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Final Week to Register for Our Speakers Series Conference Events Happening THIS Weekend in Orange County (May 3) and Los Angeles (May 4)!

At both the Orange County location on Saturday, May 3rd, and the Los Angeles location on Sunday, May 4th, there are presentations aimed at people with OCD, their loved ones, supporters, and anyone interested in learning more about OCD and related disorders.

Additionally, at the Speaker Series conference events at both locations, there is a professional track that will offer clinicians (LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, and psychologists) 3 CE credits at low cost.

Email us with any general questions at info@ocdsocal.org. Additionally, OCD Southern California never wants cost to be a deterrent from joining any of our events. If you need complimentary registration for you or your loved ones, please email us.

Scroll below to learn more about both events and to register!

To register, please visit: REGISTER for Orange County Speakers Series!

Meet the Orange County Speaker Series presenters! There are 12 OCD experts, local to the Orange County and Southern California area. Learn more about the 12 speakers here: BIOS FOR THE 12 ORANGE COUNTY SPEAKER SERIES PRESENTERS offering presentations on OCD and related disorders with topics to include: medications, family accommodations and how to best support your loved one with OCD, taboo mental obsessions, combating rumination, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), shame and guilt, getting into the treatment mindset, co-occurring disorders, the treatment for OCD, and more! To learn more about the presentations being offered, as well as the agenda and program, visit here: PRESENTATION INFORMATION, AGENDA, AND BIO FOR MAY 3RD EVENT.

The 12 presenters speaking at the Saturday, May 3rd, Orange County Speaker Series Event

Event Info: Orange County will host a Speakers Series conference event on Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST.  This event is being held at Orange Coast College at 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.  There is free parking adjacent to the event location. 

This event is open to individuals with OCD, their family members and loved ones, mental health providers, students, and the general public. Talks for the general public will be presented throughout the day. 

Beverages and a catered lunch will be provided.

Registration is $15 per individual. The low-cost sign-up will aid our non-profit in covering venue and food costs. 

This event is also for mental health providers wanting to learn more about OCD. There will be a clinician track at Orange County, and we are offering 3 CE credits to licensed clinicians who attend the full day. For licensed therapists (LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, and psychologists), please purchase the Professional ticket when you register. 

Schedule 

9:30 AM: Registration opens 
10:00 AM: Welcome & introductions
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Speakers
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Speakers
12:30 PM – 12:45 PM: Lunches Provided (Catered)
12:45 PM – 1:45 PM: Speakers
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Ask the Experts: Q&A Panel

(More information on the schedule here: PRESENTATION INFORMATION, AGENDA, AND BIO FOR MAY 3RD EVENT).

To register, and for more information, please visit: REGISTER for Orange County Speakers Series!

The next day, on Sunday, May 4th, we are offering a Speaker Series event in Los Angeles!

Sign Up Link: REGISTER for the Los Angeles Speakers Series

Los Angeles will host a Speakers Series on Sunday, May 4, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST.  This event is being held at the USC Health Sciences Campus, 2250 Alcazar Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
There is a parking lot adjacent to the event site.  Here is a map of the venue: https://events.usc.edu/assets/docs/USC-HSC-Map-2022.pdf. There is a parking lot adjacent to the event site. Enter Lot 17 from Alcazar Street and proceed down the one-lane entryway to the rear parking lot (3G and 4H on the map).  Park in any unmarked parking space.  Entry to the CSC Building is from this rear parking lot (red circle with gold cross at 4H on the map).  Once parked, please go to https://www.offstreet.io/location/SBT977EW and enter code 584236 when prompted. 

This event is open to individuals with OCD, their family members and loved ones, mental health providers, students, and the general public. Talks for the general public will be presented throughout the day. 

Beverages and a catered lunch will be provided.

The suggested donation is $15.00. The low-cost sign-up will aid our non-profit in covering venue and food costs. 

This event is also for mental health providers wanting to learn more about OCD. There will be a clinician track at the Los Angeles event, and we are offering 3 CE credits to licensed clinicians who attend the full day. For licensed therapists (LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, and psychologists), please purchase the Professional ticket when you register. 

Schedule & Speakers:

Morning Schedule
10:00 AM: Registration opens (coffee, bagels, pastries)
10:30 AM: Welcome & introductions
10:45 AM – 11:30 AM: Paul Zawacki, LCSW: How to be Uncomfortable: Getting ACT-y with Your ERP
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM: Dr. Jen Siegel: Medication for OCD

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch break 

Afternoon Schedule
1:15 PM – 2:00 PM: Melissa Mose, LMFT: The Role of the Family System in Treatment
2:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Dr. Adam Frank: Neuromodulation for OCD
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: General Q&A and networking

Bios for the Los Angeles presenters:

Adam Frank, M.D., Ph.D.

Website: http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/

Bio: Dr. Adam C. Frank is a psychiatrist, researcher, and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Frank currently divides his time between caring for individuals with OCD in an outpatient psychiatry clinic, supervising and teaching psychiatry residents at USC, and conducting research on the mechanisms of OCD and improving treatment outcomes through the use of neuroimaging, wearable biosensors, and neuromodulation. 

