Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Oxon Hill, MD

Photo of Alicia Little Hodge, Psychologist in Oxon Hill, MD
Alicia Little Hodge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oxon Hill, MD 20745  (Online Only)
This practice is 100% virtual based and serving over 38 states! Have you felt that despite your efforts you continue to feel anxious or unable to stop worrying? Perhaps you have unsuccessfully tried to make some changes and feel stuck? I believe that our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. Together, we can work to collaboratively identify your strengths to foster a sense of self-awareness and create new perspectives. By understanding your thinking styles and formulating a plan specifically tailored to YOU, we can face those challenges and overcome fears.
This practice is 100% virtual based and serving over 38 states! Have you felt that despite your efforts you continue to feel anxious or unable to stop worrying? Perhaps you have unsuccessfully tried to make some changes and feel stuck? I believe that our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. Together, we can work to collaboratively identify your strengths to foster a sense of self-awareness and create new perspectives. By understanding your thinking styles and formulating a plan specifically tailored to YOU, we can face those challenges and overcome fears.
(202) 851-8380 View (202) 851-8380
Photo of William Kimmins, Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
William Kimmins
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oxon Hill, MD 20745  (Online Only)
Our responses to life experiences can certainly leave us feeling choiceless, out of control, and stuck. There can be a sense of feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward. You continue moving through it, and you may even feel you’ve been functioning but not really living…This would feel incredibly unsettling to anyone. As a member of the military for over 20 years, I understand that feeling, and the impacts of minor and major life changes. These changes shift our world view, our relationships, and how we see ourselves. You may have tried multiple ways of coping, but traditional approaches haven't produced the change you want.
Our responses to life experiences can certainly leave us feeling choiceless, out of control, and stuck. There can be a sense of feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward. You continue moving through it, and you may even feel you’ve been functioning but not really living…This would feel incredibly unsettling to anyone. As a member of the military for over 20 years, I understand that feeling, and the impacts of minor and major life changes. These changes shift our world view, our relationships, and how we see ourselves. You may have tried multiple ways of coping, but traditional approaches haven't produced the change you want.
(410) 696-5847 View (410) 696-5847
Photo of Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS
Verified Verified
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Are you tired of feeling stressed, not taking care of yourself, issues at work, bad relationships, kids all over the place, distant learning, grief, gender identity, class, and race issues? Well look no further, Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC provides a safe place to listen and truly assist our clients with achieving their goals using psychotherapy. Now, this will not be a pity party but a revelation party to help you come out of your situation for a new YOU. In addition, we provide services in Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia. We are open with no Wait list.
Are you tired of feeling stressed, not taking care of yourself, issues at work, bad relationships, kids all over the place, distant learning, grief, gender identity, class, and race issues? Well look no further, Connect to Care Counseling Services, LLC provides a safe place to listen and truly assist our clients with achieving their goals using psychotherapy. Now, this will not be a pity party but a revelation party to help you come out of your situation for a new YOU. In addition, we provide services in Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia. We are open with no Wait list.
(571) 380-7811 View (571) 380-7811

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Yarrisa Reid- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions, Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Yarrisa Reid- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions
Counselor, MC
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, MD 20744  (Online Only)
My name is Yarrisa Reid, I'm a Mastered Level Counselor. I want to help you live your Best Life! I enjoy working with young adults and the older adult population. I specialize in individual and couples therapy. I want to to help you tackle issues such as, but not limited to mood disorders (depression/anxiety), trauma, relationships/family conflicts. One size does not fit all, therefore techniques utilized are used and adjusted based upon the client's needs. I focus heavily on one's thoughts, feelings, emotions and response to internal/external stimuli.
My name is Yarrisa Reid, I'm a Mastered Level Counselor. I want to help you live your Best Life! I enjoy working with young adults and the older adult population. I specialize in individual and couples therapy. I want to to help you tackle issues such as, but not limited to mood disorders (depression/anxiety), trauma, relationships/family conflicts. One size does not fit all, therefore techniques utilized are used and adjusted based upon the client's needs. I focus heavily on one's thoughts, feelings, emotions and response to internal/external stimuli.
