Recognizing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) In Kids With Jesse Dice, LCSW [Podcast Episode]

When we think about OCD, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, most folks think about hand-washing, lining things up perfectly, or really perfectionistic kids. But the truth is that OCD can present in many different ways and very frequently, it’s confused with generalized anxiety or overall anxiety.

Today, we have Jessie Dice, licensed clinical social worker, on the podcast to talk about OCD in kids. We’re diving deep into all the ways OCD can come up for your child and what it can look like in the house and in your family system. We want to make sure you as parents can recognize the signs. If you feel like this might be something your child is struggling with, it’s important to get a third party involved, since it’s a very difficult pattern for both the kid and the parents. 

“It’s gonna take support for the parents to not step in and just solve the problem.”
– Amanda Sovik-Johnston

So what are the indicators to look out for? And what are the best steps to take when you think your child might be struggling with OCD? We talk all about it in today’s episode! You can find our podcast Active and Connected Families wherever you listen to your podcasts.

In this episode on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in kids, we cover:

• Recognizing the difference between anxiety and OCD;
• Signs and symptoms of OCD in children;
• What OCD would actually look like in the house;
• How OCD works in the family system;
• Symptoms and systems parents see themselves doing that are indicators that it’s worth looking into therapy;
• And more!

More about Virginia Family Therapy

Virginia Family Therapy is a mental health practice serving individuals, families, and our community. VFT is designed to help people at all stages and from all walks of life by offering therapists and physicians with diverse backgrounds and specialties via face-to-face, walk-and-talk, and telemedicine appointments. Throughout, we are committed to developing strengths-based, authentic, and long-lasting relationships with you and your children. We hope to provide you with the support and insight you need to help your family navigate life’s hard times and joys.

Are you or your child struggling with mental health? We have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who can help you out. You can learn more about our practice or contact us here.

More about Jesse Dice, LCSW

Jesse is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Virginia Family Therapy who specializes in working with late adolescents through older adults. He has particular expertise in working with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjusting to cancer, life-limiting illness, end-of-life concerns, and grief and loss. In addition to individual therapy, he provides couples counseling for all stages of relationships to help with reducing conflict, improving trust, and teaching healthy communication.

He has lived in Crozet for 5 years and in Charlottesville for 8. Jesse enjoys hiking with his corgi, rooting for the Celtics and UVA basketball, eating at the numerous local restaurants, and raising his young family.

Disclaimer: Please remember we are real live therapists, however this is a podcast and is not considered a therapy session. Not only because there is no co-pay but also because we can’t speak to your individual experiences. We are here to help you keep raising healthy kids. And remember, if you are an imperfect parent, we are right there with you. If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, please call your local crisis hotline or go to your nearest emergency room