Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Washington, DC
Using CBT and ERP, I help patients confront distressing triggers and unwanted intrusive thoughts without engaging in rituals.
“Expose yourself to your deepest fear; after that, fear has no power, and the fear of freedom shrinks and vanishes. You are free.” - Jim Morrison. Anxiety, worry, and fear are natural responses to possible dangers and threats. It allows us to account for possible negative consequences and prepare ourselves accordingly. However, sometimes anxiety becomes an ever-present state. This can turn life into a nightmare, constantly perceiving danger at every corner. Thankfully, anxiety disorders, OCD, and related problems are highly treatable. I work with patients to help them overcome their fears and to bring back the joy in their lives.
Using CBT and ERP, I help patients confront distressing triggers and unwanted intrusive thoughts without engaging in rituals.
“Expose yourself to your deepest fear; after that, fear has no power, and the fear of freedom shrinks and vanishes. You are free.” - Jim Morrison. Anxiety, worry, and fear are natural responses to possible dangers and threats. It allows us to account for possible negative consequences and prepare ourselves accordingly. However, sometimes anxiety becomes an ever-present state. This can turn life into a nightmare, constantly perceiving danger at every corner. Thankfully, anxiety disorders, OCD, and related problems are highly treatable. I work with patients to help them overcome their fears and to bring back the joy in their lives.
Chelsey Barrios Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016 (Online Only)
I combine this with concrete, evidence-based therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, and mindfulness/acceptance.
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, adjustment difficulties, ADHD, emotion dysregulation, coping with health issues and chronic illness, and stress-related disorders across the lifespan. I also specialize in women’s mental health and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I further specialize in working with college students and young adults (20's and 30's) through life transitions and identity development. In addition, I consult with parents to develop strategies to support their children, and enact lasting change in the home.
I combine this with concrete, evidence-based therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, and mindfulness/acceptance.
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, adjustment difficulties, ADHD, emotion dysregulation, coping with health issues and chronic illness, and stress-related disorders across the lifespan. I also specialize in women’s mental health and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I further specialize in working with college students and young adults (20's and 30's) through life transitions and identity development. In addition, I consult with parents to develop strategies to support their children, and enact lasting change in the home.
Sophie Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
In ERP, the exposure part means confronting the thoughts, images and situations that heighten our discomfort.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that cause anxiety or distress? Do you get stuck obsessing over these thoughts and what they might mean? Have you developed compulsive behaviors, such as checking or reassurance-seeking, in response to obsessing? I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression and stress, but I have particular expertise with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Living with OCD can feel very isolating, but it doesn't have to be. I help clients break free from the debilitating cycle of obsessions and compulsions utilizing evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
In ERP, the exposure part means confronting the thoughts, images and situations that heighten our discomfort.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that cause anxiety or distress? Do you get stuck obsessing over these thoughts and what they might mean? Have you developed compulsive behaviors, such as checking or reassurance-seeking, in response to obsessing? I work with clients on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression and stress, but I have particular expertise with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Living with OCD can feel very isolating, but it doesn't have to be. I help clients break free from the debilitating cycle of obsessions and compulsions utilizing evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
Jennifer Woodruff - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
I recognize that everyone has unique situations and struggles that brought them to where they are today. My goal is to empower people with the tools they need to move beyond the place where they're stuck. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of the nuances of OCD and related conditions enables us to treat them properly. We have received training in evidence-based treatments, including Exposure Response and Prevention ( ERP) therapy—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
I recognize that everyone has unique situations and struggles that brought them to where they are today. My goal is to empower people with the tools they need to move beyond the place where they're stuck. At NOCD, my team and I provide personalized and effective specialized treatment for OCD and related conditions, such as BFRBs (including skin-picking, nail-biting, and hair-pulling). Our understanding of the nuances of OCD and related conditions enables us to treat them properly. We have received training in evidence-based treatments, including Exposure Response and Prevention ( ERP) therapy—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
To best meet clients’ needs, I employ an integrative approach, drawing from from different therapeutic models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Int erpersonal Therapy (IPT), & Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Compassionate therapy has the power to help people reflect, grow, and change. Using a warm and engaging approach, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment strategies that work based on research-based techniques. I specialize in working with clients struggling with relationship issues, OCD, grief and loss, and difficult life transitions, including changes in roles or identity.
