Episode 7
The term OCD might be common now, but many still don’t understand what living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is like.
David Ross, Executive Director of Grand Rapids Pasadena Villa Outpatient, sits down with Anxiety Unraveled Podcast Host Mike Maddox to discuss this important, and often misunderstood, mental health condition.
David shares how OCD is strongly connected to anxiety because the obsessions created are typically around fear, doubt, or uncertainty. The compulsion is the person’s attempt to reduce that anxiety. He says intrusive thoughts are not usually the problem themselves.
“Everyone has random thoughts. The problem is how OCD responds to those thoughts,” Dave says. “OCD treats every thought like it’s a threat. That it must be solved to be prevented. That it needs to be checked, or neutralized, or explained. It creates a lot of anxiety because we constantly need the reassurance that we are safe.”
Mike said OCD is often called the doubting disorder. He shares examples from his life, explaining how OCD can feel like “you’re fighting this monster that’s bigger than you.”
About our Podcast Guest:
David Ross, LMSW, MBA, is the Executive Director of Pasadena Villa Outpatient Services in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he leads Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programming for individuals with complex mental health needs. He has experience in outpatient treatment, crisis services, clinical supervision, program development, regulatory compliance, and community education.
David holds a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University and an MBA in Healthcare Administration. His background includes leading high-acuity crisis programs, supporting suicide prevention efforts, developing multidisciplinary teams, and expanding access to care in both urban and rural communities. David is deeply committed to helping others feel seen, supported, and empowered in their recovery. He is passionate about creating spaces where individuals can better understand themselves, build practical skills, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
