Bossing Up: Overcoming OCD

OCD Success Stories and the Gift of Presently Bracelets | Ep 51

In this episode, I chat with Emily and Lindsay, two sisters who both experienced OCD differently. Emily didn’t recognize her symptoms until adulthood, while Lindsey’s were more stereotypical but no less impactful. They share their inspiring OCD success story and how they navigated their challenges, from existential fears to therapy and exposure work. Tune in to hear about the creation of their meaningful business, Presently Bracelets, which offers unique gift ideas like their beautiful OCD-inspired bracelets. As Black Friday approaches, Emily and Lindsey also offer advice on turning personal struggles into a business that makes a difference. Their journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, therapy, and finding strength through creativity.
 
Find your bracelet at www.presentlybracelets.com
00:00 Black Friday Gift Ideas with OCD Bracelets
02:15 Lindsey's OCD Journey
07:50 Emily's OCD Journey
12:42 Therapy and Exposure Work
17:32 Starting Presently Bracelets
28:26 Navigating Relationships with OCD
29:18 Support Systems and Living with OCD
33:40 Success Stories and Impact of Bracelets
34:54 Engaging Therapists and Mental Health Professionals
38:40 Advice for Aspiring Mental Health Entrepreneurs
49:34 Promotions and Discounts for Presently Bracelets
51:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Programs
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
• Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
• Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️
 
➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

Navigating Grief around the Holidays | EP 50

In this milestone 50th episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Dr. Heather Taylor PsyD, a specialist in grief and the host of the 'Grief is the New Normal' podcast. We discuss the complexities of Relationship OCD and highlight strategies for managing grief during the holiday season. 
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 
 
Whether you've lost a loved one or are dealing with intrusive OCD thoughts, this e
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
• Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
• Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️
 
➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉


This episode provides practical advice and compassionate support. Dr. Taylor offers insights on setting boundaries, honoring your feelings, and how loved ones can offer meaningful support. We also explore her upcoming projects, including a book series on grief. Plus, I introduce a 12-week group coaching program for those grappling with relationship worries, set to launch in January 2025.
 
00:00 Raising Awareness About OCD
00:34 Special Guest: Dr. Heather Taylor on Grief
03:18 Understanding Grief During the Holidays
04:58 Navigating Grief with Flexibility and Support
13:42 Honoring Loved Ones and Personal Rituals
19:18 Supporting the Grieving: Actionable Steps
25:36 Message of Hope and Encouragement
27:47 Upcoming Events and Resources
29:56 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

How Attractive Am I? Understanding Sexual Attraction Versus Intrusive Thoughts | Ep 49

Ever wondered if your thoughts about attraction are just intrusive thoughts or genuine feelings? In today's episode, I dive into a burning question from a YouTube fan about the difference between intrusive thoughts and sexual attraction. 
If you, like me, are obsessed with love and relationships, you're in for a treat! We’ll talk about those pesky intrusive thoughts that pop up uninvited and how they differ from the natural, feel-good vibes of sexual attraction. Plus, get the scoop on my brand new 12-week group coaching program, Obsess Less, Love More, designed to help you navigate relationship OCD. Join me as we laugh, learn, and work through these challenges together.
Do you wonder if you have relationship anxiety? Take the quiz to find out! → Click here!
02:20 Understanding Relationship OCD
02:45 Introducing the Obsess Less, Love More Program
03:43 Details of the Group Coaching Program
08:21 How to Sign Up for the Program
09:01 Diving into Intrusive Thoughts vs. Sexual Attraction
13:18 Comparing Intrusive Thoughts and Sexual Attraction
15:13 Emotional Responses to Thoughts
17:00 Reactions to Thoughts
19:39 Real-Life Example: The Notebook
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️
 
➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉
 

How Medication & ERP Help Manage OCD: A Chat with Dr. Aaron Reichlin | Ep 48

In today's episode, I had a fascinating chat with Dr. Aaron Reichlin, a seasoned psychiatrist based in Chicago, who delved deep into the world of medications and therapies for OCD. Dr. Reichlin shared invaluable insights into the appropriate medications for OCD and severe anxiety, including the roles of SSRIs and benzodiazepines. 
 
