Shows
Breaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe dangers of suicidal OCD and how to recognise itWith 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...2025-06-2326 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow “skinny-tok” is feeding eating disorder content to teenagersFelicity 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...2025-06-0935 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDIs it ROCD or is there a real problem in the relationship?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: Webinars, books, and training by Melbourne Wellbeing Group OCD training workshops b...2025-05-2630 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDSupporting new parents with OCDThis 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: ‘Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts' by Karen Kleiman ‘Matrescence' by Lucy Jones...2025-05-1232 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhy revisiting a parent’s own childhood can help them as a new parentDr 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...2025-04-2828 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe value of self-awareness, trust, and non-accommodating supportThis 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: Presently Bracelets website Webinars, books, and training by Melbourne Wellbeing Group OCD training workshops b...2025-04-1426 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow these sisters turned their OCD into a thriving jewellery businessLindsay 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: Presently Bracelets website Webinars, books, and tr...2025-03-3126 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow clinicians can provide better OCD treatment (from someone with OCD)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: Chrissie Hodges' website Chrissie Hodges on Y...2025-03-0335 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDPeer-to-peer: A frank conversation about OCDChrissie 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 an...2025-02-0327 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHelping someone with a hoarding disorder takes more than throwing away their stuffIs 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: Celin discussing hoarding on The Conversation Hour on ABC Radio Melbourne Wellbeing Group enquiry page Webinars, books, and training b...2025-01-0624 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to support mothers with mental health difficultiesThis 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: Nest Psychology website Webinars, books, and training by Melbourne Wellbeing Group OCD training workshops by Dr Celin Gelgec OCD f...2024-12-0221 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhy strong support networks are vital for mothers throughout and after pregnancyReturning 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. 2024-11-0425 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDTackling ambivalence with commitment, creativity, and curiosityWe’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. Re...2024-09-3019 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDIdentifying ambivalence and how to tackle itWhat 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://w...2024-09-0222 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe crucial role of parents in treating anxiety and OCD in childrenThis 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 wi...2024-08-0525 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDBuilding rapport and having fun is crucial for treating children with OCD and anxietyNatasha 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...2024-07-0128 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDPerfectly imperfect: Spotting perfectionism in OCD treatment and how to address itPerfectionism. 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Vis...2024-06-0324 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to find the right balance in discomfort during ERPThis 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 t...2024-05-0625 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDUnlocking flexibility in OCD therapyGeorge 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 integ...2024-04-0130 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe impacts of accommodating safety behaviours on OCD treatmentIn 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: Purchase ‘Exposure Therapy for Anxiety: Principles and Practice’ here Dr Brett Deacon at the University of Melbo...2024-03-0419 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to manage safety behaviours during exposure therapyDr 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 toda...2024-02-0524 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDGetting unstuck: How to address guilt and shame and move forwardGuilt 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ T...2024-01-0126 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow genetic counselling can impact patient careJoanne 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 br...2023-12-0429 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCD"The Joy Thief": A practical, personal guide to navigating OCDPenny 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: Purc...2023-11-0626 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhen does psychoeducation become reassurance?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: ht...2023-10-0224 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDUsing deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant OCDDr 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...2023-09-0423 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe neuroscience behind OCDDr 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...2023-07-3130 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to implement mindfulness in ERPWelcome 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...2023-07-1031 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDNavigating nerves as an early-career psychologistHannah 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 O...2023-06-2631 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDCreating ERP tasks for Pure O and POCDWelcome 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...2023-06-1222 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to create ERP tasksWelcome 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 tw...2023-05-2922 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhat your family member with OCD needs from youPenny 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...2023-05-1526 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhat it's like to live with OCDPenny 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...2023-05-0128 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to support a loved one in treatmentNavigating 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...2023-04-1731 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to use the inhibitory learning model in clinical practiceDr 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 h...2023-04-0326 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe evolution of the inhibitory learning modelDr 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 m...2023-03-2022 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDAdapting ERP for group therapyIt'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 i...2023-03-0629 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe challenges in embracing uncertaintyDr 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...2023-02-2034 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDUncertainty and OCDDr 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. 2023-02-0615 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDUtilising ERP in group therapyDr 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...2022-12-1928 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe trajectory of OCD research and treatmentPaul 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 f...2022-12-0534 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDFamilial influences on anxiety and OCDDr 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...2022-11-2141 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to deal with meltdownsEmily 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...2022-11-0737 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDAutism and OCD: Similarities, differences, and treating clients with bothDr 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. 2022-10-2430 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe intersection of OCD and anxietyDr 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 d...2022-10-1036 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDOCD and body-focused repetitive behavioursTanya 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.co...2022-09-2621 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to include fun and families in a young person's treatmentCatherine 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au 2022-09-1226 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhat is ERP for OCD treatment?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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Vis...2022-08-2936 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDMental health in schoolsBrydie 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 c...2022-08-1531 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDTreatment options for OCDOCD 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ This show is produced in c...2022-08-0133 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe common pitfalls of treating OCDDr 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 f...2022-07-1822 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow to utilise acceptance and commitment therapy in treatmentDr 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. T...2022-07-0424 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe subtype we haven't mentioned yetToday, 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ h...2022-06-2020 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhat modern medicine is missing in treating the mental health crisisDr 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...2022-06-0623 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe importance of whole-person careDr 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 c...2022-05-2321 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDSubtypes of OCDIn 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: https://www.melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au/ http://www.drcelingelgec.com.au/ This show is produced in...2022-05-0922 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow psychologists and psychiatrists can work togetherDr 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. ...2022-04-2530 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDHow do we assess symptoms of OCD?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 t...2022-04-1130 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDThe role of psychiatry and medication in the treatment of OCDDr 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 clie...2022-03-2834 minBreaking the Rules: A Clinician's Guide to Treating OCDWhat is OCD?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...2022-03-2825 min