170. Why ERP Isn’t Enough: Using ACT to Build a Life Beyond OCD Symptoms

🧠Is the opposite of anxiety actually trust?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute and author of The ACT Workbook for OCD. Together, they explore Psychological Flexibility—the core of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—and how it integrates with ERP to help you live a "big, beautiful life" even with OCD.

Key points covered: • Defining Psychological Flexibility: Understanding the 6 core processes of ACT (Presence, Values, Committed Action, Self-as-Context, Diffusion, and Acceptance). • The ERP + ACT Integration: Why symptom reduction isn't always enough and how ACT addresses the "day-to-day living" aspect of recovery. • The "Flashlight" Metaphor: Shifting your focus from internal control to values-based living. • Slowing Down to Heal: Why we use busy-ness as a distraction and how to safely sit with the "scary" silence.

Recovery isn't just about stopping compulsions; it’s about having the flexibility to roll with life’s punches. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers a philosophical and practical roadmap for moving beyond just "getting by" to truly thriving.

📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team

✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] - The OCD Whisperer x Dr. Marisa Mazza [03:12] - Psychological Flexibility: The "Game Changer" in Treatment [05:26] - A New Relationship with Your "What Ifs" [09:13] - Beyond Symptom Reduction (ACT vs. ERP) [13:12] - The "Grief" Example: Putting Acceptance into Action [16:32] - Why "Slowing Down" Feels So Dangerous [22:47] - The Silent Retreat Test: Facing What We Run From [27:26] - The Ultimate Reframe: Trust vs. Anxiety [29:40] - Your "Itty Bitty Baby Step" for Today

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✅ About OCD Whisperer Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the 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.

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