About this episode

This episode discusses the intersection of OCD and sexual themes, addressing common misconceptions and providing practical guidance for clinicians and those affected by OCD.

Sex & OCD: The Theme No One Wants to Talk About Sex is one of the most misunderstood and least talked about themes in OCD - but it's also one of the most common. In this episode of Breaking the Rules, Dr Tori Miller and Dr Celine Gresham explore how OCD can latch onto sex, relationships, identity and intimacy, creating overwhelming shame, fear and uncertainty for people of all ages. From sexual orientation OCD, relationship OCD and contamination fears around intimacy, to intrusive thoughts about loved ones, children or animals, they explain why these thoughts say nothing about who you are—and everything about how OCD operates. This episode is also a practical conversation for clinicians. Dr Tori and Dr Celine discuss how to ask the difficult questions, build enough trust for clients to disclose taboo themes, and create a therapy space where shame no longer has to be carried alone. They also explore how trauma can intersect with sexual-themed OCD, why careful assessment matters, and how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can be adapted to support recovery. Whether you're living with OCD, supporting someone who is, or working as a mental health professional, this episode…

People in this episode

Hosts: Dr Tori Miller, Dr Celine Gresham

Topics covered

• OCD
• sexual orientation OCD
• relationship OCD
• intrusive thoughts
• shame
• therapy
• Exposure and Response Prevention

Keywords

• OCD
• sexual themes
• intrusive thoughts
• mental health
• therapy
• shame
• Exposure and Response Prevention

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