Ever had a moment where you felt like something bad would happen unless you did a specific thing—like touching a door handle just right or counting to a certain number? Now imagine that feeling controlling your every action, from the smallest decisions to the biggest ones. This is what life is like for those with magical thinking OCD. But how can you tell the difference between these intense fears and harmless superstitions?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina sits down with Dr. Regina Lazarovich, a clinical psychologist and founder of Compass CBT to talk about magical thinking OCD. They explore how this subtype of OCD involves irrational beliefs that certain thoughts or actions can influence outcomes. Dr. Lazarovich distinguishes it from cultural superstitions and discusses its impact on daily life. She outlines treatment approaches, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (IB-CBT). The episode emphasizes understanding and compassion in managing OCD, offering hope and practical guidance for those affected.

In This Episode

Notable Quotes

Our Guest

Dr. Regina Lazarovich is a clinical psychologist and the founder of Compass CBT, where she serves clients across California, Florida, and New York. With a deep commitment to helping individuals struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, perfectionism, disordered eating, and body image issues, she utilizes evidence-based practices like CBT and ACT. Dr. Lazarovich approaches therapy with a Health at Every Size perspective, particularly for clients dealing with food and body image challenges. Her compassionate, client-centered approach fosters lasting change and personal growth.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

Dr. Regina Lazarovich

Mentioned 

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

What if the secret to overcoming OCD and mental health challenges isn’t just about managing symptoms, but truly understanding the whole person—mind, body, and spirit? Can therapy that treats us as a complete individual really lead to healing? Ever considered the role psychedelics, like ketamine, could play in mental health care? Or maybe a holistic approach to therapy is the game-changer you’ve been looking for but didn’t know you needed?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Christina Ennabe back to the show! If you missed her last appearance, go back and check it out—her insights are something you won’t want to miss. Christina Ennabe and host Kristina Orlova dive deep into their personal and professional journeys with OCD and mental health. They talk about the life-changing effects of EMDR therapy, why it's essential to address comorbidities, and their explorations with psychedelic-assisted therapy. Kristina opens up about her journey through grief and spirituality, while Christina shares her recovery story and recent EMDR training. Together, they explore a holistic approach to mental health, offering valuable insights and encouragement for anyone facing their challenges.

Tune in now to hear this powerful conversation, and if you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode filled with practical tools for your mental health journey!

In This Episode

Notable Quotes

Our Guest

Christina Ennabe is a licensed therapist and coach specializing in OCD, anxiety, and trauma. With a compassionate, holistic approach, she offers online therapy and coaching to high achievers, helping them overcome mental health struggles like perfectionism and self-doubt. Using evidence-based methods such as I-CBT, ERP, EMDR, and ACT, Christina empowers clients to find confidence, reclaim control, and achieve lasting recovery. She serves clients in New Hampshire, Maine, Florida, and globally through her coaching programs.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

Christina Ennabe

Mentioned 

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

When we think about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), common themes like contamination fears or checking rituals often come to mind. However, there is another form of OCD—"Just Right OCD"—which centers on achieving an elusive sense of balance or correctness.

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, host Kristina Orlova sits down with Andrew Cohen, a licensed marriage and family therapist and OCD specialist, to explore the nuanced experience of Just Right OCD. Andrew draws from both his personal and professional journeys to discuss the challenges and breakthroughs in managing this subtype of OCD. Together, they dive into the role of mindfulness, acceptance, and exposure therapy in fostering resilience and balance for individuals with Just Right OCD.

Tune in to gain actionable strategies for coping with Just Right OCD and learn how mindfulness and self-awareness can lead to meaningful change.

In This Episode

Notable Quotes

Our Guest

Andrew Cohen is a dedicated OCD and Anxiety specialist with extensive training and a wealth of professional and personal experience dealing with OCD. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a board member (Treasurer) of OCD SoCal, Andrew is deeply committed to providing effective treatment and providing advocacy and community building to individuals suffering from OCD and related disorders.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

Andrew Cohen

Mentioned 

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

When we think about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), our minds often go straight to the difficulties it brings—the obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions that can disrupt daily life. But what if there’s a side of OCD that’s rarely discussed, one that offers unique strengths?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Dr. Michael Alcée, a clinical psychologist and mental health educator at the Manhattan School of Music, helps us rethink our view of OCD. Through insights from his forthcoming book, The Upside of OCD, Dr. Alcée shares how the intense emotional sensitivity and vivid imagination often seen in individuals with OCD can be seen as valuable assets rather than limitations.

