On Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Olfactory Reference Disorder

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about two distinct but related diagnoses: obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and olfactory reference disorder (ORD), a lesser-known condition characterized by abnormal preoccupation with body odor. Dr. Phillips explains how the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors central to both OCD and ORD can cause profound distress and impairment. She discusses how the two differ in their core features, explains why ORD is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and provides an overview of the effective, evidence-based treatments for both disorders.