Breaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCD

OCD and Productivity: The Struggle Behind the Scenes

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Breaking the Rules, we explore one of the most frustrating and often misunderstood impacts of OCD - how it interferes with studying, productivity, and performance at work.

For many people, OCD hides behind traits that are often praised: diligence, responsibility, perfectionism, and attention to detail. But beneath the surface, what may look like hard work or conscientiousness can actually be hours of painful compulsions, paralysis, and mental exhaustion.

We unpack how OCD shows up in school, university, and the workplace — from endlessly rewriting emails and rereading textbooks, to missed deadlines, avoidance, and overwhelming fatigue. We also discuss how these patterns can sometimes be mistaken for ADHD, learning difficulties, or lack of motivation, making accurate assessment and treatment even more important.

Most importantly, we share practical strategies clinicians and individuals can use to support functioning while treating the underlying OCD.

In this episode we discuss:

Why OCD often becomes most visible in study and work environments
How compulsions like checking, rereading, researching, and reassurance seeking sabotage productivity
The difference between perfectionism and OCD paralysis
Why OCD is often misinterpreted as ADHD or executive dysfunction
The emotional toll of feeling “ineffective” despite working incredibly hard
Strategies for managing compulsions while studying or working
Setting limits around checking, researching, and rewriting
Learning the practice of “good enough”
Rebuilding trust in your own judgement after OCD
Using values to guide action when motivation disappears

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back – Recording Post Baby

03:08 How OCD Shows Up in Study and Work

05:30 The Hidden Nature of OCD Productivity Struggles

08:20 Email Checking, Reassurance & Workplace Compulsions

10:00 OCD Paralysis vs Normal Perfectionism

12:00 How OCD Impacts Teens and Students

13:45 When OCD Is Mistaken for ADHD

17:00 Assessing Functional Impact in OCD

18:30 Strategies for Studying With OCD

21:00 Attention Redirecting & Mindfulness

22:30 Practicing “Good Enough”

24:00 Limiting Checks, Research & Reassurance

25:30 Rebuilding Trust in Yourself

27:00 Using Values to Guide Action

29:20 Final Thoughts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perfectionism, Process-Based Therapy & The Anxious Perfectionist

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Breaking the Rules, we’re joined by researcher and clinician Dr. Clarissa Ong to unpack the complex relationship between perfectionism, anxiety, and OCD — and to explore how process-based therapy, particularly ACT, offers a powerful lens for understanding and treating these patterns.

Drawing on her research and her book The Anxious Perfectionist, Clarissa helps us move beyond surface-level symptoms and into the underlying processes that drive rigidity, rule-following, self-criticism, and all-or-nothing thinking.

We explore perfectionism not as a simple personality trait, but as a pattern of inflexible rule-governed behaviour — one that can show up across OCD, generalized anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and beyond. The conversation dives into how values can become fused with perfectionistic rules, how therapy itself can become “a thing to perfect,” and why flexibility — not flawless performance — is the real treatment target.

💬 Key themes:

• Perfectionism as rigidity around internal rules and standards

• The overlap between perfectionism, OCD, and generalized anxiety

• Why perfectionism is often more process than diagnosis

• ACT vs CBT in the treatment of perfectionism

• Experiential work vs intellectualizing in therapy

• How values can become hijacked by perfectionism

• The “all-or-nothing” trap and treatment drop-off

• The role of context in determining helpful vs unhelpful striving

• Therapist perfectionism and projected expectations

• Letting go of the need to be liked

This conversation is especially valuable for clinicians wanting to deepen their formulations beyond symptom reduction and into process-based change.

https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au

#perfectionism

#ocd

#anxiety

#acttherapy

#processbasedtherapy

#theanxiousperfectionist

#clinicalpsychology

#mentalhealthprofessionals

#psychologicalflexibility

#therapistlife

#cbt

#acceptanceandcommitmenttherapy

#ocdrecovery

#valuesbasedliving

#mentalhealthpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Developmental Patterns in OCD Onset and Flare-Ups

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Breaking the Rules, we explore when and why OCD tends to peak across the lifespan — and why symptoms often intensify during moments of growth, change, and meaning rather than out of nowhere.

Drawing on clinical experience and developmental theory, this conversation looks at the predictable windows of vulnerability where OCD commonly emerges or flares: childhood and puberty, late adolescence and young adulthood, and major life transitions such as starting high school, exams, relationships, parenthood, grief, and identity shifts.

Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, the discussion centres on formulation, psychoeducation, and normalisation — helping both clinicians and clients answer the critical question: why now?

💬 Key themes:

The two most common ages of onset for OCD
Puberty, hormones, and emotional intensity
Individuation, identity formation, and existential anxiety
Why OCD spikes when life becomes meaningful
New parenthood, responsibility, and fear of harm
How values drive OCD themes during transitions
Understanding symptom “shape-shifting” across life stages
Using developmental context to reduce fear and shame
Anticipating flare-ups and planning support proactively

💡 “OCD often shows up when life matters most.”

🧠 “These thoughts tell us what we care about.”

💬 “Be alert, not alarmed.”

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction: When does OCD peak?

01:30 Early onset and puberty

03:30 Adolescence, identity, and individuation

06:00 Hormones, emotions, and existential fear

08:00 Life transitions and meaning

10:00 New parenthood and responsibility

12:00 Why themes change over time

14:00 Using formulation to answer ‘why now?’

16:00 Anticipating flare-ups and building support

#OCD #MentalHealthPodcast #BreakingTheRulesPodcast #OCDRecovery #ClinicianSupport #LifeTransitions #PerinatalMentalHealth #AdolescentMentalHealth #TherapyTalk #MentalHealthAwareness

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Contamination OCD Isn’t Quirky

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this long-awaited episode of Breaking the Rules, we finally do a deep dive into contamination-themed OCD — one of the most common, misunderstood, and physically debilitating OCD presentations.

This conversation goes far beyond clichés about handwashing and cleanliness. We unpack what contamination OCD actually looks like day-to-day: the pain, the exhaustion, the food avoidance, the disrupted routines, the impact on relationships, parenting, work, and health — and the quiet suffering that often goes unseen.

We explore both physical contamination fears (germs, illness, food safety, asbestos, chemicals) and moral contamination, where people fear being “tainted” by proximity to someone or something that conflicts with their values. The episode also tackles one of the trickiest clinical questions: how to work with ego-syntonic rules without turning therapy into another rigid rule system.

This is an essential listen for clinicians, clients, and loved ones wanting a clearer, more compassionate understanding of contamination OCD — and how ERP can be done flexibly, ethically, and effectively.

💬 Key themes:

What contamination OCD really looks like behind closed doors
Why it’s not about being “clean” or “house-proud”
The physical toll: pain, skin damage, exhaustion, hunger
Food avoidance, illness fears, and misdiagnosis with eating disorders
Moral contamination and value-based fear
Ego-syntonic vs ego-dystonic rules
How to assess contamination OCD properly
Flexibility vs rigidity in treatment
ERP without reinforcing “right vs wrong” rules
Helping clients choose values over compulsions

💡 “Contamination OCD holds people hostage.”

🧠 “This isn’t quirky — it’s devastating.”

💬 “There is no ‘right’ amount. Flexibility is the goal.”

