Tracie Ibrahim knows firsthand how OCD can quietly wreck a person’s day. In college, reading meant going forward, then backward, then forward again — just to feel “right.” As a mom, grocery trips were derailed by terrifying, intrusive thoughts. At work, simple emails turned into obsessive loops of rewriting and rereading. In this video, she shares what untreated OCD did to her focus, her routines, and her sense of control — and how Exposure and Response Prevention therapy helped her reclaim her time.

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jaclyn Steinmann spent decades chasing purity, clarity, and healing through retreats, cleanses, and spiritual rituals. But underneath it all was OCD — cleverly disguised as a spiritual quest. What she thought was a journey toward enlightenment was actually a series of compulsions driven by fear, doubt, and the desperate need for certainty. It took years before she realized that the path she was on wasn’t leading her to peace — it was keeping her stuck.

In this conversation, Jaclyn opens up about how OCD hijacked her beliefs, her body, and her sense of meaning. She shares how learning to embrace uncertainty — instead of trying to outsmart it — became the key to real recovery. Today, she's not only free from OCD's grip, but helping others do the same as a therapist.

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When intrusive thoughts or strange sensations start taking over, a lot of people with OCD fear the worst — what if it’s not OCD at all? What if it’s something like psychosis or schizophrenia? In this video, Dr. Patrick McGrath explains the critical differences between OCD, delusions, and hallucinations, why the fear of “what if it’s not OCD” is so common, and how real insight plays a major role in telling them apart. If you’ve ever doubted your diagnosis, this breakdown will help you understand what’s really going on.

Struggling with intrusive thoughts? Our best-in-care therapists might be able to help. To book a free 15-minute call, visit us at https://learn.nocd.com/YT

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actress and content creator Caroline Klidonas joins the Get to Know OCD podcast to dive into the complexities of false memory OCD. This challenging subtype of OCD can make you question your own memories and even your sense of reality. In this episode, Caroline opens up about her personal experience with false memory OCD, how she's learned to manage it, and offers insights for others facing similar struggles. 

Show notes:
0:00 Intro

1:36 A Poem About OCD

2:53 False Memory OCD

7:22 Life With OCD Before Therapy 

13:36 Sticking With ERP

17:28 How Real OCD Feels

20:30 Shame And Guilt Of OCD

23:00 Toughest Exposure Therapy

23:54 How OCD Interferes With Your Own Treatment

25:56 Life With OCD Post Therapy 

29:40 Carolina’s New Film

33:19 Knowing OCD Will Never Go Away

37:54 “Oh I Have A Little OCD Too”

41:19 Opening Up About Taboo Thoughts

45:32 What Carolina’s Excited About

48:08 Therapy Is Not A Sign Of Weakness

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recognizing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a crucial first step in seeking help, whether for yourself or someone you know. In this video, we detail the most common symptoms — both physical and mental — associated with OCD. Stick with us to gain valuable insights into this often misunderstood condition.

Show Notes:
0:00 Intro

1:07 Keep This In Mind

2:04 Sign #1 

4:09 Safety Behaviors

5:27 Sign #2

7:28 Sign #3 

9:02 Sign #4 (1/3 of people with OCD will turn to this)

10:35 Sign #5 

12:21 How To Overcome OCD

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uma Chatterjee is a leading neuroscientist and researcher specializing in OCD. She bridges her lived experience and rigorous science to understand the disorder that’s impacted her as long as she can remember. In this episode of the Get to know OCD podcast, Uma simplifies the latest OCD research and shares why she’s driven to understand the disorder as deeply as possible.

Show Notes:
0:00 Intro

2:07 If OCD Research Were A Cheese

2:53 What Drives Uma’s Research

5:40 Why OCD Research Is Difficult 

7:49 Misunderstanding OCD

9:03 Breaking The Molds Of A Researcher

10:25 Explaining OCD In Simple Terms

14:48 Is OCD Genetic?

16:35 The Harm Of Pseudo-Science

20:40 Possible OCD Research Breakthroughs

24:18 Uma’s Goals

27:38 Uma’s Struggles With OCD 

39:35 Evidence-Based Treatment

42:39 Dunning-Kruger Effect 

47:48 Uma’s Advice To Those Affected By OCD 

You can follow Uma’s latest research here: ⁠https://umarchatterjee.com/research/⁠

She also hosts her own podcast: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/umarchatterjee

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does my partner truly love me? Are they really the "right one"? These questions are the norm for those struggling with relationship OCD (ROCD). If you're battling these same doubts about your relationships, this video is for you. In this explainer, we dive into the complexities of ROCD, its impact on your relationships, and ways to manage it.

Show notes:

0:33 What Is Relationship OCD?

2:17 OCD Nickname's

6:41 Overcoming Relationship OCD

9:39 ROCD's Effects On Relationship

10:57 Hope For Couples

12:24 What To Do If You Have ROCD

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the outside, Brad Feld seems unfazed. Since 1987, Brad has blazed an impressive career as an early-stage investor and entrepreneur in tech. But internally, Brad has been battling OCD for nearly 60 years. In this episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast, Brad opens up about how he has navigated life and achieved success while experiencing OCD, why he’s so open about his struggles, and much more.

