You can’t think your way out of OCD In part one of our three-part series on Anxiety and OCD, Dr. Jon Abramowitz helps us understand why intrusive thoughts are normal, how OCD turns them into a source of distress, and what keeps the cycle going. We explore uncertainty, reassurance-seeking, relationship dynamics, and the research-backed treatments that help people reclaim their lives from OCD.In this conversation, we unpack the surprising truth about intrusive thoughts, why reassurance often backfires, and how learning to tolerate uncertainty can be a powerful path toward recovery. “There is no such thing as absolute certainty.” – Dr. Jon Abramowitz Time Stamps for Why Certainty Isn’t the Answer: OCD, Intrusive Thoughts & Recovery with Dr. Jon Abramowitz (301) 02:40 Understanding anxiety and its disorders 05:46 Distinguishing normal anxiety from OCD 08:21 The nature of obsessional thoughts 14:09 The cycle of OCD and compulsions 16:53 The role of exposure and response prevention 19:44 Understanding scrupulosity in OCD 25:25 Treatment approaches for OCD 33:34 Managing distress in OCD therapy 36:55 Understanding control and uncertainty in OCD 40:41 Distinguishing OCD from Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder 50:02 Supporting loved ones with OCD About our Guest – Dr. Jon Abramowitz (301) Jonathan (Jon) Abramowitz, Ph.D., is Professor and Director of Clinical Training in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research and clinical work focuses on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders, including fears and phobias, health anxiety, and panic attacks. He has authored over 350 scientific publications and 20 books, which have been translated into several languages. He served as President of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies and as Editor or Associate Editor of several academic journals. Dr. Abramowitz has received wide recognition for his scholarly work and contributions. Resources for Why Certainty Isn’t the Answer: OCD, Intrusive Thoughts & Recovery with Dr. Jon Abramowitz (301) Dr. Abramowitz website – Resources and information OCD resources for clinicians and consumers Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. You are invited! Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Get your copy of Secure Relating here!!

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