Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Ruther Glen, VA

Photo of Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCHMC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
(804) 294-4310 View (804) 294-4310
Photo of Sharlene Hamilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Sharlene Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
I provide therapy, insight, and support to children and their parents, teens, adults, couples, and families. I use a variety of techniques based in sound theory to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to guide clients through their challenges. In sessions clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, suicidal ideation/self-harm, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, ADHD, and other behavioral Issues.
I provide therapy, insight, and support to children and their parents, teens, adults, couples, and families. I use a variety of techniques based in sound theory to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to guide clients through their challenges. In sessions clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, suicidal ideation/self-harm, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, ADHD, and other behavioral Issues.
(703) 291-3681 View (703) 291-3681
Photo of Larry J Colby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Larry J Colby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ruther Glen, VA 22546  (Online Only)
Stress can come into our lives at the most unexpected and inconvenient times. We may try to deny the effects of stress in our lives until it becomes overbearing. When this happens, we tend to have developed behaviors that become more damaging than they are helpful – these are maladaptive behaviors. It can be hard to pick up the pieces and begin rebuilding our lives. Our thoughts and actions can get in our way. We can get stuck with our unhelpful actions and need help learning how to replace these behaviors.
Stress can come into our lives at the most unexpected and inconvenient times. We may try to deny the effects of stress in our lives until it becomes overbearing. When this happens, we tend to have developed behaviors that become more damaging than they are helpful – these are maladaptive behaviors. It can be hard to pick up the pieces and begin rebuilding our lives. Our thoughts and actions can get in our way. We can get stuck with our unhelpful actions and need help learning how to replace these behaviors.
(540) 329-3476 View (540) 329-3476