Melissa Mose, LMFT

Website: https://www.melissamosemft.com

Bio: Melissa Mose, LMFT, has been in private practice for 30 years and has specialized in working with OCD for roughly half of that. She is currently the president of OCD Southern California, an affiliate of the International OCD Foundation and she is an international speaker and educator on Obsessive Compulsive disorder. As a Level 3 trained and Certified Internal Family Systems therapist and an IFS-I Approved Clinical Consultant, Melissa is committed to developing a more compassionate, IFS-informed approach to treating OCD. She is devoted to raising awareness about OCD, training clinicians to identify and treat, improve early identification and wider range of treatment options for individuals with OCD.

Jennifer Siegel, MD

Website: https://communitywesttreatment.com/jennifer-siegel-md/

Bio: Dr. Jennifer Siegel is a current PGY4 resident and serves as Chief Resident of Outpatient Psychiatry at the University of Southern California. She earned her medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine after graduating summa cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology with minors in graphic design and studio art. At the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Siegel was a Bridging the Gaps Clinical Scholar, receiving an additional certificate in Community Health. Dr. Siegel specializes in medication management of mood & anxiety disorders (with particularly emphasis on OCD) as well as has training in ERP. She is actively involved in OCD-related research and has presented at the International OCD Foundation Annual Conference.

J. Paul Zawacki, LCSW

Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/courageous-act-therapy-irvine-ca/1440830

Bio: J. Paul Zawacki is a licensed clinical social worker and part-time clinical faculty member at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, where he specializes in the assessment and treatment of OCD and other anxiety disorders. Paul also maintains Courageous ACT Therapy, an OCD and anxiety-focused private practice serving adults in California. He received his bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. He has specialized training in both Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). He is a former three-year board member of the Southern California chapter of the Association of Contextual Behavioral Science (ACBS), which is the primarily international organization for ACT-nerds. He is also a member of the International Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Foundation. He has lived experience with both OCD and ADHD.

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We hope to see you at one — or both — of these Speaker Series conference events. It is an opportunity to meet local OCD experts, get your questions answered, learn more about OCD, and meet others in a similar situation as yours. Email info@ocdsocal.org for any questions and to be added to our mailing list. We look forward to seeing you this weekend!

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THE AGENDA AND PROGRAM FOR OCD SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S MAY 3rd ORANGE COUNTY SPEAKER SERIES EVENT! Includes Presentation Titles and Descriptions!

The Orange County Speaker Series is being held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10am – 3pm PT. Check-in for the event will open at 9:30am. We suggest you arrive early for check-in and then the event will begin promptly at 10am. If you have not registered for the event, there are still low-cost tickets available. Your registration includes a catered meal, beverages, and free parking. For more information and to register, visit: OCD SoCal Speaker Series – Orange County Tickets via EventBrite

There are 12 presenters for the event. To read each speaker’s bio, please visit: https://ocdsocal.org/4066/information-on-the-12-presenters-for-the-orange-county-speaker-series-being-held-on-saturday-may-3rd-10am-3pm/

Here is a list with details of the break-out sessions being offered:

Registration: 9:30am PT

The event will be at Orange Coast College located at 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, 92626.  Please park in parking lots C, D and E, which are adjacent to the College Center Building. This is the building where the event is being held. Parking is free on Saturdays (please do not park in staff parking). After parking, please proceed to where the event is being held, in the College Center Building, and go up to the third floor where the check-in desk is located. You do not need to bring your EventBrite ticket; we have the names of everyone who registered and will check you in at the check-in table.

Introduction and Welcome: 10 – 10:15am PT

An OCD Southern California board member (http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/) will welcome attendees, go over the day’s events, and announce additional important information. Then the event’s presentations will begin.

The event is offering 9 total presentations with a final 10th presentation featuring all of the day’s speakers for an “Ask the Expert” Q&A Panel. If you scroll below, you will notice that the day is split into 4 sessions. During the first 3 sessions there are three talks being offered simultaneously and you can pick which one you would like to attend. Then the Q&A panel is for everyone in attendance.

Again this year, we are offering 3 continuing education credits (CEs) for licensed clinicians. These talks, specifically for mental health providers, will be held in the venue’s ballroom and will be held at the same time as the talks for the general public.

Session I: 10:15 – 11:15am PT

A Powerful Frame of Mind: 9 Ways a Mindset Shift Can Speed Up Your OCD Recovery! – Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com and Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/
 
You’ll hear talks about finding a therapist, effective treatment modalities, and more at this Speaker Series. This information is essential, but a proper mindset is a critical first step in your OCD recovery journey. Navigating treatment is only possible if you’re in the right headspace to take advantage of efficacious treatment. Two seasoned clinicians have specifically tailored 9 mindset shifts for you, to enhance and speed up your recovery. Whether you’re starting treatment or have hit a roadblock in therapy, this talk is designed to meet your needs. Attendees will be taken along an interactive journey through these 9 steps: setting the scene for treatment, clarifying goals, developing a supportive inner dialogue, and more–creating the right frame of mind to embrace therapy!