Please note: This podcast briefly mentions suicidal ideation. NOCD is not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect to the Suicide & Crisis Hotline.

Show Notes
0:00 Intro

1:07 If OCD Was A Movie Title

1:58 Underlying Obsessions 

3:38 How OCD Has Affected Brad’s Life At Different Points

11:02 Mental Exhaustion And OCD

15:06 Separating The Obsessions And The Compulsions

20:15 Why Brad Speaks Openly About Mental Health 

30:42 Dispelling OCD Misconceptions

37:27 Brad’s Purpose

40:27 Brad’s Advice For His Younger Self 

51:18 What Companies Can Do For Mental Health

55:12 Post-Therapy Movie Titles

58:30 Outro

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"OCD is just germaphobia" or "OCD is a superpower" — these are just a few of the myths associated with OCD. Spoiler alert: neither are true. Both are examples of all-too-common misconceptions about OCD.

In this special episode of our OCD Deep Dive series, we go mythbusting on OCD and give you the realities of the disorder. 

0:00 Intro

0:52 Myth #1 

3:29 Myth #2

5:06 Myth #3

7:50 Myth #4

8:46 Myth #5

11:37 Review

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singer, songwriter, and YouTube creator Cami Petyn has used her growing platform for OCD advocacy. Her struggles with OCD have been at the center of many songs and videos she's created. In this episode of the Get to know OCD podcast, Cami tells us why she's so big on OCD awareness and how the disorder has affected her life.

Show notes:
0:00 Intro

1:39 Before OCD Diagnosis

5:11 Why Does It Feel So Real?

7:57 Getting Help From NOCD

10:17 Fan Reactions

11:42 If OCD Was A Song

13:12 What OCD Preys On

14:47 OCD Is Awkward

16:53 Living With OCD On A Daily Basis

21:34 ERP Therapy

24:49 “Oh I Have A Little OCD Too”

25:54 Why Cami Uses Her Platform For OCD Awareness

26:30 Mental Compulsions

28:36 Life-Changing Therapy

30:47 Why OCD Is So Misunderstood 

32:28 What Cami Wants To Do With Her Platform 

33:33 How OCD Affects Family Members

36:08 Biggest Shift After Treatment

38:57 Relationship OCD

43:24 What Cami Hears From Others About OCD

45:33 Cami’s Advice To Those With OCD

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our brand-new series, OCD Deep Dive! In this series, NOCD Chief Clinical Officer Patrick McGrath will give you a detailed breakdown about all things OCD. In the debut episode, we're explaining OCD as a whole — what is it, living with it, how to treat it, and more. 

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

1:00 What Is OCD?

5:04 OCD Misconceptions 

6:18 Living With OCD

10:24 OCD Treatment Is Available

13:13 Does OCD Go Away? 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Never one to shy away from joking about ANY topic, comedian Maria Bamford joins us for the fourth episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast. In this candid interview, she opens up about battling OCD throughout her life and navigating her Hollywood career through it — all while making us laugh along the way.

Please note: This podcast briefly mentions suicide. NOCD is not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect to the Suicide & Crisis Hotline.

Show Notes:
0:00 Intro 

1:58 OCD-Related Sounds 

4:47 Being Open About OCD

8:16 Emotions Of OCD

13:32 Therapy Is A Process

15:08 Finding The Right Help

18:55 Noooo-CD! Web Series

20:08 Time Spent In Your Own Head

22:31 OCD Flare Ups During Free Time

25:33 Others Understanding Your OCD

29:08 Just “Stop Thinking” About It

30:12 Exposure Therapy And Therapy 

30:56 Future Of OCD Therapy 

35:17 Maria’s Advice For Those With OCD

36:58 Therapeutic Comedy  

39:12 Caregiver Experience 

44:27 Outro

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sam Temple is a multi-hyphenated creator — podcaster, DIY, artist, and more. Before Sam was diagnosed with OCD, she used creativity as an outlet to distract herself from anxiety and other emotions spurred by OCD. In this interview, she tells us how she's come to live with OCD and the person she is now, and will always be.

Show Notes:

0:00 Intro

2:00 If OCD Was A Food Dish Or Recipe

2:54 Not Knowing You Have OCD

5:15 Health-Related Anxiety

8:30 Being Creative With OCD

12:12 How Sam Got Help

14:05 Starting ERP

16:17 Thinking “What If”

19:28 The Many Emotions Of OCD

24:46 Using Projects As A Distraction

26:58 Taking The Stigma Away From OCD

29:38 Specialized Treatment vs. Generalized Treatment

36:28 Existential OCD

39:04 Change Your Behaviors, Not Your Thoughts

42:14 Overcoming Fears With Probabilities 

45:01 Sam’s Advice To Those With OCD

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if a single text message could change the way your brain works? After years of battling schizophrenia, OCD, and bipolar disorder, Johnny Crowder discovered something powerful: interrupting negative thought patterns — even briefly — can start to reshape the mind. That insight led him to create Cope Notes, a company that sends randomized, psychology-based text messages to help people rewire their brains for better mental health. Built on the science of neuroplasticity and rooted in personal experience, the platform has now delivered millions of messages to users around the world.

