In this episode of The OCD Confessional, we’re joined by Steven Poskar, MD, psychiatrist, Clinical Director of OCD NYC, member of the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation, and one of the country’s leading experts in the treatment of OCD and related disorders.

This conversation focuses on one of the most debated and misunderstood topics in OCD treatment: medication.

Dr. Poskar breaks down what medications for OCD actually do, why SSRIs are used differently in OCD than in depression, and the most common misconceptions patients have when starting treatment. We also discuss why medication alone is often not enough — and how it works best alongside evidence-based therapies like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and CBT.

We also explore the growing interest around:
• Psilocybin and OCD
• MDMA-assisted therapy
• Glutamate-targeting medications
• Why some medications fail
• How to think critically about “gut health” and alternative treatment claims

This episode is educational, nuanced, and grounded in real clinical experience — whether you’re considering medication, currently taking it, or simply trying to better understand OCD treatment.

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Supported by NOCD
If you or someone you love is struggling with OCD, check out NOCD — a leading virtual health platform that connects people with licensed therapists specially trained in Evidence-Based ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) therapy. NOCD offers live video sessions, between-session therapist messaging, access to in-app therapeutic tools, and a global peer community. Their goal: make expert OCD treatment accessible, effective, and affordable.

➤ Visit https://learn.nocd.com/ocdconfessional to learn more and get matched with an OCD-trained therapist.

🧠 The OCD Confessional is hosted by Liam Martin & Alicia Hill — real stories, intrusive thoughts, and the tools we use to cope (with plenty of laughter).

Disclaimer: The OCD Confessional is intended for education, awareness, and community support only. It does not provide therapy or professional mental-health advice. If you are struggling or in crisis, please seek help from a licensed mental-health professional. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.