The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova
Health & Fitness:Mental Health
Our minds are fascinating realms capable of producing a myriad of thoughts, some fleeting and inconsequential, while others persistently tug at the edges of our consciousness. For individuals grappling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), this mental landscape can be particularly challenging to navigate. One crucial aspect of understanding OCD lies in differentiating between automatic and intentional thoughts, unraveling the intricate dance of the mind, and shedding light on the often misunderstood concept of thought-action fusion.
In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we sit down with Michelle Massi, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Michelle has a private practice in Los Angeles and has worked at the UCLA OCD Intensive Treatment Program and the UCLA Childhood OCD Anxiety and Tic Disorders Program
During our conversation, we discussed the difference between automatic and intentional thoughts, particularly with intrusive thoughts experienced by individuals with OCD. Michelle explains the concept of thought-action fusion and emphasizes that having a thought does not define a person's character. She also discusses the role of guilt and shame in OCD, encouraging individuals to have self-compassion and recognize that everyone has negative thoughts or biases. The conversation also touches on exposure and response prevention therapy.
In This Episode
Notable Quotes
Our Guest
Michelle Massi is a seasoned mental health professional with over 15 years of expertise in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders. As the former Associate Clinical Director at the UCLA OCD Adult Intensive Treatment Program, she navigated the complexities of comprehensive care. Michelle's commitment to advancing the field is evident through her role as an International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) BTTI faculty member and a consistent presenter at the IOCDF Conference from 2009 to 2023. With a focus on education and collaboration, she extends her impact by offering training and consultation to clinicians, clergy members, and family members, contributing to the broader mental health community.
Resources & Links
Kristina Orlova, LMFT
Michelle Massi
**Disclaimer**
Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.
Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!
112. How to Support BIPOC Clinicians and Individuals Living with OCD with Bianca Simmons & Erin Nghe
111. The Shocking Truth About OCD Stigma Revealed with Alexandra Reynolds
110. Empowering OCD Recovery: A Journey of Skill-Building with Mark Freeman
109. How to Sidestep ERP Pitfalls for the Detail-Minded with Ben Eckstein
108. How Can Genetic Factors Impact OCD and Addiction? with Dr. Evelyn Higgins
107. Why OCD is NOT a Life Sentence with Erica Lugo
106. Saved or Sinful? Understanding Scrupulosity's Grip on Faith with Justin Hughes
104. Mindful Healing: Psychedelic Therapy and Herbal Remedies for OCD with Natalia Aíza and Matthew Williams
103. Mastering Mind Over Obsession: Navigating Evidence-Based OCD Strategies with Dr. Jon Abramowitz
102. Shattering Stereotypes: ‘Exposure’ and the Real Faces of OCD with Peter Cannon
101. Can Accelerated TMS and Psychedelics Reshape OCD’s Grip? With Dr. Noah DeGaetano and Dr. Ryan Vidrine
100. The Intersection of OCD and Spirituality with Lucy Grantz
99. OCD and Inferential Confusion: When Reality and Imagination Collide with Carl Robbins
98. Understanding Perinatal OCD: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support with Conal Harpur
97. OCD and Intimacy: Can Perfectionism Ruin the Mood? with Dr. Patrick McGrath
96. Reality Sensing in Therapy with Amanda Petrik-Gardner
95. Unraveling OCD: A Game-Changing Approach with Dr. Reid Wilson
94. Justice Based ERP with Dr.Pinciotti and Dr. Wadsworth
93. Disgust Based OCD with Rich Gallagher
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Your Sleep Guru Podcast
Anxiety Slayer™ with Shann and Ananga
Men Do Talk Podcast
The Dr. John Delony Show
On Purpose with Jay Shetty