaps with other OCD themes
    • [06:12] Examples of everyday challenges for individuals with moral scrupulosity
    • [10:15] Accessible self-help resources for OCD
    • [12:38] Importance of self-reflection and flexibility in managing OCD
    • [14:22] Finding affordable therapy options and support groups
    • [19:02] Dr. LaFleur’s message of hope for those experiencing OCD

    Notable Quotes
    • [04:43] "People with moral scrupulosity OCD often experience intense guilt over minor actions, believing they might reflect a flaw in their character." – Dr. Rachel LaFleur
    • [09:57] "Being hyper-vigilant about morality can lead people to overlook their actual values, impacting relationships and self-worth." – Dr. Rachel LaFleur
    • [20:26] "OCD can cloud our view of who we are. But through treatment, many people reconnect with their authentic, compassionate selves." – Dr. Rachel LaFleur

    Our Guest

    Dr. Rachel LaFleur is a licensed psychologist based in Maryland, offering telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults across multiple states. With a passion for evidence-based treatments, Dr. LaFleur works flexibly with clients to uncover and address the complex facets of OCD. She believes in a patient-centered approach that fosters both critical self-reflection and community support, empowering individuals to reclaim their lives from OCD.

    Website: stonyrunpsych.com

    https://www.abct.org/self-help-book-recommendations/

    Resources & Links

    Kristina Orlova, LMFT

      • https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/
      • https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel
      • https://www.korresults.com/
      • OCD Journal and Planner: CBT based tracker

    Dr. Rachel LaFleur

    • https://stonyrunpsych.com/
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-lafleur-ph-d-73735056

    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 biweekly 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!
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    23 min