In this episode, Johnny shares how he went from refusing to talk about his mental health to building a platform that helps thousands do just that. He breaks down the science behind Cope Notes, why randomness matters, and how something as small as a text can become a turning point. It’s not about toxic positivity or replacing therapy — it’s about giving your brain a new default, one message at a time.

0:00 Intro
2:15 Meet Johnny
5:55 OCD was debilitating
7:33 Common phrases that minimize OCD
11:08 OCD-character traits can become beneficial AFTER treatment
13:17 Using rationale to stump OCD
14:47 We are great at motivating everyone but ourselves
19:02 Moving the goalposts
21:08 Starting Cope Notes
24:00 How Cope Notes has impacted others
27:49 Cope Notes at a neuropsychological level
30:31 Negative feelings are not ALL bad
37:02 What if disorder
38:20 Why Johnny is so positive despite his conditions
42:33 One of the biggest lies of OCD
47:05 How to connect with Johnny

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Howie Mandel joins us on the second episode of the Get to know OCD podcast. He opens up about his lifelong struggles with OCD despite being in the public eye for much of his career — from being a comedian to a TV personality to a podcaster.

Show Notes: 

0:00 Intro
 
1:18 Welcome Howie Mandel
 
2:39 OCD Prevalence 

6:39 Howie's Pet Peeve

9:01 OCD Emotions

11:28 Why Howie Doesn't Shake Hands

16:27 Living With OCD

26:17 Valuing Mental Health More

30:52 "Life Is Hard"

32:00 Therapy

35:04 Howie's Regret

38:16 Feeling Great When You Have OCD

41:32 Howie's Advice

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first-ever episode of the Get To Know OCD podcast. Host Dr. Patrick McGrath is joined by NOCD CEO and cofounder Stephen Smith. Stephen takes us inside his life-long struggles with OCD, how NOCD came to be, and his plans to continue to tackle the issue.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tune in each week for a deep dive into all things OCD with host Dr. Patrick McGrath, NOCD's Chief Clinical Officer. We’ll be sharing inspiring real-life stories of people who’ve faced OCD and came out the other side, as well as practical tips for understanding and tackling OCD. We hope you enjoy the podcast and it helps you get to know OCD.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenna Posey always thought she had a good grasp on her OCD, but everything shifted when she started hearing celebrities like Luke Combs, Nikki Glaser, and Ariana Grande open up about their own mental health struggles. Their stories weren’t just relatable — they were eye-opening. Luke talked about being consumed by intrusive thoughts even while performing on stage, Nikki shared how her OCD fed into an eating disorder, and Ariana described rituals that kept her trapped in a cycle. Hearing those raw, honest moments helped Brenna connect dots in her own experience that she hadn’t seen before.

In this video, Brenna reflects on the impact those stories had on her understanding of OCD and why celebrity voices can play a powerful role in breaking stigma. She explains how each of their perspectives helped her realize that OCD isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that even people at the top of their careers are navigating the same exhausting mental loops. Most of all, it reminded her — and now hopefully you — that struggling with OCD doesn’t mean you can’t live a full, meaningful life.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when your faith — the thing that’s supposed to ground you — becomes the source of constant fear and doubt? For people with OCD, especially those struggling with scrupulosity, that’s exactly what happens. In this episode, therapist Justin Hughes joins Dr. Patrick McGrath to talk about the painful cycle of obsessing over belief, salvation, sin, and certainty. They explore how OCD can make someone question their deepest values, fear damnation, or feel trapped in compulsions that masquerade as “being faithful.”

But this isn’t about losing your religion — it’s about reclaiming it. Justin and Patrick break down how evidence-based treatment like ERP can help you step out of fear without abandoning your beliefs. They share stories from clients and their own lives, explain how therapy can honor faith rather than erase it, and make the case that healing doesn’t require spiritual compromise — it requires clarity, compassion, and the courage to sit with doubt.

Need someone to talk to about your intrusive thoughts? NOCD therapists are specialized to treat OCD themes of all kinds, including scrupulosity. To book a free 15-minute call, visit us at https://learn.nocd.com/YT

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Montana thought he understood OCD — until he got married. His wife, Mackenzie, had been living with obsessive-compulsive disorder since she was a teenager, but it wasn’t until they built a life together that he began to see the full impact. From hidden rituals to overwhelming fear, contamination spirals, and constant anxiety, OCD slowly took over their home. With two young kids, military life, and cross-country moves in the mix, their marriage was pushed to the edge.

In this raw and honest conversation, Mackenzie and Montana share how OCD strained their relationship, reshaped their parenting, and nearly tore their family apart. It wasn’t until everything felt like it was falling apart that therapy — specifically Exposure and Response Prevention — gave them the tools to rebuild. Together, they show what it really looks like to fight OCD as a team and how getting the right help can truly save a relationship and a family.

