Ever had a thought so disturbing you questioned who you are? We sat down with Dr. John Abramowitz— clinical psychologist and internationally recognized expert on OCD and anxiety—to unpack intrusive thoughts, the mechanics of obsessions and compulsions, and the practical tools that let people live well with uncertainty. This isn’t a simple chat about perfectionism; it’s an exploration of the forms OCD can take and why reassurance and avoidance backfire, We also discuss how evidence-based care can turn fear into a teacher rather than a jailer.
Dr. Abramowitz walks us through exposure and response prevention in plain language: building a thoughtful hierarchy, approaching feared cues, and resisting rituals so the brain relearns safety.
He explains why trust and collaboration are non-negotiable, how to pace exposures, and how acceptance- and values-based strategies supercharge progress. We also dig into self-compassion as a way to reduce shame, soften moral conflict, and create the emotional space to do hard work without collapsing into self-criticism.
OCD doesn’t just live inside one person. Families and partners often enable cycles by offering reassurance or protecting loved ones from triggers. This discussion maps out concrete ways to shift from accommodation to support—less shielding, more strengthening—so relationships stop revolving around the disorder. Beyond symptom reduction, we explore identity and meaning: OCD is part of your story, not your name tag. Re-engaging with values, work, and connection makes gains durable and life expansive, even when stress stirs old triggers.
For clinicians, you’ll hear guidance on effective education, motivation, and maintenance plans that prevent drift. If you’re navigating OCD personally or in your family, you’ll find language, tools, and hope grounded in science and compassion. Subscribe, share with someone who needs clarity about OCD, and leave a review with the biggest myth you want the field to retire on this topic.
Additional insights available in this latest book by Dr. Abramowitz: “Living Well with OCD: Practical Strategies for Improving Your Daily Life.”
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Visit The Menninger Clinic website to learn more about The Menninger Clinic’s research and leadership role in mental health.
