Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a type of behavioral therapy used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The therapy involves exposing the individual to the thoughts, images, or situations that trigger their obsessions (exposure) and then preventing them from engaging in the compulsive behaviors (response prevention) that they typically use to reduce anxiety.

The ultimate goal of ERP is for an OCD sufferer to reclaim their life. That is, to go back to living life without restrictions imposed by OCD. When doing ERP, individuals learn that they can handle the anxiety and discomfort associated with their obsessions without engaging in compulsive behaviors and without avoidance.

ERP typically begins with a comprehensive assessment of the individual's specific obsessions and compulsions. This helps the therapist to develop an individualized treatment plan. The exposure component of ERP involves exposing the individual to the specific thoughts, images, or situations that trigger their obsessions, in a controlled and safe environment.

Response prevention involves preventing the individual from engaging in the compulsive behaviors they typically use to reduce anxiety. This can be challenging, as these behaviors may provide temporary relief, but it is crucial to the success of ERP. The therapist will help the individual to develop alternative coping strategies that can be used in place of compulsive behaviors.

ERP therapy is usually done in a one-to-one setting with a therapist trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and can be done in individual or group therapy sessions. It typically requires a commitment to several weeks or months of regular therapy sessions, as well as homework assignments that involve real-life exposure exercises. The therapy is considered to be highly effective in treating OCD, with research showing that the majority of individuals who complete ERP experience significant reductions in their symptoms.