(240) 679-5674 View (240) 679-5674
Photo of Kathy D. Griffin in Oxon Hill, MD
Kathy D. Griffin
LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a warm, personable, and objective therapist to help you navigate through the troubling happenings of your life? Look no further, here I am! The most important thing about the therapeutic space is empowering YOU so that YOU can make conscious choices about YOUR life. My style is active, involved, empathic, and genuine. Working collaboratively, we can define your goals and see what is causing you distress and/or to feel "stuck." Learned behaviors as a child just might not be working in your adult life! It's time to tell your story and work to resolve emotional scares that may be hindering you from being happy!
Are you looking for a warm, personable, and objective therapist to help you navigate through the troubling happenings of your life? Look no further, here I am! The most important thing about the therapeutic space is empowering YOU so that YOU can make conscious choices about YOUR life. My style is active, involved, empathic, and genuine. Working collaboratively, we can define your goals and see what is causing you distress and/or to feel "stuck." Learned behaviors as a child just might not be working in your adult life! It's time to tell your story and work to resolve emotional scares that may be hindering you from being happy!
(301) 701-2679 View (301) 701-2679
Photo of Maryland Therapy Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Maryland Therapy Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, MD 20722  (Online Only)
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
(240) 376-5886 View (240) 376-5886
Photo of Teressa Bowman, Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Teressa Bowman
Counselor, LPC, PsyD, ACS
Verified Verified
District Heights, MD 20747  (Online Only)
Thank you for prioritizing your health. At this time I am only accepting clients for Video sessions and Telehealth with availability on Tuesdays, Thursday or Friday . There is no need to wait for a return phone call. You have the option of scheduling an appointment today and viewing my schedule by using this link below. Copy and paste the link into your browser to schedule your first appointment and complete initial paperwork. https://visionhopeandhealing.clientsecure.me
Thank you for prioritizing your health. At this time I am only accepting clients for Video sessions and Telehealth with availability on Tuesdays, Thursday or Friday . There is no need to wait for a return phone call. You have the option of scheduling an appointment today and viewing my schedule by using this link below. Copy and paste the link into your browser to schedule your first appointment and complete initial paperwork. https://visionhopeandhealing.clientsecure.me
(571) 336-0876 View (571) 336-0876
Photo of Janine Donnelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Janine Donnelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is the process of rediscovering clarity, purpose, and joy. While starting therapy can seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which we'll explore your concerns together. I use compassion and humor to help you move through pain and worry, so that you can be more fully present in your life, relationships, and community. I will work hard with you to release unhealthy or frustrating ways of thinking or behaving that stand between you and the life you want. I strive to meet my clients with empathy and authenticity, backed up by over twenty years of experience and a commitment to research-based methods.
Therapy is the process of rediscovering clarity, purpose, and joy. While starting therapy can seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which we'll explore your concerns together. I use compassion and humor to help you move through pain and worry, so that you can be more fully present in your life, relationships, and community. I will work hard with you to release unhealthy or frustrating ways of thinking or behaving that stand between you and the life you want. I strive to meet my clients with empathy and authenticity, backed up by over twenty years of experience and a commitment to research-based methods.
(240) 232-2738 View (240) 232-2738

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Kathryn Burnett, Psychologist in Oxon Hill, MD
Dr. Kathryn Burnett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burtonsville, MD 20866
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provider and integrate CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, and other cognitive, behavioral, and exposure based treatments while working with individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, Trichotillomania, PTSD, and behavioral concerns. I believe in the importance of psychoeducation, collaboration, and genuineness in my work.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provider and integrate CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, and other cognitive, behavioral, and exposure based treatments while working with individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, Trichotillomania, PTSD, and behavioral concerns. I believe in the importance of psychoeducation, collaboration, and genuineness in my work.
(301) 215-2907 x1 View (301) 215-2907 x1
Photo of Bethesda Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Bethesda Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (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, and VA. We specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, grief/loss and couples therapy. 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 deeply 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, and VA. We specialize in OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, grief/loss and couples therapy. 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 deeply fulfilling.
(240) 332-0701 View (240) 332-0701
Photo of The Snow Psychology Group, LLC, Psychologist in Oxon Hill, MD
The Snow Psychology Group, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Our therapists specialize in evidence-based treatment (CBT, ERP, DBT skills, EMDR, etc) and integrate our approach to best address your unique needs.
