Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can turn life upside down for young kids and their families. Meet Iris—a resilient 11-year-old facing OCD head-on. Her story shows how my BrainBehaviorReset™ program gives kids like her the upper hand over those intrusive thoughts.
With neurofeedback, PEMF, dietary tweaks, ERP, and other calm brain tools, this program doesn’t just treat the surface—it tackles the root of OCD. Iris now has a toolkit packed with strategies that help her feel in control, calm, and ready to take on anything.
Iris's OCD Story: Her Early Life
From infancy, Iris displayed signs of anxiety and a high need for reassurance. She struggled to self-soothe and needed constant holding.
Preschool marked the beginning of her anxiety, manifesting in compulsive behaviors. By age three, she frequently repeated questions and sought answers she already knew, which worsened over time.
Upon entering first grade, Iris’ anxiety and perfectionistic tendencies escalated, particularly with increased academic demands. Her distress about making mistakes led to delays in submitting work, and adjustments in her workload backfired, prompting more obsessive attempts to make her assignments “perfect.” Even though she put in the hard work for her school projects, it will take weeks for her to finish them, and it still causes her panic to submit them.
Her academics were suffering. During bad days, she is unable to sleep and stays up until the wee hours of the morning because of her “crazy” obsessive thoughts. Even worse, she even reached a point where she was unable to eat. She is stuck and lost in her loop of certain thoughts and has a constant feeling that she must have done something wrong. She has this idea in her mind that something bad might have happened because of her “mistake”.
OCD Symptoms: Anxiety and Perfection Tendencies
After completing a writing assignment, Iris is reluctant to turn it in. She reviews it repeatedly, feeling convinced she may have overlooked a mistake that could cause significant consequences, like upsetting her teacher or being “bad.” This scenario happened repeatedly for Iris.
Even after checking multiple times, her anxiety levels remain high, and she clutches her paper tightly, afraid and unable to submit it. When she finally does, she immediately feels the urge to ask for it back, worried sick about errors. This perfection-driven fear of “doing something wrong” delays her participation in other activities.
Iris' Initial Diagnosis
Iris’ initial diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder led to therapy focused on mindfulness and stress reduction, which briefly improved her symptoms. However, as her anxiety and compulsive behaviors returned, a recommendation for psychiatric medication was made. Concerned about side effects, her parents decided to explore other options and consulted a therapist.
After traditional therapy approaches proved insufficient, Iris’s parents began to suspect that her condition might be OCD, especially given a history of obsessive compulsive disorder in her family.
Luckily, her parents came to my Ridgefield, CT Clinic, and we performed a QEEG Brain Map, which confirmed an OCD pattern and high levels of beta brainwave activity indicative of overstimulation.
A Comprehensive OCD Treatment Plan
Through my BrainBehaviorReset™ program, I customized a treatment plan to address Iris’ unique needs, focusing on calming her brain and interrupting the negative reinforcement cycles that fueled her OCD.
My approach dives deep, focusing on calming the brain first—using powerful methods like PEMF therapy, neurofeedback, and intentional co-regulation with parents and caregivers. This isn’t just about a temporary fix; it’s about rewiring the brain’s entire response to stress. With a regulated nervous system, children can finally break free from the relentless cycle of OCD.
Iris’s care plan included:
1. Neurofeedback and QEEG Brain Mapping
Neurofeedback sessions were structured around the findings from Iris’s initial QEEG brain map, targeting her overactive beta waves. This therapy aimed to reduce excessive brain activity, thereby alleviating the overstimulation linked to her OCD.
2. PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy)
Using daily PEMF sessions, the program supported Iris’s brain regulation by promoting relaxation and reducing her stress responses. This contributed to her overall sense of calm and improved her receptiveness to ERP therapy.
3. Nutritional and Supplement Support
Iris’s regimen included dietary changes and supplements that supported her gut health, a crucial factor in mental wellness. Supplements were chosen to address her body’s stress response and optimize brain function, providing a foundation for resilience.
4. Parent Coaching and Lifestyle Modifications
Parent coaching was a critical element in Iris’s treatment. Her parents learned effective strategies to support her ERP progress, avoid reinforcing obsessive behaviors, and manage their responses to her reassurance-seeking, breaking the cycle of compulsive questioning.
5. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy
Response prevention therapy helped Iris face her intrusive fears and taught her to overcome ocd thoughts through gradual exposure without performing compulsive behaviors. Initially resistant, she gradually became more comfortable with the process, empowered by the foundational brain-calming therapies. As her brainwave activity stabilized, she became more engaged in ERP, ultimately embracing the practice as she recognized her progress.
Iris' OCD Journey to Recovery: Results and Progress
After 34 sessions of neurofeedback combined with daily PEMF therapy and ERP, Iris showed remarkable progress:
- Reduction in Intrusive Thoughts: Iris’s obsessive fears about something catastrophic happening and making mistakes decreased significantly, and her need for constant reassurance diminished.
- Improved Social Confidence: Her anxiety reduced noticeably, allowing her to be more talkative and social. She developed confidence in her ability to manage fears independently without needing validation.
- Enhanced Resilience: Iris’s participation in parent coaching allowed her to build emotional resilience, improving her stress tolerance and ability to self-regulate. Her parents observed a positive shift in her demeanor, with Iris exhibiting more coping skills and expressing pride in her achievements during ERP sessions.
Continued OCD Support
Today, Iris and her family continue implementing lifestyle strategies and supporting her ongoing needs through ERP and PEMF sessions as needed. Supplements continue to play a role in her routine, and her family remains committed to helping her stress tolerance and coping skills.
I hope this OCD story inspires you and lets you know there is hope. I want to raise awareness that we can teach parents and their kids how to overcome OCD the natural way, without medication. With the right person to guide you and a science-backed approach, this mental illness can be managed. Iris’s recovery journey illustrates that with the right tools and a comprehensive, individualized approach, children with OCD can experience meaningful recovery.
How to Overcome OCD with Natural Treatments
For parents, understanding OCD’s complexity can can help your child take the path to recovery. Natural treatments like magnesium, high-nutrient food intake, and PEMF support the nervous system in managing OCD, enabling children to regain control and find a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Recovery from OCD is a journey that takes time, patience, and intentional change. Seeking help and support is the first step towards recovery. Developing coping skills and strategies, such as mindfulness and self-compassion, can help individuals manage OCD symptoms. Gradual exposure to situations that trigger OCD symptoms can help individuals build confidence and resilience. Celebrating small victories and acknowledging progress can help individuals stay motivated and engaged in recovery. With the right support and treatment, overcoming OCD is possible, and individuals can learn to live life beyond their worst fears.
There are many inspiring OCD success stories like Iris's—children who have found the strength to talk back to OCD with the support of those around them and the help of our science-backed approach. With the right guidance and tools, lasting change is possible. To learn more about how we empower children to overcome OCD and embrace a brighter future, click here.
What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD is a mental health condition characterized by recurring, intrusive thoughts and compulsions to perform specific rituals or behaviors. Affecting approximately 1 in 40 adults in the United States, OCD is a neurobiological disorder that can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Common OCD symptoms include excessive cleaning, checking, and ordering behaviors, as well as distressing intrusive thoughts and mental images. Understanding the nature of OCD is crucial for recognizing its impact and seeking effective treatment options. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication are among the most effective treatments available, helping individuals manage their symptoms and regain control over their lives.
How does OCD affect the brain?
OCD is often linked to chemical imbalance in the brain, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate. These neurotransmitters play key roles in regulating mood, thought processes, and repetitive behaviors. These imbalances often impact decision-making areas, leading to repetitive behaviors that reinforce obsessive thoughts.
What alternative OCD treatments are available besides medication?
While medication can be an effective treatment for OCD, some individuals may prefer to explore alternative approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective treatment for OCD that can be done without medication. One specific type of CBT, Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) involves gradually exposing individuals to situations that trigger OCD symptoms while preventing them from engaging in compulsive behaviors. This process will help them how to fight ocd. Mindfulness-based therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can also be effective in managing OCD symptoms without medication. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and healthy eating, are part of a holistic approach to recovery.
How does OCD impact children and teenagers?
OCD can deeply affect all areas of life, with sufferers often facing heightened anxiety, shame, and isolation. It may disrupt daily tasks and strain relationships as family and friends struggle to understand the disorder. This often leads to additional feelings of loneliness and depression. It can also impact physical health, especially when anxiety levels lead to staying up all night or being unable to eat.
Where can I find community support for OCD sufferers?
