Today, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Natalia Aíza, a therapist and advocate, to talk about the complexities of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). They debunk common myths and misconceptions, and talk about what OCD actually is. It's important to understand the OCD cycle, be able to identify the various types of OCD, and understand how it often coexists with other neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and autism. They also talk about the impact of reassurance seeking, the nuances of Just Right OCD, and the challenges of school refusal. The conversation includes insights into how parents and therapists can better support individuals with OCD, and help them on the journey towards a better life.

TAKEAWAYS

OCD is often misunderstood, with many believing it only relates to cleanliness.
The OCD cycle involves triggers, obsessions, and compulsions that reinforce fears.
Moral scrupulosity and harm OCD are common types that are often overlooked.
OCD is distinct from generalized anxiety.
ADHD and OCD can coexist, leading to unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
Autism can complicate the presentation of OCD, requiring specialized understanding.
Reassurance seeking can inadvertently reinforce OCD behaviors.
Just Right OCD reflects a perfectionism that can manifest in various aspects of life.
School refusal can be a manifestation of OCD, leading to avoidance patterns.

Episode featuring Eli Lebowitz

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This episode was edited to add clarity to the subject of school avoidance or refusal, to indicate they aren’t exclusive to OCD. For some neurodivergent kids, it is a matter of a lack of accommodations and supports that make educational settings traumatic environments. School avoidance or refusal is a nuanced subject, and a deeper dive is planned for an episode in the near future.

Natalia Aíza, LPC, is a therapist, parent trainer, and advocate dedicated to increasing awareness and improving treatment for individuals with OCD. She co-founded Kairos Wellness Collective, a therapy center specializing in OCD and Anxiety Disorders, where she works to enhance competency among mental health practitioners and support individuals on their healing journey.

In addition to her clinical work, Natalia provides free psychoeducation and advocacy through her Instagram platform, @letstalk.ocd, helping to destigmatize OCD and promote evidence-based treatment. She earned her BA in Literature from Harvard University and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palo Alto University.

BACKGROUND READING

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Kairos Wellness Collective

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There's Much More to OCD Than You Think