Content warning- Suicidal thoughts, self-harm, discussions of violent and/or disturbing thoughts. I chat with OCD specialist and licensed therapist Alegra Kastens. Alegra shares about her own experience with OCD, what happened and how she got into recovery and now specializes in helping clients with OCD and intrusive thoughts.

We discuss what an intrusive thought is, our pet peeves with therapy Tiktok and instagram, what real OCD looks like and how stigmatized it still is, the best way to deal with intrusive thoughts, and the differences between OCD and anxiety. We also spent a lot of time discussing how we both believe you are NOT your thoughts and some of the issues with manifesting, affirmations "everything happens for a reason”, trusting your intuition and more when you have a mental health disorder. 

This is an action packed episode that is SO good, and we talk about some deep topics so please be mindful of your mental health. If you are someone with OCD, anxiety or has intrusive/scary thoughts, I think this episode will be really affirming and supportive for you. However, if hearing people talk about suicidal thoughts/ideation, upsetting thoughts etc hurts, please skip this episode. 

I would love to hear your thoughts after on Instagram @TherapyforWomen. If you think this would help someone you know please share and tag me so I can see and chime in!

Please rate, share and review if you enjoy the podcast! 

Alegra is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who specializes in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and Eating Disorders utilizing evidence-based treatments. She is the founder of The Center for OCD, Anxiety and Eating Disorders. Her passion for OCD treatment, education, and advocacy comes from her own personal experience with the disorder. She has been featured in numerous media outlets such as NBC news, Verywell Mind, Psychology Today and more. Follow her on instagram @AlegraKastens or check out her website www.alegrakastens.com

To suggest a topic, buy my books, or get in touch please visit www.amandaewhite.com.

If you are interested in therapy or learning more about my practice, Therapy for Women Center, visit www.therapyforwomencenter.com. We currently serve 27 states virtually and have three physical office locations in the Philadelphia area.

Keep up with me on instagram and TikTok by following @therapyforwomen.