What is ERP?
Exposure and Response Prevention is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy and considered the first-line treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder [OCD].
Exposure & Response Prevention
E. The Exposure component focuses on confronting thoughts, images, objects and situations that deliberately elicit anxiety and provoke obsessive thoughts.
RP. The Response (or ritual) Prevention component is choosing not to engage in compulsive behavior in response to the trigger.
We will be side by side while completing exposures to start…
Over the course of treatment you will be self monitoring and completing exposures on your own. This might sound anxiety inducing, and because we’re targeting the fear structure of the brain, you might experience a short-term increase in anxiety. However, ERP reduces anxiety in the long-term when you confront the triggers, process the emotions, and reduce frequency of engaging in compulsions.
What individuals may gain upon completing ERP:
A sense of mastery over OCD
Weakened habit of responding to obsessions with compulsions
A reduction in avoidance
Getting your time & mental space back
New learning & experiences
Increased tolerance of uncertainty
Disconfirmation of feared consequences
OCD can feel debilitating and you don’t have to fight it alone.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement of therapy.
If you’re interested in learning more or determining if ERP would be an appropriate step, contact me or schedule a consultation.