197. How to Help Your Child With OCD Without Feeding the OCD Cycle

Is it possible to assist a youngster with OCD without unintentionally exacerbating it?

In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova talks with Aureen Pinto Wagner, Ph.D. , a clinical psychologist, author, and globally renowned OCD specialist who specializes in assisting kids, teens, adults, and families in managing anxiety and OCD. Together, they examine how parents' responses to a child's OCD might be changed by teaching bravery rather than consolation.

Dr. Wagner opens up about:

•Why parents naturally want to protect their children from distress... and how that can sometimes reinforce OCD

•How accommodation and reassurance can unintentionally strengthen OCD rituals

•Why understanding OCD as a “false alarm” in the brain can change the way families respond

•How Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) helps children gradually face fears and build confidence

This conversation also dives into:

•The cycle of anxiety, rituals, and temporary relief that keeps OCD going

•Practical strategies like question coupons and gradually delaying reassurance

•Why parents need to manage their own anxiety and learn to tolerate their child’s discomfort

•How facing difficult situations helps children develop confidence, bravery, and self-efficacy