Together, Dr. Alcée and Kristina dive deep into the heart of OCD, exploring how understanding the emotional roots behind its symptoms can foster greater self-awareness and more compassionate self-care. Dr. Alcée discusses how setting healthy boundaries and embracing one’s unique traits can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling life, shifting the focus from “disorder” to the richness of experience that OCD may offer.

Tune in to gain a compassionate new outlook on OCD, and if this resonates, don’t forget to subscribe and share with others who might need a fresh perspective!

In This Episode

Notable Quotes

Our Guest

Dr. Michael Alcée is a clinical psychologist and mental health educator at the Manhattan School of Music in New York. Known for his innovative approach, he blends psychology with artistry, encouraging clients to see mental health as a creative process. His book Therapeutic Improvisation explores how therapists interact with clients like jazz musicians, and his upcoming work, The Upside of OCD, redefines OCD as a unique sensitivity. Dr. Alcée's insights have been featured in outlets like Psychology Today, NPR, and the New York Times, enriching our emotional and existential awareness understanding.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

Dr. Michael Alcee

Mentioned 

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Have you ever struggled with feelings of guilt, shame, or an overwhelming need to "do the right thing"? For individuals experiencing moral scrupulosity, a subset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), this focus on morality can become a debilitating cycle of self-doubt and fixation on being a "good person." In this episode, host Kristina Orlova welcomes Dr. Rachel LaFleur, a licensed psychologist specializing in OCD and telehealth services, to explore this often misunderstood OCD theme.

Together, they uncover the roots of moral scrupulosity, how it can intersect with other OCD types like contamination and "just right" OCD, and the psychological impact of this fixation on morality. Dr. LaFleur also shares practical advice on accessible treatment pathways, including self-help resources, therapy groups, and ways to find affordable OCD care. Tune in to learn how to build self-compassion, recognize OCD's influence on morality, and access valuable tools for managing these thoughts.

• [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Rachel LaFleur and her work in OCD therapy

• [04:43] "People with moral scrupulosity OCD often experience intense guilt over minor actions, believing they might reflect a flaw in their character." – Dr. Rachel LaFleur

Dr. Rachel LaFleur is a licensed psychologist based in Maryland, offering telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults across multiple states. With a passion for evidence-based treatments, Dr. LaFleur works flexibly with clients to uncover and address the complex facets of OCD. She believes in a patient-centered approach that fosters both critical self-reflection and community support, empowering individuals to reclaim their lives from OCD.

Website: stonyrunpsych.com

 https://www.abct.org/self-help-book-recommendations/

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• • https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

Dr. Rachel LaFleur

• https://stonyrunpsych.com/

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Are you aware that the struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and eating disorders often go hand in hand, creating a complex web of challenges for those affected? Imagine grappling with the relentless pressure to control your environment while simultaneously battling intense fears surrounding food and body image. How does this intricate interplay shape the experiences of individuals living with these conditions?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with Elian Beattie, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and Insight Mental Health Group owner. We explore the intricate relationship between OCD and eating disorders, discussing their prevalence, overlapping symptoms, and psychological factors. Elian highlights the importance of recognizing this overlap for effective treatment. We delve into motivations behind restrictive eating behaviors, manifestations of anorexia and bulimia, and the concept of orthorexia. Elian provides practical strategies for managing these conditions, emphasizing value-driven actions and addressing fears of weight gain to foster a fulfilling life.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion that could change how you understand and approach these intertwined conditions. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tools for healing.