S.P.A.C.E. To The Rescue! Tips for Parents to Manage Their Children’s* Anxiety and OCD (*Children of all ages) – Michelle Malloy, MFT, PMH-C https://oc-therapy.com/about-us

Are you a parent finding it difficult to figure out how to best support your loved one’s OCD? This presentation is aimed at helping parents to support their children of all ages, while reducing parental support for their OCD behaviors. Utilizing techniques from SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), this talk aids parents in differing anxiety from behavioral issues, learning tools in how to support anxious children, learning how to increase support while reducing accommodations, and finding out how to make small changes that lead to big and successful outcomes! This talk is for parents of children who are all ages: adults, young adults, teens, and young children.

The Limits of Logic: Using Insight and Action to Treat OCD – Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. https://www.drdavistherapy.com/

In this talk, we’ll explore why simply applying logic often falls short, and how we can more effectively use thinking skills in OCD treatment. We’ll discuss approaches like cognitive defusion and values-based awareness. We’ll also discuss how to “pull back the curtain” on the ways OCD convinces us of inflated risk—learning to differentiate between what’s possible and what’s probable. Finally, we’ll touch on the role of behavioral change and how to apply action for lasting progress.

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

Differential Diagnosis and Functional Analysis: Understanding Your Patient – Curtis Hsia, Ph.D. https://ocanxietycenter.com/bio/

Treatment of OCD has been well established and while the nuances are complex, the general application is well documented.  In clinical settings one of the overlooked aspects is proper assessment.  Very often misdiagnoses occur, both in regards to the correct disorder, and even within OCD how the obsessions affect the compulsions.  

In this lecture, participants will learn the basics of differential diagnosis, functional analysis and construction of a treatment protocol.  Examples will be given as well as case examples from the participants will be discussed.

Session II: 11:30 – 12:30pm PT

Why Some People Thrive in OCD Therapy & Others Struggle: 8 Winning Behaviors in Successful Treatment – Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/ and Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com

The majority of people with OCD who enter treatment will have a successful outcome, resulting in reduced OCD symptoms, improved mental insight, and regained control of their lives. This success is not just a possibility but a realistic outcome for many. So what is it that those successful in treatment do differently than people who struggle to manage the disorder?

This presentation will focus on the top 8 personal characteristics held by individuals who thrive in OCD therapy. Understanding and enhancing these essential behaviors is key to recovery from the disorder, and attendees will be well-prepared to do so after this session.

Supporting Someone with OCD: Navigating Treatment and Home Life – Curtis Hsia, Ph.D. https://ocanxietycenter.com/bio/

Life with OCD is difficult; supporting someone with OCD can be just as challenging. This discussion will cover topics that often arise in working with patients’ families.  Topics of discussion will include: Finding an appropriate provider, clinical issues (differential diagnosis, treatment plan, familial involvement), and family issues (accommodation vs enabling, setting boundaries). This will be followed by examples of good and suboptimal situations, and an open Q&A period.

Taboo Obsessions and Mental Compulsions – Kelley Franke, LMFT https://centerforocd.com, Kevin Foss, MFT https://calocd.com, and Lauren Rosen, LMFT https://theobsessivemind.com

Taboo topics are common fodder for OCD, adding increased secrecy and shame to a disorder already fraught with stigma. And since individuals dealing with these intrusive thoughts often struggle to share them, they often turn toward mental (or covert) compulsions to cope with their anxiety. 

In light of this, our presentation will give voice to the obsessions that many fear are unspeakable. We’ll explore how hidden rituals manifest within taboo themes and examine how evidence-based approaches—including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Self-Compassion—can offer meaningful support.

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

Family Accommodation in OCD: Identification and Clinical Application – Barbara Van Noppen, Ph.D. http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/ and Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. http://www.drdavistherapy.com/

Family accommodation predicts poorer therapeutic outcomes and is associated with greater OCD impairment. This presentation will explain accommodation behaviors through the lens of functional behavioral analysis. Specific types of family accommodation in OCD will be identified along with validated measures. We will then discuss methods of accommodation reduction that can be used for child through adult populations including common language, family contracts, and motivational scripts. Video will be used to demonstrate behavioral family contracting. We will end with a discussion of child methodologies including the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Emotions program (SPACE) and token economies. 

Lunch: 12:30pm PT

Orange Coast College is providing a catered lunch and beverages. There will be different food options to choose from; you will select your preferred option at check-in. The lunches are provided in portable dinnerware. We ask you to bring your food into the classroom of the presentation you are choosing to watch during session three.

Session III: 12:45 – 1:45pm PT  

Current Medications Effective for OCD & Invasive and Non-Invasive Neuromodulation Treatments for OCD – Adam Frank, M.D., Ph.D. http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/ and Sepehr “Sheperd” Aziz, D.O. https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/sheperd-aziz/

This presentation focuses on medications found effective in managing OCD symptoms. In addition, the differences in medication classes, proper med doses, the effectiveness of meds, and the future of OCD medications will be discussed. This presentation will also provide an overview of FDA-approved neuromodulation approaches that can be used for refractory OCD.  Topics will include TMS, DBS, and surgical approaches.  While the talk will be geared towards clinicians, the information will be presented broadly for anyone interested in learning about these treatment modalities.

Utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in the Treatment of OCD – Matt Codde, LCSW https://www.restoredminds.com

In this discussion, we’ll explore how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a radically different, empowering approach in the treatment of OCD & intrusive thoughts—one rooted in psychological flexibility, instead of control. You’ll learn why resisting your thoughts and feelings often makes them worse, and how ACT helps people find peace through acceptance, presence, and values-based living. Whether you’re a clinician, someone with lived experience, or just curious, this presentation will help you understand how to successfully implement Acceptance & Commitment Therapy in your life.

Escaping The Guilt And Shame Of OCD – Kevin Foss, MFT https://calocd.com

OCD sufferers know all too well the sense that they think and feel differently than others. Feeling that you’re bad, broken, or at fault can seem impossible to resist, or be accepted as a forgone conclusion. Spiraling into the darkness of shame and guilt brings self-contempt, rejection, isolation, and depression which saps motivation, perseverance, and hope of OCD and anxiety recovery. 

In this presentation, we will discuss the many ways shame and guilt create the self-reinforcing cycle of emotional isolation through perceived self-protection. We will discuss the language and behaviors that maintain shame and guilt. Most importantly, we will highlight life changing skills to boost self-compassion, vulnerability, and connection. 

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks in Successful OCD Treatment with Advanced Therapeutic Interventions – Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/ and Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. https://www.drdavistherapy.com/

As clinicians, we are taught manualized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, clients often do not fit neatly into treatment plans from start to finish, leading clinicians to think on the fly and offer solutions to these treatment roadblocks.

This CE talk looks at common challenges in the therapeutic process, including co-occurring disorders, family accommodations, medication changes, treatment resistance, a lack of motivation, secondary gains, clients reducing sessions prematurely (i.e., clients deciding to end therapy before the agreed-upon time), stagnation, and other common behaviors and mindsets that hinder a client from entering the recovery phase of treatment.

To conclude the presentation, bring questions regarding the common roadblocks you experience when working with complex cases to the question-and-answer segment that will conclude the presentation.

Session IV: 2 – 3:00pm PT

Ask The Experts: Summary Q&A Panel – All of the event’s presenters 

Please join us for an opportunity to ask questions of a panel consisting of all of the event’s presenters. This is an opportunity to ask any of the questions you were unable to ask during the day, or if you were unable to attend one of the presentaitons, that talk’s presenters will be able to answer your questions at this panel. The panel will consist of leading OCD experts and will be held in the ballroom.

Opportunity Drawing

Additionally, for those still in attendance at the end of our Orange County Speaker Series conference event, we will be hosting an opportunity drawing for an opportunity to win gift card prizes! The ticket to win is already included with your registration at no additional cost!

Event Concludes: 3:00pm PT

On your way out, please make sure to sign up for OCD Southern California’s mailing list, our free and virtual Family and Loved One’s OCD Support Group, and complete a quick evaluation of the event.

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We look forward to seeing everyone at the OC event. Make sure to register before the event is sold out! For more information and to register for the event, click here: OCD SoCal Speaker Series Orange County Ticket Registration – EventBrite.

A reminder, OCD Southern California is offering 3 CEs for LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, and Psychologists who attend the CE track of this event!

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PRESENTATION TITLES and DESCRIPTIONS FOR OCD SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S MAY 3RD ORANGE COUNTY SPEAKER SERIES EVENT!

The Orange County Speaker Series is being held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10am – 3pm PT. Check-in for the event will open at 9:30am. We suggest you arrive early for check-in and then the event will begin promptly at 10am. If you have not registered for the event, there are still low-cost tickets available. Your registration includes a catered meal, beverages, and free parking. For more information and to register, visit: OCD SoCal Speaker Series – Orange County Tickets via EventBrite

There are 12 presenters for the event. To read each speaker’s bio, please visit: https://ocdsocal.org/4066/information-on-the-12-presenters-for-the-orange-county-speaker-series-being-held-on-saturday-may-3rd-10am-3pm/

Here are the event’s presentations in alphabetical order by the presenter’s first name:

Current Medications Effective for OCD & Invasive and Non-Invasive Neuromodulation Treatments for OCD – Adam Frank, M.D., Ph.D. http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/ and Sepehr “Sheperd” Aziz, D.O. https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/sheperd-aziz/

This presentation focuses on medications found effective in managing OCD symptoms. In addition, the differences in medication classes, proper med doses, the effectiveness of meds, and the future of OCD medications will be discussed. This presentation will also provide an overview of FDA-approved neuromodulation approaches that can be used for refractory OCD.  Topics will include TMS, DBS, and surgical approaches.  While the talk will be geared towards clinicians, the information will be presented broadly for anyone interested in learning about these treatment modalities.

Why Some People Thrive in OCD Therapy & Others Struggle: 8 Winning Behaviors in Successful Treatment – Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/ and Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com

The majority of people with OCD who enter treatment will have a successful outcome, resulting in reduced OCD symptoms, improved mental insight, and regained control of their lives. This success is not just a possibility but a realistic outcome for many. So what is it that those successful in treatment do differently than people who struggle to manage the disorder?