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Why we avoided this topic (and why we’re doing it now)

01:00 What contamination OCD actually means

02:30 Moral contamination explained

05:00 The physical and emotional toll

08:00 Illness fears, COVID, and community safety

10:00 When contamination affects parenting and relationships

12:00 Ego-syntonic rules and client-led goals

14:00 Flexibility vs rigid hygiene rules

16:00 ERP and realistic exposure work

19:00 Messing up rituals and tolerating uncertainty

22:00 Assessment questions clinicians should be asking

25:00 Creative exposure ideas

27:30 Final reflections and encouragement

#OCD #ContaminationOCD #ERP #TherapyPodcast #MentalHealthProfessionals #OCDRecovery #ExposureTherapy #BreakingTheRulesPodcast #ClinicianSupport #MentalHealthAwareness

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Readiness, Uncertainty, and Behaviour Change in OCD Treatment

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this reflective and practical episode of Breaking the Rules, the hosts unpack a phrase that shows up constantly in therapy rooms: “I don’t feel ready.” What does it actually mean? Is readiness a feeling—or is it a decision we make in the presence of fear, uncertainty, and discomfort?

Using OCD as the primary lens, this conversation explores how clients often wait for certainty, calm, or clarity before taking action—and how that waiting quietly reinforces avoidance. The discussion moves beyond symptom management and into the deeper work of distinguishing thoughts vs feelings, building emotional literacy, and helping clients move forward despite anxiety rather than waiting for it to disappear.

This episode is especially valuable for clinicians working with ambivalence, treatment resistance, or clients who feel “stuck” before starting ERP or making meaningful behavioural change.

💬 Key themes:

Why “ready” is not an emotion—but a choice
The difference between thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations
How emotional reasoning keeps OCD in control
The trap of waiting for certainty before acting
Using ACT, motivational interviewing, and values-based action
Helping clients name fear, dread, shame, and excitement accurately
Why language matters in therapy—and how it can open or close change
Moving clients out of intellectual insight and into embodied experience
Supporting behaviour change without reassurance or avoidance

💡 “Ready is not a feeling—it’s a decision.”

🧠 “Certainty is the fantasy OCD keeps chasing.”

💬 “Of course you’re scared—and you can still act.”

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the origin of the idea

03:00 What clients mean when they say “I don’t feel ready”

05:00 Readiness, certainty, and the OCD trap

07:00 Thoughts vs feelings: why we confuse them

09:30 Emotional reasoning and avoidance

11:00 Values-based action and willingness

13:00 Naming emotions vs shutting change down

15:00 Anxiety, excitement, and bodily sensations

17:00 Moving from insight to action

19:00 Why waiting for readiness keeps clients stuck

21:00 Final reflections for clinicians

#OCD #TherapyPodcast #MentalHealthProfessionals #ERP #ACT #BehaviourChange #ValuesBasedLiving #BreakingTheRulesPodcast #ClinicianSupport #AnxietyRecovery

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moral Scrupulosity vs OCPD

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this in-depth episode of Breaking the Rules, we unpack two commonly confused but fundamentally different clinical presentations: moral scrupulosity (OCD) and Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD). While they may look similar on the surface—perfectionism, rigid values, intense guilt—the treatment implications couldn’t be more different.

The conversation explores how moral scrupulosity shows up across children, teens, and adults, often hiding beneath “good behaviour,” people-pleasing, over-apologising, and chronic self-monitoring. We also dive into why some clients become stuck in ERP when the underlying issue isn’t OCD at all, but rigidity, control, and ego-syntonic perfectionism associated with OCPD.

This episode is especially valuable for clinicians navigating stuckness, treatment resistance, or confusing presentations—and for anyone who has ever felt trapped by the need to be a “good person.”

💬 Key themes:

What moral scrupulosity really looks like in OCD
Why guilt, confessing, and reassurance-seeking are so sticky
How moral scrupulosity differs from OCPD at a structural level
Why ERP works for OCD—but often fails for OCPD
The role of values, culture, religion, and social media pressure
Common compulsions: confessing, rumination, reassurance, over-apologising
When rigidity is fear-driven vs personality-based
How to treat OCPD using schema, ACT, and DBT-informed approaches
What to do when moral scrupulosity and OCPD co-occur

💡 “OCD hijacks your values and turns them against you.”

🧠 “Good people still have messy thoughts.”

💬 “Rigidity isn’t always anxiety—sometimes it’s identity.”

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction and why this topic matters

02:00 What is moral scrupulosity?

05:30 Why it’s common in kids and teens

08:00 Defining OCPD and why it’s often mislabelled as OCD

11:00 Key differences between OCD and OCPD

14:00 Guilt, confessing, and moral pressure in adolescents

17:00 Social media, cancel culture, and moral anxiety

20:00 Common compulsions in moral scrupulosity

22:00 Psychoeducation vs reassurance

24:00 ERP exposures for moral scrupulosity

27:00 Treating OCPD: flexibility over exposure

30:00 When moral scrupulosity and OCPD overlap

33:00 Differential diagnosis, supervision, and formulation

36:00 Clinical honesty and naming rigidity in the room

#OCD #MoralScrupulosity #OCPD #TherapyPodcast #MentalHealthProfessionals #ERP #Perfectionism #ValuesBasedTherapy #ClinicianSupport #BreakingTheRulesPodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Values, Paradox, and OCD: Finding Flexibility in the Tension

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this thought-provoking episode of Breaking the Rules, the hosts explore how values and paradox show up in the therapy room—especially when working with clients who experience OCD. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles, they discuss how being “fused” with one’s values can keep clients stuck in rigidity, perfectionism, and fear of imperfection.

The conversation dives into the art of helping clients find flexibility between competing values—like control vs trust, safety vs freedom, and perfectionism vs growth—and how learning to hold both truths can open the door to meaningful change. They also unpack how clinicians can use values-based reflection, curiosity, and compassion to move clients beyond “sitting with uncertainty” toward truly living aligned, balanced lives.

💬 Key themes:

• What it means to be fused with thoughts and values

• Common paradoxes in OCD (purity vs imperfection, safety vs health, control vs trust)

• Using values work to build insight and reduce rigidity

• The connection between values, uncertainty, and acceptance

• Why “sit with uncertainty” isn’t enough without context

• Mapping paradoxes and value clashes in therapy

• How building self-concept helps clients reclaim life beyond OCD

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Values and Paradox in OCD

02:00 What It Means to Be Fused with Thoughts and Values

05:00 Why Clients Get Stuck in Rigidity

08:00 Common Paradoxes in OCD

11:00 The Cost of Perfectionism and Fear of Imperfection

14:00 Exploring Value Clashes in Therapy

17:00 Building Insight and Flexibility

20:00 Beyond “Sit with Uncertainty”: Context and Meaning

22:30 Rebuilding Self and Identity Outside OCD

#OCD #TherapyPodcast #AcceptanceAndCommitmentTherapy #MentalHealthMatters #ValuesBasedTherapy #ACT #BreakingTheRulesPodcast #ClinicianSupport #OCDRecovery #TherapyTalk #UncertaintyTolerance

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding the Link Between PTSD and OCD

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this powerful and insightful episode, we explore the connection between PTSD and OCD, two conditions that often intersect in complex and misunderstood ways. The discussion dives into how trauma can shape obsessive-compulsive patterns, how compulsions can emerge as coping mechanisms, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential for effective treatment.