In This Episode

• [00:44] Introduction to Elian Beattie

Notable Quotes

• [01:56] “When you treat OCD, you’re probably going to have at least 1 in 5 of your clients also have an eating disorder.”- Elian

Our Guest

Elian M. Beattie, MS, LMHC, is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Insights Group Mental Health Therapy practice owner in Rhine, New Hampshire. Specializing in OCD, eating disorders, body image issues, and anxiety, Elian offers individualized, evidence-based treatments, including CBT, ERP, and ACT. Known for a genuine and compassionate approach, Elian provides unconditional support while holding clients accountable. Passionate about social justice and HAES principles, Elian empowers clients to challenge limiting patterns and embrace their strengths. Elian also volunteers on the Executive Board of OCD New Hampshire, furthering their commitment to mental health advocacy.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

Elian Beattie

• https://www.insightmentalhealthgroup.com/

Disclaimer

Please note while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Have you ever had thoughts so disturbing they make you doubt yourself? Pedophilia OCD (POCD) can bring intrusive fears that aren’t reflective of who you are—so let’s clear the air: having POCD isn’t the same as having pedophilia. Curious how this all works and how you can break free from its grip?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Tombaugh, a psychotherapist who specializes in OCD and anxiety.

Today, we discuss the complexities of Pedophilia OCD (POCD), a specific and often misunderstood subtype of OCD. We explore the distress it causes and the misconceptions surrounding it. POCD involves intrusive and unwanted thoughts about inappropriate sexual behavior toward children—thoughts that do not reflect the individual's true desires or intentions.

Rachel explains how these distressing thoughts create significant inner turmoil and highlights the importance of specialized treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure and response prevention. This episode aims to dispel misconceptions, reduce stigma, and provide hope by offering resources for additional support.

In This Episode

• [00:43] Introduction to Rachel Tombaugh

Notable Quotes

• [02:55] “In the general public, it is a lesser-known form of OCD. It's actually really, really common.”- Rachel

Our Guest

Rachel Tombaugh is a psychotherapist in private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in OCD, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and trauma. She delivers transformative results with advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure, response prevention, and inference-based CBT. Rachel lives in the Sonoran Desert with her family, horse Gabriel, and a menagerie of beloved pets. Her clinical expertise and personalized approach ensure effective and meaningful treatment for her clients.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

Rachel Tombaugh

• https://ocdandptsdtherapy.com/

• https://web.facebook.com/OCDandPTSDTherapy/?_rdc=1&_rdr

Disclaimer

Please note that while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

People with OCD often feel trapped by strict rules in their daily lives. These unwritten rules might mean always trying to control their thoughts, constantly seeking certainty, seeing anxiety as a sign of immediate danger, feeling personally responsible for preventing harm, analyzing every thought meticulously, striving for perfection in everything, and keeping their struggle with OCD hidden from others.

In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with  Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans, a licensed professional counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Evans is  the author of "Breaking the Rules of OCD: Find Lasting Freedom from the Unwanted Thoughts, Rituals, and Compulsions that Rule Your Life,"

During the conversation, Dr. Evans discusses treating OCD and anxiety disorders, focusing on the core issue of agency loss. She emphasizes that individuals with OCD often feel compelled to perform rituals, believing they lack choice, and advises recognizing one's agency to make different choices.

Her book outlines seven rules to break OCD's grip, including challenging perfectionism, embracing uncertainty, and addressing discomfort intolerance. The episode also clarifies ERP therapy misconceptions and normalizes setbacks as growth opportunities. Dr. Evans introduces Aikido principles as a metaphor for managing OCD triggers, advocating redirecting energy rather than confrontation.

She concludes with the "PASSION" acronym: Pause, Pivot, and Proceed; Accept Experiences; Strengthen Your Stance; Practice Self-Compassion; Invite Exposure; Observe Thoughts; and Stay Present. These principles help individuals build resilience and live fulfilling lives free from OCD constraints.

In This Episode

• [01:23] The motivation behind writing her book 

Notable Quotes

[04:11] “There have been many tears of relief shed in my office when people find out that they're not broken.”- Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

[10:57] “We all want to feel good and we all want to do things that will help us feel better.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

[17:37]  “If people can get in touch with what a chore it is to do the compulsion, then that's an incentive to not resist so much but actually to learn to allow.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

[21:29] “'What you resist keeps persisting. It’s a counterintuitive thing, and when you resist, you can notice this battle within yourself.”-Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

[23:03]  “If you notice that OCD trigger, rather than going straight into the compulsion, pause and say, "I have an opportunity to learn here."' Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

[26:31]  “You can live your life with passion even though OCD shows up sometimes.” Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