Want to try ERP therapy like Mackenzie? NOCD offers proven, specialized treatment for OCD. Start your journey by visiting https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uma Chatterjee is a neuroscientist who studies the brain circuitry behind OCD — and she’s also someone who lived with the disorder at its most severe. In this talk, she breaks down the actual biology behind intrusive thoughts and compulsions, from overactive brain regions like the orbitofrontal cortex to the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and GABA. She explains how genetics and stress can prime the brain for OCD, why certain thoughts feel so “sticky,” and what’s really happening when the brain misfires and flags harmless ideas as dangerous.

But this isn’t just science for science’s sake — it’s about hope. Uma shares how Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) can actually retrain the brain’s alarm system through neuroplasticity, helping people tolerate anxiety without relying on compulsions. For the most up-to-date science on OCD and its treatment, this video is must watch.

To learn more about science-backed OCD treatment and to find an OCD-specialized therapist, visit us at NOCD: https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Watch Uma's interview on the Get to know OCD podcast: https://youtu.be/1NaxMoYhXZ4
You can follow Uma’s latest research here: ⁠https://umarchatterjee.com/research/⁠
She also hosts her own podcast: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/umarchatterjee

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, people with OCD have been misdiagnosed, misunderstood, or simply told they have “anxiety.” In this video, Dr. Patrick McGrath breaks down why so many suffer in silence — and how everything can change with the right treatment. From taboo intrusive thoughts to compulsions no one sees, OCD shows up in ways most people don’t recognize. But with proper diagnosis and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, real recovery is possible. If you’ve ever felt stuck, ashamed, or hopeless, this video is for you.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Zane Gonzalez lined up for a game-winning field goal on national television, he had no idea millions would be talking about what happened before the ball barely snuck inside the upright to send the Commanders to the NFC Championship. The video went viral not because of the kick itself, but because of Zane’s “strange” pre-kick rituals — fixing his socks, adjusting his helmet, smoothing his hair. What the world saw as quirky or nervous habits were actually deeply ingrained OCD patterns he’s been navigating since childhood.

In this powerful interview, Zane opens up about what it felt like to go viral for something so personal, how he’s learned to perform under pressure while managing OCD, and why he’s done hiding it. From being misunderstood by commentators to finding support in the locker room, he shares the unfiltered story of living with OCD in the spotlight — and how choosing to own that moment is inspiring others to do the same.

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenna Posey didn’t expect a night of binge-watching White Lotus would turn into a lightbulb moment about her mental health. But somewhere between episodes, sleep deprivation, and the familiar pull of “just one more,” she realized she was caught in a pattern that looked a lot like her experience with OCD.

Giving in felt good for a moment — but the next day, she was exhausted, frustrated, and asking herself the same question many people with OCD face: Why do I keep doing what I know makes me feel worse? In this episode, Brenna shares how that moment helped her reframe the OCD cycle, and how doing the opposite — resisting compulsions, sitting with discomfort, and letting the anxiety be there — is what finally gave her freedom.

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They said she was beyond help. After 29 hospitalizations, no one had any answers. Tracie Ibrahim was just 10 years old when a single question from a doctor spiraled her into nearly a decade of psychiatric holds, misdiagnoses, and overmedication. They labeled her with everything from depression to schizophrenia, but no one stopped to consider the truth behind her thoughts — behind the compulsions, behind the fear.

In this episode of Get to Know OCD, Tracie shares the raw, powerful story of how untreated OCD shaped her childhood, how she eventually uncovered the therapy that finally worked, and how she now uses that same method to help others heal as NOCD's Chief Compliance Officer.

Struggling with OCD? At NOCD, we offer specialized treatment for the disorder. Book a free 15-minute call with one of our experts at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OCD is one of the most misrepresented conditions in mental health. In this video, Dr. Patrick McGrath breaks down how everyday language, media portrayals, and even well-meaning comments create confusion and minimize the reality of what people with OCD actually go through. This isn’t about nitpicking — it’s about the real harm that comes from myths that are spread in mass.

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ally Duncan built a career most people dream about. As a full-time content creator in the food space, she’s known for her intricate cakes, playful tiny baking videos, and a vibrant online presence. What her audience didn’t see, for years, was how much work it took to succeed while quietly managing OCD.

OCD shows up in her kitchen in ways most people wouldn’t notice — counting food coloring drops, checking for perfect symmetry on cupcakes, or feeling the urge to fix every imperfection. It’s exhausting, and it never fully turns off. But Ally’s learned to live with it, work through it, and keep showing up for what she loves.