This presentation will focus on the top 8 personal characteristics held by individuals who thrive in OCD therapy. Understanding and enhancing these essential behaviors is key to recovery from the disorder, and attendees will be well-prepared to do so after this session.

Supporting Someone with OCD: Navigating Treatment and Home Life – Curtis Hsia, Ph.D. https://ocanxietycenter.com/bio/

Life with OCD is difficult; supporting someone with OCD can be just as challenging. This discussion will cover topics that often arise in working with patients’ families.  Topics of discussion will include: Finding an appropriate provider, clinical issues (differential diagnosis, treatment plan, familial involvement), and family issues (accommodation vs enabling, setting boundaries). This will be followed by examples of good and suboptimal situations, and an open Q&A period.

Taboo Obsessions and Mental Compulsions – Kelley Franke, LMFT https://centerforocd.com, Kevin Foss, MFT https://calocd.com, and Lauren Rosen, LMFT https://theobsessivemind.com

Taboo topics are common fodder for OCD, adding increased secrecy and shame to a disorder already fraught with stigma. And since individuals dealing with these intrusive thoughts often struggle to share them, they often turn toward mental (or covert) compulsions to cope with their anxiety. 

In light of this, our presentation will give voice to the obsessions that many fear are unspeakable. We’ll explore how hidden rituals manifest within taboo themes and examine how evidence-based approaches—including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Self-Compassion—can offer meaningful support.

Escaping The Guilt And Shame Of OCD – Kevin Foss, MFT https://calocd.com

OCD sufferers know all too well the sense that they think and feel differently than others. Feeling that you’re bad, broken, or at fault can seem impossible to resist, or be accepted as a forgone conclusion. Spiraling into the darkness of shame and guilt brings self-contempt, rejection, isolation, and depression which saps motivation, perseverance, and hope of OCD and anxiety recovery. 

In this presentation, we will discuss the many ways shame and guilt create the self-reinforcing cycle of emotional isolation through perceived self-protection. We will discuss the language and behaviors that maintain shame and guilt. Most importantly, we will highlight life changing skills to boost self-compassion, vulnerability, and connection. 

A Powerful Frame of Mind: 8 Ways a Mindset Shift Can Speed Up Your OCD Recovery! – Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com and Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/
 
You’ll hear talks about finding a therapist, effective treatment modalities, and more at this Speaker Series. This information is essential, but a proper mindset is a critical first step in your OCD recovery journey. Navigating treatment is only possible if you’re in the right headspace to take advantage of efficacious treatment. Two seasoned clinicians have specifically tailored 8 mindset shifts for you, to enhance and speed up your recovery. Whether you’re starting treatment or hit a roadblock in therapy, this talk is designed to meet your needs. Attendees will be taken along an interactive journey through these 8 steps: setting the scene for treatment, clarifying goals, developing a supportive inner dialogue, and more–creating the right frame of mind to embrace therapy!

Utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in the Treatment of OCD – Matt Codde, LCSW https://www.restoredminds.com

In this discussion, we’ll explore how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a radically different, empowering approach in the treatment of OCD & intrusive thoughts—one rooted in psychological flexibility, instead of control. You’ll learn why resisting your thoughts and feelings often makes them worse, and how ACT helps people find peace through acceptance, presence, and values-based living. Whether you’re a clinician, someone with lived experience, or just curious, this presentation will help you understand how to successfully implement Acceptance & Commitment Therapy in your life.

Tips for Parents to Manage Childhood Anxiety and OCD – Michelle Malloy, MFT, PMH-C https://oc-therapy.com/about-us

Are you a parent finding it difficult to figure out how to best support your loved one’s OCD? This presentation is aimed at helping parents to support their children of all ages, while reducing parental support for their OCD behaviors. Utilizing techniques from SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), this talk aids parents in differing anxiety from behavioral issues, learning tools in how to support anxious children, learning how to increase support while reducing accommodations, and finding out how to make small changes that lead to big and successful outcomes! This talk is for parents of adults, young adults, teens, and young children.

The Limits of Logic: Using Insight and Action to Treat OCD – Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. https://www.drdavistherapy.com/

In this talk, we’ll explore why simply applying logic often falls short, and how we can more effectively use thinking skills in OCD treatment. We’ll discuss approaches like cognitive defusion and values-based awareness. We’ll also discuss how to “pull back the curtain” on the ways OCD convinces us of inflated risk—learning to differentiate between what’s possible and what’s probable. Finally, we’ll touch on the role of behavioral change and how to apply action for lasting progress.

——————————————

CE Talks for Professionals: For clinicians interested in earning 3 CEs, these are the following CE presentations:

Differential Diagnosis and Functional Analysis: Understanding Your Patient – Curtis Hsia, Ph.D. https://ocanxietycenter.com/bio/

Treatment of OCD has been well established and while the nuances are complex, the general application is well documented.  In clinical settings one of the overlooked aspects is proper assessment.  Very often misdiagnoses occur, both in regards to the correct disorder, and even within OCD how the obsessions affect the compulsions.  

In this lecture, participants will learn the basics of differential diagnosis, functional analysis and construction of a treatment protocol.  Examples will be given as well as case examples from the participants will be discussed.

