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On this episode of Trust Me Mom, I spoke with Alexandra (Alex) Dimoff, a licensed professional counselor specializing in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children and screen addictions. Our conversation covered everything from spotting early signs of OCD to practical strategies for managing excessive screen time at home. What OCD Really Is? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) has two parts:
Classic examples include excessive handwashing or repeatedly turning lights on and off. But OCD isn’t just about quirks; to be diagnosed at a clinical level, symptoms must:
Where OCD Comes From? OCD can develop due to genetic predisposition or environmental triggers. In some cases, excessive use of electronics or video games can fuel obsessive behaviors. Alex explained that video games are designed to keep players hooked — from endless levels and collectible “skins” to time-limited rewards that create a fear of missing out. For kids, these virtual rewards can feel as important as money or status in the adult world.  A Case Study: Reward Systems That Work Alex shared the story of a young client with autism and OCD who would pull out hair or pick skin to get attention. Instead of relying on punishment, Alex introduced a reward system:
Why Parents’ Role Is Critical Therapy is just one hour a week — the rest happens at home. Alex stressed that parent participation is essential. But big changes can be overwhelming, so she starts with small, manageable steps:
Managing Screen Addiction Alex recommends priming — telling kids exactly what to expect before screen time begins and when it will end. Timers and countdown clocks help make the transition smoother, and giving a five-minute warning before stopping play can reduce meltdowns. If aggression happens despite warnings, Alex suggests:
For extreme aggression or property damage, a safe timeout space free of breakables can help prevent harm. Who Outgrows Screen Addiction? Alex believes it comes down to support systems. With encouragement from parents and therapists and positive experiences with face-to-face interaction, kids can naturally shift away from relying on screens for social fulfillment. Without that support, the habit can persist into adulthood. When to Seek Help Parents should consider therapy when:
Alex suggests starting with a 6–12 month commitment to therapy to see meaningful change. Medication can be added depending on the family’s beliefs and the child’s needs. Relapse and Lifelong Management Some OCD tendencies may reappear during stressful life events, but with the right skills, kids can learn to manage new obsessions. Understanding the beliefs driving the compulsion is key to breaking the cycle.  Catch the latest podcast episode featuring Alex Dimoff (Season 1, episode 20) where we explore the complexities of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and screen addictions in children. Discover how family history and environmental factors contribute to OCD, and learn about effective interventions and therapies. Final Advice for Parents
Alex’s parting words: “Be kind to yourself because I know that you have a plan on paper with all of these interventions and it sounds really great in that it's going to run smooth and as expected, but when you go to carry out the plan, life happens and there's barriers in the way, so don't get discouraged whenever it's not going according to the plan.” You can learn more about Alex Dimoff through her Psychology Today profile or reach her via email at [email protected].
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