Are you or your teen feeling depressed or anxious? Experiencing difficulty in a personal relationship? Have you been feeling stuck? Our therapists understand how you may feel overwhelmed when dealing with stress and sadness or adjusting to major life changes. Let us help you to feel better and move forward to reach your personal goals. We provide a warm and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns as we work together to resolve them and access your own strengths. We work with ages 12+ across the lifespan. Individual, couples, and group therapy services are available in-person and via telehealth.
Our therapists specialize in evidence-based treatment (CBT, ERP, DBT skills, EMDR, etc) and integrate our approach to best address your unique needs.
Are you or your teen feeling depressed or anxious? Experiencing difficulty in a personal relationship? Have you been feeling stuck? Our therapists understand how you may feel overwhelmed when dealing with stress and sadness or adjusting to major life changes. Let us help you to feel better and move forward to reach your personal goals. We provide a warm and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns as we work together to resolve them and access your own strengths. We work with ages 12+ across the lifespan. Individual, couples, and group therapy services are available in-person and via telehealth.
(301) 321-7537 View (301) 321-7537
Photo of Mary Yost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Mary Yost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Mary believes in using therapy that is proven to help, which is why she has completed advanced trainings in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating ages 18+ for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
Mary believes in using therapy that is proven to help, which is why she has completed advanced trainings in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating ages 18+ for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
(301) 709-4528 View (301) 709-4528
Photo of Kaitlin Widerman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Kaitlin Widerman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
I utilize several approaches such as person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, mindfulness, ERP, and trauma informed therapy practices to help you take control of what is bothering you and achieve your goals.
• Immediate Appointments Available! • ° Online scheduling available ° Hi, I’m Kaitlin! I’m excited and honored to be considered in helping you reach your therapeutic goals! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, self-harm, trauma, and life transitions. One of the most important parts of therapy is building a connection with your therapist and feeling comfortable being your genuine, authentic self in the therapy space. Building and maintaining therapeutic rapport and sense of acceptance is something I strive to provide as a therapist.
I utilize several approaches such as person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, mindfulness, ERP, and trauma informed therapy practices to help you take control of what is bothering you and achieve your goals.
• Immediate Appointments Available! • ° Online scheduling available ° Hi, I’m Kaitlin! I’m excited and honored to be considered in helping you reach your therapeutic goals! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, self-harm, trauma, and life transitions. One of the most important parts of therapy is building a connection with your therapist and feeling comfortable being your genuine, authentic self in the therapy space. Building and maintaining therapeutic rapport and sense of acceptance is something I strive to provide as a therapist.
(240) 728-7787 View (240) 728-7787
Photo of Goody Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Goody Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LGPC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093  (Online Only)
We are trained to administer talk therapy and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) to help you on your journey to become a happier, healthy you.
We understand that each person approaches treatment with a unique set of circumstances and obstacles. Good Counseling Services provides a comprehensive, individually-tailored approach to you and your needs.
We are trained to administer talk therapy and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) to help you on your journey to become a happier, healthy you.
We understand that each person approaches treatment with a unique set of circumstances and obstacles. Good Counseling Services provides a comprehensive, individually-tailored approach to you and your needs.
(833) 244-5224 View (833) 244-5224
Photo of Megan Lynn Mullins, Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Megan Lynn Mullins
Counselor, LCPC, LPCMH, ACE CPT, Pn1
Verified Verified
Elkton, MD 21921
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience. I specialize in the use of EMDR, BSP (Brain Spotting), Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as RLT, AEDP, DBT, and ERP. I am also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Precision Nutrition Certified Nutrition Coach. As a former D1 athlete, my approach to psychotherapy is a holistic one. My clients have specifically appreciated the rate at which they are able to experience benefits from therapy. I work out of two offices, one on Main Street in Newark (within walking distance of University of Delaware), the other in Elkton.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience. I specialize in the use of EMDR, BSP (Brain Spotting), Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as RLT, AEDP, DBT, and ERP. I am also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Precision Nutrition Certified Nutrition Coach. As a former D1 athlete, my approach to psychotherapy is a holistic one. My clients have specifically appreciated the rate at which they are able to experience benefits from therapy. I work out of two offices, one on Main Street in Newark (within walking distance of University of Delaware), the other in Elkton.
(302) 587-8395 View (302) 587-8395
Photo of Jennifer Moran, Psychologist in Oxon Hill, MD
Jennifer Moran
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093  (Online Only)
With expertise in CBT-E, FBT and ERP (for ARFID), I will support you in creating positive change.