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

Family Accommodation in OCD: Identification and Clinical Application – Barbara Van Noppen, Ph.D. http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/ and Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. http://www.drdavistherapy.com/

Family accommodation predicts poorer therapeutic outcomes and is associated with greater OCD impairment. This presentation will explain accommodation behaviors through the lens of functional behavioral analysis. Specific types of family accommodation in OCD will be identified along with validated measures. We will then discuss methods of accommodation reduction that can be used for child through adult populations including common language, family contracts, and motivational scripts. Video will be used to demonstrate behavioral family contracting. We will end with a discussion of child methodologies including the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Emotions program (SPACE) and token economies. 

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

Troubleshooting Common Roadblocks in Successful OCD Treatment with Advanced Therapeutic Interventions – Chris Trondsen, LMFT https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/ and Stephanie Davis, Ph.D. https://www.drdavistherapy.com/

As clinicians, we are taught manualized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, clients often do not fit neatly into treatment plans from start to finish, leading clinicians to think on the fly and offer solutions to these treatment roadblocks.

This CE talk looks at common challenges in the therapeutic process, including co-occurring disorders, family accommodations, medication changes, treatment resistance, a lack of motivation, secondary gains, clients reducing sessions prematurely (i.e., clients deciding to end therapy before the agreed-upon time), stagnation, and other common behaviors and mindsets that hinder a client from entering the recovery phase of treatment.

To conclude the presentation, bring questions regarding the common roadblocks you experience when working with complex cases to the question-and-answer segment that will conclude the presentation.

[CE Talk for Licensed Clinicians]

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We look forward to seeing everyone at the OC event. Make sure to register before the price goes up after the early bird discounted cost (last day is Sunday, April 20th), or before the event is sold out! For more information and to register for the event, click here: OCD SoCal Speaker Series Orange County Ticket Registration – EventBrite.

A reminder, OCD Southern California is offering 3 CEs for LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, and Psychologists who attend the CE track of this event!

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INFORMATION ON THE 12 PRESENTERS FOR THE ORANGE COUNTY SPEAKER SERIES BEING HELD ON SATURDAY, May 3rd, 10AM – 3PM!

Registration is open for OCD SoCal’s Orange County Speaker Series. The event is happening at Orange Coast College, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10am – 3pm PT. A catered lunch, beverages, and parking are provided. For more information and to register for the event, click here: OCD SoCal Speaker Series Orange County Ticket Registration – EventBrite. Here are the event’s speakers in alphabetical order by first name:

Adam Frank, M.D., Ph.D.

Website: http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/

Bio: Dr. Adam C. Frank is a psychiatrist, researcher, and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Frank currently divides his time between caring for individuals with OCD in an outpatient psychiatry clinic, supervising and teaching psychiatry residents at USC, and conducting research on the mechanisms of OCD and improving treatment outcomes through the use of neuroimaging, wearable biosensors, and neuromodulation. 

Barbara Van Noppen, Ph.D., LCSW

Website: http://ocdsocal.org/about-us/board-of-directors/

Bio: Barbara Van Noppen, Ph.D. is the Vice Chair for Faculty Development, Director of Well-being, and Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences at University of Southern California (USC), Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles. Dr. Van Noppen is co-Director (with Adam Frank, MD) of the OCD Treatment and Research Program at Keck Medicine, USC. As an internationally recognized specialist in cognitive behavioral therapy and family-based treatment, Dr. Van Noppen has treated OCD for 39 years and “coined” the term “Family Accommodation” for OCD in 1990. 

She teaches and supervises in the residency training program at LA General Medical Center, serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the International OCD Foundation, the Scientific Advisory Committee of The Canadian Institute for Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (CIOCD) and International Accreditation Task Force. Dr. Van Noppen is most well known for her contributions in OCD family treatment, particularly the development of a Multifamily Behavioral Treatment (MFBT), Family Accommodation Scale (FAS), group CBT for OCD and she has numerous publications and clinical research in these areas. In addition, Dr. Van Noppen is a faculty member for the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute of the International OCD Foundation, and is on editorial boards for peer reviewed journal articles on OCD. 

Chris Trondsen, LMFT

Website: https://www.gatewayocd.com/chris-trondsen/

Bio: Chris Trondsen suffered with severe OCD, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), major depressive disorder, along with the anxiety that came with these disorders, until receiving specialized treatment. No longer under the control of the disorders, Chris now works as a licensed clinician in the mental health field, treating OCD, BDD, and related disorders at The Gateway Institute in Costa Mesa, California. Chris has shared his story of recovery on the Montel Williams Show, Dr. Drew, Fox 5 San Diego, Vox, Vice, Buzzfeed, NBC, Wondermind, as well as speaking at International OCD Foudnation (IOCDF) annual conferences. He is Vice President of OCD Southern California and also serves on the Board of Directors of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). Additionally, he is one of the IOCDF’s lead advocates publicly sharing his recovery story. He is also a leader of multiple IOCDF Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and created the Young Adult Track at the annual IOCDF conference. He hosts a livestream (“Ask The Experts” and “Lunch and Learn”) every Wednesday, from 9am – 10am PT for the IOCDF.

