Episode
170. Why ERP Isn’t Enough: Using ACT to Build a Life Beyond OCD Symptoms
- Published
- Feb 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1903
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Summary
🧠Is the opposite of anxiety actually trust? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Marisa Mazza, PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute and author of The ACT Workbook for OCD. Together, they explore Psychological Flexibility—the core of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—and how it integrates with ERP to help you live a "big, beautiful life" even with OCD. Key points covered: • Defining Psychological Flexibility: Understanding the 6 core processes of ACT (Presence, Values, Committed Action, Self-as-Context, Diffusion, and Acceptance). • The ERP + ACT Integration: Why symptom reduction isn't always enough and how ACT addresses the "day-to-day living" aspect of recovery. • The "Flashlight" Metaphor: Shifting your focus from internal control to values-based living. • Slowing Down to Heal: Why we use busy-ness as a distraction and how to safely sit with the "scary" silence. Recovery isn't just about stopping compulsions; it’s about having the flexibility to roll with life’s punches. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone, this episode offers a philosophical and practical roadmap for moving beyond just "getting by" to truly thriving. 📲 About Marisa Mazza (guest): • PsyD, a faculty member of the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, author of The ACT Workbook for OCD • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmazza/ • Web Page: https://www.choicetherapy.net/team ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] - The OCD Whisperer x Dr. Marisa Mazza [03:12] - Psychological Flexibility: The "Game Changer" in Treatment [05:26] - A New Relationship with Your "What Ifs" [09:13] - Beyond Symptom Reduction (ACT vs. ERP) [13:12] - The "Grief" Example: Putting Acceptance into Action [16:32] - Why "Slowing Down" Feel…