When you or a loved one is struggling it can be hard to know where to start in bringing about positive change. It may seem like the strategies you are using to make things better just aren’t working, which can lead to feeling stuck, hopeless and uncertain. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and safe space to work together on better understanding how your thoughts, emotions and behaviors interact, with the goal being to find strategies and solutions that help you to live a life consistent with your values. Specializing in eating disorders and co-occurring disorders, I particularly enjoy working with young adults.
With expertise in CBT-E, FBT and ERP (for ARFID), I will support you in creating positive change.
When you or a loved one is struggling it can be hard to know where to start in bringing about positive change. It may seem like the strategies you are using to make things better just aren’t working, which can lead to feeling stuck, hopeless and uncertain. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and safe space to work together on better understanding how your thoughts, emotions and behaviors interact, with the goal being to find strategies and solutions that help you to live a life consistent with your values. Specializing in eating disorders and co-occurring disorders, I particularly enjoy working with young adults.
(410) 541-1409 View (410) 541-1409
Photo of Jenna Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Jenna Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For OCD, I offer Inference-based CBT and ACT-informed ERP as well as SPACE for parents of anxious children.
I'm a queer neurodivergent therapist deeply committed to promoting meaningful change in the lives of neurodivergent folx struggling with disordered eating, obsessional doubt, and anxiety. My practice is grounded in a liberatory and equity framework that recognizes the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. I embrace an anti-carceral approach to care where clients actively shape their treatment under my guidance. I strive to show up authentically for my clients to help them challenge societal expectations and cultural norms. If you've ever been told you're "too much" or "not enough," we might be a good fit.
For OCD, I offer Inference-based CBT and ACT-informed ERP as well as SPACE for parents of anxious children.
I'm a queer neurodivergent therapist deeply committed to promoting meaningful change in the lives of neurodivergent folx struggling with disordered eating, obsessional doubt, and anxiety. My practice is grounded in a liberatory and equity framework that recognizes the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. I embrace an anti-carceral approach to care where clients actively shape their treatment under my guidance. I strive to show up authentically for my clients to help them challenge societal expectations and cultural norms. If you've ever been told you're "too much" or "not enough," we might be a good fit.
(410) 873-7741 View (410) 873-7741
Photo of Rachel Bacon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Rachel Bacon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive related disorders, I work with clients presenting with Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobia, Tic and Tourette Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphia, BFRBs (body focused repetitive disorders) and trauma and stress-related disorders. I provide an evidenced based approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive related disorders, I work with clients presenting with Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobia, Tic and Tourette Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphia, BFRBs (body focused repetitive disorders) and trauma and stress-related disorders. I provide an evidenced based approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(410) 216-5933 View (410) 216-5933
Photo of Kari Ayoroa, Counselor in Oxon Hill, MD
Kari Ayoroa
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Potomac, MD 20854
I work with adults and adolescents treating anxiety, OCD, trauma, and depression. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy, Integrative Mental Health and as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I utilize my experience working with adults, college and high school transitions concerns, social media impacts, life transitions, management of stress and many more. I treat based on my experience and willingness to meet all my clients where they are in their journey.
I work with adults and adolescents treating anxiety, OCD, trauma, and depression. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy, Integrative Mental Health and as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I utilize my experience working with adults, college and high school transitions concerns, social media impacts, life transitions, management of stress and many more. I treat based on my experience and willingness to meet all my clients where they are in their journey.
(301) 889-9395 View (301) 889-9395
Photo of Joanna Lucia Bissell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxon Hill, MD
Joanna Lucia Bissell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hunt Valley, MD 21031  (Online Only)
Depending on our goals, I typically incorporate trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and/or EMDR (although I find it less effective online).
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
Depending on our goals, I typically incorporate trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and/or EMDR (although I find it less effective online).
I love working with teenagers, college students and young adults ages 13-30. I most enjoy working with anxiety disorders (including OCD, phobias, and panic disorder), the effects of trauma, as well as LGBTQ clients. The majority of my training as a therapist has been in treating trauma, OCD and generalized anxiety. I am also a native Spanish speaker and love working with immigrant clients. Feel free to email with any questions about my experience.
(314) 690-9582 View (314) 690-9582
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.