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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a highly effective, golden-standard treatment for OCD. It helps people reduce obsessions and compulsions by gradually facing feared situations, thoughts, or triggers while resisting rituals and avoidance.
ERP treatment begins with a few sessions of assessment and psychoeducation, followed by creating an exposure hierarchy - an organized list of fears to work through from easier to harder. With the therapist's assistance, clients confront these fears in planned exercises without performing compulsions. This process teaches that anxiety and uncertainty are not dangerous, distress will naturally decrease over time, and feared outcomes are unlikely. With repeated practice, ERP helps "rewire" the brain and builds confidence in managing OCD symptoms.
ERP Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, treatment lasts about 12-20 weekly sessions but this may vary. Factors like severe depression or substance use may increase the length of treatment.
Treatment can be conducted in-person or virtually. Currently, I only offer virtual sessions.
ERP works best when clients are willing to engage in the work. ERP is a homework-heavy treatment that requires client commitment in order to achieve the best results.
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