What to Expect in ERP Therapy
If you or your child struggles with OCD or anxiety, you may have heard about Exposure and Response Prevention therapy. ERP is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that helps people break free from obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Understanding what to expect can make starting ERP feel less intimidating and more empowering.
What is ERP Therapy?
ERP therapy is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT designed specifically for OCD and anxiety. The goal is to help you face feared situations or thoughts (exposure) while resisting the urge to perform compulsive behaviors (response prevention). Over time, ERP helps reduce anxiety and teaches your brain that feared outcomes are unlikely or manageable.
What Happens in Your First Session
Assessment and Goal Setting: Your therapist will explore your OCD or anxiety symptoms, triggers, and patterns. You’ll identify specific goals and clarify what’s important to you in therapy.
Psychoeducation: You’ll learn how OCD and anxiety work in the brain and how ERP helps retrain your responses. Understanding the process is a key part of feeling in control.
Collaborative Planning: Together with your therapist, you’ll begin developing an exposure hierarchy, a ranked list of fears or triggers to work on gradually.
How ERP Sessions Work
Gradual Exposure: You start with lower-anxiety situations and work up to more challenging triggers at a pace that feels safe but effective.
Response Prevention: You practice resisting compulsions, rituals, or avoidance behaviors that typically reduce anxiety.
Processing and Support: Each session includes reflection, coaching, and strategies to handle distress outside of therapy.
Tip: ERP is challenging at first but is guided, structured, and collaborative. Your therapist supports you every step of the way.
Working with Parents or Family Members
For teens or young adults, ERP often involves parent guidance. You’ll learn how to support without reinforcing compulsions, helping your child practice skills at home while maintaining a supportive environment.
What You’ll Gain from ERP
Reduced anxiety and compulsive behaviors
Greater confidence in facing uncertainty
Tools to manage intrusive thoughts
A sense of empowerment and self-trust
ERP is not about “fixing” you—it’s about building resilience, insight, and sustainable coping skills.
Take the First Step
If OCD, anxiety, or perfectionism is holding you or your child back, ERP therapy can help you regain control and move toward a calmer, more grounded life. Book your free consultation today.