Readiness, Uncertainty, and Behaviour Change in OCD Treatment

About this episode

The episode explores the concept of readiness in OCD treatment, emphasizing that it is a decision rather than a feeling, and discusses strategies for facilitating behaviour change in clients facing uncertainty and fear.

In this reflective and practical episode of Breaking the Rules , the hosts unpack a phrase that shows up constantly in therapy rooms: “I don’t feel ready.” What does it actually mean? Is readiness a feeling—or is it a decision we make in the presence of fear, uncertainty, and discomfort? Using OCD as the primary lens, this conversation explores how clients often wait for certainty, calm, or clarity before taking action—and how that waiting quietly reinforces avoidance. The discussion moves beyond symptom management and into the deeper work of distinguishing thoughts vs feelings , building emotional literacy, and helping clients move forward despite anxiety rather than waiting for it to disappear. This episode is especially valuable for clinicians working with ambivalence , treatment resistance , or clients who feel “stuck” before starting ERP or making meaningful behavioural change. 💬 Key themes: Why “ready” is not an emotion—but a choice The difference between thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations How emotional reasoning keeps OCD in control The trap of waiting for certainty before acting Using ACT, motivational interviewing, and values-based action Helping clients name…

People in this episode

Hosts: Dr Celin Gelgec, Dr Victoria Miller

Topics covered

• readiness in therapy
• OCD treatment
• emotional literacy
• behaviour change
• uncertainty
• avoidance
• cognitive behavioural therapy

Keywords

• OCD
• readiness
• behaviour change
• emotional reasoning
• exposure response prevention
• ACT
• motivational interviewing
• therapy language
• avoidance
• uncertainty

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• What Exposure Therapy Actually Feels Like (The Mentos/Jelly Bean Exercise) · April 20, 2026 · 16 min
• OCD and Productivity: The Struggle Behind the Scenes · April 6, 2026 · 28 min
• Perfectionism, Process-Based Therapy & The Anxious Perfectionist · March 23, 2026 · 60 min
• Developmental Patterns in OCD Onset and Flare-Ups · March 9, 2026 · 17 min