The speakers unpack the challenges of working with co-occurring trauma and OCD, emphasizing flexibility, creativity, and compassion in clinical work. From ERP integration to managing dissociation and building client insight, this conversation offers a nuanced understanding of how clinicians can hold both trauma and OCD safely in the therapy room.

💬 Key themes:

• How trauma can trigger or intensify OCD symptoms

• Compulsions as coping mechanisms for post-traumatic stress

• Why ERP and trauma therapy can complement each other

• The importance of trauma-informed care in OCD treatment

• Recognizing and managing dissociation during therapy

• Building client insight and resilience through psychoeducation

• Empowering clinicians to work confidently with trauma and OCD

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Understanding PTSD and OCD

02:55 The Interplay of Trauma and OCD

05:42 Navigating Treatment Challenges

08:53 Integrating ERP with Trauma Therapy

11:55 Building a Trauma-Informed Approach

14:54 Fluidity in Therapeutic Techniques

17:49 Empowering Clinicians to Address Trauma

23:44 Conclusion and Encouragement for Clinicians

#PTSD #OCD #TraumaInformedCare #ERP #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapyTalk #ClinicianSupport #TraumaRecovery #OCDTreatment #CopingMechanisms #TherapyForTrauma

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding Parental Accommodation in OCD: Breaking the Cycle

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this insightful episode, we explore the concept of parental accommodation — the well-intentioned ways family members and loved ones may unknowingly reinforce OCD behaviours. Drawing from the research of Professor Eli Liebowitz (Yale) and real-world clinical experience, the hosts unpack how accommodation develops, why it’s so hard to stop, and how families can begin to make meaningful change.

From checking, reassuring, or adapting routines “just to keep the peace,” to facing meltdowns, fear, or guilt when setting limits — this conversation goes deep into what it means to hold boundaries with compassion. You’ll hear about ERP therapy, the SPACE model, and practical ways clinicians and parents can work together to reduce accommodation and empower recovery.

💬 Key themes:

• What “parental accommodation” means and how it maintains OCD

• Why well-meaning reassurance can make symptoms stronger

• The difference between anxiety disorders and OCD

• Supporting children, teens, and adults through distress safely

• Helping parents tolerate their own emotions and model resilience

• How reducing accommodation can rebuild connection and trust in families

• Managing clinician fears around self-harm threats and safety planning

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introducing the topic: Parental Accommodation and OCD

02:00 What it means to accommodate and why we do it

05:00 How everyday reassurance turns into OCD reinforcement

08:00 Fear, meltdowns, and why it’s hard for families to stop accommodating

11:00 Emotions, modelling, and learning to tolerate discomfort

14:00 The SPACE model and clinician guidance

17:00 Working with parental fear and client safety

21:00 Reducing accommodation step-by-step

25:00 Supporting families when clients resist change

26:40 Why it works — even if the client isn’t in therapy

#OCD #ERP #ParentalAccommodation #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapyTalk #FamilyTherapy #SPACEModel #OCDRecovery #ClinicianSupport #ParentingAndMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perinatal Mental Health and OCD

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 13:00:00 GMT

The perinatal period is one of the most vulnerable—and transformative—times in a parent’s life. In this episode, we explore the challenges of perinatal mental health, with a particular focus on OCD and how intrusive thoughts can impact new parents during this stage.

Our speakers discuss the role of psychoeducation, the importance of therapeutic trust, and how clinicians can best support parents navigating overwhelming thoughts and fears. We also examine the value of bringing babies into therapy, collaborative care, and the crucial reminder that intrusive thoughts do not define someone’s ability to be a loving, capable parent.

💬 Key themes:

Why the perinatal period heightens vulnerability
The role of OCD and intrusive thoughts in early parenting
Using psychoeducation to normalize and reduce shame
Building rapport so clients feel safe to share difficult thoughts
The potential benefits of including babies in therapy sessions
Collaborative care and supporting parents holistically

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Perinatal Mental Health and OCD

02:50 Understanding Vulnerability in the Perinatal Period

05:47 Therapeutic Approaches for Clinicians

08:47 The Importance of Psychoeducation

11:45 Building Rapport and Trust with Clients

14:50 Managing Intrusive Thoughts in Therapy

17:49 Collaborative Care and Support Systems

20:51 Incorporating Babies in Therapy Sessions

23:45 Creating a Supportive Environment for New Parents

#PerinatalMentalHealth #OCD #IntrusiveThoughts #NewParents #MaternalHealth #TherapyTalk #ParentingSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #Psychoeducation #ClinicianSupport

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Challenges of Clinical Practice

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT

This honest and reflective episode takes listeners inside the therapy room—where clinical learnings, vulnerability, and growth unfold in real time.

Ms Catherine McGrath (Clinical Team Lead and Senior Psychologist) sharea hard-earned lessons from working with OCD clients using ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), and open up about the emotional toll, missed opportunities, and the courage it takes to keep learning.

From the power of self-compassion to the importance of holding space and involving parents in the therapeutic process, this conversation is a valuable reminder that clinicians don’t need to be perfect to be effective—they just need to keep showing up.

💬 You’ll hear about:

The real struggles clinicians face in ERP therapy
Why reflecting on mistakes leads to better outcomes
How client emotions are best met with presence, not perfection
The impact of including parents in treatment plans
Why being kind to yourself is not optional—it's essential

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clinical Learnings

02:59 The Courage to Learn ERP

05:57 Missed Opportunities in Therapy

08:57 The Importance of Holding Space

11:47 Navigating Client Emotions

15:12 Involving Parents in Therapy

17:42 Reflecting on Hard Lessons

21:01 Self-Compassion in Clinical Practice

23:47 Summary and Closing Thoughts

#ClinicalPractice #TherapyTalk #MentalHealthMatters #OCDTherapy #ERP #SelfCompassion #TherapistReflections #ClientEmotions #InvolvingParents #TherapyPodcast #MentalHealthProfessionals

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unpacking Meta OCD: A Deep Dive

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore the often misunderstood world of Meta OCD—a subtype of obsessive-compulsive disorder where the obsession becomes the diagnosis itself. Clients plagued by questions like "Do I really have OCD?" or "Is this the right treatment?" can become trapped in a mental loop that stalls progress and fuels perfectionism, self-doubt, and avoidance.

We discuss how Meta OCD complicates therapy, disrupts client engagement, and challenges traditional treatment methods. From moral scrupulosity to obsessive intellectualization, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone working in mental health, or for those navigating OCD themselves.

💬 Key insights:

What is Meta OCD and how does it differ from other forms?
How perfectionism and compulsions manifest in subtle ways
Why traditional OCD treatments may fall short for these clients
The double-edged sword of reassurance in therapy
How to foster self-worth and celebrate small wins

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Understanding Meta OCD

02:31 Defining Meta OCD and Its Implications

04:57 The Impact of Meta OCD on Treatment

07:59 Navigating Client Engagement and Reassurance

10:14 Perfectionism and Its Role in Meta OCD

12:24 The Challenge of Self-Identification

15:51 Recognizing and Addressing Meta OCD in Therapy

22:02 The Limitations of Manualized Treatments

#MetaOCD #OCDRecovery #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapyTalk #Perfectionism #MentalHealthMatters #TherapistTools #ClientEngagement #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #Scrupulosity #TherapyTechniques

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Complexities of Health Anxiety and OCD

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this insightful episode, we explore the tangled web of health anxiety, OCD, and death anxiety, unpacking how these psychological disorders often overlap and feed into each other. From obsessive thought patterns and compulsions to the deep-rooted fear of mortality, our speakers dive deep into the inner workings of anxiety disorders and what makes treatment so complex—and so crucial.

