Bossing Up: Overcoming OCD

Hey there, does your partner constantly ask for reassurance with questions like 'Do you love me?' or 'Are we meant to be together?' If so, your relationship might be haunted by relationship obsessions. Start with my relationship OCD quiz to see if your relationship worries are normal.

Buckle up for this episode where I dive into how these obsessions impact your relationship and what you can do about it. Stick around for pro tips to help restore trust and peace. I'm also chatting about the movie 'Silver Linings Playbook' and how common interests like dancing can strengthen bonds. Spoiler: You can't talk your partner out of these obsessive thoughts, but there are ways to cope and grow. Tune in for insights, strategies, and a dose of empathy to tackle relationship OCD head-on.

00:00 Understanding Relationship Obsessions

01:52 Impact on Trust and Exhaustion

02:31 Introducing the Obsess Less Love More Program

03:21 Silver Linings Playbook: A Case Study

06:46 Common Misunderstandings in Relationship Obsessions

11:04 Strategies to Support Your Partner

16:40 Setting Healthy Boundaries

20:07 Encouragement and Patience

22:31 Summary and Next Steps

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

✨Check out my new program Obsess Less, Love More. Starts January 2025. Click Here: Obsess Less, Love More

➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 

➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️

➡️Want more? 👏

➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 

Ever found yourself obsessing about divorce despite being in a healthy, loving relationship? You're not alone. Join me as I dive into the concept of 'divorce ideation,' a term I coined, to explain how these distressing, intrusive thoughts can impact your romantic relationships. I'll explore common scenarios that trigger these obsessions, such as trivial disagreements or social media comparisons, and discuss the compulsions that make things worse. I’ll also share strategies to help you manage these thoughts and reclaim your peace of mind. Plus, learn about my upcoming group coaching program designed to support those struggling with relationship obsessions. Tune in to understand why you're feeling this way and how you can find clarity and joy in your relationship again.

00:00 Introduction to Divorce Ideation

02:07 Understanding Divorce Ideation

05:07 Scenarios of Divorce Ideation

10:29 Obsessions and Compulsions

19:21 Strategies to Overcome Divorce Ideation

21:59 Conclusion and Coaching Program

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

✨Check out my new program Obsess Less, Love More. Starts January 2025. Click Here: Obsess Less, Love More

➡️ Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 

In this episode, I chat with Emily and Lindsay, two sisters who both experienced OCD differently. Emily didn’t recognize her symptoms until adulthood, while Lindsey’s were more stereotypical but no less impactful. They share their inspiring OCD success story and how they navigated their challenges, from existential fears to therapy and exposure work. Tune in to hear about the creation of their meaningful business, Presently Bracelets, which offers unique gift ideas like their beautiful OCD-inspired bracelets. As Black Friday approaches, Emily and Lindsey also offer advice on turning personal struggles into a business that makes a difference. Their journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, therapy, and finding strength through creativity.   Find your bracelet at www.presentlybracelets.com

00:00 Black Friday Gift Ideas with OCD Bracelets

02:15 Lindsey's OCD Journey

07:50 Emily's OCD Journey

12:42 Therapy and Exposure Work

17:32 Starting Presently Bracelets

28:26 Navigating Relationships with OCD

29:18 Support Systems and Living with OCD

33:40 Success Stories and Impact of Bracelets

34:54 Engaging Therapists and Mental Health Professionals

38:40 Advice for Aspiring Mental Health Entrepreneurs

49:34 Promotions and Discounts for Presently Bracelets

51:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Programs  

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!  

✨Check out my new program Obsess Less, Love More. Starts January 2025. Click Here: Obsess Less, Love More

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

In this milestone 50th episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Dr. Heather Taylor PsyD, a specialist in grief and the host of the 'Grief is the New Normal' podcast. We discuss the complexities of Relationship OCD and highlight strategies for managing grief during the holiday season.   

