The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova

Kristina Orlova
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The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova

New podcast weblog

  1. 122. Unmasking Moral Scrupulosity in OCD

    5 DAYS AGO

    122. Unmasking Moral Scrupulosity in OCD

    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/     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!

    23 min
  2. 121. The Overlap: Understanding OCD and Eating Disorders

    OCT 15

    121. The Overlap: Understanding OCD and Eating Disorders

    Are you aware that the struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and eating disorders often go hand in hand, creating a complex web of challenges for those affected? Imagine grappling with the relentless pressure to control your environment while simultaneously battling intense fears surrounding food and body image. How does this intricate interplay shape the experiences of individuals living with these conditions?   In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with Elian Beattie, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and Insight Mental Health Group owner. We explore the intricate relationship between OCD and eating disorders, discussing their prevalence, overlapping symptoms, and psychological factors. Elian highlights the importance of recognizing this overlap for effective treatment. We delve into motivations behind restrictive eating behaviors, manifestations of anorexia and bulimia, and the concept of orthorexia. Elian provides practical strategies for managing these conditions, emphasizing value-driven actions and addressing fears of weight gain to foster a fulfilling life.   Don't miss this enlightening discussion that could change how you understand and approach these intertwined conditions. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tools for healing.   In This Episode [00:44] Introduction to Elian Beattie [01:33] Prevalence of OCD and eating disorders [02:34] Impact of OCD on eating disorders [03:30] Effects of eating disorders on OCD [04:28] Identifying OCD and eating disorders [06:00] Understanding restrictive eating [08:01] Manifestations of anorexia and bulimia [09:34] Origins of eating disorders [10:40] Internalizing vs. externalizing issues [12:01] Self-help strategies for overlapping disorders [14:42] Addressing fears of weight gain [15:54] Closing remarks and resources Notable Quotes [01:56] “When you treat OCD, you’re probably going to have at least 1 in 5 of your clients also have an eating disorder.”- Elian [03:44] “Having an eating disorder when you have OCD can really reinforce rumination and cyclical thinking, worsening OCD symptoms too”- Elian  [09:53] "Eating disorders are not about thinness. They often stem from deeper issues like attachment, self-esteem, and trauma." -Elian [15:29]  “Take a chance on it because it is worth it. If you can grow your life and build your identity outside of an eating disorder or OCD, then you're going to be building up who you already are at any size.”- Elian. Our Guest Elian M. Beattie, MS, LMHC, is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Insights Group Mental Health Therapy practice owner in Rhine, New Hampshire. Specializing in OCD, eating disorders, body image issues, and anxiety, Elian offers individualized, evidence-based treatments, including CBT, ERP, and ACT. Known for a genuine and compassionate approach, Elian provides unconditional support while holding clients accountable. Passionate about social justice and HAES principles, Elian empowers clients to challenge limiting patterns and embrace their strengths. Elian also volunteers on the Executive Board of OCD New Hampshire, furthering their commitment to mental health advocacy. Resources & Links   Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com   Elian Beattie https://www.insightmentalhealthgroup.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/elian-beattie-b7789684/ https://www.instagram.com/elianinsights/?hl=en   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!