💬 We discuss:

The blurred lines between health anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder
How death anxiety often lies beneath our fear of illness
Why reassurance-seeking can trap us in cycles of fear
Coping strategies and evidence-based treatment approaches
How therapists can help clients rediscover meaning beyond their mental health challenges

Whether you’re a clinician, someone living with anxiety, or simply curious about the human mind—this conversation will challenge your understanding and offer a fresh perspective on mental wellness.

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Understanding Health Anxiety and OCD

06:01 The Intersection of Health Anxiety and Death Anxiety

12:03 The Complexity of Health Anxiety and OCD

18:43 Treatment Approaches for Health Anxiety and OCD

24:22 Living Beyond Anxiety: Finding Meaning in Life

#HealthAnxiety #OCD #MentalHealthMatters #TherapyTalk #AnxietyTreatment #DeathAnxiety #CopingWithAnxiety #IntrusiveThoughts #MentalWellness #PsychologicalDisorders #AnxietyAwareness #MeaningBeyondAnxiety

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Complexities of ERP Therapy

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—the gold standard treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)—through a clinical and ethical lens.

We unpack the delicate balance between challenging clients and protecting their autonomy, exploring how therapeutic trust, client consent, and collaborative exposure tasks shape the success of ERP. This conversation asks the tough questions: How far is too far in exposure therapy? And what happens when fear is no longer the enemy, but the doorway to healing?

💬 Key themes:

The role of informed consent in exposure therapy
Building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship
Understanding OCD beyond the symptoms
Why a collaborative approach is more effective than a prescriptive one
Recognizing when a therapist's anxiety enters the room too

🔖 Chapters

00:00 Introduction to ERP and Client Concerns

02:46 Understanding OCD and Its Impact

05:53 The Role of Trust in Therapy

08:53 Navigating Exposure Tasks Collaboratively

11:51 Ethics of Exposure Therapy

14:54 Client Consent and Collaboration

17:38 Managing Anxiety During Exposure

20:45 The Importance of Client Agency

23:44 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

#ERP #OCDTreatment #ExposureTherapy #TherapyEthics #ClientConsent #MentalHealth #TherapyPodcast #TherapeuticTrust #CollaborativeCare #AnxietySupport #OCDRecovery #EthicalTherapy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dangers of suicidal OCD and how to recognise it

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:01:00 GMT

With suicide remaining a leading cause of death for people aged between 15-44 in Australia, clinicians in the OCD space need to ask the question: How do we differentiate between suicidal ideation and obsessive intrusive suicidal thoughts?

In this episode, we discuss how to work with a client when they come to you with suicidal thoughts, why it is critical to take all mentions of suicide seriously, and how to determine whether a person with OCD is presenting with suicidal ideation consistent with wishes to die or whether it's intrusive suicidal OCD.

This episode contains discussions about suicide. If you find this episode distressing and would like more support, please seek help from your local healthcare provider. If you're in Australia, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time.

Resources and links:

Connect:

https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How “skinny-tok” is feeding eating disorder content to teenagers

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 14:01:00 GMT

Felicity Phillips is the Founder of Weight of the World, a community-driven organisation supporting people with eating disorders and their carers through recovery. Weight of the World aims to provide peer support and education while challenging diet culture and promoting body neutrality.

In this episode, Felicity shares her personal journey from pre-professional ballet to developing an eating disorder and ultimately finding recovery, explains the alarming rise of "skinny talk" on social media and how algorithms target vulnerable users within seconds, and reveals the powerful parallels between eating disorders and addiction that challenge common misconceptions about these complex mental health conditions.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it ROCD or is there a real problem in the relationship?

Mon, 26 May 2025 14:01:00 GMT

It's normal to have doubts and questions about our relationships sometimes. Am I in love with my partner? Am I spending enough time with my parents? Are my friends mad at me? But what happens when those normal, passing concerns turn into an obsession?

In this episode, we explain the difference between ordinary relationship concerns and relationship OCD (ROCD), how to identify when ROCD is showing up, and what the next steps are for helping clients manage it.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Supporting new parents with OCD

Mon, 12 May 2025 14:01:00 GMT

This is the final part of our two-part chat with Dr Bianca Mastromanno. In the last episode, Bianca discussed how she works with parents to process their childhood experiences and help them navigate parenthood themselves.

In this episode, Bianca opens up about her personal experiences with parenting anxiety, digs into the challenges faced by parents with OCD, the impact of OCD on early parenthood, and how clinicians can support parents during the vulnerable early days of new parenthood.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why revisiting a parent’s own childhood can help them as a new parent

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Bianca Mastromanno is a Clinical Psychologist who works extensively in the perinatal space. Bianca uses a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach to support parents and children living with mental health concerns.

In this episode, Bianca explains how she works with parents with OCD or other mental health challenges to explore and process their own childhood experiences to help them navigate the emotional challenges of parenthood. She also reflects on what she's learnt from the parents she works with and from her own experiences as a parent.

This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Bianca. Keep an eye out for part two, where Bianca digs into how to better support parents with OCD through their pre and post-natal periods.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The value of self-awareness, trust, and non-accommodating support

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:01:00 GMT

This is the final part of our two-part chat with Lindsay and Emily Stetzer. In the last episode, Lindsay and Emily opened up about their early experiences with OCD and how their lived experiences led them to create Presently Bracelets.

In this episode, Lindsay and Emily discuss the household dynamics of living in a family with OCD, the significance of non-accommodating support, and the role of exposure therapy, self-awareness, and trust in the recovery process.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How these sisters turned their OCD into a thriving jewellery business

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:01:00 GMT

Lindsay and Emily Stetzer are sisters living with OCD and the Founders of Presently Bracelets. Presently Bracelets offer a range of bracelets to help you navigate intrusive thoughts and embrace the present moment.

In this episode, Lindsay and Emily share their individual experiences with OCD and treatment, what helps them between sessions, and what they think therapists need to know from the perspective of someone with OCD. They also share how the phrase “my thoughts are passing clouds” led to the creation of Presently.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How clinicians can provide better OCD treatment (from someone with OCD)

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:01:00 GMT

This is the final part of our two-part chat with Chrissie Hodges. In the last episode, Chrissie shared her early experiences with OCD before embracing the challenges of OCD peer support and advocacy work.

In this episode, Chrissie reflects on her experiences with OCD treatments and what clinicians can and should be doing better. She also emphasises the importance of acknowledging the impacts of different OCD themes on the individual and how some themes might result in more trauma and stigma than others.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peer-to-peer: A frank conversation about OCD

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 13:01:00 GMT

Chrissie Hodges is an OCD Advocate, Peer Support Specialist, and Author of ‘Pure OCD: The Invisible Side of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder'. For over a decade, Chrissie has worked closely with individuals living with OCD, as well as providing training to government agencies to enable them to better support people with OCD.