We discussed the critical importance of exposure response prevention (ERP) therapy combined with medication management. He also introduced his innovative AI-driven mental health tech company, PsychNow, which aids in efficient patient screening and care. Plus, we covered common patient concerns about medication and the necessity of empathy and connection in treatment. Stay tuned until the end to learn how you can connect with Dr. Reichlin and discover more about cutting-edge OCD treatments!
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:52 Dr. Reiklin's Background and Current Work
02:29 Innovative Mental Health Tech: Psych Now
04:47 Challenges in Mental Health Screening and Intake
05:58 Medication Management for OCD
08:50 Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy
11:55 Combining Medication and Therapy for OCD
17:28 Addressing Patient Concerns and Side Effects
30:15 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️
 
➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉
 

How to Survive OCD During Halloween | Ep 47

Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday, and in this episode, we'll chat about how to enjoy it as an adult, even if you have OCD. We'll cover everything from dealing with contamination fears to the paranoia about needles in candy (seriously, who even thinks of these things?). I’ll share my personal strategies for calming OCD and grounding techniques to keep you present. Plus, I’ll give you some exposure exercise tips, like the joys of watching spooky movies without the sound to ease anxiety. Oh, and if you're terrified of blood, don't worry – I've got some hilarious exposure stories and even a blood exposure video. Stick around to hear about how early treatment can prevent OCD spirals, and get a sneak peek of next week's guest, a psychiatrist ready to dish on OCD meds. Let’s make this Halloween unforgettable and keep that OCD at bay!
 
01:13 OCD and Halloween: Managing the Struggles
05:57 The Cycle of OCD and Seeking Treatment
07:42 Exposure Therapy with Halloween Movies
14:11 Preparing for a Fun Halloween Night
14:38 Understanding the OCD Nightmare
15:37 Staying Present in the Moment
19:26 Facing Blood Phobia and Halloween Triggers
23:32 Worst Case Scenario Script
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Grab your free 15-minute consult with Erin here. 🎥 Erin has limited spots in the intensive outpatient program! 
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Have questions? Submit them here to get a shout-out on the show! 🗣️
 
➡️To rate the show: scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

The Science Behind Fear | Ep 46

Feeling like a jittery phone or a brain-dead zombie? Let's chat about the different zones of your nervous system and how to get back to that sweet 'green zone' of tolerance. I'll share a funny yet panic-inducing story about my son scaring me to illustrate the fight or flight response. We’ll also tackle navigating Halloween with OCD on overdrive – understanding your body's reactions and getting back to calm can make a world of difference. You'll learn simple yet effective techniques like deep breathing, belly balloons, and how to challenge those pesky thoughts about being a bad mom. Ready to feel human again and reconnect with joy? Check out my intensive program starting in November at ValueDrivenTherapy.com. Get back to feeling safe just in time for the holidays. Tune in next week for more on surviving Halloween with mental health challenges!
01:43 Personal Story: A Frightening Experience
02:59 Understanding the Fight, Flight, or Freeze Response
10:44 Understanding Emotional Numbness
11:09 The Importance of the Nervous System
15:56 The Power of Deep Breathing
18:33 Taking Control of Your Mental Health
19:28 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Handpicked rec's for you:
Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.
Descript offers powerful tools for editing audio & video, making it easy to polish your podcast.
Needing passive income? Open a high-yield savings account with SoFi & get $25 for opening an account with my link! 💸
*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.
➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉
 

Overcoming Agoraphobia: Conquering Fear of Going Outside | EP 45

This episode explores the topic of agoraphobia, a phobia characterized by the fear of leaving home or being trapped in inescapable situations. It addresses how such fears can manifest in teenagers, especially following traumatic events like school shootings.
 
I highlight the overlap between OCD and agoraphobia, and how therapy, particularly virtual therapy, can help manage these fears by building resilience, fostering positive thinking, and utilizing exposure and response prevention strategies. The goal is to empower kids to take proactive steps towards a fulfilling life, free from the constraints of fear. It encourages parents to trust their instincts and seek professional support if their child shows signs of avoidance or anxiety.
 
00:00 Introduction to Agoraphobia
02:43 Understanding Agoraphobia and Its Triggers
04:39 The Overlap Between OCD and Agoraphobia
06:57 Signs Your Child Needs Help
09:06 Effective Therapy Approaches
13:03 Empowering Your Child to Overcome Fear
20:16 Next Steps
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Handpicked rec's for you:
Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.
Descript offers powerful tools for editing audio & video, making it easy to polish your podcast.
Needing passive income? Open a high-yield savings account with SoFi & get $25 for opening an account with my link! 💸
*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.
➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉
 