    17 min
  3. 120. Pedophilia OCD: The Greatest Misconceptions

    OCT 1

    120. Pedophilia OCD: The Greatest Misconceptions

    Have you ever had thoughts so disturbing they make you doubt yourself? Pedophilia OCD (POCD) can bring intrusive fears that aren’t reflective of who you are—so let’s clear the air: having POCD isn’t the same as having pedophilia. Curious how this all works and how you can break free from its grip? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Tombaugh, a psychotherapist who specializes in OCD and anxiety. Today, we discuss the complexities of Pedophilia OCD (POCD), a specific and often misunderstood subtype of OCD. We explore the distress it causes and the misconceptions surrounding it. POCD involves intrusive and unwanted thoughts about inappropriate sexual behavior toward children—thoughts that do not reflect the individual's true desires or intentions. Rachel explains how these distressing thoughts create significant inner turmoil and highlights the importance of specialized treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure and response prevention. This episode aims to dispel misconceptions, reduce stigma, and provide hope by offering resources for additional support.   In This Episode [00:43] Introduction to Rachel Tombaugh [01:57] Discussion on pedophilia OCD (POCD) [02:45] Public misunderstanding of POCD [04:40] Ego-dystonic vs. ego-syntonic thoughts [06:38] The distress of OCD sufferers [09:15] Rachel’s explanation of OCD [12:31] Nature vs. nurture in OCD [14:16] Developmental triggers for OCD [15:31] Societal opinions on sexual themes in OCD [16:14] The link between OCD and feelings of depression [18:01] Information seeking vs. reassurance seeking [18:30] How OCD can distort self-identity [18:49] Treatment options for OCD [19:38] Resources for OCD treatment   Notable Quotes [02:55] “In the general public, it is a lesser-known form of OCD. It's actually really, really common.”- Rachel [05:43]  “The thought is distressing. The thought is scary. It might feel shameful or disgusting. It is not something that the person is thinking on purpose.”- Rachel [18:49] “The first thing that I want people to understand about this form of OCD, as with any other subtype, is that this is a treatable condition, and there are people who have the knowledge and the training to help you and to help you feel better and get your life back" Rachel [20:02] ''It's always so important that people with OCD find their way to an OCD specialist. This is a very treatable condition.”-Rachel   Our Guest Rachel Tombaugh is a psychotherapist in private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in OCD, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and trauma. She delivers transformative results with advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure, response prevention, and inference-based CBT. Rachel lives in the Sonoran Desert with her family, horse Gabriel, and a menagerie of beloved pets. Her clinical expertise and personalized approach ensure effective and meaningful treatment for her clients. Resources & Links   Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com   Rachel Tombaugh https://ocdandptsdtherapy.com/ https://web.facebook.com/OCDandPTSDTherapy/?_rdc=1&_rdr   Disclaimer Please note that 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!

    23 min
  4. 119. Breaking the Rules of OCD: Finding Freedom through Mindfulness and Aikido

    JUL 23

    119. Breaking the Rules of OCD: Finding Freedom through Mindfulness and Aikido

    People with OCD often feel trapped by strict rules in their daily lives. These unwritten rules might mean always trying to control their thoughts, constantly seeking certainty, seeing anxiety as a sign of immediate danger, feeling personally responsible for preventing harm, analyzing every thought meticulously, striving for perfection in everything, and keeping their struggle with OCD hidden from others. In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with  Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans, a licensed professional counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Evans is  the author of "Breaking the Rules of OCD: Find Lasting Freedom from the Unwanted Thoughts, Rituals, and Compulsions that Rule Your Life," During the conversation, Dr. Evans discusses treating OCD and anxiety disorders, focusing on the core issue of agency loss. She emphasizes that individuals with OCD often feel compelled to perform rituals, believing they lack choice, and advises recognizing one's agency to make different choices. Her book outlines seven rules to break OCD's grip, including challenging perfectionism, embracing uncertainty, and addressing discomfort intolerance. The episode also clarifies ERP therapy misconceptions and normalizes setbacks as growth opportunities. Dr. Evans introduces Aikido principles as a metaphor for managing OCD triggers, advocating redirecting energy rather than confrontation. She concludes with the "PASSION" acronym: Pause, Pivot, and Proceed; Accept Experiences; Strengthen Your Stance; Practice Self-Compassion; Invite Exposure; Observe Thoughts; and Stay Present. These principles help individuals build resilience and live fulfilling lives free from OCD constraints.   In This Episode [01:23] The motivation behind writing her book  [02:32] The seven rules of OCD [04:11] Common misconceptions about OCD [05:37] Blending therapy approaches in the book [07:08] Challenges and relapses in OCD treatment [08:38] Making therapy accessible [10:15] Mindfulness and agency in OCD treatment [13:42] Mindfulness during exposure [18:23] The power of mindfulness [20:32] The most important rule to break [21:29] The resistance battle [23:03] Aikido principles [26:31] Passion acronym Notable Quotes [04:11] “There have been many tears of relief shed in my office when people find out that they're not broken.”- Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans [10:57] “We all want to feel good and we all want to do things that will help us feel better.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans [17:37]  “If people can get in touch with what a chore it is to do the compulsion, then that's an incentive to not resist so much but actually to learn to allow.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans [21:29] “'What you resist keeps persisting. It’s a counterintuitive thing, and when you resist, you can notice this battle within yourself.”-Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans [23:03]  “If you notice that OCD trigger, rather than going straight into the compulsion, pause and say, "I have an opportunity to learn here."' Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans [26:31]  “You can live your life with passion even though OCD shows up sometimes.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans   Our Guest Dr. Kim Rockwell-Evans, PhD, LPC, LMFT, has specialized in anxiety and OCD treatment in Dallas for 30+ years. Recognized throughout North Texas and Oklahoma, she integrates cutting-edge therapies like CBT and ACT to empower patients to confront fears and lead fulfilling lives, offering practical, evidence-based solutions for lasting results.   Resources & Links   Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com    Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans https://ocdanxietydallas.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimrockwellevans https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094019790453&_rdc=1&_rdr   Mentioned Breaking the Rules of OCD" by Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans The Miracle of Mindfulness" by T

