Exposure Response Prevention
The ERP Approach
Exposure Response Prevention therapy, or "ERP", is the gold standard for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It challenges the patient to directly experience their uncomfortable thoughts, which is at the core of their symptoms. Done in session and out of session, this trains the brain that the thoughts are not a threat and lays down new neural pathways, resulting in an alleviation of symptoms. ERP has been used for decades to treat OCD. In fact, it has one of the best success rates of any therapy for any mental health issue.
Your fears ain't so tall if you stand up to them.
John Wayne
The Structure of ERP
- Identify Triggers
We will work together to determine what situations, people, contexts, and objects are exacerbating your symptoms.
- Create a Hierarchy
This involves making a structured list of what triggers are most troubling you, using Subjective Units of Discomfort (SUDs), scaled 1-100.
- Scripts
Depending on your situation, we may decide to draft a narrative script of your triggering thoughts. You will then record yourself reading this script aloud and listen to it daily.
- Exposure Response Prevention
Once we choose which trigger to work on first, we will practice an exposure together. This involves intentionally and voluntarily exposing yourself to a trigger in a controlled environment. During this exposure, you will not perform any ritual behavior. You will sit with the discomfort for an extended period of time. Your brain will naturally experience a drop-off in anxiety, leading to a decrease in your SUDs score. At this point, we will end the exposure.
- Daily Practice
After you learn how to use Exposure Response Prevention, the most important part of the process is that you practice on your own, outside of session.
- Maintenance Exposures
The human brain is designed for habit. People who have experienced OCD may have relapses of symptoms. Fortunately, once you have learned how to use ERP, you will be equipped to manage these symptoms so they do not control your life.
Because ERP is an uncomfortable process, it requires a significant commitment both on the part of the therapist and the patient. However, the commitment has incredible payoffs in helping you live a more enjoyable life. I promise to be there with you every step of the way.
If you expose yourself voluntarily to the things you are avoiding and are afraid of, you get stronger.
Jordan Peterson
Ready to get Started?
It can feel overwhelming to reach out for help. I am here to help every step of the way. Call or email today to get started.
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Schedule by Phone or Email
Phone: (719) 266-2623 Email: paul@northartcounseling.org
Hours
Mon | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | |
Tue | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | |
Wed | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | |
Thu | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | |
Fri | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | |
Sat | Closed | |
Sun | Closed |
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