Curtis Hsia, Ph.D.

Website: https://ocanxietycenter.com/bio/

Bio: Curtis Hsia is a SoCal native, having completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA.  He earned his Ph.D. at Hofstra University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Boston University’s Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders. Dr. Hsia then held a professorship at Azusa Pacific University for a decade before founding the OC Anxiety Center.  He has been involved with the OCD community since his internship in 1998 at the Bio-Behavioral Institute, and has authored over a dozen peer reviewed articles, and presented over a hundred workshops, symposia, paper and poster presentations domestically and internationally, and is active with the International OCD Foundation.

Kelley Franke, LMFT

Website: https://centerforocd.com

Bio: Kelley Franke is the Director at The Center for OCD, a private practice specializing in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with a focus on Exposure & Response Prevention, in adults, adolescents, and children suffering from OCD, and other Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders. Kelley completed her master’s in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. She received her initial training at The OCD Center of Los Angeles. Additionally, she received training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy from Behavioral Tech Research through The Linehan Institute. Kelley is also the co-host of Purely OCD and has spoken at numerous conferences specifically related to the treatment of OCD.

Kevin Foss, MFT

Website: https://calocd.com

Bio: Kevin Foss, MFT, is the director of the California OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center in Fullerton, CA. His clinical specialization spans the full range of the anxiety spectrum. In addition to speaking on various aspects of OC-spectrum disorders and writing for Psychology Today, he is the host of the FearCast Podcast, a question and answer based show about OCD and anxiety. 

Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT

Website: https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com

Bio: Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT, is dedicated to providing outstanding therapy and counseling for those with OCD and related disorders, eating disorders, and body focused repetitive disorders (BFRBs). Her approach is both collaborative and compassionate. Kimberley has extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure response prevention (ERP) for OCD and OCD-related disorders. Additionally, she teaches other clinicians how to provide quality CBT and ERP for OCD and OCD related disorders. Kimberley also hosts the “Your Anxiety Toolkit” podcast!

Lauren Rosen, LMFT 

Website: https://theobsessivemind.com

Bio: Lauren Rosen is a psychotherapist and the director of the Center for the Obsessive Mind, an outpatient clinic serving individuals in California, Florida, Utah, Nevada and Oregon. Lauren specializes in treating OCD, Anxiety Disorders & Eating Disorders and supports people using Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Lauren has her BA and MA in Psychology from UCLA and Antioch University, trained at the OCD Center of LA and is a certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. In addition to her work as a therapist, Lauren co-hosts the Purely OCD Podcast and does social media advocacy.

Matt Codde, LCSW

Website: https://www.restoredminds.com

Bio: Matt Codde is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in helping people overcome OCD & Anxiety-Related disorders. Matt is the founder of the online platform Restored Minds, the host of the OCD & Anxiety Show, and the author of From Stuck to Unstuck. Matt offers a unique approach to treatment that draws from both personal and clinical experience. You can connect with Matt through his website www.restoredminds.com.

Michelle Malloy, MFT, PMH-C

Website: https://oc-therapy.com/about-us

Bio: Michelle Malloy, MFT, PMH-C, completed her Bachelor’s Degree at UCLA in Psychology and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Cal State Fullerton. She has worked in mental health for over twenty years. She received training from the UCLA Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Clinic and Western Youth Services. Michelle has completed the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI)’s general and pediatric training programs through the International OCD Foundation and specializes in using cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure and response prevention to treat OCD. She also treats generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and eating disorders. Additionally, she is certified in perinatal mental health and EMDR trained.

Sepehr “Sheperd” Aziz, D.O. 

Website: https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/sheperd-aziz/

Bio: Dr. Sepehr “Sheperd” Aziz is a physician and currently Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, where he works in an outpatient psychiatry clinic seeing university students on campus. He completed his general psychiatry residency training at the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMass), and a subspecialty fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) where he worked in the OCD and Tic disorders specialty clinic. His research experience includes clinical trials of stimulant medications for ADHD and esketamine for refractory depression. In addition to English, he speaks fluent Persian. His approach to psychiatry is integrative, individualized, and culturally-informed.

Stephanie Davis, Ph.D.

Website: https://www.drdavistherapy.com/

Bio: Dr. Stephanie Davis is a licensed psychologist who runs a private practice in Orange County specializing in OCD, anxiety disorders, and misophonia. She began her clinical career counseling young adult populations at universities (BYU, Texas A&M, and St. Edward’s). While there she led anxiety and OCD groups, supervised graduate students in their clinical work, and supervised employees at a university crisis hotline. To further solidify her specialization in anxiety disorders and OCD, Dr. Davis completed a second post-doctoral position at the Orange County Anxiety Center and continued working there until opening her private practice. Dr. Davis offers consultation services to clinicians and is a frequent speaker at conferences and community events addressing OCD and anxiety-related concerns.

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We look forward to seeing everyone at the OC event. Make sure to register before the price goes up after the early bird discounted cost, or the event is sold out! For more information and to register for the event, click here: OCD SoCal Speaker Series Orange County Ticket Registration – EventBrite.