To best meet clients’ needs, I employ an integrative approach, drawing from from different therapeutic models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Int erpersonal Therapy (IPT), & Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Compassionate therapy has the power to help people reflect, grow, and change. Using a warm and engaging approach, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment strategies that work based on research-based techniques. I specialize in working with clients struggling with relationship issues, OCD, grief and loss, and difficult life transitions, including changes in roles or identity.
Caroline Freedenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am a licensed clinical social worker with expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Many women and partners/fathers feel sad, anxious, stressed, and struggle to find joy or experience barriers connecting with their pregnancy or baby. You are not alone, and it is not your fault. Think of me as an ally in your corner, a mirror for your strengths, and a strategist walking alongside you during this time. I am passionate about working with women and parents experiencing perinatal anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorders during or following a pregnancy, and navigating parenthood.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Many women and partners/fathers feel sad, anxious, stressed, and struggle to find joy or experience barriers connecting with their pregnancy or baby. You are not alone, and it is not your fault. Think of me as an ally in your corner, a mirror for your strengths, and a strategist walking alongside you during this time. I am passionate about working with women and parents experiencing perinatal anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorders during or following a pregnancy, and navigating parenthood.
Freedom Asihel - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
I take a non-judgmental and affirming approach to therapy. I believe self-compassion and empathy can significantly impact those with OCD, uplifting them on their healing journey. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy ( ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
I take a non-judgmental and affirming approach to therapy. I believe self-compassion and empathy can significantly impact those with OCD, uplifting them on their healing journey. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for people with OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances enables us to properly diagnose and treat it. Additionally, we have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy ( ERP)—the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Yassmin Eldouh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
I seek out and utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approaches, depending on diagnosis and presenting issue.
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
I seek out and utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approaches, depending on diagnosis and presenting issue.
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
All therapy I offer falls under the umbrella of CBT, with my specialties being Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
One of the initial reasons I wanted to specialize in working with people with OCD is that there are effective, evidence-based treatments for the disorder. This meant I knew I would be working with people who truly had the opportunity to have relief and freedom from their OCD. After working with this population for years I can truly say I feel lucky every single day to work with people with OCD. My patients are smart, driven, funny, caring, and creative. For me, having the opportunity to help these people live their best lives is nothing short of a privilege.
All therapy I offer falls under the umbrella of CBT, with my specialties being Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP).
One of the initial reasons I wanted to specialize in working with people with OCD is that there are effective, evidence-based treatments for the disorder. This meant I knew I would be working with people who truly had the opportunity to have relief and freedom from their OCD. After working with this population for years I can truly say I feel lucky every single day to work with people with OCD. My patients are smart, driven, funny, caring, and creative. For me, having the opportunity to help these people live their best lives is nothing short of a privilege.
I use an integrative approach, blending various evidence-based treatments and techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP, and acceptance- and compassion-based therapies.
I endeavor to help clients better to understand the nature and nuances of their particular difficulties so that they can live a rich, meaningful life. I have experience helping people with a wide array of psychological difficulties, including OCD, anxiety, depression, anger, relational difficulties, and major life transitions. Before beginning my clinical psychology training I worked in business at multiple private-sector organizations - I leverage this distinctive combination of experience and expertise when working with all clients, and especially those who find their work lives impacted by their struggles.
I use an integrative approach, blending various evidence-based treatments and techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP, and acceptance- and compassion-based therapies.
I endeavor to help clients better to understand the nature and nuances of their particular difficulties so that they can live a rich, meaningful life. I have experience helping people with a wide array of psychological difficulties, including OCD, anxiety, depression, anger, relational difficulties, and major life transitions. Before beginning my clinical psychology training I worked in business at multiple private-sector organizations - I leverage this distinctive combination of experience and expertise when working with all clients, and especially those who find their work lives impacted by their struggles.
