Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

What is ERP?

ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other anxiety-related conditions.

It works by helping you gradually face fears while learning to resist compulsive behaviours or avoidance.

Rather than eliminating uncomfortable thoughts, ERP focuses on changing your relationship to them, so they no longer control your life.

How does it work?

You and your psychologist will work together to identify feared thoughts, images, or situations, and create a plan to face them in a manageable and supportive way. At the same time, you’ll practise not engaging in the usual compulsions or safety behaviours.

During sessions, your psychologist will guide you through gradually facing these fears step-by-step, often starting with less challenging situations and building up to harder ones. You might practise techniques such as controlled breathing, mindfulness, or relaxation to manage anxiety during exposures.

You can expect to do some ‘homework’ between sessions, like practising facing fears in real life, and tracking your progress. This helps build your confidence and reduce the power that compulsions or avoidance behaviours have over you.

What can ERP help with?

ERP is especially effective for:

• Anxiety Disorders (including OCD & Phobias)
• Sleep Difficulties