After years of staying quiet about her mental health, Ally started sharing her story. What she found wasn’t judgment — it was community. That response is what pushed her to keep speaking up. Because if talking about OCD helps even one person feel less alone, it’s worth it, she tells us.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:12 Ally’s background
4:16 How OCD has affected Ally’s life
8:07 Symmetry OCD is present when Ally bakes
10:28 Ally’s therapy experience
12:42 Ally has a phrase to combat OCD
13:47 Being open about OCD struggles
16:11 How Ally’s OCD has changed throughout her life
19:07 How hormones affect Ally’s OCD
21:29 OCD-themed cake?
23:05 Ally’s partner is very supportive
25:29 The difficulties of getting specialized OCD treatment
28:58 Virtual mental healthcare is just as effective as in-person
31:50 Biggest breakthroughs Ally experienced
33:42 Why Ally became an OCD advocate
35:15 How Ally got into baking and content
39:38 OCD flareups happen
42:00 The shock of learning a behavior is a compulsion
44:45 Advice from Ally

Want to try ERP therapy like Ally? NOCD offers proven, specialized treatment for OCD. Start your journey by visiting https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, Chrissie Hodges lived a double life— on the outside, everything looked fine. But inside, she was battling nonstop intrusive thoughts she didn’t understand and couldn’t share with anyone. Thoughts so taboo and terrifying, she assumed they made her a bad person.

It wasn’t until a suicide attempt and a lucky diagnosis that Chrissie discovered what she’d been living with all along: OCD. In this raw and revealing interview, Chrissie shares the reality of surviving taboo intrusive thoughts, the shame that kept her silent for decades, and the moment she realized she wasn’t alone—and never had been.

If you’ve ever been afraid to talk about what’s really going on in your mind, this conversation will remind you there’s nothing wrong with who you are — and there IS help available.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:17 When Chrissie first noticed she had OCD
7:32 Made-up narratives to justify OCD
9:50 Sexual orientation OCD
14:53 Getting on medication and going to therapy
16:15 Finally discovering pure OCD
18:47 Trying therapy can be scary
22:05 How Chrissie dealt with feelings of shame
26:52 Other taboo-intrusive thoughts
32:53 The exact taboo thoughts Chrissie experienced
38:30 You’re not alone

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Brenna Posey first learned of her OCD, she kept it to herself for years — afraid no one would understand what she was going through. She worried people would either dismiss it or get scared by how deeply it affected her. And as the oldest sibling, she wasn’t used to people worrying about her. But everything started to change the moment Brenna opened up to her family. What she found wasn’t judgment — it was support.

In this video, Brenna shares the turning points that helped her go from silence to honesty, how she talks about OCD with loved ones now, and the steps that made those conversations easier.

If you're struggling with OCD, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan Stewart was a high-level executive with big dreams for her family — but nothing prepared her for what came next. Both of her children were diagnosed with serious mental health conditions, including OCD, ADHD, autism, Tourette syndrome, and more.

In this powerful conversation, Jan opens up about what it’s really like to raise two kids with serious mental health struggles. From misdiagnoses and meltdowns to stigma, sleepless nights, and small wins that meant everything, she shares what she wishes she had known early on — and what she hopes every parent facing similar challenges can take away from her story.

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before Zach Kornfeld was one of the Try Guys — before millions knew his name — he was a kid quietly fighting battles in his own mind. With no words for what was happening, he just knew something felt off. A drawer left slightly open, a railing brushing the wrong arm, and his whole body would spark with discomfort. He didn’t know it was OCD yet. And when he finally found a name for it, it didn’t come with a map. Just more questions, more trial and error, and a long road toward learning how to live with it.

Now he’s a full-time creator running a media company, making people laugh, and still closing drawers behind coworkers. Not because he’s cured. Not because the thoughts are gone. But because he’s figured out how to live with the disorder. As he told us on this episode of the Get to know OCD podcast, "my life is dope as hell and I have OCD."

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/YT to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Brenna Posey started dating her boyfriend, everything felt right — he was kind, emotionally mature, and genuinely cared about mental health. But even in the middle of a good relationship, OCD found a way in. She started spiraling with thoughts like “What if I don’t love him enough?” or “What if this relationship isn’t right and I’m just too scared to admit it?” The scariest part wasn’t anything he did — it was the uncertainty. And for someone with OCD, uncertainty feels unbearable. In this personal video, Brenna shares what it was really like to open up about OCD for the first time, how her partner responded, and how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy helped her stop needing impossible guarantees.

ERP therapy helped Brenna repair her relationships. If you're struggling, our NOCD therapists might be able to help. They are specially trained in ERP therapy — the most effective treatment against OCD. To learn about treatment options, book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daily panic attacks. Anxiety so crippling he could barely function. The fear that if he told anyone what was happening in his mind, they’d think he was crazy. That was Sean Patton’s reality growing up. OCD wasn’t just about organizing things or washing hands — it was a relentless loop of intrusive thoughts and compulsions that dictated his life. It got so bad he dropped out of high school, avoided doorways, people, places, and conversations that might expose his struggles. But what Sean didn’t realize at the time was that the very thing causing his pain would eventually become the foundation of his greatest strength.

Comedy became Sean’s way of fighting back. What started as a defense mechanism— using humor to mask the chaos inside — turned into a career where he could be unapologetically honest about his experiences. On stage, he found power in telling the stories he once tried to hide, turning his most terrifying thoughts into punchlines that resonated with audiences who had their own hidden battles. In this sit-down interview, Sean opens up about his journey with OCD, the misconceptions about mental health, and how laughter became his therapy. 

