In this episode of the Water Cooler Chat series, Nicole offers heartfelt and practical guidance for families supporting a loved one with OCD as they transition to college. Covering six key strategies, the episode emphasizes starting conversations early, building a treatment plan, and planning for a care community. It highlights the importance of life skills practice, appropriate (but not over-accommodated) support, and fostering autonomy. Lastly, we reflect that supporting someone with OCD isn’t about protection—it’s about empowerment, connection, and growth for the whole family. So join the conversation!

In this Pride Edition of the Water Cooler Chat series, join Nicole as she explores how justice-based ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) can respectfully and effectively target core fears in OCD—especially within LGBTQIA+ contexts. Three examples are covered: SO-OCD (Sexual Orientation OCD), Relationship OCD, and Moral Scrupulosity tied to queer identity. The episode emphasizes that treatment should honor identity, not erase it, and provides value-driven, identity-affirming interventions that align with dignity and justice. Whether you're queer, questioning, or an ally, this episode offers empowering insights for recovery.

In this premiere S3 Water Cooler Chat, Nicole shares three key tips to help families and loved ones navigate a new OCD diagnosis — including how to better understand OCD, validate your person without reinforcing the disorder, and take care of yourself along the way.

Plus, hear updates on the return of weekly chats, a special IOCDF Conference recap coming soon, and a limited-time 15% discount on OCD Training School courses through July 4, 2025.