In this episode, Chrissie shares her powerful personal journey with OCD starting from age eight, describes how religious scrupulosity and emetophobia shaped her early experiences and opens up about her path from struggling in silence to becoming a prominent voice in the OCD community through peer support and advocacy work.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helping someone with a hoarding disorder takes more than throwing away their stuff

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 13:01:00 GMT

Is tough love the right approach for people struggling with hoarding disorders, or is there another way?

In this episode, we explain how to recognise hoarding disorder and how it differs from having a collection or even hoarding-themed OCD. We explore how to navigate the intense shame experienced by people with a hoarding disorder or hoarding-themed OCD and how to sensitively and responsibly provide intervention.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to support mothers with mental health difficulties

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:01:00 GMT

This is the final part of our two-part chat with Emily Crawford. In the last episode, Emily highlighted the importance of building supportive networks for mothers and the challenges mothers experience before and after birth.

In this episode, Emily discusses how to support mothers with mental health difficulties throughout pregnancy and after birth and how to provide interventions to mothers who are struggling.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why strong support networks are vital for mothers throughout and after pregnancy

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:01:00 GMT

Returning guest Emily Crawford is the Principal Psychologist at Nest Psychology and has more than 20 years of experience as an Educational and Developmental Psychologist supporting adults, children, adolescents, and their families with various mental health issues (including OCD). She is also a 'Tuning in to Kids' facilitator and a mother of four.

In this episode, Emily discusses the postnatal period for mothers and opens up about her experiences after childbirth. She explores the challenges mothers encounter before and after birth and the importance of supporting mothers and building communities so mothers can care for their babies.

This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Emily. Keep an eye out for part two, where Emily shares how to help mothers experiencing mental health difficulties in the prenatal and postnatal periods.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tackling ambivalence with commitment, creativity, and curiosity

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:01:00 GMT

We’re continuing our discussion about ambivalence. Ambivalence is when a client feels conflicted about treatment, either consciously or subconsciously, and can throw up stopping blocks in treatment. In the last episode, we looked at how to spot ambivalence and tackle it when you see it.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of motivational interviewing in exploring patient emotions and understanding how OCD plays into a patient’s identity. We also examine the role of patience and adaptability in treatment and how critical it is to address ambivalence through commitment, creativity, and curiosity.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Identifying ambivalence and how to tackle it

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 14:01:00 GMT

What happens when a client wants to change but doesn’t know where to start, doesn’t want to do the work, or is in some other way conflicted? Ambivalence. Ambivalence is normal during therapy but can hinder a client’s progress if left unaddressed.

In this episode, we discuss some telltale signs of ambivalence in clients, understanding where ambivalence comes from, and how to work through it when it happens.

Resources and links:

Webinars, books, and training by Melbourne Wellbeing Group

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The crucial role of parents in treating anxiety and OCD in children

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 14:01:00 GMT

This episode is the final part of our two-part chat with Natasha Daniels. Natasha is a Therapist specialising in anxiety and OCD in children and created AT Parenting Survival to help the parents of children living with anxiety and OCD.

In our last episode, Natasha shared how she got into working with children, how to adapt ERP for young people, and the importance of rapport, fun, and play in therapy.

In this episode, Natasha opens up about why she loves working with the parents of children with OCD and anxiety. She explains how she works with parents and shares her helpful tips for helping kids with OCD and anxiety while they’re at school.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building rapport and having fun is crucial for treating children with OCD and anxiety

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:01:00 GMT

Natasha Daniels is a Therapist specialising in anxiety and OCD in children. Natasha is the creator of the AT Parenting Survival website to provide parents with advice for helping their children living with anxiety and OCD. Natasha has drawn on two decades of experience to create a YouTube channel and a podcast and has also written several books.

In this episode, Natasha reveals what drew her to working with children and teens with anxiety and OCD, as well as their parents. She discusses how to adapt ERP for younger clients, the significance of building rapport, and how to incorporate playfulness and creativity into therapy.

This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Natasha. Keep an eye out for part two, where she’ll focus on one of her biggest passions: working with the parents of children with OCD and anxiety.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perfectly imperfect: Spotting perfectionism in OCD treatment and how to address it

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 14:01:00 GMT

Perfectionism. It’s a complicated trait that shows up a lot when working with OCD. It can present in a range of ways and can look like self-loathing, anger, people-pleasing, or even a strong sense of doubt and uncertainty in clients.

In this skills episode, we dig into how perfectionism can manifest in a client, how it might present in a session, and how to address it when it does.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to find the right balance in discomfort during ERP

Mon, 06 May 2024 14:01:00 GMT

This is the final part of our chat with Associate Professor of Psychology and convenor of the clinical psychology program at the University of Melbourne, Dr Brett Deacon.

In our previous conversations with Brett, he explained safety behaviours, accommodation behaviours from family and clinicians, and how accommodating behaviours that reduce discomfort can limit the efficacy of treatment for clients with OCD.

In this episode, Brett expands on how clinicians can balance moving too quickly or too slowly in ERP. He also explains how he uses one simple and kind of gross demonstration in the classroom to teach future clinicians the importance of being bold and unafraid when working with clients.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unlocking flexibility in OCD therapy

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 13:01:00 GMT

George Habib is a Clinical Psychologist and Associate Director of Wellbeing Services at the University of Melbourne. Alongside this role, he's been working in his own clinical practice for over 25 years. His work, deeply rooted in trauma support and symptom interpretation, has shaped his leadership in health services and legal aid.

In this episode, George tackles the clinician’s role in structured OCD treatment, highlighting the necessity of addressing deep-seated triggers. You’ll discover how a clinician’s strict adherence to protocols could influence the therapeutic journey. You’ll gain insights into how various therapeutic modalities can be integrated to effectively navigate the complexities of OCD treatment.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The impacts of accommodating safety behaviours on OCD treatment

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:01:00 GMT

In our last episode, Associate Professor of Psychology and convenor of the clinical psychology program at the University of Melbourne, Dr Brett Deacon, explained the concept of safety behaviours and how to manage them in OCD treatment.

In this episode, Brett dives into the data behind safety behaviours and accommodations. He expands on how making more accommodations can impact treatment and how clinician accommodations can be as limiting as parental or familial accommodations.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to manage safety behaviours during exposure therapy

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Brett Deacon is an Associate Professor of Psychology and convenor of the clinical psychology program at the University of Melbourne. Brett has worked in the field of psychology for over 15 years with a focus on exposure therapy for anxiety and OCD. He has published many papers on therapist barriers to exposure therapy and strategies for overcoming them and is a co-author of ‘Exposure Therapy for Anxiety: Principles and Practice’.

Throughout the next three episodes, Brett explores the role of clinicians in exposure therapy and how their feelings could be holding back the client.

In today’s episode, Brett addresses safety behaviours. He digs into what they are, the safety behaviours we all engage in, and how to manage safety behaviours when treating OCD.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting unstuck: How to address guilt and shame and move forward

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 13:01:00 GMT

Guilt and shame are a normal part of the human experience. Where it can become a problem is when clients are unable to overcome, or even identify, guilt and shame they may be feeling which can lead to a “stuckness” in treatment that can be frustrating and upsetting.

