In this episode of The Dude Therapist, I sit down with Sarah Michelle Boes, a family nurse practitioner, mother, and advocate, who opens up about her powerful journey of navigating OCD and parenting a child with congenital heart defects.

Sarah shares how her professional background as a healthcare provider shifted when she became the parent of a child with complex health needs, and how her own mental health journey reshaped her perspective. From the importance of accurate diagnosis and externalizing OCD, to the emotional duality of joy and grief in parenting, Sarah’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and advocacy.

We dive into:

• The challenges of parenting through uncertainty and the vital role of teamwork in relationships

• Why parents are the true experts in their child’s health journey

• The importance of raising awareness and funding for heart defects

• Strategies for managing OCD while showing up as a parent

• How effective communication can strengthen relationships during the hardest times

If you’ve ever struggled to balance your own mental health while parenting—or felt the tension between love, fear, and advocacy—this episode will leave you feeling seen and supported.

👉 Don’t miss this candid, heartfelt conversation that reminds us of the power of love, teamwork, and speaking up.

🌐 Connect with Sarah Michelle Boes

🔗 Website: sarahmichelleboes.com
📸 Instagram: @sarahmichellenp
🎙️ Podcast: Real Deal Nurse Practitioner Club
💼 LinkedIn: Sarah Michelle Boes
🌌 Community: Cosmic Group Chat