About this episode

Kristina Orlova discusses childhood OCD and anxiety with Dr. Julie Lustig, highlighting the hidden signs and effective treatment strategies.

The Hidden OCD Behind “Normal” Routines in Kids... In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Julie Lustig, clinical psychologist and founder of CBT Tools for Life Center. Together, they explore how childhood OCD and anxiety often hide in plain sight—and why so many parents miss the early signs. Dr. Lustig opens up about: • Why OCD can take 14–17 years to be properly diagnosed • How common childhood behaviors (like routines) can become rigid compulsions • The most overlooked OCD symptoms—including reassurance-seeking and mental rituals • How Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) helps kids regain control This conversation also dives into: • The subtle ways OCD shows up beyond handwashing or neatness • How to separate a child from OCD using playful, externalizing tools • Why small “wins” and gradual steps are key to recovery OCD isn’t just anxiety—it’s a loop that keeps kids feeling stuck. But as Dr. Lustig explains, when kids learn they don’t have to listen to OCD, everything can change. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting a child, this episode offers clarity, tools, and real hope for recovery. 📲 About Dr. Julie Lustig…

People in this episode

Host: Kristina Orlova

Guest: Dr. Julie Lustig

Topics covered

• childhood OCD
• anxiety
• parenting
• mental health
• exposure and response prevention
• compulsions

Keywords

• OCD
• childhood anxiety
• compulsions
• mental health
• ERP
• parenting
• diagnosis
• reassurance-seeking
• mental rituals

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CBT Tools for Life Center, LinkedIn, CBT Tools for Life

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