ERP Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
What Is ERP?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard, evidence-based treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It's a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) designed to help you break free from the exhausting cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions.
ERP works by gently and gradually exposing you to the thoughts, images, objects, or situations that trigger your anxiety—while helping you resist the urge to perform compulsions. Over time, this process reduces the power OCD has over your life.
How ERP Helps
ERP therapy can reduce both the intensity of intrusive thoughts and the need to engage in compulsions. It helps you:
Break free from cycles of checking, washing, counting, reassurance seeking, etc.
Reduce avoidance of places, people, or triggers
Lessen distress from unwanted or taboo intrusive thoughts
Decrease time spent in worrying and rumination
Reconnect with the things that matter most to you
Live more fully, making decisions based on values rather than fear
What ERP Looks Like in Practice
In ERP therapy, you and I work together to:
Explain
Explain the nature of OCD, how it develops, and how it is maintained
Identify
Identify your unique obsessions, fears, and compulsions
Practice Response Prevention
Practice strategies to sit with uncertainty instead of engaging in a ritual or compulsion
Create Hierarchy
Create a personalized hierarchy of challenges, starting small and building confidence
Practice Exposures
Practice exposures in a safe, supportive environment while resisting urges to perform compulsions
Build Resilience
Build resilience so that OCD no longer controls your life
The process is collaborative—we go at your pace, balancing safety with growth.
Why Work With Me
I specialize in OCD treatment and have advanced training in ERP. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental. Many clients are afraid to share their intrusive thoughts, but in therapy, you'll never be judged. Instead, you'll find understanding and tools that work.
Hope Is Possible
OCD can make life feel small, exhausting, and overwhelming—but it doesn't have to stay that way. With ERP therapy, recovery is possible, and freedom is within reach.
Book Your Free 15-Minute ConsultRelated Services
Explore other areas where I can support you
OCD Therapy
Comprehensive OCD treatment including ERP, understanding OCD subtypes, and breaking the OCD cycle.
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