In this insightful episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini sits down with psychotherapist Dana Colthart to explore the frequently overlooked connection between Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and eating disorders. While many view eating disorders as being strictly about food or willpower, Dana highlights how underlying traits like perfectionism, rigidity, and "black and white" thinking create a perfect storm for disordered eating. Listeners will learn how eating disorder behaviors often serve as a coping mechanism for OCD-related distress and why traditional talk therapy might not be enough without the inclusion of specialized exposure work. Whether you're a professional or someone on a personal recovery journey, this episode offers a roadmap for rewiring the brain’s fear response to find true freedom from rituals and rules.

Dana Colthart, LCSW CEDS psychotherapist in private practice in New Jersey. Treats OCD, anxiety, phobias and eating disorders. ERP and ACT specialist.

KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:

  • How OCD is frequently misdiagnosed as General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and why the distinction matters.
  • The shared psychological traits—perfectionism and rigidity—that link OCD and Eating Disorders.
  • The role of "Scientist Mode" and how obsessive research (like "Dr. Google") fuels the anxiety cycle.
  • How to utilize Exposure Therapy (ERP) to rewire the brain's "fear map" regarding food and body checking.
  • Why renourishing the brain is the mandatory first step before rational thinking and therapy can truly take hold.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Intrusive Thoughts: These are unwanted, distressing thoughts—such as the fear of causing harm or forgetting an allergen—that trigger the brain's overactive internal alarm.
  • Compulsions and Relief: Rituals like weighing, calorie counting, or seeking reassurance provide temporary relief, but ultimately strengthen the brain's belief that a "danger" exists.
  • The Fear Map: When we avoid a specific food, we "teach" our brain it is dangerous. Exposure work is the process of updating this map to show the brain that the food is actually safe.
  • The Scientist Mode: A state of hyper-fixation where individuals use research, apps, or AI to find certainty in an attempt to lower anxiety.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • [00:00] The "mind-blown" moment: Challenging the BMI and outdated health markers.
  • [03:15] Dana’s journey from general psychotherapy to the world of OCD and ED overlap.
  • [05:40] Why the CEDS (Certified Eating Disorder Specialist) designation is vital for clinical confidence.
  • [07:22] How eating disorder behaviors serve as a tool to manage intense OCD distress.
  • [09:05] Identifying intrusive thoughts and the overactive "alarm system" in the brain.
  • [12:45] Body checking and mental math: Analyzing the fleeting relief of compulsions.
  • [18:30] Psychoeducation: Unpacking why rigid dieting and exercise cycles eventually fail.
  • [26:15] Applying the principles of Exposure Therapy (ERP) to food fears and bridges.
  • [30:50] Rewiring the brain’s fear pathways through consistent behavioral change.
  • [38:20] The biological imperative: How renourishment restores mental clarity.

CONNECT WITH DANA:

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

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Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

The content of this podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or affiliated organizations. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to topics related to body image, weight stigma, and eating disorders.