Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) affects an estimated 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children in the U.S. — yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed mental health conditions. Too often portrayed as a "quirk" or a preference for cleanliness, OCD is actually a complex and often debilitating disorder rooted in anxiety and doubt.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Patrick McGrath, Chief Clinical Officer at NOCD, for a candid, deeply practical conversation about what OCD really is, how it shows up (far beyond stereotypes), and what actually helps. We dig into the "OCD × news cycle" spiral, break down flavors/subtypes and internal compulsions, and get specific about Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): what it looks like, why the response prevention part matters most, and how to know if you're getting the right care. You'll also hear how to find a qualified clinician, what treatment "afters" feel like, and the empowering mindset of living the life you want — not the one OCD dictates.

IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT...

• The OCD–news cycle Venn diagram: why constant headlines can supercharge doubt and rumination
• What OCD actually is (and isn't) and why logic alone won't cut it
• Flavors, subtypes, and themes plus how themes can "double scoop."
• ERP in real life: the safety behaviors to drop, and why response prevention is the unlock
• Getting help + what recovery feels like: how to vet specialists, levels of care, virtual options/insurance, and building a supportive "mental-health team" for long-term wins
• and more!

Links

Find care, learn about ERP, and explore resources: https://www.treatmyocd.com

NOCD App (free) — Community + tools on iOS/Android: https://www.treatmyocd.com/app

International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) — Education and "Find Help" directory: https://iocdf.org

Postpartum OCD episode mentioned: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-postpartum-struggle-no-one-talks-about-ocd/id1753682951?i=1000726285060

Katie on Patrick's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-inner-critic-to-inner-ally-transforming-ocd-and/id1753682951?i=1000682417350

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