When your child shows signs of anxiety, repetitive or rigid behaviors, or intrusive thoughts, it can feel confusing and overwhelming to know what’s “typical” and what might signal something more—like OCD. What should parents do in those uncertain moments, especially while waiting for a diagnosis?

In this informative and compassionate episode of The Parenting Pair Podcast, Dr. Suzanne Allen and Dr. Annalise Caron unpack how parents can best support kids and teens who may be experiencing OCD or related anxiety conditions. They discuss signs or symptoms of OCD, how to respond when behaviors seem confusing or create conflict and distress in a family, and why well-meaning reassurance or accommodations can sometimes make things worse.

The conversation also sheds light on the emotional experience for parents—what it’s like to live in that “in-between” space of not having answers yet—and offers practical guidance for reducing family stress while creating a supportive, stable environment.

Together, Dr. Allen and Dr. Caron explore:

• The signs that may indicate OCD in kids and teens
• What parents can do (and not do) while awaiting diagnosis
• How to support your child without reinforcing anxiety patterns
• What family accommodations are—and when to adjust them
• How to stay grounded as a parent
• How to protect and support the parent-child relationship during difficult time periods
• Steps to take when seeking professional help

Here are some highlights from the episode:

00:00 — How OCD Disrupts Daily Life and Focus
02:26 — When OCD Behaviors Get Misunderstood
03:36 — What to Do When You Notice New Behaviors in Your Child
04:03 — Understanding What OCD Really Is
05:40 — Common Intrusive Thoughts
06:42 — What Compulsions Are—and Why They Provide Temporary Relief

07:38 — How OCD Gains Power

08:57 —  OCD- When Things Just Don’t Feel Right

10:49 — What Parents Can Do During Uncertain Times

11:22 — Communication Strategies to Support the Relationship Even When Things are Hard
11:45 — Tip #1: Stay On The Same Team

12:25 — Tip #2- Make Repairs When Misunderstandings Cause Pain
14:09 — Tip #3- Working Together to Get “Unstuck”

14:49 — Tip #4- Name the OCD to Support Communication

15:56 — Understanding Accommodations- When OCD is “Bossing” You Around Too 

16:35 — How to Gradually Reduce Accommodations and Support Change
18:42 — Why Family Understanding and Teamwork Are Crucial in OCD Care
20:13 — How to Approach OCD Once a Diagnosis Is Confirmed
23:07 — The Power of Acknowledging Small Wins in OCD Recovery

If you’ve ever wondered whether or not your child or teen might be struggling with OCD or you are stuck waiting for an evaluation or help, this episode is for you.  

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