A reminder, OCD Southern California is offering 3 CEs for LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, and Psychologists who attend the CE track of this event!

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REGISTRATION FOR OCD SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S 2025 SPEAKERS SERIES IS NOW OPEN. REGISTER TODAY FOR THESE IN-PERSON EVENTS!

OCD Southern California is happy to announce the return of the Speakers Series in 2025!  Speakers Series events will be held in San Diego in April and Orange County in May.

These free or low-cost, in-person events will feature presentations by local OCD specialist treatment providers. They will facilitate panels and presentations on OCD and related disorders and host a question-and-answer segment. This will also be an excellent opportunity to meet and connect with others in the local OCD community. 

These events are for individuals with OCD, their family members and loved ones, and anyone wanting to learn more about OCD. General talks will be offered, and the Speakers Series will end with a Q&A session featuring many of the day’s speakers. 

A professional tract will be offered at the Orange County location, and clinicians can earn 3 CE credits for the day.

For further information on the Speakers Series, please contact us through email at info@ocdsocal.org. Note, the Inland Empire Speaker Series is happening in October. More information on that event later on this year.

Please scroll below for more information and for the link to register for the San Diego and Orange County events!

The San Diego Speakers Series is Sold Out.

On Saturday, April 26, San Diego will be hosting their event from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM PST. This FREE event will be held at the Mira Mesa Library at 8405 New Salem Street in San Diego.  Food and Beverages will be provided, and free parking is available.

There will be two panel presentations and a Q&A session at the end. The presentation titles are:

From A to Z: How to Get and Do Effective Treatment for ERP (clinician panel)

Breaking the Cycle: OCD, Family Accommodation and the Path to Support (Family & Loved Ones Panel).

This event is being held in a public library. Therefore, we are not able to charge for tickets to this event. When you register, please consider a donation to help us continue to sponsor free and low cost events such as this one.  

Link: The San Diego Speakers Series is Sold Out. 

LINK: REGISTER for the Orange County Speakers Series Here

Orange County will host a Speakers Series on Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST.  This event is being held at Orange Coast College at 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.  There is free parking adjacent to the event location. 

This event is open to individuals with OCD, their family members and loved ones, mental health providers, students, and the general public. Talks for the general public will be presented throughout the day. Beverages and a catered lunch will be provided.

Early bird registration is $10 per individual. Registration costs will increase to $15.00, beginning April 21. The low-cost sign-up will aid our non-profit in covering venue and food costs. 

This event is also for mental health providers wanting to learn more about OCD. There will be a clinician tract at Orange County, and we are offering 3 CE credits to licensed clinicians who attend the full day. For licensed therapists (LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, and psychologists), please purchase the Professional ticket when you register.

LINK: REGISTER for the Orange County Speakers Series Here

Link: REGISTER for the Los Angeles Speakers Series

Los Angeles will host a Speakers Series on Sunday, May 3 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST.  This event is being held at the USC Health Sciences Campus, 2250 Alcazar Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
There is a parking lot adjacent to the event site.  Further information will be provided regarding parking.

This event is open to individuals with OCD, their family members and loved ones, mental health providers, students, and the general public. Talks for the general public will be presented throughout the day. 

Beverages and a catered lunch will be provided.

The suggested donation is $15.00. The low-cost sign-up will aid our non-profit in covering venue and food costs. 

This event is also for mental health providers wanting to learn more about OCD. There will be a clinician track at the Los Angeles event, and we are offering 3 CE credits to licensed clinicians who attend the full day. For licensed therapists (LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, and psychologists), please purchase the Professional ticket when you register. 

Link: REGISTER for the Los Angeles Speakers Series

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We hope to see you at one — or all three — of our Speaker Series events!

Published

The Online OCD Conference, A Global Event hosted by OCD SoCal is Now Accepting Proposals for Our November 15-16, 2025 Conference!

SUBMISSION LINK to Submit a Proposal for Our Online OCD Conference!

You may have seen that the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) will no longer host its Online OCD Conference. OCD Southern California has been hosting conferences since 2015, and in 2023, OCD SoCal co-hosted the Online OCD Conference with the IOCDF. With this loss of an online Fall conference, we are happy to step in and present the Online OCD Conference, a Global Event — Hosted by OCD SoCal! The event will be held Saturday and Sunday, November 15 -16, 2025.

In previous years, the IOCDF virtual conference has been a cornerstone for global collaboration, bringing together experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. As we step into this role, we are committed to upholding its rich history while introducing fresh perspectives and opportunities for engagement.

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to presenting, we invite you to participate in the OCD Online Conference, a globally connected event that brings together varied voices from around the world. Our proposal system is officially open today! We welcome innovative ideas, fresh perspectives, and research that resonates across borders from mental health providers, researchers, individuals with lived experience and their families, and others interested in speaking on OCD and related disorders.

If you would like to speak at this conference, please follow this link to submit a proposal (Note, you must be signed in to a Google account to access the proposal form): SUBMISSION LINK

The deadline for proposals is Monday, May 12, 2025.

See the Proposal Form for Answers to FAQs. We hope you consider submitting a proposal!