We are a group practice with a shared passion for women's mental health. Our clients are working professionals, parents, and students in all phases of life. We love to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD/neurodivergence, relationship challenges, trauma, and eating disorders. Our team has experience in numerous evidence-based treatment modalities including EMDR, ACT, EFT, CBT, ERP, & DBT. We believe in collaborative, integrative, and holistic mental health care and are here to support you. We are proud to offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
We are a group practice with a shared passion for women's mental health. Our clients are working professionals, parents, and students in all phases of life. We love to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD/neurodivergence, relationship challenges, trauma, and eating disorders. Our team has experience in numerous evidence-based treatment modalities including EMDR, ACT, EFT, CBT, ERP, & DBT. We believe in collaborative, integrative, and holistic mental health care and are here to support you. We are proud to offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
15 Second Videos
DC Talk Therapy, PLLC
Lisa Germeroth
Greenhouse Psychotherapy
Jenn Hudak
Elana Hoffman
Lauren Fadem
Veronica Dos Santos
Bloom Counseling - Liz Caritj
Regina Rhoades
Erica Cornelius
Matthew R Syzdek
Miranda Denison
Megan Bousquet
Eva Chiriboga
Kathryn Defilippi
Samantha Rodman Whiten
Hannah Gilfix
Outlier Counseling and Wellness PLLC
Jordan White
Hallie Fleisch
Meghan Meros
Gisell Gaitan Valdizan
Maria Jose Rendon
I have extensive experience in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).
I have two passions as a therapist: individual therapy with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD and phobias, and parent coaching (including SPACE and PCIT interventions) for the parents of young children through teens. If you are a teen or adult looking to overcome your anxiety, perfectionism, or OCD, or a parent who is looking to build or strengthen the happy, connected family life you’ve always wanted, I can partner with you to help.
I have extensive experience in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention ( ERP), psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).
I have two passions as a therapist: individual therapy with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD and phobias, and parent coaching (including SPACE and PCIT interventions) for the parents of young children through teens. If you are a teen or adult looking to overcome your anxiety, perfectionism, or OCD, or a parent who is looking to build or strengthen the happy, connected family life you’ve always wanted, I can partner with you to help.
I also utilize research-based methodologies (including CBT, ACT, and ERP), ensuring that my work with clients is firmly grounded in the most current and effective practices.
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression. I have substantial experience treating these conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. In my work with children and adolescents, I also work directly with parents to promote treatment progress. My approach as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I see my clients in a positive light, emphasizing their strengths and positive qualities and harnessing them to promote lasting change. I believe that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can work together to meet your goals.
I also utilize research-based methodologies (including CBT, ACT, and ERP), ensuring that my work with clients is firmly grounded in the most current and effective practices.
I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD and co-occurring problems, including ADHD and depression. I have substantial experience treating these conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. In my work with children and adolescents, I also work directly with parents to promote treatment progress. My approach as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I see my clients in a positive light, emphasizing their strengths and positive qualities and harnessing them to promote lasting change. I believe that through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can work together to meet your goals.
In treating OCD, I gently use a combination of exposure and response prevention ( ERP) and mindfulness-based tactics drawn from Eastern (Buddhist) philosophy.
Years of experience often matter when people are anxious or otherwise distraught. For 25 years, I have specialized in the cognitive-behavioral (CBT) treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as well as a range of anxiety and depressive disorders in late adolescents and adults. These disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Illness Anxiety Disorder as well as persistent depression. I frequently work with relationship challenges, stressful life circumstances, and a broad range of outpatient mental health issues. I see clients in DC, MD, VA and nationally in all participating PsyPact states.
In treating OCD, I gently use a combination of exposure and response prevention ( ERP) and mindfulness-based tactics drawn from Eastern (Buddhist) philosophy.
Years of experience often matter when people are anxious or otherwise distraught. For 25 years, I have specialized in the cognitive-behavioral (CBT) treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as well as a range of anxiety and depressive disorders in late adolescents and adults. These disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Illness Anxiety Disorder as well as persistent depression. I frequently work with relationship challenges, stressful life circumstances, and a broad range of outpatient mental health issues. I see clients in DC, MD, VA and nationally in all participating PsyPact states.
Dr. Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Dr. Doshi specializes in the treating of eating disorders, body image concerns, behavioral weight management, pre & post bariatric counseling, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, and multicultural and identity-related concerns. She utilizes scientific, evidence-based approaches to inform her treatment with clients. She specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Sarah Holland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, OCD, self-doubt, and harsh inner critics to learn how to relate to themselves and to the world differently so that they can live lives of greater authenticity, belonging, and purpose. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies, as well as ERP.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, OCD, self-doubt, and harsh inner critics to learn how to relate to themselves and to the world differently so that they can live lives of greater authenticity, belonging, and purpose. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies, as well as ERP.
