Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that is highly effective and the gold standard for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other anxiety disorders. ERP involves systematic, repeated exposure to feared thoughts, images, sensations, and/or urges (exposure), while preventing the usual compulsion or avoidant responses (response prevention).
ERP works as it helps the individual learn that the feared outcomes most likely will not occur, or that they can handle the distress that results if the feared outcome does occur. Put another way, ERP helps the brain learn and breaks the link between fear and avoidance and allows the individual to more effectively tolerate distress without engaging in time-consuming compulsions. Additionally, ERP often results in a reduction of anxiety and fear over time.
Treatment duration typically ranges depending on the severity of symptoms and individual needs. Intensive formats (e.g., multiple sessions per week) are also available and may accelerate progress for some clients. ERP is most effective when clients are actively engaged and practice exposures regularly between sessions.