In this skills episode, we’ll explain the difference between guilt and shame, discuss telltale signs to look for in clients, and how to address these emotions if they are impacting treatment.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How genetic counselling can impact patient care

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 13:01:00 GMT

Joanne Isbister is a Certified Genetic Counsellor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Jo has over 15 years of experience as a genetic counsellor and has clinical experience in perinatal, paediatric, and adult genetics. After Identifying a gap in local services, Jo is developing a clinical service at the RMH to provide equitable access to psychiatric genetic medicine for those in need.

In today’s episode, Jo will explain what genetic counselling is and how it helps patients. She talks about the complexities of patient mental health histories and the implications of shame and stigma on patients. Jo also breaks down how genetic counselling can help mitigate some of the common fears for people living with mental illnesses around having children and passing on their genes.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"The Joy Thief": A practical, personal guide to navigating OCD

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:01:00 GMT

Penny Moodie is a Co-founder of So OCD and the Author of "The Joy Thief". Penny is a passionate OCD advocate and her book, “The Joy Thief” is a deeply personal exploration of OCD along with practical advice from mental health professionals.

In this episode, Penny describes the experience of writing "The Joy Thief", the effect it had on her own OCD, and the things she learnt along the way. She also shares her hopes and wishes for others with OCD who want to reclaim their happiness from their condition.

Resources and links:

Purchase "The Joy Thief" here

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When does psychoeducation become reassurance?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:01:00 GMT

One of the main roles of a clinician is to provide as much knowledge as possible when supporting clients in treatment. But when does knowledge and education, or psychoeducation as it's known, become a reassurance trap when treating OCD?

In this skills episode, we'll explore how to detect if psychoeducation is bordering on reassurance, and how to navigate that with your client. We'll also discuss the importance of transparent conversations, how sometimes providing a little bit of reassurance is alright, and that even we clinicians have to learn to accept uncertainty.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Using deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant OCD

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Luca Cocchi is a Group Leader and Associate Professor at QIMR Berghofer, who is currently working on ways to improve TMS for its usage in OCD treatment. Dr Philip Mosley is a Psychiatrist and Clinician-Scientist at QIMR Berghofer, where he is currently researching DBS for treatment-refractory OCD.

In this episode, Phillip explains deep brain stimulation (or DBS) and how it's being used to treat severe and treatment-resistant OCD. Phillip and Luca also discuss the outcomes of recent clinical trials and explain how accessible these treatments currently are for Australians.

This episode is part two of our two-part conversation with Luca and Phillip. Check out our last episode to hear more about the neuroscience behind OCD, and the use of TMS for OCD treatment.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The neuroscience behind OCD

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Luca Cocchi is a Group Leader and Associate Professor at QIMR Berghofer, where he is currently working on ways to improve TMS for its usage in OCD treatment. Dr Philip Mosley is a Psychiatrist and Clinician-Scientist at QIMR Berghofer, who is currently researching DBS for treatment-refractory OCD.

In this episode, Luca and Phillip explain the neuroscience behind OCD, as well as what treatment-resistant OCD means and why it happens. Plus, Luca breaks down the exciting possibilities of transcranial magnetic stimulation (or TMS) for OCD.

This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Luca and Phillip. Keep an eye out for part two, where Luca and Phillip dive deeper into the treatment possibilities of TMS and DBS.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to implement mindfulness in ERP

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Welcome back to another skills episode! Today, we're covering something you may have heard mentioned a few times in our previous episodes: meditation. Mindfulness-based strategies can be incredibly useful for clients and clinicians alike, and there are many ways they can be helpful when integrated with ERP.

In this episode, we'll explain why mindfulness is so important, and share how you can best teach it to your clients. You'll also hear us discuss why it's important for all of us to learn to feel our feelings, and to understand the difference between noticing thoughts and dismissing them. Plus, we'll share some ways you can start to scaffold mindfulness into your client's treatment.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating nerves as an early-career psychologist

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Hannah Gersh is a Psychologist and Clinical Registrar at the Melbourne Wellbeing Group. As an early-career psychologist, Hannah understands how nerve-wracking it can be to start in the industry, and is here to share her experiences to help ease the nerves of any other early-career psychologist.

In this episode, Hannah shares how she found her way into working with OCD, as well as how she deals with nerves and feelings of inadequacy. She'll explain what she's found most useful for her development as an early-career psychologist, before sharing some advice for clinicians looking to get into the OCD treatment space.

Resources and links:

'Freedom from OCD' by Jonathan Grayson

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creating ERP tasks for Pure O and POCD

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Welcome back to our deep dive into creating ERP tasks, where we're continuing to explore the ways you can get creative in treatment, regardless of the presentation or the subtype.

In this episode, we're exploring different ways to create ERP tasks in the context of pure OCD, and paedophilic OCD. We'll share the ways to help your clients interrupt mental compulsions, as well as how to create safe and appropriate tasks for managing paedophilic intrusive thoughts. Plus, we'll share how you can take the learnings from these subtypes, and apply them to creating ERP tasks in any context.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat about how to create ERP tasks. Check out our previous episode, to hear us break down the foundations of creating ERP tasks, and the importance of collaboration and creativity in this process.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to create ERP tasks

Mon, 29 May 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Welcome back to another skills episode! This week, we're following on from our previous skills episode, "What is ERP?", with an episode on how to create ERP tasks. We'll be exploring all the ways you can break the rules and get creative with ERP, whilst still remaining evidence based in treatment.

In this episode, we'll explore how to design exposure tasks for OCD, regardless of the subtype. We'll also share how important it is to stay collaborative, creative, and courageous — regardless of whether you're a client or clinician.

This episode is part one of our two-part chat about how to create ERP tasks. Keep an eye out for our next episode, where we'll dive even deeper into the techniques you can use to create ERP tasks.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What your family member with OCD needs from you

Mon, 15 May 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Penny Moodie and Rosie Frankish are the Co-founders of the So OCD website, a resource built to provide local support for Australians with OCD. Penny Moodie is an OCD advocate, with a background in media and communications, who is currently studying for a social work degree whilst writing a book about OCD. Rosie Frankish has a background in psychology and currently works in the community mental health sector, developing and delivering specialist mental health and homelessness programs across Victoria.

In this episode, Penny and Rosie discuss all things family support, including what they believe family members need to know whilst supporting their loved ones through treatment. Plus, Penny and Rosie share some of their personal experiences with intrusive thoughts, and how they've changed throughout their lives.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Penny and Rosie. Check out our last episode to hear how and why they founded So OCD, and what they want clinicians to know about what OCD treatment is like.

Resources and links:

So OCD website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What it's like to live with OCD

Mon, 01 May 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Penny Moodie and Rosie Frankish are the Co-founders of So OCD, a website resource built to provide local support for Australians with OCD. Penny Moodie is an OCD advocate, with a background in media and communications, who is currently writing a book about OCD whilst studying for a social work degree. Rosie Frankish has a background in psychology and currently works in the community mental health sector, where she is involved in the development and delivery of specialist mental health and homelessness programs across Victoria.

In this episode, Penny and Rosie share their stories of being diagnosed with and living with OCD, and also what their personal journeys in therapy have been like. They explain the things that they have found helpful in treatment and everyday life, and what they want clinicians to know, from the perspective of someone who is in treatment for OCD.

This episode is part one of our two-part conversation with Penny and Rosie. Join us next time for part two, where they'll dive deeper into their own experiences with OCD, and in particular, how families can support their loved ones in treatment.