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:05 Meet Sean Patton
4:03 How OCD affected Sean early in his life
9:42 How Sean dealt with his OCD
11:08 Is psychedelics good for OCD?
16:25 Misrepresentation of OCD in movies and shows
20:45 Is OCD beneficial?
23:15 Sean’s comedic act about OCD
26:47 Fear that OCD will evolve
27:50 “It’s Okay”
29:36 OCD ebbs and flows
32:13 Why Sean talks about OCD in his comedy
39:21 Facing OCD fears head-on
42:39 The best compliment Patrick gets
46:26 Destigmatize OCD and other mental health struggles
49:21 Sean’s comedic act about OCD superstitions
54:09 Why does OCD have to feel so real?
58:05 How to find Sean

Struggling with OCD? NOCD may be able to help. We specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy — the gold standard in OCD care. To learn about treatment,  book a free 15-minute call at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When we try to control every thought that enters our mind, we unknowingly give it more power. The harder we fight intrusive thoughts or uncomfortable feelings, the more they seem to persist. Brenna Posey, a member of NOCD, shares how this cycle kept her stuck and how she learned — through therapy and experience — that true freedom comes from allowing thoughts to come and go without reacting to them.

Learning to sit with uncertainty is one of the most challenging but life-changing skills for managing OCD. In this video, Brenna explains why resisting anxiety only fuels it and how changing your response can break the cycle. She also offers practical strategies to help you step away from compulsions and regain control —not over your thoughts, but over how you respond to them.

Exposure and Response Prevention therapy helped Brenna manage her OCD, and it might do the same for you. If you want to explore treatment options with our team, book a free 15-minute call at  https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2025 IOCDF Conference — starting July 10 in Chicago — is set to bring together clinicians, researchers, and individuals with OCD for a weekend focused on education, advocacy, and community. In this episode, Rebecca Deusser, Executive Director of the International OCD Foundation, talks with Dr. Patrick McGrath about what makes this event unique and why it has become such an important gathering for the OCD community. They discuss new initiatives for this year’s conference, including expanded virtual access, increased programming for families, and a stronger emphasis on global outreach.

Beyond the conference, Rebecca shares the IOCDF’s long-term goals, from pushing for more research funding to improving access to treatment worldwide. With OCD still widely misunderstood and effective care difficult to find, the need for advocacy has never been greater. This conversation dives into how the conference plays a key role in breaking stigma, equipping clinicians with better training, and giving those affected by OCD the resources they need.

For more information about the conference, please visit: https://iocdf.org/programs/conferences/

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most films and TV shows get OCD completely wrong. They reduce it to a quirky obsession with cleanliness or a need for perfect symmetry, missing the relentless, intrusive thoughts that actually define the disorder. But filmmakers Luca Pizzoleo and Conor Patrick Walsh — who both have OCD themselves — set out to change that. Their short film, O.C.D., isn’t about neat freaks or excessive handwashing; it’s about the unseen war happening inside the mind.

In O.C.D., intrusive thoughts aren’t just thoughts — they’re real, tangible, inescapable. With a mix of psychological horror, dark humor, and brutal honesty, Conor and Luca pull viewers into the suffocating cycle of compulsions and anxiety that so many with OCD know all too well. The response has been overwhelming — millions of views, thousands of comments from people who finally feel seen — and hopefully, plans to expand the story into a full-length feature film.

Both Conor and Luca sit down to talk with Dr. Patrick McGrath about living with OCD and the filmmaking process behind it — where the disorder was ever present. 

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:20 Inspiration behind O.C.D. film
4:10 Conor’s OCD experience
5:51 Luca’s OCD experience
7:40 Why OCD feels so real
10:50 OCD is the mental version of “knocking on wood”
11:38 A clip from O.C.D. film
18:11 Substance abuse as an OCD coping mechanism
20:33 Luca’s treatment experience
23:08 OCD lies to you
25:27 No one with OCD recommends having it
27:39 Living with OCD IS possible
32:45 How OCD interfered in Luca’s filmmaking process
36:24 Turning O.C.D. into a feature film
38:21 Has the film helped others understand OCD?
41:18 Portrayal of OCD in the media
45:08 What Conor and Luca hope people take away from the film
48:17 Outro

Watch O.C.D. here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAfdRMeZkWQ

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After decades in the field, these two veteran therapists have seen it all — the stigma, the broken insurance policies, and the slow grind toward change. But now, they say, something real is happening. Mental health is finally being recognized for what it is: essential care. And the system is starting to reflect that — from better insurance parity to easier access through virtual platforms.

In this episode, Dr. Patrick McGrath and Chris Novak pull back the curtain on the mental health industry. They talk about what’s finally working, what still needs to change, and why finding the right therapist matters more than ever. 

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, Brenna Posey struggled with overwhelming fears, intrusive thoughts, and behaviors she couldn't explain. She went through cycles of anxiety, compulsions, and brief periods of relief—never realizing there was a name for what she was experiencing. It wasn’t until one pivotal moment that everything clicked. In this video, Brenna shares the exact moment she realized she had OCD, how she found hope, and why understanding her diagnosis changed everything.

