Feb 12, 2025
In this episode Zack talks with Camille Wrege, an occupational therapist at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, about her journey into occupational therapy (OT) and how she applies it to mental health treatment for teenagers with anxiety and OCD. Camille shares her personal background, including how early experiences with her grandfather and a passion for holistic care led her to pursue occupational therapy. She highlights the role of OT in supporting young people by improving functional skills like hygiene, social participation, executive functioning, and independent living. Camille also discusses the intersection of OT and exposure therapy, emphasizing the importance of grading exposures appropriately to build confidence and resilience.
Throughout the episode, Camille reinforces her core belief in the power of connection, both as a personal value and a fundamental aspect of her therapeutic approach. She explains how OT facilitates social engagement, helping clients build relationships, navigate daily challenges, and integrate exposure-based interventions into real-life activities. The conversation also delves into her experiences working with clients, such as guiding a young adult through meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking to overcome OCD-related fears. The episode concludes with Camille’s advice for those struggling with mental health: prioritize self-care through sleep, nutrition, movement, and human connection.
Zack Hack: This week’s Zack shares a reflective quote to help you fear less!
Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.