This episode provides practical advice and compassionate support. Dr. Taylor offers insights on setting boundaries, honoring your feelings, and how loved ones can offer meaningful support. We also explore her upcoming projects, including a book series on grief. Plus, I introduce a 12-week group coaching program for those grappling with relationship worries, set to launch in January 2025.  

00:00 Raising Awareness About OCD

00:34 Special Guest: Dr. Heather Taylor on Grief

03:18 Understanding Grief During the Holidays

04:58 Navigating Grief with Flexibility and Support

13:42 Honoring Loved Ones and Personal Rituals

19:18 Supporting the Grieving: Actionable Steps

25:36 Message of Hope and Encouragement

27:47 Upcoming Events and Resources

29:56 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

✨Check out my new program Obsess Less, Love More. Starts January 2025. Click Here: Obsess Less, Love More  

➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!   

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ 

Ever wondered if your thoughts about attraction are just intrusive thoughts or genuine feelings? In today's episode, I dive into a burning question from a YouTube fan about the difference between intrusive thoughts and sexual attraction. 

If you, like me, are obsessed with love and relationships, you're in for a treat! We’ll talk about those pesky intrusive thoughts that pop up uninvited and how they differ from the natural, feel-good vibes of sexual attraction. Plus, get the scoop on my brand new 12-week group coaching program, Obsess Less, Love More, designed to help you navigate relationship OCD. Join me as we laugh, learn, and work through these challenges together.

02:20 Understanding Relationship OCD

02:45 Introducing the Obsess Less, Love More Program

03:43 Details of the Group Coaching Program

08:21 How to Sign Up for the Program

09:01 Diving into Intrusive Thoughts vs. Sexual Attraction

13:18 Comparing Intrusive Thoughts and Sexual Attraction

15:13 Emotional Responses to Thoughts

17:00 Reactions to Thoughts

19:39 Real-Life Example: The Notebook

✨Check out my new program Obsess Less, Love More. Starts January 2025. Click Here: Obsess Less, Love More

➡️Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

In today's episode, I had a fascinating chat with Dr. Aaron Reichlin, a seasoned psychiatrist based in Chicago, who delved deep into the world of medications and therapies for OCD. Dr. Reichlin shared invaluable insights into the appropriate medications for OCD and severe anxiety, including the roles of SSRIs and benzodiazepines. 

We discussed the critical importance of exposure response prevention (ERP) therapy combined with medication management. He also introduced his innovative AI-driven mental health tech company, PsychNow, which aids in efficient patient screening and care. Plus, we covered common patient concerns about medication and the necessity of empathy and connection in treatment. Stay tuned until the end to learn how you can connect with Dr. Reichlin and discover more about cutting-edge OCD treatments!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:52 Dr. Reiklin's Background and Current Work

02:29 Innovative Mental Health Tech: Psych Now

04:47 Challenges in Mental Health Screening and Intake

05:58 Medication Management for OCD

08:50 Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy

11:55 Combining Medication and Therapy for OCD

17:28 Addressing Patient Concerns and Side Effects

30:15 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 

➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️

➡️Want more? 👏

• Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧

➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday, and in this episode, we'll chat about how to enjoy it as an adult, even if you have OCD. We'll cover everything from dealing with contamination fears to the paranoia about needles in candy (seriously, who even thinks of these things?). I’ll share my personal strategies for calming OCD and grounding techniques to keep you present. Plus, I’ll give you some exposure exercise tips, like the joys of watching spooky movies without the sound to ease anxiety. Oh, and if you're terrified of blood, don't worry – I've got some hilarious exposure stories and even a blood exposure video. Stick around to hear about how early treatment can prevent OCD spirals, and get a sneak peek of next week's guest, a psychiatrist ready to dish on OCD meds. Let’s make this Halloween unforgettable and keep that OCD at bay!

