247. When You’re Married to Someone with OCD with Larinda Horton

In this episode, Carrie is joined by licensed professional counselor Larinda Horton to explore how to support a spouse with OCD without feeding the cycle, while also caring for your own well-being.

Episode Highlights: 

• Why a loving response to OCD can sometimes make it stronger
• How to separate your spouse from the diagnosis and face it as a team
• What healthy boundaries sound like when they come from care, not punishment
• How to manage frustration when recovery feels slow
• Three simple words that can improve how couples talk about OCD

How Do You Support a Spouse With OCD Without Making Things Worse?

Many of you asked for this episode. Spouses, parents, pastors, and people living with OCD all wanted to know how to help well. Lorinda shares what she sees in her work with couples and where most of them begin. She also explains why caring for your own needs matters just as much as caring for theirs.

How Can Couples Separate the Person From the OCD?

It is easy to start seeing your spouse as the problem. Lorinda explains a simple shift that reduces defensiveness and removes shame. It gives couples a better way to face hard moments together. It also invites each partner to look honestly at their own role.

Is Reassurance Helping Your Spouse With OCD or Making Anxiety Worse?

Comforting words feel kind, but they do not always help. Lorinda explains why, and we look at everyday examples of accommodation. Some of them may surprise you. She also offers a few alternative phrases you can try in place of reassurance.

What Are Healthy Boundaries When Your Spouse Has OCD?

Boundaries can sound harsh, especially in a Christian marriage. Lorinda offers a gentler way to think about them and a few phrases that sound like support. We also talk about rumination and religious obsessions. She also helps spouses see what is theirs to carry and what is not.

What Can You Do When Your Spouse Refuses OCD Treatment?

Many spouses are living this right now. We talk about frustration, compassion fatigue, and what to do when your spouse is not ready for help. Lorinda also shares one small question that can open a better conversation. She also talks about the kind of support you need while you wait.

Listen to the full episode.

Connect with Larinda:

www.fortheonecounseling.com/larinda-horton