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/YT

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kristy Quinn never expected to find herself at rock bottom. Growing up, she struggled with crippling OCD, intrusive thoughts, and overwhelming anxiety — challenges that few around her truly understood. To cope, she turned to alcohol, using it as a way to quiet the never-ending noise in her mind. But what started as an escape quickly became a trap, pulling her deeper into addiction and self-destruction. At her lowest, she suffered seizures, lost her memory, and nearly lost her life. She knew something had to change, but the road to healing felt impossible. How do you rebuild when the very thing you've used to survive is destroying you?

For Kristy, the answer came in the form of comedy and community. Taking the stage was terrifying at first, but it was also the first time she felt truly present — fully sober, fully herself. Each joke, each performance, each connection with an audience reminded her that she was more than her struggles. Through ERP therapy, support from others who understood her pain, and a newfound passion for making people feel good, she slowly took back control.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:53 Kristy’s background
2:09 Being in the moment while doing comedy
5:57 Kristy used to be terrified of doing comedy
9:27 OCD has been a part of Kristy’s life since childhood
13:13 When Kristy began using alcohol to cope with OCD
15:59 Talking about OCD openly
19:36 When others don’t understand the disorder 
20:42 How Kristy uses OCD in her comedy 
22:17 The low point in Kristy’s life
26:49 Talk therapy made Kristy’s condition worse
29:52 “What if” rules Kristy’ life before ERP therapy
31:48 The power of diet and helping others
34:46 What Kristy wishes she knew about OCD before
37:22 Kristy’s advice if you’re struggling with OCD
42:11 Where to find Kristy

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/YT

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scrupulosity OCD isn’t just about religion — it’s about relentless self-doubt, moral perfectionism, and the constant fear of making the “wrong” choice. For Summer Lemmon, that meant questioning every decision, feeling paralyzed by guilt, and seeking endless reassurance that she was a good person. 

Then, everything changed when Summer lost her mother — the person who had always reassured her that things would be okay. Without that anchor, her OCD spiraled, leaving her to face not only overwhelming grief but also the terrifying realization that she could no longer rely on the reassurance that had kept her afloat for years. In this episode, she shares her journey through loss and the difficult but necessary process of learning to navigate life without external validation.

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talking to friends and family about OCD can be frustrating, especially when they think it’s just about being neat and organized. In this video, Brenna Posey breaks down the real OCD—what it actually looks like, why people misunderstand it, and how you can explain it in a way that makes sense. She’s been through it herself, so she gets how tough it is when people don’t take OCD seriously. Instead of getting stuck in endless debates or feeling unheard, she’ll give you simple ways to help your loved ones understand what you're going through.

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/
https://twitter.com/treatmyocd
https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Oscars Awards happening tonight, Hollywood is shining a light on mental health like never before. NOCD team members Brenna Posey dives into A Real Pain, the Jesse Eisenberg film nominated for an Academy Award, starring Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin. The film explores OCD and depression through a deeply personal lens, with Eisenberg drawing from his own struggles with OCD, anxiety, and depression. 

Brenna also highlights Turtles All the Way Down, based on John Green’s novel, which delivers one of the most realistic depictions of OCD in film, and Pure O, a movie tackling the lesser-known but deeply impactful Pure O subtype. With Hollywood’s biggest night upon us, it’s exciting to see films that go beyond entertainment to bring awareness and understanding to real OCD struggles.

If you are struggling with OCD, help is available. NOCD Therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy, the most proven treatment for OCD, to help you regain your life. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized treatment at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cayla Davis never imagined that motherhood and marriage would come with a silent battle — one that lived in her mind and convinced her she was a danger to the very people she loved most. When intrusive thoughts took hold, everyday moments with her children became terrifying, and the weight of OCD strained her marriage. The back-and-forth battle wasn’t easy, and the guilt of needing constant support nearly broke her — but she refused to let OCD define her.

Through exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, Cayla learned to live with uncertainty instead of being ruled by it. She stopped letting fear dictate her every move, and for the first time in a long time, she could truly be present with her family. Now, she shares her story to help others who feel trapped in their own minds, proving that recovery is possible and that OCD doesn’t get to steal the life you love.

At NOCD, we specialize in ERP therapy. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about the specialized care we offer at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenna Posey takes you through her personal journey of living with OCD, breaking down common misconceptions and revealing what it’s REALLY like. As she covers in the video, OCD goes far beyond the common tropes of being clean or organized. In fact, many of the struggles of OCD — mental compulsions and constant anxiety — are invisible to the average person. Through her story, Brenna offers an honest look at the challenges of living with OCD and how it can impact daily life.

Brenna also explains how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy transformed her life, helping her break free from the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions. She shares how community, support, and shifting her response to anxiety made all the difference.

If you are or a loved one is experiencing OCD, there is hope. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to get started with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, the most effective therapy for OCD.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Patrick McGrath shares a powerful story from his time running an intensive outpatient program, where four individuals — each convinced they had the most difficult case of OCD — were brought together to debate whose struggle was truly the hardest. As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that while their experiences were unique, they shared a common belief: their OCD was untreatable. 