Connecting with others who understand OCD can be a powerful tool in managing symptoms and finding support. Online communities, support groups, and forums provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and connect with others. Mental health professionals, such as therapists, psychiatrist, and counselors, can offer guidance and support in managing OCD symptoms. Family and friends also play an important role in supporting individuals with OCD, offering understanding and encouragement. Raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental illness can help individuals with OCD feel more comfortable seeking help and support and teach them how to conquer OCD, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. For people suffering from OCD, understanding its pervasive nature is vital to fostering a compassionate, supportive environment that aids recovery.
What is the difference between OCD and anxiety?
Differentiating between anxiety and OCD can be challenging. While anxiety is a response to real-life stressors, OCD involves persistent, irrational fears or rituals. A child with OCD may develop compulsive behaviors to alleviate intrusive thoughts despite knowing these actions are unnecessary. Parents often face a difficult path to diagnosis, as compulsions can be mistaken for quirky habits. Effective treatment, such as ERP, confronts these fears in a controlled setting, breaking the cycle of compulsions.
What are the root causes of OCD?
Genetics, environmental factors, or stress can influence OCD. Understanding root causes helps in tailoring treatment plans. For other OCD sufferers, it can be a mix of genetic predisposition and school stress. Addressing these through root causes by regulating the nervous system through neurofeedback, diet, and lifestyle adjustments can support children with OCD sufferers in their journey to recovery.
What are the natural therapies for calming OCD?
Natural therapies like neurofeedback, PEMF, supplements, and meditation can help regulate the brain’s response to obsessive thoughts, making them less overwhelming. These methods complement the response prevention approach, providing a balanced approach that targets both biological and behavioral aspects of OCD. Adding magnesium supplements can help neurotransmitter overactivity, enabling her to manage intrusive thoughts.
What is ERP?
Exposure and Response Prevention, a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, involves exposing individuals to their fears without allowing compulsive responses, reducing the anxiety associated with obsessions. ERP can gradually reduce fears, giving OCD sufferers the tools to resist compulsive actions.
Citations:
Huey, E. D., Zahn, R., Krueger, F., Moll, J., Kapogiannis, D., Wassermann, E. M., & Grafman, J. (2008). A psychological and neuroanatomical model of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The Journal of neuropsychiatry and clinical neurosciences, 20(4), 390–408. https://doi.org/10.1176/jnp.2008.20.4.390
Mahjani, B., Bey, K., Boberg, J., & Burton, C. (2021). Genetics of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Psychological medicine, 51(13), 2247–2259. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291721001744
Sowden, E., Robinson, D., Lovell, K., Bee, P., Fulwood, A., Lidbetter, N., Wilson, Z., Brown, A., & Pedley, R. (2023). Understanding the support needs of parents of children with obsessive-compulsive disorder: a qualitative descriptive study in the UK. BMC psychiatry, 23(1), 309. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-023-04637-8
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in Neurodivergence who is frequently in the media:
- What if it's Not Depression (Video) Anxiety, OCD and Trichotillomania.
- Holistic Counseling Podcast: Effective Treatments for OCD
- Epidemic Answers: Neurofeedback for ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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Dr. Roseann is a Children’s Mental Health Expert and Licensed Therapist who has been featured in/on hundreds of media outlets including The Mel Robbins Show, CBS, NBC, PIX11 NYC, Today, FORBES, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Business Insider, Women’s Day, Healthline, CNET, Parade Magazine and PARENTS. FORBES called her, “A thought leader in children’s mental health.”
She coined the terms, “Re-entry panic syndrome” and “eco-anxiety” and is a frequent contributor to media on mental health.
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge has three decades of experience in working with children, teens and their families with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, concussion, dyslexia and learning disability, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression and mood disorder, Lyme Disease, and PANS/PANDAS using science-backed natural mental health solutions such as supplements, magnesium, nutrition, QEEG Brain maps, neurofeedback, PEMF, psychotherapy and other non-medication approaches.
She is the author of three bestselling books, It’s Gonna Be OK!: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child's Mental Health, The Teletherapy Toolkit, and Brain Under Attack. Dr. Roseann is known for offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain.
Her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetⓇ Program and It’s Gonna be OK!Ⓡ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands of parents facing mental health, behavioral or neurodevelopmental challenges.
She is the founder and director of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC. Dr. Roseann is a Board Certified Neurofeedback (BCN) Practitioner, a Board Member of the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society (NRBS), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) and an Amen Clinic Certified Brain Health Coach. She is also a member of The International Lyme Disease and Associated Disease Society (ILADS), The American Psychological Association (APA), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
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