Intrusive Thoughts and OCD: What You Need to Know

Intrusive thoughts and OCD are often misunderstood—and OCD is sometimes reduced to a joke about being organized or particular. In reality, obsessive-compulsive disorder can be debilitating, and getting the right diagnosis and treatment matters.

In this episode, I'm joined by mental health counselor Tyler Palmquist to talk about intrusive thoughts and OCD, what compulsions can look like, and why some common anxiety strategies may actually reinforce the OCD cycle. Tyler explains exposure and response prevention (ERP), the evidence-based treatment he uses with clients, and shares practical guidance for finding qualified help. We also discuss how OCD can affect children and adults, how loved ones can support someone without strengthening compulsions, and how faith and professional counseling can work together. If you or someone you love feels trapped by intrusive thoughts, checking, reassurance-seeking, or rituals, I think this conversation will bring clarity, hope, and encouragement.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why casually saying "I'm so OCD" misses how disruptive and debilitating OCD can be

The difference between obsessions, compulsions, and the safety behaviors that keep the OCD cycle going

How OCD differs from generalized anxiety—and why repeated reassurance can sometimes make symptoms worse

Common OCD themes, including checking, contamination, relationship fears, harm, scrupulosity, and taboo intrusive thoughts

How OCD may appear in children and adults, and why symptoms can change or intensify during different seasons of life

What exposure and response prevention (ERP) involves and why practice between therapy sessions matters

How family members can offer compassionate support without reinforcing compulsions

How diagnosis, medication, therapy, faith, and collaboration between providers can work together

Where to find an ERP-trained therapist and what to know about virtual counseling and state licensure

LINKS AND RESOURCES Tyler Palmquist and Trinity Counseling Get Started with Trinity Counseling International OCD Foundation: Find Help International OCD Foundation: How Do I Find Help for OCD? NOCD Therapist Directory