Online Therapists

Photo of OCD Associates, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(434) 597-3878 View (434) 597-3878
Photo of NOCD- Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
NOCD- Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Our therapists provide evidence-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy - known as the gold-standard treatment for OCD.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(773) 657-2505 View (773) 657-2505
Photo of Maria Rheba Estante, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ruther Glen, VA
Maria Rheba Estante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Therapy tailored to your needs with a specialization in Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for OCD.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story.
Therapy tailored to your needs with a specialization in Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for OCD.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story.
(804) 575-5946 View (804) 575-5946
Photo of Gail M Quick, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
Gail M Quick
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 25 years of experience providing psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I work with individuals facing a wide variety of mental health concerns and specialize in the treatment of OCD, OCD-related disorders, and anxiety. I also provide consultation to other professionals treating individuals with OCD. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and individualize these evidence-based treatments to help my clients achieve lasting change.
I have more than 25 years of experience providing psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I work with individuals facing a wide variety of mental health concerns and specialize in the treatment of OCD, OCD-related disorders, and anxiety. I also provide consultation to other professionals treating individuals with OCD. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and individualize these evidence-based treatments to help my clients achieve lasting change.
(804) 374-9621 View (804) 374-9621
Photo of Michael J Greenberg, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
Michael J Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(703) 420-7467 View (703) 420-7467
Photo of OCD Associates, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185  (Online Only)
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(757) 529-8305 View (757) 529-8305
Photo of Upward You Counseling, Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Upward You Counseling
Counselor, MEd, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22026  (Online Only)
Mandy's treatment consists of talk therapy, I-CBT, ERP, experiential, coaching, explicit teaching approaches, and developing approaches according to the needs of the client.
Welcome!!! Finding a therapist can be challenging and we thank you for your consideration. Mandy at Upward You Counseling treats those ages 15+. She specializes in working with those who are struggling with social skills challenges, OCD, anxieties, life transitions, ADHD, communication, etc. She utilizes Animal Assisted Therapy when in the office setting and will have a dog at her office to offer support and participate in the interventions if applicable to treatment. Mandy believes counseling shouldn’t be a dreaded process and when working together as a team obstacles can be overcome.
Mandy's treatment consists of talk therapy, I-CBT, ERP, experiential, coaching, explicit teaching approaches, and developing approaches according to the needs of the client.
Welcome!!! Finding a therapist can be challenging and we thank you for your consideration. Mandy at Upward You Counseling treats those ages 15+. She specializes in working with those who are struggling with social skills challenges, OCD, anxieties, life transitions, ADHD, communication, etc. She utilizes Animal Assisted Therapy when in the office setting and will have a dog at her office to offer support and participate in the interventions if applicable to treatment. Mandy believes counseling shouldn’t be a dreaded process and when working together as a team obstacles can be overcome.
(540) 900-0682 View (540) 900-0682
Photo of OCD Associates, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(917) 924-3987 View (917) 924-3987
Photo of Stop My OCD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Stop My OCD
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, LLM, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202  (Online Only)
We use CBT, ERP, ACT, EMDR and other therapies proven effective in treating people just like you.
Anxiety, trauma, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD) and substance use can be debilitating. Many people suffer with these issues fearing there is no hope for treatment. Every day that goes by robs you of a precious part of your life. Many of our clients were so desperate for relief before they reached out for help that they relied on substance use or even made a suicide attempt. If you are reading this listing it means that you have decided to take your life back and conquer those afflictions. There is no need to suffer any longer.
We use CBT, ERP, ACT, EMDR and other therapies proven effective in treating people just like you.
Anxiety, trauma, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD) and substance use can be debilitating. Many people suffer with these issues fearing there is no hope for treatment. Every day that goes by robs you of a precious part of your life. Many of our clients were so desperate for relief before they reached out for help that they relied on substance use or even made a suicide attempt. If you are reading this listing it means that you have decided to take your life back and conquer those afflictions. There is no need to suffer any longer.
(571) 200-8581 View (571) 200-8581
Photo of Virginia Lindahl, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
Virginia Lindahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and offer groups for adults with OCD and groups for their loved ones.
Are you trying to create a more fulfilling life? Do you feel like you get in your own way sometimes, but you’re not sure why? Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and urges you can’t get out of your mind? Do you feel like the only way to stop them is to do specific things, over and over again? Would you like to understand why your child struggles to achieve his or her potential at school? Whether you’re entering therapy or starting psychological testing, your goals for working with a psychologist will be unique.
I specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and offer groups for adults with OCD and groups for their loved ones.
Are you trying to create a more fulfilling life? Do you feel like you get in your own way sometimes, but you’re not sure why? Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and urges you can’t get out of your mind? Do you feel like the only way to stop them is to do specific things, over and over again? Would you like to understand why your child struggles to achieve his or her potential at school? Whether you’re entering therapy or starting psychological testing, your goals for working with a psychologist will be unique.
(703) 940-0825 View (703) 940-0825
Photo of Gabrielle Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruther Glen, VA
Gabrielle Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
My main therapeutic modalities consist of CBT, DBT, ERP, and trauma interventions like IFS& EMDR.
My approach to therapy is dealing with the problem at hand, while understanding that there is more beneath the surface. While I treat the current symptoms, I also help my clients figure out why these symptoms exist in the first place. I use a behavioral and cognitive approach, including tangible skills and collaborative accountability, to help with cessation of behaviors and decreasing discomfort with negative thoughts. At the same time, I also use a trauma-informed approach to help my clients become aware of, and heal from, the underlying core beliefs and memories that these behaviors and thoughts are trying to cope with.
My main therapeutic modalities consist of CBT, DBT, ERP, and trauma interventions like IFS& EMDR.
My approach to therapy is dealing with the problem at hand, while understanding that there is more beneath the surface. While I treat the current symptoms, I also help my clients figure out why these symptoms exist in the first place. I use a behavioral and cognitive approach, including tangible skills and collaborative accountability, to help with cessation of behaviors and decreasing discomfort with negative thoughts. At the same time, I also use a trauma-informed approach to help my clients become aware of, and heal from, the underlying core beliefs and memories that these behaviors and thoughts are trying to cope with.
