Beyond the Stereotypes: Understanding the Nuances of OCD

About the Session

OCD is often misunderstood and oversimplified, even among clinical counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, with many assuming it revolves primarily around order, symmetry, or cleanliness. In reality, OCD manifests in a wide range of nuanced subtypes, some of which carry significant shame, making it difficult for clients to share their experiences.   

In this session, clinicians will learn how to identify varying clinical presentations of OCD and help support their clients effectively.  

What you will learn 

• Recognize the diverse presentations of OCD, particularly those that defy common stereotypes. 
• Explore how to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to discuss their symptoms. 
• Strategies for working sensitively with OCD clients. 
• How to steer clear of strategies that may seem helpful but are counterproductive. 

Format

Experiential, case discussions and activities with resources provided. 

Speakers

Brendon Boire

Brendon Boire, MA, RCC, is the founder of New Heights OCD & Anxiety, a specialty clinic dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment for individuals suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders. Brendon is deeply passionate about mentoring and training clinicians to address the growing need for OCD services in the community.

Brendon previously served as the Clinical Counsellor Practice Lead for Vancouver Coastal Health’s Coastal Community of Care and as Manager for the VCH Adult ADHD Clinic.

Casey Marsh

A Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders. She works with New Heights OCD & Anxiety Clinic and has received advanced training through New Heights and other leading institutions.

Casey offers compassionate, evidence-based care using ERP, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She also draws on Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in navigating OCD and anxiety-related challenges.

With over 15 years of experience in education and mental health‚ and lived experience with OCD‚ Casey brings both clinical expertise and personal insight to her work.

Bonnie Kuyvenhoven

A Registered Clinical Counsellor and Canadian Certified Counsellor based in Victoria, specializing in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders. She works with New Heights OCD & Anxiety Clinic and also operates a private practice, offering compassionate, evidence-based care (ERP, I-CBT and ACT) to individuals navigating OCD and related anxiety disorders. Bonnie brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work.