ERP Therapy for OCD (Exposure Response Prevention)

Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). ERP helps you break free from the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that can feel overwhelming, exhausting, or out of your control.

Rather than trying to “get rid of” intrusive thoughts (which usually makes them stronger), ERP gently teaches your brain a new way of responding to them.

How ERP Works

ERP has two core parts:

1. Exposure:
You gradually and safely face the thoughts, images, or situations that trigger your anxiety or OCD urges. These exposures are done collaboratively, at your pace, and always with support.

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2. Response Prevention:
You practice resisting the compulsions, rituals, or avoidance behaviors that usually reduce anxiety in the short term—but keep OCD strong over time.

Together, these steps help retrain the brain to recognize that:
   •    The feared thought is not dangerous
   •    Anxiety naturally rises and falls on its own
   •    Compulsions are optional, not required for safety or relief

Over time, what once felt unbearable becomes manageable—and often barely noticeable.

What ERP Helps With

ERP is especially effective for:
   •    Relationship OCD (ROCD)
   •    Checking compulsions
   •    Contamination fears
   •    Harm or moral obsessions
   •    Sexual or taboo intrusive thoughts
   •    Perfectionism / “just right” OCD
   •    Intrusive doubts about identity

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What ERP Feels Like

ERP is challenging but surprisingly empowering.

Most clients describe it as:
   •    “Hard at first, freeing over time.”
   •    “The first treatment that actually reduced the thoughts.”
   •    “A way to get my life back instead of obeying OCD.”

With consistent support, ERP builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of agency over your mind.

Let’s Work Together

Get in touch so we can start working together.