    29 min
  5. 118. Overcoming OCD: The Journey of Tyler Falcoa in the Music Industry

    JUL 9

    118. Overcoming OCD: The Journey of Tyler Falcoa in the Music Industry

    Is it possible that the meticulous and often relentless nature of OCD could fuel the creative genius behind some of the most iconic music in the industry? In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Tyler Falcoa, an indie pop artist, music producer, and mixed engineer, discusses the intricate relationship between creativity and obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD). Tyler, who has managed OCD since the age of ten, shares his journey, coping mechanisms, and the impact of OCD on his creative process. Tyler shares how his OCD, triggered by traumatic events, impacts his creativity and daily life. He discusses the importance of structure in his work, the challenges of self-doubt, and the role of social media in finding support. Tyler highlights the duality of OCD, acknowledging both its debilitating effects and its contribution to his strengths. The episode concludes with messages of hope and resources for managing OCD.   In This Episode [00:43]- Introduction to Tyler Falcao [01:15]- How OCD impacts creativity  [05:48]- Tyler’s early trauma and OCD   [10:37] - Tyler on his journey to discovering OCD   [11:25] - Social media and learning about OCD [12:28] - Managing OCD in creative work   [16:05] - Mentorship and examples   [17:14] - Creativity and OCD   [19:05] - Positive aspects of OCD   [21:20] -Tyler’s message of hope   Notable Quotes [10:06] “You have these intense bouts of emotions that just rip you, and this gridlock in thoughts that are racing at the speed of light, and you just can't figure out what's up or down or left or right" Tyler Falcoa [08:34] “I unfortunately did ERP by myself before I started seeing my current therapist, which made things much worse for me.”-Tyler Falcao [13:10] "I had to be able to work through my OCD and the intrusive thoughts, and the fact that my mother was in the hospital while also trying to write a song for my job.’Tyler Falcoa [17:24] "'For me, my OCD has been debilitating and part of very dark times in my life. But I am extremely dependable, very prompt, and extremely organized. That is my way of control for my life."Tyler Falcoa [18:43] "No matter where you are in your OCD journey, it is absolutely possible to get to a place where it becomes more manageable.” Tyler Falcoa   Our Guest Tyler Falcao, also known by his stage name TY Falcao, is an indie pop artist, music producer, and mix engineer. Rising to prominence as part of the brother duo Tyler and Ryan, Tyler has managed OCD since he was ten years old, triggered by a traumatic football injury and a house fire. Despite these challenges, he has turned his experiences into a source of strength. Through his music and podcast, "Please Excuse My OCD," Tyler shares insights and coping mechanisms, offering a unique perspective on living with OCD.   Resources & Links   Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com   Tyler Falcoa https://www.instagram.com/TylerFalcoa/ https://www.tiktok.com/@tylerfalcoa?lang=en https://web.facebook.com/OfficialTylerFalcoa/?_rdc=1&_rdr   Mentioned Podcast: Please excuse my OCD   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!

