OCD + SELF-TALK: The Truth About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder w/ Dr. Patrick McGrath

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) affects an estimated 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children in the U.S. — yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed mental health conditions . Too often portrayed as a "quirk" or a preference for cleanliness, OCD is actually a complex and often debilitating disorder rooted in anxiety and doubt. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Patrick McGrath , Chief Clinical Officer at NOCD , for a candid, deeply practical conversation about what OCD really is, how it shows up (far beyond stereotypes), and what actually helps. We dig into the "OCD × news cycle" spiral, break down flavors/subtypes and internal compulsions, and get specific about Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): what it looks like, why the response prevention part matters most, and how to know if you're getting the right care. You'll also hear how to find a qualified clinician, what treatment "afters" feel like, and the empowering mindset of living the life you want — not the one OCD dictates. IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT... The OCD–news cycle Venn diagram: why constant headlines can supercharge doubt and rumination What OCD actually is (and isn't) and why logic alone won't cut it Flavors, subtypes, and themes plus how themes can "double scoop." ERP in real life: the safety behaviors to drop, and why response prevention is the unlock Getting help + what recovery feels like: how to vet specialists, levels of care, virtual options/insurance, and building a supportive "mental-health team" for long-term wins and more! Links Find care, learn about ERP, and explore resources: NOCD App (free) — Community + tools on iOS/Android: International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) — Education and "Find Help" directory: Postpartum OCD episode mentioned: Katie on Patrick's podcast: ~

You can listen to OCD + SELF-TALK: The Truth About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder w/ Dr. Patrick McGrath online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

OCD + SELF-TALK: The Truth About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder w/ Dr. Patrick McGrath is an episode from WANTcast: The Women Against Negative Talk Podcast by Katie Horwitch.

This episode is 48:30 long.

This episode was published on Oct 15, 2025.

Yes. Use the heart button on the episode page to add it to your favorite episodes list.

Yes. This page shows related episodes from WANTcast: The Women Against Negative Talk Podcast when more episodes are available from the podcast feed.