Dr. McGrath challenges this mindset, revealing that no matter how severe or complex a case may seem, there is always a path forward. With modern treatments ranging from therapy and medication to advanced techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation, hope and healing are always within reach. This inspiring story reminds readers that the time spent believing in being "the hardest case" can instead be invested in recovery and progress.

At NOCD, we specialize in ERP therapy. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized care at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with author and writer Haley Jakobsen to explore her deeply personal journey with undiagnosed OCD and the identity crisis it caused. Haley shares how her experience with OCD didn’t match the typical portrayals seen in media, leading to years of confusion, shame, and isolation. From intrusive thoughts to relentless self-doubt, Haley opens up about how OCD latched onto the things she valued most, causing her to question everything about who she was. Her story sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of OCD, including mental compulsions and the silent battles many face but rarely discuss.

Haley also discusses how receiving the correct diagnosis and undergoing Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy completely transformed her life. With humor, honesty, and vulnerability, she talks about the process of learning to live with OCD, developing coping tools, and using writing as a form of healing. We also dive into her upcoming novel, CAVEGIRL which draws from her own experiences navigating OCD.

At NOCD, we specialize in ERP therapy. If Haley's story of recovery inspires you, you can book a free 15-minute call to learn more about the specialized care we offer. Book your time at https://learn.nocd.com/YT

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At her lowest point, Brenna Posey felt trapped in OCD’s grip, struggling to find a way forward. In a desperate attempt to make sense of it all, she opened her phone’s notes app and began documenting everything — every struggle, every small victory, and every insight from Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. Over time, this simple act of journaling became her roadmap to recovery, capturing the hard-earned lessons that helped her reclaim her life.

Now, she’s sharing the five most powerful lessons from that journal — the ones that pulled her out of rock bottom and changed everything. Hear her first-hand account of going through ERP.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carrie Berk has been battling a spiraling mind for as long as she can remember. As a child, she kept her OCD rituals secret. As a teen, her anxiety took over during the silence of the pandemic. And even now — as a published author, popular content creator, and mental health advocate — the intrusive thoughts haven’t gone away. But instead of waiting to be “cured,” Carrie chose something else: to live, to create, and to speak out.

In this raw and revealing conversation, she shares what it means to build a life with anxiety as your shadow — and why she refuses to let it steal her voice. From her new book Mindfire to her journey through therapy and self-discovery, Carrie opens up about the hardest thoughts she’s had, the tools that helped her move forward, and the truth that changed everything: it’s not about being cured — it’s about learning how to live with what’s still there.

0:00 Intro
2:28 Meet Carrie
3:30 Why Carrie’s book is called Mindfire
4:27 Early signs of having OCD
7:54 Feeling you are alone
9:16 Self-harm and suicidal thoughts are not the same
11:31 Listen to your gut
15:24 Why OCD feels so real
17:47 Carrie’s book is a roadmap for OCD
20:54 Advice if you’re struggling
22:25 You’ll never “cross the finish line” with OCD
25:41 How OCD safety behaviors affected Carrie
31:17 What Carrie does when OCD cuts into her passions
33:41 OCD is misunderstood
36:10 How to talk about your OCD with someone else
37:17 How friends and extended family members react to Carrie’s OCD
42:10 You need to want to get better
44:18 Outro

Need help treating OCD? Our specially-trained therapists can help. Visit https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to book a free 15-minute consultation and explore options most suited for you. 

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A decade ago, finding effective OCD treatment was an uphill battle —misdiagnosis, stigma, and inaccessibility left many struggling alone. But change is happening. OCD advocate Chrissie Hodges and Stephen Smith, co-founder and CEO of NOCD, share their personal and professional journeys in reshaping the landscape of OCD care. From grassroots advocacy to groundbreaking digital therapy, they explore how far treatment has come, but also the obstacles that still prevent people from getting help.

Despite big progress, stigma and misinformation continue to delay diagnosis and treatment, especially for those facing the most distressing OCD themes. Chrissie and Stephen cover why awareness is the final frontier and how the next decade can bring true accessibility, understanding, and support for those who need it most.

NOCD is proud to treat OCD with expert care. Our therapists are specialty-trained in ERP therapy — the leading treatment against OCD. Book a free 15-minute call to learn more about specialized care at https://learn.nocd.com/podcast

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For someone with contamination OCD, everyday life becomes a series of exhausting rituals and overwhelming fears. Touching a surface, using a public restroom, or even being near other people can trigger an intense fear of contamination, leading to compulsive handwashing, sanitizing, or avoidance behaviors. The anxiety isn’t just about germs — it extends to a deep sense of responsibility, fearing that they might unknowingly spread harm to others. The relentless cycle of fear and compulsions can take over every aspect of life, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible.

Breaking free from contamination OCD requires more than just reassurance or temporary coping strategies — it demands structured, evidence-based treatment. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy helps individuals confront their fears gradually, reducing the power OCD holds over them. While the journey is difficult, it is possible to regain control and live a life no longer dictated by obsessive fears and compulsions. This video will pave your path to recovery.

Follow us on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/treatmyocd/

https://twitter.com/treatmyocd

https://www.tiktok.com/@treatmyocd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.