    23 min
  6. 117. Elysse’s Personal Story of Triumph Over OCD and DPDR

    JUN 25

    117. Elysse’s Personal Story of Triumph Over OCD and DPDR

    Have you ever considered the impact of accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and community advocacy on the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health conditions such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder (DPDR)? Understanding the significance of these factors can make a profound difference in the lives of those grappling with these conditions. In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast,  we are joined by Elysse Lescarbeau, known as OCD.or.just.me on Instagram, to discuss her journey with OCD and Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder (DPDR). Elysse's story is a powerful testament to the importance of accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and the role of community and advocacy in mental health. During the conversation, Elysse shares her journey of being diagnosed with OCD in September 2022 after years of struggling with depersonalization and derealization (DPDR). She discusses how exposure and response prevention (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) have been pivotal in her treatment. Elysse emphasizes the importance of understanding the anxiety cycle, living by one's values, and the role of self-compassion in overcoming setbacks. She also highlights her advocacy work and introduces new resources for managing anxiety.   In This Episode [01:41] Elysse’s thoughts on OCD treatment and recovery [05:36] Understanding the anxiety cycle [08:43] Incorporating values and ACT [13:48] Managing anxiety and building resilience [16:34] The realization of DP/DR [17:37] Discovering OCD and DP/DR [18:41] The power of representation [19:42] Advocacy work and awareness [21:06] Resources for help and education   Notable Quotes [10:06] "When you are able to live by your values, your life becomes so much bigger, your life becomes so much more meaningful. You feel like you can take on the world and actually be the person that you want to be."- Elysse Lescarbeau [12:50] "You have to have that willingness to just go into these situations and say, yeah, I will be anxious and that's okay. It doesn't need to control me."- Elysse Lescarbeau [17:24] "I think, the most terrifying thing I've ever experienced in my life, just the fear of, for me, the way it manifested was literally losing my personality."- Elysse Lescarbeau [18:43] "Getting the OCD diagnosis, realizing that was something I had and could be treated, but then also seeing that DPDR was a thing that affected so many people and that it wasn't just me because I was crazy, was mind-blowing."- Elysse Lescarbeau [19:55] "The advocacy work that so many more people are now doing through Instagram, TikTok, whatever it might be, is so important because you can realize within yourself, like, wow, this isn't just me and my crazy mind; this is something other people experience, and I can get help for it."- Elysse Lescarbeau   Our Guest Elysse Lescarbeau (@ocd.or.just.me) brings a wealth of personal experience with mental health issues and diagnoses. For a long time, she struggled in silence, unaware that her obsessive thoughts and mental compulsions were symptoms of OCD—she believed they were simply part of who she was. It wasn't until a year after being hospitalized for suicidal ideation that she received a long-overdue OCD diagnosis and began appropriate treatment. Now, Elysse is dedicated to sharing the knowledge she wished she had during her journey. She aims to educate others on the diverse presentations of OCD, which often differ from common media portrayals, and to highlight how gold-standard therapy techniques can address more than just acute symptoms. Elysse's mission is to demonstrate that recovery and a less anxious life are truly possible.   Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com Elysse Lescarbeau https://www.instagram.com/ocd.or.just.me/ https://stan.s

    23 min
  7. 116. Shedding Light on Childhood Anxiety and OCD with Dr. Stephen Whiteside

    JUN 11

    116. Shedding Light on Childhood Anxiety and OCD with Dr. Stephen Whiteside

    Parenting can be really hard when your child is dealing with anxiety or OCD. Ever stayed up late worrying about them? It feels like a big, confusing maze, doesn't it? But don't worry, you're not alone. In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast,  we are thrilled to sit down with Dr. Stephen Whiteside, a renowned clinical psychologist and a beacon of hope for families grappling with childhood anxiety and OCD. During the conversation we talk about his book "Anxiety Coach" and his specialized approach to treating childhood anxiety and OCD. We explore the importance of exposure therapy, the role of parents in treatment, and the challenges of diagnosing OCD in children. Dr. Whiteside shares insights on the stigma surrounding OCD and the benefits of group therapy, while emphasizing privacy in group settings. He discusses the effectiveness of his parent coach exposure therapy, citing research and positive outcomes from the Mayo Clinic's intensive treatment program. Resources and support options are highlighted, including the Anxiety Coach at Mayo Clinic website, which offers educational tools and details about their five-day intensive program. The episode concludes with encouragement for those on their journey to overcoming OCD.   In This Episode [01:11] The Anxiety Coach Book [02:07] Differences in approach [04:13] Components of the approach [07:40] Content of the book [08:32] Identifying anxiety disorders [10:39] Signs in pediatric population [12:25] Challenges in diagnosing OCD [14:56] Therapist misinterpretation of OCD [16:00] Stigma and judgment [16:59] Benefits of group therapy [18:34] Outcomes of parent-coached exposures [21:14] Empowering families   Notable Quotes [02:11] "The main component of the treatment for anxiety or OCD is helping kids learn through their own experience that what they're afraid of is unlikely to happen, and they can handle feeling nervous, worried, or uncomfortable until those feelings go away."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside [03:08] "We think that all kids will be more successful if they have someone to help them at home, and parents want to know what to do to be helpful."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside [09:55] "When fears and worries are excessive to the point that they're making life hard, distressing the child, or getting in the way of the parents' life, that's the time we need to start working on it."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside [16:59] "It's like this happens often enough that somebody wrote it down in a book, so I am clearly not the only one."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside [18:34] "We have some pretty good answers to that, but a lot more research needs to be done in general around child mental health."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside [21:14] "It's obvious to me that parents can learn to do this, and kids and parents can learn to do this together."- Dr. Stephen Whiteside   Our Guest Dr. Stephen Whiteside is a Board Certified Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, directs the Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders Program. With extensive experience in treating child, adolescent, and adult anxiety disorders, he's received grants from the Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation for neuroimaging studies on OCD. Dr. Whiteside's research focuses on childhood anxiety and treatment efficacy, reflected in numerous publications and national presentations.   Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com Dr. Stephen Whiteside https://www.mayoclinic.org/biographies/whiteside-stephen-p-ph-d-l-p/bio-20054748 Mentioned Book: Anxiety Coach: A Parent’s Guide to Treating Childhood Anxiety and OCD Website: https://anxietycoach.mayoclinic.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 pur