Resources and links:

So OCD website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to support a loved one in treatment

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Navigating the process of supporting loved ones in treatment can feel like walking through a minefield. It's easy to question if it's appropriate to involve yourself in the treatment process, where the boundaries lie, and how to even begin. These questions can feel overwhelming and often lead to us doing nothing at all.

In this skills episode, we discuss how clinicians can expand their treatment plans to include a client's family and friends, while still maintaining appropriate boundaries. We'll also emphasise the importance of accessing knowledge, practising self-care, communicating, and holding space for grief for those who are supporting a loved one in treatment.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to use the inhibitory learning model in clinical practice

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz is a clinical psychologist, author, and Professor for the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina in America. With over 25 years of experience, Jon is recognised internationally as a leading authority on the treatment and study of OCD and is dedicated to researching and publishing his findings on OCD treatment and passing on his knowledge to the next generation of clinical psychology students.

In today's episode, Jon explains how to integrate the inhibitory learning model into clinical practice and the importance of maintaining consistency in that process. He then shares his difficulty in knowing that the first edition of his book, "Getting Over OCD: A 10-Step Workbook for Taking Back Your Life", is still in circulation.

This episode is part two of our two-part conversation with Dr Jonathan Abramowitz. Check out our last episode, where Jon introduces us to his insights on the inhibitory learning model.

Resources and links:

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The evolution of the inhibitory learning model

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz is a world-renowned clinical psychologist and a Professor in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina. Jon has over 25 years of experience working in the treatment of OCD and related disorders and has contributed to hundreds of scientific publications in that time. He also trains clinical psychology students and is the author of several books and book chapters.

In today's episode, Jon explains how he came to be involved with OCD treatment and research in the first place. He shares his insights on the evolution of the inhibitory learning model and details how it can be used to modify ERP and treat OCD.

This episode is part one of our two-part conversation with Dr Jonathan Abramowitz. Keep an eye out for our next episode, where Jon delves deeper into how to integrate the inhibitory learning model into practice.

Resources and links:

Dr Jonathan Abramowitz website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adapting ERP for group therapy

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 13:01:00 GMT

It's easy to get bogged down in the options that are available when deciding on treatment options for clients. Treatment for OCD can include inpatient treatment, one-on-one treatment, group therapy, and anything in between.

In this episode, we're going to do a deep dive into group therapy, and how to adapt ERP to work in a group therapy setting (spoiler alert: it's easier than you think). We'll explore the structure of a group therapy session, and how to manage challenges such as cost and time limitations. Plus, we'll discuss the power of group therapy, and how beneficial it can be to have group participants supporting each other.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The challenges in embracing uncertainty

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Jonathan Grayson is a Licensed Psychologist, Author, and Director of the Grayson Center in LA and the Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences at the University of Southern California. Jonathan has specialised in OCD treatment for over 40 years and even authored an award-winning book on the topic, 'Freedom from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: a Personalised Recovery Program for Living with Uncertainty.'

In this episode, Jonathan continues explaining what it's like to live in genuine uncertainty and explores the challenges both clients and clinicians can face when fully embracing uncertainty. Plus, he shares a challenging personal story and some interesting pop culture references.

This is part two of our two-part chat with Jonathan. Check out our last episode for part one, where Jonathan introduces us to the idea of uncertainty in the context of OCD.

Resources and links:

Grayson Center website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uncertainty and OCD

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Jonathan Grayson is the Director of the Grayson Center in LA as well as the Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California. Jonathan has over 40 years of experience in the treatment of OCD and was the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International OCD Foundation.

In today's episode, Jonathan explores the concept of uncertainty and how to get better without knowing all the answers. He then goes on to share valuable insights into how to discuss uncertainty with clients and even demonstrates how it works in treatment.

This is part one of our two-part chat with Jonathan. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we further explore how to live with uncertainty.

Resources and links:

Grayson Center website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Utilising ERP in group therapy

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Clair Lawson is a clinical psychologist and the Director of her group private practice, Lawson Clinical Psychology, in Perth, Western Australia. She has over 21 years of experience working as a clinical psychologist in government and private practice settings and has spent much of this time treating OCD. Clair is also a training supervisor for clinical psychology students at the University of Western Australia and a mentor for allied health businesses looking to increase their impact.

In today's episode, Clair shares her perspective on what ERP is like in a group therapy setting and the ways you can get creative in this space. She also breaks down her thoughts on the difference between group and individual sessions, and how to get the most out of each format.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The trajectory of OCD research and treatment

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Paul Salkovskis is a Professor from the Oxford University in the UK. Paul has worked as a clinical psychologist since 1979 and as a researcher interested in the treatment of anxiety disorders, including OCD, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and health anxiety. He's also on the editorial board for several psychology journals and is the current president of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies.

In today's episode, Paul explores the current research trajectory into OCD and treatment options. Paul shares his knowledge from years of working with OCD and his ideas on how betrayal functions in OCD. He finishes with an important reminder that OCD is not always what it seems.

Resources and links:

Professor Paul Salkovskis' website

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Familial influences on anxiety and OCD

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Eli Lebowitz is an Associate Professor from Yale University who studies and treats childhood and adolescent anxiety. Eli is also the Program for Anxiety Disorders Director at the Yale Child Study Centre. His research focuses on the development, neurobiology, and treatment of anxiety, but his passion lies in exploring cross-generational and family influences on anxiety and related disorders.

In today's episode, Eli shares some ways clinicians can support parents if their children are diagnosed with OCD. He also details some of the reasons we might be getting it wrong in supporting families and explains how the SPACE program can help reduce family accommodation.

Resources and links:

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to deal with meltdowns

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Emily Crawford is an Educational and Development Psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting adults, children, adolescents, and their families with various mental health issues (including OCD). She is passionate about engaging parents in the support of their children and tailoring approaches to support her client's individual needs. Emily is also a 'Tuning in to Kids' facilitator and a mother of four young children herself.

In today's episode, Emily breaks down all things meltdowns. She shares why kids have meltdowns, what parents can do when their child is melting down, and why it's so hard for parents to keep their cool when their child is having a meltdown. Plus, she shares a fascinating insight into what it means to 'flip your lid'.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Autism and OCD: Similarities, differences, and treating clients with both

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Marie Karakis is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist who works closely with neurodiverse young people, including those with autism, ADHD, and OCD. She is also the Director of Young Minds Psychology, a private practice that provides assessment, intervention, treatment, and school consultations.

In today's episode, Marie shares her insights into the similarities and differences between autism and OCD in young people and what to consider when treating OCD in neurodiverse clients. Plus, Marie details some of the things she found most useful in her practice, such as the importance of forming client connections.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The intersection of OCD and anxiety

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Dr Emily O'Leary is an experienced Clinical Psychologist passionate about treating OCD and the Managing Director of three clinical psychology practices and one psychiatry practice. She also manages a consulting business that provides training and supervision to other psychologists in her areas of interest.

Emily is committed to raising awareness of the complexity of disorders like OCD and anxiety, which she does via lectures, workshops, and online and print media in Australia and worldwide. In today's episode, Emily shares her knowledge of OCD and anxiety and how they present in clients that deal with both. She also details how to tease the two disorders apart and treat them appropriately. Plus, you'll hear about Emily's passion for advocacy and education, and she shares her experience of encouraging skill development in treatment.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OCD and body-focused repetitive behaviours

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Tanya Arabatzoudis is a Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs), specifically trichotillomania. She spent her postgraduate studies exploring how emotion regulation and trichotillomania were linked and now works with patients with OCD and BFRBs.

