In this episode of The OCD Confessional, we’re joined by Ryan Judd, Clinical Director of the OCD Institute Texas, a residential treatment program specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders.

Ryan brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation, giving him a unique perspective on what it actually takes to recover from OCD.

We start with his OCD confession and his personal experience before diving into his work treating people with some of the most severe forms of OCD.

In this episode, we explore:
• What OCD actually is (beyond the stereotypes)
• What science says about what causes OCD
• Claims around gut health, inflammation, and OCD
• Why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are so effective
• Why OCD is not something you just have to “live with forever”

Ryan also shares why he’s passionate about challenging the idea that OCD is “incurable” — and what real recovery can look like.

This episode is both educational and empowering, and a must-listen for anyone trying to better understand OCD or find a path forward.

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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.

Ryan Judd on What Causes OCD, ERP Therapy & Why Recovery Is Possible