    24 min
  8. 115. The Strength to Defeat OCD: Insights from a Young Author's Journey with Ella Kim

    MAY 28

    115. The Strength to Defeat OCD: Insights from a Young Author's Journey with Ella Kim

    Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a loved one - your sister, brother, or daughter - battling with intrusive thoughts and engaging in relentless rituals due to OCD? How can families effectively provide the necessary support to help them navigate OCD's grip on their daily lives?  In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast,  we have the pleasure of conversing with an extraordinary young author, Ella Kim, whose personal story and literary contributions are making waves in the world of mental health advocacy. Ella Kim is a high school student who has authored "How to Defeat Bully Brain," a book that serves as a beacon of hope for children and families grappling with OCD.Ella's motivation to pen this book was deeply personal; her brother's diagnosis with OCD at a tender age was the catalyst that propelled her into action. In our conversation, Ella discusses her brother's struggle with OCD, the impact on her family, and the importance of proper support and understanding. She shares her family's journey, including her brother's improvement after a gap year program abroad. Ella also talks about her nonprofit, “OCD Detectives” and her upcoming book on various OCD manifestations.    In This Episode [01:35] - The idea behind writing the book. [02:04] - Navigating OCD as a family [03:11] - Challenges and frustration [06:12] - Impact on the family [08:02] - Creating a story about OCD [09:59] - The staircase method [11:15] - Spreading awareness through a book [12:11] - Different types of obsessions and compulsions [14:31] - Understanding the changing nature of OCD [15:30] - Defining OCD [16:43] - Recovery and struggle [18:06] - Tools and understanding [18:30] - Contact information   Notable Quotes [02:07]” I went into this deep dive and I kind of looked at OCD resources out there, and I found that there weren't that many children's books that were like workbooks that kind of went into how to deal with your OCD.” -Ella [05:16] “There's times when your OCD is worse and when it's better. And so sometimes when just OCD would be worse, it would kind of impact the entire family." -Ella [06:12] "Initially, everyone got frustrated because of the mess, but then you have to look past that and realize that he just needs more help rather than getting mad at him." Ella [07:14] "Remind them constantly to say no to OCD and give them reasons why, like not having to spend hours a day washing your hands or not feeling uncomfortable for over half the day." -Ella [17:36] "During his gap year, even without active therapy, being preoccupied with volunteer work abroad helped him improve significantly."-Ella   Our Guest Ella Kim, a high school student from New York City, has a keen interest in psychology and the treatment of mental and behavioral disorders. Motivated by her brother's diagnosis of OCD at a young age, she decided to write "How to Defeat Bully Brain" to assist young children and their families in combating OCD.   Resources & Links Kristina Orlova, LMFT https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel https://www.korresults.com/ https://www.onlineocdacademy.com   Ella Kim https://defeatbullybrain.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ocd_detectives/   Mentioned Book: How to Defeat Bully Brain: A Story About OCD **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 bi-weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

    19 min
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