We are thrilled to present the recording of OCD Southern California’s keynote presentation from our 5th Annual OCD Conference, which was virtual and took place in 2021. The International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)’s National and Lead Advocates were our keynote speakers: Ethan S. Smith, Elizabeth McIngvale, Valerie Andrews, Tom Smalley, and Chris Trondsen. Each of these advocates is a person with OCD who devotes time to support others with the disorder and to advocate for better mental health services.
During the conference keynote, the presenters shared their struggles and opened up about their lowest moments with OCD. The speakers then detailed how they fought back to regain control of their lives using the tools of treatment. Additionally, they highlighted the ways their lives have vastly improved now that they are managing the disorder. Finally, attendees had a chance to ask questions to our 2021 keynote presenters!
Ethan S. Smith was born with OCD and struggled the majority of his life until receiving life-changing treatment in 2010. Ethan was the keynote speaker at the 2014 Annual OCD Conference in Los Angeles. He serves as an IOCDF National Advocate. He has devoted his life to reducing stigma around OCD and mental health, to education, and to supporting the OCD community.
Elizabeth McIngvale, PhD is the director of the McLean Houston OCD Program. Elizabeth is a National Advocate for the IOCDF and serves as a board member. She was diagnosed with OCD at age 12 and underwent both inpatient and outpatient therapy. Elizabeth engages in clinical work, research, and advocacy with the goal of improving access to care and OCD treatment.
Valerie Andrews received an OCD diagnosis in 2011 and, following treatment, began advocating in hopes of bringing awareness and inclusion within her own community and communities of faith. Her goal is to continue working as an IOCDF Lead Advocate and promoting change for women of age, color, and faith.
Tom Smalley, MS, CSCS was diagnosed with OCD at the age of 16 and shortly after became passionate about spreading awareness about OCD. Tom was the recipient of the 2019 IOCDF Hero Award. He speaks at the Annual OCD Conferences and has appeared on a variety of blogs and podcasts. Tom is particularly passionate about athletes and OCD and the stigma of mental health in sports.
Chris Trondsen, MS, AMFT, APCC, suffered from undiagnosed, severe OCD and BDD from childhood. Following treatment, Chris began advocating for mental health and shared his story on TV, newspapers and podcasts. Chris began speaking at Annual OCD Conferences, including giving the keynote with his mom at the 2011 conference. He also helped start the Young Adult Track at the annual conference.