01:13 OCD and Halloween: Managing the Struggles

05:57 The Cycle of OCD and Seeking Treatment

07:42 Exposure Therapy with Halloween Movies

14:11 Preparing for a Fun Halloween Night

14:38 Understanding the OCD Nightmare

15:37 Staying Present in the Moment

19:26 Facing Blood Phobia and Halloween Triggers

23:32 Worst Case Scenario Script

➡️Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

Feeling like a jittery phone or a brain-dead zombie? Let's chat about the different zones of your nervous system and how to get back to that sweet 'green zone' of tolerance. I'll share a funny yet panic-inducing story about my son scaring me to illustrate the fight or flight response. We’ll also tackle navigating Halloween with OCD on overdrive – understanding your body's reactions and getting back to calm can make a world of difference. You'll learn simple yet effective techniques like deep breathing, belly balloons, and how to challenge those pesky thoughts about being a bad mom. Ready to feel human again and reconnect with joy? Check out my intensive program starting in November at ValueDrivenTherapy.com. Get back to feeling safe just in time for the holidays. Tune in next week for more on surviving Halloween with mental health challenges!

01:43 Personal Story: A Frightening Experience

02:59 Understanding the Fight, Flight, or Freeze Response

10:44 Understanding Emotional Numbness

11:09 The Importance of the Nervous System

15:56 The Power of Deep Breathing

18:33 Taking Control of Your Mental Health

19:28 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!

➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️

➡️Want more? 👏

• Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧

➡️Handpicked rec's for you:

• Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.

*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.

➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

This episode explores the topic of agoraphobia, a phobia characterized by the fear of leaving home or being trapped in inescapable situations. It addresses how such fears can manifest in teenagers, especially following traumatic events like school shootings.

I highlight the overlap between OCD and agoraphobia, and how therapy, particularly virtual therapy, can help manage these fears by building resilience, fostering positive thinking, and utilizing exposure and response prevention strategies. The goal is to empower kids to take proactive steps towards a fulfilling life, free from the constraints of fear. It encourages parents to trust their instincts and seek professional support if their child shows signs of avoidance or anxiety.

00:00 Introduction to Agoraphobia

02:43 Understanding Agoraphobia and Its Triggers

04:39 The Overlap Between OCD and Agoraphobia

06:57 Signs Your Child Needs Help

09:06 Effective Therapy Approaches

13:03 Empowering Your Child to Overcome Fear

20:16 Next Steps

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!

➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️

➡️Want more? 👏

• Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧

➡️Handpicked rec's for you:

• Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.

*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.

➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

In this episode, I tackle the tough issue of school refusal, especially for kids with OCD. I discuss the challenges parents face when their children refuse to go to school, exhibiting behaviors like crying, faking illness, and being generally uncooperative. 

I provide insights on why kids with OCD struggle more in school, often leading to parents considering homeschooling, a solution I strongly advise against. I emphasize the importance of early intervention with an OCD specialist, detailing my therapy approach and the process of working with schools to support these kids.

I also share strategies for gradually reintroducing children to school and creating a supportive environment at home, including maintaining a healthy sleep routine, nutritious breakfast, and a reward system. Finally, I offer practical advice on managing OCD behaviors that interfere with school and stress the significance of collaboration between therapists and schools to ensure better educational outcomes.

01:10 Understanding OCD and School Struggles

02:07 The Pitfalls of Homeschooling for OCD

03:36 The Importance of Early Treatment

04:26 Therapy Options and Approaches

07:14 Recognizing School Refusal Signs

10:58 Strategies to Combat School Refusal

20:28 Creating a Supportive Environment

#schoolrefusalOCD #MentalHealthSupport #Therapy #SafetyPlan #SeekHelp #SchoolOCD #CopingStrategies #MentalWellBeing #SupportAvailable #ObsessionsAndCompulsions #SpecialistTreatment #SuicideHotline #EmergencyHelp #youarenotalone

✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!

➡️ Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥

➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️