You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist 94. Conquering OCD & Behavioral Addiction: the Power of Mindset, with Dr. Johann D’Souza
In this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of OCD and addiction with psychologist and podcast host, Dr. Johann D'Souza. We explore the concept of OCD as a form of behavioral addiction. Dr. D'Souza shares his expertise on the different types of obsessions and compulsions, shedding light on the lesser-known aspects of OCD beyond the common stereotypes, as well as exploring the role of genetics and trauma in the development of OCD.
Dr. D'Souza shares his strategies for helping high-achievers with anxiety and OCD individuals harness their focus and productivity, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and intentional challenge. We also explore the impact of our modern, comfortable lifestyles on our distress tolerance and the need for intentional stressors to foster growth and fulfillment.
We touch on the concept of ego-syntonic versus ego-dystonic and how it relates to OCD and other diagnoses. We discuss the role of praise and mindset in shaping a person's ability to embrace challenges and grow. And we touch on the topic of distraction, exploring the neuropsychology behind it and how we can train our attention to overcome it.
Dr. Johann D’Souza is the founder of Values First Therapy, where he offers modern psychology with traditional values. He specializes in helping high achievers overcome anxiety or OCD by using science-based strategies.
He earned a PhD and MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston on a Presidential Fellowship after receiving a prior MA from Boston University in Psychology and BA from University of Dallas in Theology. His research publications focus on the psychological benefits of hope and optimism. Dr. D’Souza is a research affiliate at Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program, a coach for OptimalWork, and the host of the Dr. Johann D’Souza Podcast.
Books mentioned in this episode:
"The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield
The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt
The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It, by Kelly McGonigal
Books mentioned on this podcast can be found at sometherapist.com/bookshop or via the Amazon affiliate links provided. Either way, purchases support the show. Thank you!
Podcasts mentioned:
The Dr. Johann D'Souza podcast, ep # 10 - Stephanie Winn, Protecting Children from Trans Activists
The Optimal Work Podcast
The Dr. Johann D’Souza Podcast
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