Hey Reader-

Starting treatment for OCD can be one of the most hopeful steps a family takes, but it can also be one of the most confusing. Many parents expect that once their child begins therapy, exposures, or a new approach at home, things should immediately improve.
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Instead, they are often surprised when anxiety spikes, meltdowns increase, or OCD seems louder than ever.

In my newest episode of the AT Parenting Survival Podcast, I explore why OCD recovery can initially feel worse before it feels better.
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I explain how OCD is not a passive disorder. It actively fights back when challenged. It may convince children that therapy is making them worse, tell them not to talk about their fears, flood them with more intrusive thoughts, or create intense distress during ERP and other evidence based approaches. Parents using strategies like SPACE may also notice an increase in emotional reactions as OCD loses its grip.

​What shows up when you are trying to help your child with OCD or anxiety? ​

I know for me, I’m rarely a blank slate ready to tackle my child’s anxiety or OCD head on. Sometimes I’m overwhelmed. Sometimes I’m irritated. Sometimes I’m paralyzed with what-ifs.

This is normal. We are human and our thoughts, feelings and emotions are intermingled with whatever we are faced with - including our children’s struggles.
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But often our issues prevent us from being completely present for our child. Sometimes our fears, overwhelm and anger can cloud our intentions and impact our ability to effectively help them.
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In my free series, How to Be an Effective Anchor for Your Child with OCD or Anxiety, I’m going to walk you through how to identify your strong emotions and how to effectively anchor yourself so you can be a more productive anchor for your child.
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Register for free! It starts in just a couple of weeks.

​The 4 steps of OCD in children​

Sometimes OCD can feel unpredictable—one moment your child is fine, and the next they’re overwhelmed by a fear you didn’t see coming. But beneath that chaos is a predictable cycle. Learning more about the OCD cycle can help you recognize what’s really happening beneath the surface and feel more confident in how you support your child. Read more​

NOCD Therapists specialize in treating OCD in children, teens, and adults. They accept most insurance plans and involve the whole family in treatment, empowering you and your loved ones to more effectively support your child. Book a free call to learn more.​

Take care,
Natasha

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