exposure and response-prevention (erp) for adults and children with ocd

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is an evidence-based approach that is widely recognized as the gold standard for effectively managing OCD. Through ERP, you will be empowered to conquer intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors

trauma-informed erp therapy for ocd

How ERP Works

  • Understanding OCD: We'll start by learning about OCD and how it manifests in your daily life. Understanding the patterns of obsessions and compulsions is a critical first step.

  • Developing a Plan: We’ll create a personalized ERP plan tailored to your specific fears and triggers. This ensures that therapy progresses at a pace that feels manageable and respectful of your comfort.

  • Exposure Practice: You’ll engage in gradual, therapeutic exposures to situations that trigger OCD-related anxiety. During this process, I’ll provide the tools and support needed to resist compulsive responses, helping you break free from the cycle of avoidance.

  • Building Confidence: As you work through exposures, you’ll develop a sense of mastery and learn that you can tolerate distress without relying on compulsions.

signs of ocd:

OCD can look different for everyone, but here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Feeling the need to double-check things repeatedly, like locks, appliances, or lights, even when you know they are secure.

  • Constantly worrying about germs, contamination, or cleanliness, leading to excessive handwashing or cleaning.

  • Experiencing intrusive, unwanted thoughts that feel distressing or "wrong."

  • Arranging, organizing, or counting objects in a specific way to feel "just right."

  • Avoiding certain places, people, or situations because they trigger anxiety or fears.

  • Seeking reassurance from others frequently to calm obsessive doubts or worries.

  • Spending significant time performing rituals or routines to reduce anxiety.

  • Feeling unable to stop mental "checking" or reviewing scenarios over and over again.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a structured and compassionate therapy that helps individuals face their fears and resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. Through gradual, supportive exposure to anxiety-provoking situations, ERP builds confidence and resilience. This process teaches the brain to respond to intrusive thoughts and obsessions with the ability to tolerate uncertainty, while stopping the cycle of obsessive-compulsive rituals.

With my background in treating complex trauma, I offer a unique blend of trauma-informed practice to address the intersection of co-occurring trauma and OCD, ensuring a holistic and sensitive approach to care. My approach is warm, patient, and judgment-free. I meet you where you are, celebrating your progress every step of the way.

OCD doesn’t have to define your life or your child’s future. With ERP, there is hope for meaningful change and relief from the challenges of OCD. Let’s work together to build a life that feels freer, calmer, and more aligned with your values.

Contact me today to learn more about ERP therapy for OCD and schedule a consultation. I’m here to help you or your child take the first step toward lasting relief and resilience.

FAQs

  • You can’t talk your way out of OCD! ERP focuses specifically on the relationship between obsessions and compulsions. Unlike talk therapy, which explores broader issues, ERP directly targets the behaviors and thought patterns that perpetuate OCD leading to lasting change.

  • Let’s be honest, ERP is not a walk in the park. However, the temporary discomfort is a means for the long-term gain of living a life of freedom from compulsions. I’ll support you every step of the way to ensure the process feels manageable.

  • Absolutely! The sooner you target OCD, the better. ERP is highly effective for children and adolescents with OCD. By creating a fun environment and involving parents in the process, I help young clients build skills to manage OCD and thrive.

  • Yes! ERP is also highly effective for general anxiety.

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