Interview 22: What OCD Really Is (and Isn’t)

A Conversation with Dr. Matt Enkema

6.2.26 | Interview | 57 min

When people say “I’m so OCD,” what do they actually mean and how does that differ from the clinical reality of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

In this episode, Dr. Matt Enkema, clinical psychologist and co-owner of Evergreen Therapy in Seattle, breaks down intrusive thoughts, obsessive concerns, and the compulsions (both visible and mental) that can take over someone’s life. We explore why OCD is often misunderstood, how intolerance of uncertainty fuels the cycle, and how to distinguish everyday superstitions from clinical compulsions.

Dr. Enkema explains Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD, and how learning to approach discomfort, rather than avoid it, creates new learning and lasting change. He leaves us with tips people can begin practicing on their own if therapy isn’t immediately accessible.

Resources Referenced:

Seattle OCD Support Group: https://ocdseattle.org/ 

International OCD Foundation: https://iocdf.org/ 

Evergreen Therapy (Dr. Enkema’s practice): https://www.evergreenseattle.com/. Dr. Enkema provides teletherapy in multiple states through PSYPACT.

Music Credit: Nathan Byrne with Reel Byrne Media.