Divergent Conversations

Episode 102: FLASHBACK — OCD (Part 3): Differentiating OCD, Autism, and Tourettes Behaviors and Enhancing Healthcare [featuring Dr. Stacy Greeter]

Apr 18, 2025
Guest
Stacy Greeter
Dr. Stacy Greeter, a child psychiatrist and advocate for neurodiversity, dives into the complexities of navigating healthcare for neurodivergent individuals. She highlights the differences between OCD, tics, and joyful special interests, showing how often these areas overlap. Stacy shares practical tips for self-advocacy, stressing the importance of authenticity and bringing allies to medical appointments. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how these experiences shape her clinical practice and enhance patient outcomes.
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ANECDOTE

Sméagol Story Reframes Special Interests

  • Stacy described a Sméagol-themed story where a special interest was misdiagnosed as OCD and later affirmed as a sensory need.
  • Receiving a neurodiversity-affirming therapist transformed that character's shame into curiosity and comfort.
INSIGHT

Different Drives Behind Similar Behaviors

  • OCD, stimming, and tics can look identical on the surface but stem from different drives and timelines.
  • Teasing apart fear-driven compulsions, sensory urges, and self-soothing stims is essential for correct treatment.
INSIGHT

When OCD Infects What Matters

  • OCD often contaminates valued activities or beliefs, making treatment complex when behaviors align with identity.
  • Clinicians must separate value-driven actions from fear-driven compulsions to reclaim meaningful practices.
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