Photo of London Centre for Trauma Therapy, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
London Centre for Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, RP-Q, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
The LCTT is an award-winning psychotherapy clinic. We understand your pain- depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelm. We know you're tired of living the same old story, that you want to move on from the past but don't know how. When your parenting, relationships and happiness are all suffering, you need change and you need help. It is so frustrating when you wonder, "what is wrong with me?!" or- you know what's wrong, but have no idea how to change. Maybe the ways you have tried before have failed you, or only lasted a little while. Take a breath- you're in the right spot and we are going to help you transform.
The LCTT is an award-winning psychotherapy clinic. We understand your pain- depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelm. We know you're tired of living the same old story, that you want to move on from the past but don't know how. When your parenting, relationships and happiness are all suffering, you need change and you need help. It is so frustrating when you wonder, "what is wrong with me?!" or- you know what's wrong, but have no idea how to change. Maybe the ways you have tried before have failed you, or only lasted a little while. Take a breath- you're in the right spot and we are going to help you transform.
(226) 400-3856 View (226) 400-3856

Online Therapists

Photo of Melanie Russell, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Melanie Russell
Registered Psychotherapist, BAPsy, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M  (Online Only)
Some of the models I use include CBT, DBT, ERP, CPT, ACT, Family Systems Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Approach, among others.
As a registered psychotherapist, I have 23 years of experience working with clients struggling with their mental health. My career started in 2000 when I began working with clients with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, personality disorders, somatic disorders, chronic pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, PTSD, and survivors of sexual abuse and assault in private and community clinics. Over the years, I have also accumulated continuing education in family and couple therapy as often mental health influences or relates to our interpersonal relationships.
Some of the models I use include CBT, DBT, ERP, CPT, ACT, Family Systems Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Approach, among others.
As a registered psychotherapist, I have 23 years of experience working with clients struggling with their mental health. My career started in 2000 when I began working with clients with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, personality disorders, somatic disorders, chronic pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, PTSD, and survivors of sexual abuse and assault in private and community clinics. Over the years, I have also accumulated continuing education in family and couple therapy as often mental health influences or relates to our interpersonal relationships.
(289) 312-8634 View (289) 312-8634
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in St Thomas, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N  (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
(289) 806-1148 View (289) 806-1148
Photo of Vittoria Kristina DeSimone-Maida, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Vittoria Kristina DeSimone-Maida
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Overwhelmed? Alone? Stuck ? Are you experiencing a transition in your life that seems unbearable? Are you feeling angst and anxiety that has overtaken your daily schedule? My approach is client centered, warm and non judgmental. I feel it is important to create a safe space for all individuals. I think addressing the whole individual (mind, body, and soul) is imperative to healing. For those who prefer, I am willing to discuss existential questions like “Who am I?, What is my life’s purpose?, What is my mission in life?” While sitting with me we can explore your connection with a Higher Power(God, Mother Earth, The Universe etc.)
Overwhelmed? Alone? Stuck ? Are you experiencing a transition in your life that seems unbearable? Are you feeling angst and anxiety that has overtaken your daily schedule? My approach is client centered, warm and non judgmental. I feel it is important to create a safe space for all individuals. I think addressing the whole individual (mind, body, and soul) is imperative to healing. For those who prefer, I am willing to discuss existential questions like “Who am I?, What is my life’s purpose?, What is my mission in life?” While sitting with me we can explore your connection with a Higher Power(God, Mother Earth, The Universe etc.)
(289) 210-4940 View (289) 210-4940
Photo of Madelin Donovan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in St Thomas, ON
Madelin Donovan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, BScH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Mental health is fundamental to wellbeing. At times, it can be challenging to prioritize and uphold mental health on our own. In these moments, it helps to turn to others for support, understanding, and insight. Let’s work together to (re)discover your strengths, values, and goals, and navigate your path forward. I offer individual counselling for challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and perfectionism. I also offer couples' counselling to help couples identify unhelpful patterns in their relationship and build more adaptive patterns to deepen their bond.
Mental health is fundamental to wellbeing. At times, it can be challenging to prioritize and uphold mental health on our own. In these moments, it helps to turn to others for support, understanding, and insight. Let’s work together to (re)discover your strengths, values, and goals, and navigate your path forward. I offer individual counselling for challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and perfectionism. I also offer couples' counselling to help couples identify unhelpful patterns in their relationship and build more adaptive patterns to deepen their bond.
(289) 271-1653 View (289) 271-1653
Dr Z- Relationship Bootcamp ZHW
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Remember the love, passion, and excitement your relationship brought you when you were first dating? Want to re-ignite the fire that made you fall deeply in love with your partner? Relationship Bootcamp is a 21 day, intensive program to help you and your partner better understand each other, and yourselves. By doing so, you can stop wasting time, effort and other resources doing what you think your partner wants, and redirect them to what your partner actually wants and needs. At the end of our 21 day relationship bootcamp, you will live the experience of smarter thriving connection with less effort.
Remember the love, passion, and excitement your relationship brought you when you were first dating? Want to re-ignite the fire that made you fall deeply in love with your partner? Relationship Bootcamp is a 21 day, intensive program to help you and your partner better understand each other, and yourselves. By doing so, you can stop wasting time, effort and other resources doing what you think your partner wants, and redirect them to what your partner actually wants and needs. At the end of our 21 day relationship bootcamp, you will live the experience of smarter thriving connection with less effort.
(365) 659-1823 View (365) 659-1823
Photo of Dr. Linda Johnston & Associates, Psychologist in St Thomas, ON
Dr. Linda Johnston & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
Dr. Linda Johnston & Associates are Ph. D. level clinical psychologists and counsellors providing clinical psychology and counselling services in Ontario. Dr. Linda Johnston has twenty-nine years of experience providing psychological services. Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals are able to work with a wide range of issues, and provides counseling in several formats for both individuals as well as couples or relationships. We are warm and compassionate, intensely caring therapists and are happy to help you in Burlington including clients from Oakville, Hamilton, Milton, Ancaster and Dundas.
Dr. Linda Johnston & Associates are Ph. D. level clinical psychologists and counsellors providing clinical psychology and counselling services in Ontario. Dr. Linda Johnston has twenty-nine years of experience providing psychological services. Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals are able to work with a wide range of issues, and provides counseling in several formats for both individuals as well as couples or relationships. We are warm and compassionate, intensely caring therapists and are happy to help you in Burlington including clients from Oakville, Hamilton, Milton, Ancaster and Dundas.
(289) 724-0909 View (289) 724-0909
Photo of Ahmad Shihab, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Ahmad Shihab
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5T
