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150. OCD Expert: This Is Why ERP Feels Like Torture (But Works)
Episode 150
What if the scariest story your mind tells… could actually set you free?
*This episode includes a live imaginal script. Some words that algorithm may flag as problematic have been muted to prevent issues with the platform. These edits are purely for compliance and do not change the meaning or therapeutic purpose of the script.*
In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova sits down with Natalia for part two of a four-part series on ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention). Together, they dive into the misunderstood practice of imaginal exposures — a therapeutic tool that helps people face OCD’s darkest fears on paper, reclaim power from intrusive thoughts, and build true resilience.
Natalia opens up about:
• Writing an imaginal script around her most feared intrusive thoughts
• How OCD convinced her she could be a danger to her own children
• Why telling the “fear story” in detail reduced its power
• What it feels like to desensitize through repetition
This conversation also dives into:
• Why OCD thrives on avoidance and secrecy
• How imaginal exposures flip the power dynamic over intrusive thoughts
• The role of compassion and creativity in ERP therapy
Whether you are navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers clarity, tools, and hope to help you understand ERP and take the first step toward recovery.
📲 Natalia Aiza (guest):
- LPC, Founbder of Kairos, specializes in OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and parent coaching for all ages.
- OCD Colorado: https://www.kairoswellnesscollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalk.ocd
✂️TIMESTAMPS:
[00:30] – Introduction to ERP Series & Guest Natalia
[01:05] – What is ERP? Understanding the basics
[02:35] – Why would anyone face their fears?
[05:40] – Misconceptions: Is ERP “torture”?
[07:57] – How ERP is structured step by step
[09:23] – Willingness vs distress levels: where to begin
[11:30] – Helping clients move past fear and resistance
[14:08] – Different approaches & therapist styles in ERP
[17:08] – Starting with the least threatening exposures
[18:21] – Distress tolerance vs compulsions: key nuance
[20:09] – Examples of distress tolerance exercises
[21:32] – Flexibility in ERP: adapting to clients’ needs
[23:45] – Getting into the right mindset for ERP
[25:04] – How long does ERP take to start showing relief?
[28:20] – Closing reflections & key ERP takeaways
✅ Free Resources & Links
- 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM
- 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB
- 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/
- ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/
📲 Stay Connected
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/korresults
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/
- TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ocdwhisperer
- Twitter (X): www.x.com/korresults
- Website: www.korresults.com/
📩 Business Inquiries: info@korresults.com
✅ 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 pra
Published on 3 weeks ago