Our Guest

Dr. Kim Rockwell-Evans, PhD, LPC, LMFT, has specialized in anxiety and OCD treatment in Dallas for 30+ years. Recognized throughout North Texas and Oklahoma, she integrates cutting-edge therapies like CBT and ACT to empower patients to confront fears and lead fulfilling lives, offering practical, evidence-based solutions for lasting results.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

 Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

• https://ocdanxietydallas.com/

Mentioned

• Breaking the Rules of OCD" by Dr. Kim Rockwell Evans

Disclaimer

Please note, that while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Is it possible that the meticulous and often relentless nature of OCD could fuel the creative genius behind some of the most iconic music in the industry?

In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Tyler Falcoa, an indie pop artist, music producer, and mixed engineer, discusses the intricate relationship between creativity and obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD). Tyler, who has managed OCD since the age of ten, shares his journey, coping mechanisms, and the impact of OCD on his creative process. Tyler shares how his OCD, triggered by traumatic events, impacts his creativity and daily life. He discusses the importance of structure in his work, the challenges of self-doubt, and the role of social media in finding support. Tyler highlights the duality of OCD, acknowledging both its debilitating effects and its contribution to his strengths. The episode concludes with messages of hope and resources for managing OCD.

In This Episode

• [00:43]- Introduction to Tyler Falcao

Notable Quotes

• [10:06] “You have these intense bouts of emotions that just rip you, and this gridlock in thoughts that are racing at the speed of light, and you just can't figure out what's up or down or left or right" Tyler Falcoa

Our Guest

Tyler Falcao, also known by his stage name TY Falcao, is an indie pop artist, music producer, and mix engineer. Rising to prominence as part of the brother duo Tyler and Ryan, Tyler has managed OCD since he was ten years old, triggered by a traumatic football injury and a house fire. Despite these challenges, he has turned his experiences into a source of strength. Through his music and podcast, "Please Excuse My OCD," Tyler shares insights and coping mechanisms, offering a unique perspective on living with OCD.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

Tyler Falcoa

• https://www.instagram.com/TylerFalcoa/

• https://www.tiktok.com/@tylerfalcoa?lang=en

Mentioned

• Podcast: Please excuse my OCD

Disclaimer

Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for biweekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!

Have you ever considered the impact of accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and community advocacy on the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health conditions such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder (DPDR)? Understanding the significance of these factors can make a profound difference in the lives of those grappling with these conditions.

In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast,  we are joined by Elysse Lescarbeau, known as OCD.or.just.me on Instagram, to discuss her journey with OCD and Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder (DPDR). Elysse's story is a powerful testament to the importance of accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and the role of community and advocacy in mental health.

During the conversation, Elysse shares her journey of being diagnosed with OCD in September 2022 after years of struggling with depersonalization and derealization (DPDR). She discusses how exposure and response prevention (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) have been pivotal in her treatment. Elysse emphasizes the importance of understanding the anxiety cycle, living by one's values, and the role of self-compassion in overcoming setbacks. She also highlights her advocacy work and introduces new resources for managing anxiety.

In This Episode

• [01:41] Elysse’s thoughts on OCD treatment and recovery

Notable Quotes

• [10:06] "When you are able to live by your values, your life becomes so much bigger, your life becomes so much more meaningful. You feel like you can take on the world and actually be the person that you want to be."- Elysse Lescarbeau

Our Guest

Elysse Lescarbeau (@ocd.or.just.me) brings a wealth of personal experience with mental health issues and diagnoses. For a long time, she struggled in silence, unaware that her obsessive thoughts and mental compulsions were symptoms of OCD—she believed they were simply part of who she was. It wasn't until a year after being hospitalized for suicidal ideation that she received a long-overdue OCD diagnosis and began appropriate treatment. Now, Elysse is dedicated to sharing the knowledge she wished she had during her journey. She aims to educate others on the diverse presentations of OCD, which often differ from common media portrayals, and to highlight how gold-standard therapy techniques can address more than just acute symptoms. Elysse's mission is to demonstrate that recovery and a less anxious life are truly possible.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/

Elysse Lescarbeau

• https://www.instagram.com/ocd.or.just.me/

Mentioned

• Book: Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life

• The Values in Action Digital Workbook

Disclaimer

Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!