Hello My name is Ahmad Shihab, a Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying and Director of Serenity Psychotherapy Clinic. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families virtually (online). I offer services in English or Arabic (most dialects). When it comes to therapy, my philosophy is that the client is at the heart of the process, and I simply have the privilege to walk alongside them in their journey of healing and growth. I work from a client-centered and integrative theoretical frameworks.
Hello My name is Ahmad Shihab, a Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying and Director of Serenity Psychotherapy Clinic. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families virtually (online). I offer services in English or Arabic (most dialects). When it comes to therapy, my philosophy is that the client is at the heart of the process, and I simply have the privilege to walk alongside them in their journey of healing and growth. I work from a client-centered and integrative theoretical frameworks.
(289) 797-3318 View (289) 797-3318
Photo of Kanwaljit Kaur, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in St Thomas, ON
Kanwaljit Kaur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
(289) 272-7325 View (289) 272-7325
Photo of Dr. Sheila Tervit, Psychologist in St Thomas, ON
Dr. Sheila Tervit
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5M
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
(289) 271-1967 View (289) 271-1967
Photo of Yoke Kennedy, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Yoke Kennedy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Life is full of challenges. We don't always have a choice what challenges we face. But we can choose how we view or overcome these challenges. I believe that we each have our own reserve of resilience waiting to be tapped into. Most of the time we have the strength to face these challenges. Sometimes we reach out to our friends and family for support and that is all we need. At other times, these challenges can overwhelm us and our system of support. We feel alone and helpless. When you are ready for change, let me support you in embracing your challenges and turn them into opportunities to learn something new about yourself.
Life is full of challenges. We don't always have a choice what challenges we face. But we can choose how we view or overcome these challenges. I believe that we each have our own reserve of resilience waiting to be tapped into. Most of the time we have the strength to face these challenges. Sometimes we reach out to our friends and family for support and that is all we need. At other times, these challenges can overwhelm us and our system of support. We feel alone and helpless. When you are ready for change, let me support you in embracing your challenges and turn them into opportunities to learn something new about yourself.
(833) 600-0631 View (833) 600-0631
Photo of Lotus Counselling Services, Susan Giroux, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Lotus Counselling Services, Susan Giroux
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R  (Online Only)
My name is Susan, the newest member of Lotus Counselling Services. A Registered Psychotherapist, I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, interpersonal conflict, lack of balance and other emotional and psychological costs of today’s competitive work environments and how these are compounded by existential challenges. These include relationship issues, life transitions, ageing, sickness and loss. I utilize evidenced based skills and a strong desire to help you move toward the life you want and away from the one you don’t.
My name is Susan, the newest member of Lotus Counselling Services. A Registered Psychotherapist, I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, interpersonal conflict, lack of balance and other emotional and psychological costs of today’s competitive work environments and how these are compounded by existential challenges. These include relationship issues, life transitions, ageing, sickness and loss. I utilize evidenced based skills and a strong desire to help you move toward the life you want and away from the one you don’t.
(289) 804-8475 View (289) 804-8475
Photo of By Peaceful Waters , Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
By Peaceful Waters
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, 422601
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2V
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
(226) 910-0979 View (226) 910-0979
Photo of Stephanie A Tousignant, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Stephanie A Tousignant
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, ON N8X
Waitlist for new clients
We all have lived experiences that tell us a story of who we are. A story of who we may be to ourselves, who we are to our family, how we are able to show up in our personal relationships, and our ability to connect with our children. Sometimes the burden of our experiences creates a story that no longer serves us. One that blocks us from the joy and fulfilment we long for, and instead creates deep feelings of pain, fear, shame, and loneliness. I believe that emotions heal when they are witnessed and validated, and new meanings to old experiences can be transformed and ever changing.
We all have lived experiences that tell us a story of who we are. A story of who we may be to ourselves, who we are to our family, how we are able to show up in our personal relationships, and our ability to connect with our children. Sometimes the burden of our experiences creates a story that no longer serves us. One that blocks us from the joy and fulfilment we long for, and instead creates deep feelings of pain, fear, shame, and loneliness. I believe that emotions heal when they are witnessed and validated, and new meanings to old experiences can be transformed and ever changing.
(226) 741-4397 View (226) 741-4397
Photo of Leah Keating, Psychologist in St Thomas, ON
Leah Keating
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
I believe that many symptoms are adaptations intended to provide temporary relief from painful circumstances. However in the longer term, these adaptations can exacerbate distress. My practice focuses on helping people to develop more sustainable ways of coping, including examining your beliefs, accepting difficult emotions, and increasing self-awareness. Issues I work with include PTSD, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overwhelming emotions. I also work with clients exploring their gender identity and sexual orientation.
I believe that many symptoms are adaptations intended to provide temporary relief from painful circumstances. However in the longer term, these adaptations can exacerbate distress. My practice focuses on helping people to develop more sustainable ways of coping, including examining your beliefs, accepting difficult emotions, and increasing self-awareness. Issues I work with include PTSD, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overwhelming emotions. I also work with clients exploring their gender identity and sexual orientation.
(647) 493-4282 View (647) 493-4282
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in St Thomas, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(236) 239-5085 View (236) 239-5085
Photo of Khatiza Bi, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Khatiza Bi Bi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dundas, ON L9H  (Online Only)
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
(365) 305-0182 View (365) 305-0182
Photo of Dr. Sharleen McDowall - McDowall Psychology, Psychologist in St Thomas, ON
Dr. Sharleen McDowall - McDowall Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6X
In-Person & Virtual - Accepting Client - No Waitlist - Insurance Coverage. McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare (McDowall) is a team of registered psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and therapists-in-training who are committed to providing you with professional, compassionate therapy and assessment services. We offer traditional psychological and psychotherapy services, but when needed, we incorporate integrative therapies in order to provide optimal psychological outcomes. We use an integrative psychology approach that addresses the root causes of your mental health concerns.
In-Person & Virtual - Accepting Client - No Waitlist - Insurance Coverage. McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare (McDowall) is a team of registered psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and therapists-in-training who are committed to providing you with professional, compassionate therapy and assessment services. We offer traditional psychological and psychotherapy services, but when needed, we incorporate integrative therapies in order to provide optimal psychological outcomes. We use an integrative psychology approach that addresses the root causes of your mental health concerns.
(437) 800-0244 x1 View (437) 800-0244 x1
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Kennedy McLean Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Kennedy McLean Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
(289) 210-7135 View (289) 210-7135

