Understanding OCD Beyond the Surface

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This chapter provides a comprehensive insight into Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), emphasizing that it is a medical condition and not just a personality trait. It explores the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, delving into various types of obsessions and shedding light on 'pure O,' a form of OCD without visible compulsions. The speakers also discuss the impact of intrusive thoughts, coping compulsions, and the misconceptions surrounding OCD behaviors.

306. The Truth of OCD: Therapist Alegra Kastens on Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Therapist Alegra Kastens shares the truth about her lived experience with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) that is vital for all of us to understand. Detailing her own struggle, and work as an OCD specialist, Alegra helps demystify the relentless cycle of ego-dystonic, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and compulsions that define this often-misunderstood and under-diagnosed disorder – sharing why so many people have OCD and do not know it, and ways to support people with OCD without enabling and reinforcing the compulsions.

CW: Discussion of intrusive sexual and violent thoughts as well as suicidal ideation.

About Alegra:

Alegra Kastens is a licensed therapist, OCD specialist, writer, and the founder of the Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Eating Disorders in New York City. Fueled by lived experience with a lesser-known manifestation of OCD, education and advocacy about OCD are at the forefront of her career.

IG: @AlegraKastens

TikTok: @AlegraKastens

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