“Just right” OCD can be one of the most confusing forms of OCD for parents, because it doesn’t look like fear.
In this episode, we’re unpacking what it means when OCD is driven by a feeling instead of a specific fear. That internal sense that something is off, incomplete, or not quite right can keep kids stuck in loops that are hard to explain and even harder to stop.
You’ll learn how “just right” OCD can show up across daily life, from words and writing to clothes, shoes, grooming, and even how they move through their environment. We’ll also clarify common misconceptions, including why this isn’t perfectionism, how it differs from sensory processing challenges, and where Tourettic OCD fits into the picture.
Most importantly, we’ll walk through how to start helping your child break free from these patterns using evidence-based approaches like ERP, including practicing things “not just right,” delaying compulsions, and resisting the urge to complete the loop for them. We’ll also touch on how parents can use a SPACE-informed approach to reduce accommodation and support their child more effectively.
If your child gets stuck needing things to feel right before they can move on, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to begin supporting them in a way that builds long-term resilience.
Resources for this Episode:
Get the PDF Handout for this episode:
www.natashadaniels.com/handouts
Youtube video: How to Handle Just Right OCD
Youtube video: Just Right OCD and Clothes
Youtube video: Just Right OCD and Your Words
Youtube video: When OCD Isn’t About a Fear, But a Feeling
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This podcast episode is sponsored by NOCD. NOCD provides online OCD therapy in the US, UK, Australia and Canada. To schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if NOCD is a right fit for you and your child, go to
https://go.treatmyocd.com/at_parenting
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the guidance of a qualified professional.
Parents, do you need more support?
🌸 Here’s are resources I offer parents 👇🏻❤️
Online classes for parents raising kids with anxiety and OCD:
https://atparentingsurvivalschool.com
Join the AT Parenting Community (A membership designed to support parents raising kids with anxiety or OCD):
https://atparentingcommunity.com
Take one of my FREE webinars:
www.Natashadaniels.com/webinars
Check out my books:
🌸 Other social places I hang out:
http://www.facebook.com/ATparentingSurvival
http://www.pinterest.com/ATparentingSurvival
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