School Refusal OCD in Kids: Signs, Symptoms & How to Help | Ep 44

In this episode, I tackle the tough issue of school refusal, especially for kids with OCD. I discuss the challenges parents face when their children refuse to go to school, exhibiting behaviors like crying, faking illness, and being generally uncooperative. 
I provide insights on why kids with OCD struggle more in school, often leading to parents considering homeschooling, a solution I strongly advise against. I emphasize the importance of early intervention with an OCD specialist, detailing my therapy approach and the process of working with schools to support these kids.
I also share strategies for gradually reintroducing children to school and creating a supportive environment at home, including maintaining a healthy sleep routine, nutritious breakfast, and a reward system. Finally, I offer practical advice on managing OCD behaviors that interfere with school and stress the significance of collaboration between therapists and schools to ensure better educational outcomes.
01:10 Understanding OCD and School Struggles
02:07 The Pitfalls of Homeschooling for OCD
03:36 The Importance of Early Treatment
04:26 Therapy Options and Approaches
07:14 Recognizing School Refusal Signs
10:58 Strategies to Combat School Refusal
20:28 Creating a Supportive Environment
 
#schoolrefusalOCD #MentalHealthSupport #Therapy #SafetyPlan #SeekHelp #SchoolOCD #CopingStrategies #MentalWellBeing #SupportAvailable #ObsessionsAndCompulsions #SpecialistTreatment #SuicideHotline #EmergencyHelp #youarenotalone
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Handpicked rec's for you:
Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.
Descript offers powerful tools for editing audio & video, making it easy to polish your podcast.
Needing passive income? Open a high-yield savings account with SoFi & get $25 for opening an account with my link! 💸
*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.
➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉
 

It’s Not About White Knuckling It | Ep 43

It's not about white knuckling it. Getting help for OCD can sound like a torture fest...but it's not.
 
Watch this episode to hear how exposure response prevention (ERP) can break the OCD cycle. Erin shares insights on her three-week virtual intensive outpatient program and emphasizes the importance of staying committed to therapy for long-term recovery.
 
You'll hear tips on how to reclaim time lost to OCD and how personalized ERP services can help you.
 
00:00 For ERP services, go to valuedriventherapy.com
00:24 The Importance of Effective Treatment
00:52 Introduction to Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
01:30 Meet Erin Davis: Your OCD Specialist
02:06 Seasonal Changes and Mental Health
03:09 ERP Intensive Outpatient Program
08:49 The Role of ERP in OCD Treatment
09:05 Customizing ERP for Individual Needs
09:48 The Process of ERP
18:47 The Importance of Consistency in ERP
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Handpicked rec's for you:
Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.
Descript offers powerful tools for editing audio & video, making it easy to polish your podcast.
Needing passive income? Open a high-yield savings account with SoFi & get $25 for opening an account with my link! 💸
*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.
➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉

Just Right OCD: It’s Not About Perfectionism | Ep 42

Ever feel like you NEED to line your shoes up perfectly or else risk total chaos? Just Right OCD is the red headed step child of OCD; it differs from the other subtypes. With no feared outcomes, this type of OCD can feel even more frustrating and is often misunderstood—even in therapy. I’ll share insights from the International OCD Foundation on my blog, along with humorous, real-life scenarios (hello, drive-thru embarrassment!). I’ll discuss how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can help you regain control and flexibility in your daily life. If you’re stuck in these obsessive habits, join me to learn how to break free and take your life back. See you next Friday for more on ERP!
 
00:00 Erin's Take on Overcoming Intrusive Rituals
01:00 Exploring Just Right OCD
04:08 Personal Anecdotes and Observations
07:58 Challenges and Treatment for Just Right OCD
16:58 Therapy Options and Encouragement
24:36 Conclusion and How to work with Erin
 
✨Content is proudly sponsored by NOCD. Go to NOCD.com/savage to get evidence-based treatment from US locations & abroad!
 
➡️If you're located in North Carolina or Virginia, Book Your Consult with Erin to schedule your free 15-minute video call. 🎥 Erin is now accepting new clients for an intensive outpatient program!
 
➡️Love the podcast? Awesome! Treat Erin to a coffee! ☕️
 
➡️Want more? 👏
Snag a spot on Erin's email newsletter to get extra tips, tricks, & insider info. 📧
Shop Erin's store for OCD-themed merch to brighten your day. ☀️
 
➡️Handpicked rec's for you:
Thrizer simplifies your insurance benefits for out-of-network care.
Descript offers powerful tools for editing audio & video, making it easy to polish your podcast.
Needing passive income? Open a high-yield savings account with SoFi & get $25 for opening an account with my link! 💸
*These are affiliate links, which means I may get a kickback (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase after clicking.
➡️Please rate the show with five stars, & select "Write a Review" to let others know what you loved most about the episode! ✍️ When you leave that raving review, shoot me a message to get your special bonus! 🎉