See more therapy options for St Thomas

Nearby Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Counsellors Searches for St Thomas

See More Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Counsellors
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Counsellors

Do I need exposure and response prevention therapy?

Many clients decide to seek help for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours when these symptoms are distressing enough to disrupt everyday life. Any thoughts or behaviours that cause friction in close relationships are also worth addressing. In addition, the client’s symptoms don’t have to be severe for them to benefit from ERP therapy.

Is exposure and response prevention therapy part of cognitive behavioural therapy?

Exposure and response prevention is one specific type of CBT that focuses on behavioural change in response to triggering stimuli. It is related to exposure therapy but adds an additional component of preventing compulsive and harmful responses.

How long does exposure and response prevention therapy take?

While every patient is different, exposure and response prevention therapy typically lasts around 12 sessions, although some treatments can take longer. A therapist will determine if the treatment is complete based on how the client faces their fears, particularly the strongest ones. When a client feels less anxiety about stimuli that once evoked terror or distress, that is generally an indication that they are nearing the end of ERP therapy.

What are the limitations of exposure and response prevention therapy?

The most common pitfalls of exposure and response prevention therapy include not addressing a client’s core fears, allowing the client to avoid their most distressing stimuli, and using imaginary exposure when the client requires real-life exposure (and vice versa). ERP therapy is most effective when the client commits to the full course of treatment; if the client stops early or doesn’t practice what they have learned outside of therapy sessions, they are less likely to have successful outcomes.