175. Body Dysmorphic Disorder: How to spot the hidden signs with Robyn Stern, LCSW

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 Robyn Stern (guest):

• Specialized treatment for OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and anxiety disorders

• Web Page & all contacts: https://www.rlsterntherapy.com/

 

✂️ TIMESTAMPS:

[00:00] – Welcome to the show: Meet Robyn Stern.

[02:20] – "Before you knew it was BDD, what did you think was wrong with you?"

[03:32] – "What was it like? Did you think it was just insecurity or that you were just anxious?"

[07:22] – "What was the turning point that made you decide to seek help?"

[11:07] – "Did you just stop talking to your friends altogether?"

[12:57] – "Did you think you were just being vain or that you were broken?"

[20:43] – "What is the actual therapy to get better?" (The difference between OCD and BDD treatment).

[24:02] – The "Perfect Storm" of beauty standards and BDD

[25:12] – "Is it a painful pill to swallow thinking this is just your lot in life?"

[28:12] – "How can you have a relationship with a person when you're in a relationship with a body part?"

[30:22] – How to connect with Robyn Stern and find resources.

 

✅ Free Resources & Links

• 🎁 Free OCD Survival Kit & Classes → www.shorturl.at/KcTxM
• 📖 OCD CBT Journal → www.shorturl.at/7pUxB
• 🌐 Website → www.korresults.com/
• ✍️ OCD Academy→ www.ocdacademy.thinkific.com/

 

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✅ About OCD Whisperer

Welcome to OCD Whisperer! Each episode shares tools and insights for OCD recovery, managing intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, CBT techniques, anxiety relief, and mindfulness practices. Join me for expert interviews and personal insights into overcoming OCD. Subscribe to find support, strategies, and hope for your OCD journey.

 

⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note while the host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

 

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Body Dysmorphic Disorder BDD recovery Robyn Stern LCSW lived experience BDD appearance OCD vs BDD mirror checking compulsions overcoming body shame BDD treatment and therapy

 

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