Episode
174. STOP Treating Autism like OCD: The "Golden Rule" of Differential Diagnosis with Dr. Jeremy Shuman
- Published
- Mar 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1744
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://ocdwhisperer.podbean.com/e/174-i-will-edit-this-later/
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Summary
Is it OCD, or is your brain just wired differently?🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Jeremy Shuman, a psychologist and specialist in the intersection of Autism and OCD. Together, they explore the complex overlap between neurodevelopmental traits and obsessive-compulsive patterns. Dr. Shuman opens up about: • The definition of Autism and the shift toward the Neurodiversity Movement. • Why observable behaviors like "stimming" are often mistaken for OCD compulsions. • The internal experience of sensory seeking versus sensory rejecting. • The trait of Monotropism and how deep focus differs from clinical obsessions. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is neurodivergent, this episode offers essential tools and insights to help you understand the "why" behind the rituals. 📲 About Dr. Jeremy Shuman (guest): • licensed psychologist, expert in OCD and anxiety disorders, autism and OCD • Web Page: https://mindfulstl.com/providers/jeremy-shuman-psy-d/ • OCD/Autism SIG Interest Form: https://www.tfaforms.com/5069768 ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Why what you know about Autism is wrong [03:05] – The DSM Trap: Why Autism diagnosis was designed for "School-age White Boys" (and who gets left out). [05:16] – Hidden Clues: Common behaviors in school and social life that scream "A deeper look is needed." [06:52] – Is it OCD or Autism? The "Locked Door" vs. the "Body Motion" (Distinguishing the two). [09:32] – The Golden Rule of Diagnosis: Is your behavior "Neutralizing a Threat" or "Regulating your Body"? [11:32] – Beyond ERP: Why a "Standard" OCD treatment plan might fail an Autistic client. [14:42] – The Case of the Circular Mind: When "Rumination" is actually a neurological focus trait. [18:37] – The "Car Breakdown"…