In this episode, Tanya explains BFRBs and the current limitations on research into these behaviours. Tanya also breaks down how to use the SCAMP model in your practice and reminds us all how important it is to be able to 'go with the flow'.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to include fun and families in a young person's treatment

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Catherine McGrath is a Senior Psychologist at the Melbourne Wellbeing Group. She has over 15 years of experience working with young people and families who are dealing with all sorts of mental health concerns, including OCD.

In today's episode, Catherine shares her tips on when to include family in the treatment of a young person before detailing her experience working with younger clients with OCD. She then discusses ideas for how to have fun in therapy with games like 'Spot It'.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is ERP for OCD treatment?

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 14:01:00 GMT

We've been leading up to this moment for the past few skills episodes. We have referenced ERP and talked about it, but what is it?

So in this episode, we'll finally answer that question! We're also going to answer other frequently asked questions about ERP, such as do we need to do a hierarchy, aren't we just teaching distraction, and how does ERP work with the different subtypes of OCD?

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mental health in schools

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Brydie Huggins is a school psychologist with over 15 years of experience working with young people in school settings. She's passionate about involving parents in the treatment process and delivering programs such as Tuning in to Kids, which helps teach an emotion coaching approach to parenting.

In today's episode, Brydie explains the impact that schools can have on a young person's mental health and the importance of sound systems to support them in this environment. Plus, she shares an insight into the importance of setting boundaries as a practitioner to ensure you deliver the best support for your clients.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treatment options for OCD

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 14:01:00 GMT

OCD is a complex disorder, and it's easy to feel stuck when it comes to treatment options, no matter the client's age. So what are the treatment options, and when should we use them?

In today's episode, we're talking through the various types of treatment available for OCD, from psychological therapy to deep brain stimulation. Then, we'll share our insights into how you can get messy with treatment whilst remaining evidence-based in your work.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The common pitfalls of treating OCD

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Michael Twohig is a well-renowned professor of psychology at Utah State University. His research includes exploration of acceptance and commitment therapy in OCD treatment, and he has published over 200 scholarly works and seven books.

In today's episode, Michael explains the most common problems when treating OCD. He also talks us through his two most recent books, ACT in Steps, co-authored with Dr Michael Levin and Dr Clarissa Ong, and The Anxious Perfectionist, co-authored with Dr Clarissa Ong.

This episode is part two of our conversation with Michael. Check out our last episode for the first part of our chat.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to utilise acceptance and commitment therapy in treatment

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Michael Twohig is a professor of psychology at Utah State University, where he teaches and studies the use of acceptance and commitment therapy in OCD treatment. He co-runs the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Research Group and has published over 200 scholarly works, with funding from sources such as the National Institute of Mental Health and the I-OCD-F.

In today's episode, Michael talks us through his research on acceptance and commitment therapy and its potential uses for OCD treatment in conjunction with ERP before sharing his insight into the importance of flexibility as a healthcare practitioner.

This episode is part one of our two-part conversation with Michael. Tune in next time for part two.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The subtype we haven't mentioned yet

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Today, we're back with another Skills episode, covering the OCD subtype we haven't discussed yet: Pure O. We'll be discussing where the term came from, why we're so confused by it, and what the research tells us about this unique subtype.

In this episode, you'll hear us exploring and thinking out loud about Pure O. We talk about where the idea of Pure O came from, what it looks like in session, and how it can create confusion for clinicians and clients alike if it's misunderstood.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What modern medicine is missing in treating the mental health crisis

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Johanna Lynch is a Senior Lecturer at The University of Queensland, as well as a General Practitioner. She presents to audiences internationally and across Australia, and conducts professional case consultation and coaching for GPs and multidisciplinary clinicians.

In this episode, Johanna shares more about how the mind and body connection to healing is the missing link in most modern medicine. You'll be inspired by her wisdom and her carefully developed approach to distress that makes sure not to dismiss or ignore pain. Plus, an insight into her book, all about whole-person care.

This episode is part two of our discussion with Johanna. Check out our previous episode for the first half of this enlightening conversation.

Resources and links:

Purchase Johanna's book here

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The importance of whole-person care

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Johanna Lynch is a General Practitioner and Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland. Alongside presenting to audiences across the globe, Johanna works closely with GPs and students, teaching whole-person care and mental health skills.

In today's episode, Johanna shares how she came to work in the mental health industry and be a champion for whole-person care. She introduces us to the importance of listening in the healing process and details some of her research on using whole-person care to help create a sense of safety.

This episode is part one of our two-part conversation with Johanna; keep an eye out for the second part in the coming weeks.

Resources and links:

Purchase Johanna's book here

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subtypes of OCD

Mon, 09 May 2022 14:01:00 GMT

In today's episode, we're exploring everything you need to know about themes and subtypes of OCD, and asking the critical question: do subtypes of OCD matter?

We talk about the different kinds of subtypes and how these may change throughout someone's life. We'll also explore when it might be helpful to categorise OCD subtypes with a client and give you a handy way of conceptualising themes of OCD using the analogy of form versus function.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How psychologists and psychiatrists can work together

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Dr Claire Cody is a Psychiatrist and the director at The Village Clinic, where she looks after infants, children and teens, alongside consulting for various hospitals around Melbourne. Claire has a passion for working holistically with young people and families and hearing their stories so they can work together towards recovery.

In this episode, Claire shares her thoughts on the role psychiatry plays in treating mental health in young people and discusses best practices in establishing a multidisciplinary team that best supports families, before getting personal by sharing some of her own intrusive thoughts.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we assess symptoms of OCD?

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:01:00 GMT

Today, we dive into the all important question: How do we assess symptoms of OCD?

Assessment of OCD doesn't always happen in one session - sometimes you need to work with someone for a long time before they reveal a part of themselves that then allows you to make a diagnosis.

And so on today's episode, we discuss OCD's symptoms according to the DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria, and the various types of assessments you can use when screening for OCD. And we also explore how to determine if someone's thoughts are egosyntonic or egodystonic (and what that even means!).

Resources and links:

Assessment scales for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The role of psychiatry and medication in the treatment of OCD

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 13:02:00 GMT

Dr Scott Blair-West is a consultant psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of the OCD program at The Melbourne Clinic. Scott also works in private practice, as well as pro-bono for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. And … he also provides training on anxiety disorder management and CBT to trainees, psychologists and psychiatrists.

In this episode, you'll hear about the role of psychiatry and medication in the treatment of OCD, the benefits of inpatient admissions and some of the interesting things Scott has learned during his career including… (wait for it!) his belief that providing reassurance to clients isn't always a bad thing!

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is OCD?

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 13:01:00 GMT

Welcome to our very first episode! We're so excited to be kicking off our podcast today by explaining a common question we get: What is OCD? We'll be discussing everything from what obsessions and compulsions look like, to what happens in the brain when someone has OCD.

In this episode, you'll learn about the complexities of OCD in a way that will help you and your clients understand it better. We also dive into the mechanisms behind how compulsive behaviours occur and why Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is so effective in helping your clients gain more certainty.

Connect:

This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.