DC Talk Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
Anxiety and OCD are two of our specialty areas, and we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and ERP to treat them, respectively.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, stress or depression? If so, you've come to to the right place. Our 11 Washington, DC therapists specialize in working with young adults (20s and 30s). We offer in-person sessions as well as online therapy for individual counseling and group therapy. Since we opened our doors in 2012, DC Talk Therapy has helped nearly 2,000 clients make positive and sustained changes in their lives. The period between college and middle age can often feel chaotic and scary, filled with major life decisions and significant changes. Let one of our experienced and compassionate therapists help you navigate it all.
Kara Keicher - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy ( ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment.
My personal experiences have fueled my lifelong interest in psychology, health, and healing, ultimately leading me to become the professional I am today. When I met a psychologist I felt I could trust, that changed everything. I let my guard down and experienced unconditional acceptance and personal growth, learning how to engage in therapy in ways that were valuable to me. This openness helped me work with other clinicians who were instrumental to my development and success. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
We have received intensive training in Exposure Response and Prevention Therapy ( ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment.
My personal experiences have fueled my lifelong interest in psychology, health, and healing, ultimately leading me to become the professional I am today. When I met a psychologist I felt I could trust, that changed everything. I let my guard down and experienced unconditional acceptance and personal growth, learning how to engage in therapy in ways that were valuable to me. This openness helped me work with other clinicians who were instrumental to my development and success. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of its nuances allows us to properly diagnose and treat it.
Vanessa Duran - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
We have received training in ERP, the gold standard treatment for OCD.
The most important aspect of treatment is having someone you can talk to, feel comfortable with, and trust. Establishing that therapeutic alliance is my number one priority. Originally, I worked at a dialysis clinic, helping patients with insurance issues. I found that I really liked sitting chairside with people, listening to their stories, understanding their day-to-day challenges, and finding ways to help them. This experience made me realize that therapy was my calling, and I decided to pursue it as a profession. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD.
We have received training in ERP, the gold standard treatment for OCD.
The most important aspect of treatment is having someone you can talk to, feel comfortable with, and trust. Establishing that therapeutic alliance is my number one priority. Originally, I worked at a dialysis clinic, helping patients with insurance issues. I found that I really liked sitting chairside with people, listening to their stories, understanding their day-to-day challenges, and finding ways to help them. This experience made me realize that therapy was my calling, and I decided to pursue it as a profession. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD.
Bethesda Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016 (Online Only)
We are well-versed in a wide range of evidence-based therapies, including DBT, ERP and I-CBT for OCD, and specialized treatments for trauma.
Sometimes life can feel very difficult. It can be hard to handle big emotions on your own. Bethesda Therapy would like to help! We are a group practice serving clients in MD, DC, VA & SC. We specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, grief/loss and couples work. We serve clients age 12+. Everyone’s path to mental wellness is different. That’s why we offer treatment designed to meet your unique needs. Our skilled clinicians are ready to guide and support you through your healing process. We are committed to helping you discover your route to a life that’s happier, healthier, and fulfilling.
We are well-versed in a wide range of evidence-based therapies, including DBT, ERP and I-CBT for OCD, and specialized treatments for trauma.
Sometimes life can feel very difficult. It can be hard to handle big emotions on your own. Bethesda Therapy would like to help! We are a group practice serving clients in MD, DC, VA & SC. We specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, grief/loss and couples work. We serve clients age 12+. Everyone’s path to mental wellness is different. That’s why we offer treatment designed to meet your unique needs. Our skilled clinicians are ready to guide and support you through your healing process. We are committed to helping you discover your route to a life that’s happier, healthier, and fulfilling.
See more therapy options for Washington
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists
Do I need exposure and response prevention therapy?
Many clients decide to seek help for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors when these symptoms are distressing enough to disrupt everyday life. Any thoughts or behaviors 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 behavioral therapy?
Exposure and response prevention is one specific type of CBT that focuses on behavioral 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.