(703) 386-7021 View (703) 386-7021
Photo of Morgan (Soper) Hickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruther Glen, VA
Morgan (Soper) Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in adolescents (ages 16+) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and difficulty coping with medical problems. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is capable of change and healing, regardless of your circumstances. I utilize a strengths-based and systems approach, with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral and solutions-focused interventions. For clients struggling with OCD, my primary treatment approach is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in adolescents (ages 16+) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and difficulty coping with medical problems. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is capable of change and healing, regardless of your circumstances. I utilize a strengths-based and systems approach, with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral and solutions-focused interventions. For clients struggling with OCD, my primary treatment approach is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
(434) 204-2418 View (434) 204-2418
Photo of Gillian Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Gillian Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and parents while utilizing collaborative, evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Welcome! Seeking therapy can feel like a daunting process and I am here to help ease that transition with you. I have served the NOVA area for 5 years as a mental health professional working in mobile crisis, therapeutic day programming and private practice. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, personality disorders, self-injury, anxiety disorders and chronic suicidality.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and parents while utilizing collaborative, evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Welcome! Seeking therapy can feel like a daunting process and I am here to help ease that transition with you. I have served the NOVA area for 5 years as a mental health professional working in mobile crisis, therapeutic day programming and private practice. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, personality disorders, self-injury, anxiety disorders and chronic suicidality.
(703) 951-4922 View (703) 951-4922
Photo of Hailey Kohler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruther Glen, VA
Hailey Kohler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker providing in person or virtual sessions in the state of Virginia, and virtual sessions for those located in Hawaii and California. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Anxiety. Focusing on Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, I offer comprehensive support to help clients manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Those that suffer can often find symptoms to be distressful and disturbing, leading to isolation and major impacts on their lifestyle. You are not alone and this is treatable.
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker providing in person or virtual sessions in the state of Virginia, and virtual sessions for those located in Hawaii and California. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Anxiety. Focusing on Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, I offer comprehensive support to help clients manage their symptoms and reclaim their lives. Those that suffer can often find symptoms to be distressful and disturbing, leading to isolation and major impacts on their lifestyle. You are not alone and this is treatable.
(831) 291-4360 View (831) 291-4360
Photo of Dr. Lisa Germeroth, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
Dr. Lisa Germeroth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Dr. Germeroth specializes in eating and weight related concerns (emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, weight management, weight loss surgery support), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation), depression, and insomnia. Dr. Germeroth’s background in health behavior research strongly informs her clinical work, which is focused on providing evidence-based treatment personalized to each client’s unique needs. Dr. Germeroth primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training (HRT).
Dr. Germeroth specializes in eating and weight related concerns (emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, weight management, weight loss surgery support), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation), depression, and insomnia. Dr. Germeroth’s background in health behavior research strongly informs her clinical work, which is focused on providing evidence-based treatment personalized to each client’s unique needs. Dr. Germeroth primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training (HRT).
(571) 200-8867 View (571) 200-8867
Photo of Marjorie Davis, Restoration Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruther Glen, VA
Marjorie Davis, Restoration Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Typically I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and exposure response prevention (ERP) with clients struggling with these types of issues.
Resorting strength, finding hope, growing wisdom. We all experience hardships. Whether it be relationship issues, excessive worry and anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss and so much more. In this life, no one is without struggles. But your struggles do not need to define you, nor do they need to steal your hope and joy. Marjorie has worked with clients who experience a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, substance abuse, spiritual/ faith-based struggles, family conflict, OCD, self-injurious behaviors, self-confidence issues, student athletes, trauma and grief/loss.
Typically I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and exposure response prevention (ERP) with clients struggling with these types of issues.
Resorting strength, finding hope, growing wisdom. We all experience hardships. Whether it be relationship issues, excessive worry and anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss and so much more. In this life, no one is without struggles. But your struggles do not need to define you, nor do they need to steal your hope and joy. Marjorie has worked with clients who experience a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, substance abuse, spiritual/ faith-based struggles, family conflict, OCD, self-injurious behaviors, self-confidence issues, student athletes, trauma and grief/loss.
(571) 459-1009 View (571) 459-1009
Photo of Cognitive Behavioral Wellness- Laura Mlynarski PhD, Psychologist in Ruther Glen, VA
Cognitive Behavioral Wellness- Laura Mlynarski PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I treat teens through young adults and employ an integrative approach with systematic Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) combined with skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions.
I strive to create an open and affirming environment where we can build insight into the challenges that are holding you back and use evidence-based strategies to help you move forward. I have over a decade of experience specializing in providing empirically supported treatments for the OCD, BFRBs, and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with clients to determine their treatment goals and work through the barriers that keep them stuck. I will partner with you to help you feel empowered to lean into the treatment and create the life you desire.
I treat teens through young adults and employ an integrative approach with systematic Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) combined with skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions.
I strive to create an open and affirming environment where we can build insight into the challenges that are holding you back and use evidence-based strategies to help you move forward. I have over a decade of experience specializing in providing empirically supported treatments for the OCD, BFRBs, and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with clients to determine their treatment goals and work through the barriers that keep them stuck. I will partner with you to help you feel empowered to lean into the treatment and create the life you desire.
(571) 293-8562 View (571) 293-8562

See more therapy options for Ruther Glen

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.