Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Matt Lusk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Lusk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
Although I have extensive training and experience with OCD, I am comfortable and enjoy working with a variety of other client concerns included (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, int erpersonal issues, and stress management.
Whether you’ve tried therapy before or this is your first time, the process of choosing a therapist and getting started can feel overwhelming. It’s daunting, but important, as I believe the fit between client and therapist is one of the most important parts of treatment. I look at therapy as a partnership and try to adapt my therapeutic approach to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel both validated and challenged. Everyone should have an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and processing their emotions free of any judgment.
Although I have extensive training and experience with OCD, I am comfortable and enjoy working with a variety of other client concerns included (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, int erpersonal issues, and stress management.
Whether you’ve tried therapy before or this is your first time, the process of choosing a therapist and getting started can feel overwhelming. It’s daunting, but important, as I believe the fit between client and therapist is one of the most important parts of treatment. I look at therapy as a partnership and try to adapt my therapeutic approach to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel both validated and challenged. Everyone should have an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and processing their emotions free of any judgment.
(804) 455-8928 View (804) 455-8928
Photo of Michael J Greenberg - OCD Associates, PhD, Psychologist
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23284  (Online Only)
We therefore integrate psychodynamic work within and alongside ERP, to foster deeper and more lasting change than ERP alone can offer.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF- ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We therefore integrate psychodynamic work within and alongside ERP, to foster deeper and more lasting change than ERP alone can offer.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF- ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(917) 924-3987 View (917) 924-3987
Photo of Erika W Scruggs, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika W Scruggs
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I use primarily Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques to help my clients reduce intrusive thoughts, withstand anxiety, and make meaningful changes in their lives.
Helping others live better lives has been my passion since my early teens when I decided to become a counselor. Now, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I enjoy working with adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, and life’s many stresses.
In my practice, I use primarily Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques to help my clients reduce intrusive thoughts, withstand anxiety, and make meaningful changes in their lives.
Helping others live better lives has been my passion since my early teens when I decided to become a counselor. Now, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I enjoy working with adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, and life’s many stresses.
(434) 885-0381 View (434) 885-0381
Photo of Michael J Greenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Michael J Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
I therefore integrate psychoanalytic treatment within and alongside ERP, to foster deeper and more lasting change than ERP alone can offer.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF- ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
I therefore integrate psychoanalytic treatment within and alongside ERP, to foster deeper and more lasting change than ERP alone can offer.
I specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD. This approach to ERP focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF- ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(703) 420-7467 View (703) 420-7467
Photo of Vaughn Omps, MSW
Vaughn Omps
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Have you been struggling with your identity? Have you suffered from traumatic experiences in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to suffer in silence. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, but I'm glad you're here! During sessions, ERP (Exposure & Response Prevention) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), are just two of the primary modalities that I use as a therapist to help my clients in reaching a better state of well-being. Please see below for a complete list of the types of therapy that I practice.
Have you been struggling with your identity? Have you suffered from traumatic experiences in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to suffer in silence. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, but I'm glad you're here! During sessions, ERP (Exposure & Response Prevention) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), are just two of the primary modalities that I use as a therapist to help my clients in reaching a better state of well-being. Please see below for a complete list of the types of therapy that I practice.
(571) 771-1289 View (571) 771-1289
Photo of Lauren Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
My approach is affirming & non-pathologizing, drawing from ACT, I-CBT, & ERP to help you take back your life.
Are you feeling trapped by your OCD/anxiety, stuck in a cycle of fear & avoidance? Is your trauma history impacting your mental health & relationships? Are you looking for support to help you better understand your neurotype or identity? Whatever your journey is, I am here to come alongside you! My mission is to help trauma survivors from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, & non-monogamous communities learn how to get unstuck, break free from fear, & live according to your values— what matters most to you. Serving clients via telehealth in Virginia, South Carolina, Florida, and Vermont!
My approach is affirming & non-pathologizing, drawing from ACT, I-CBT, & ERP to help you take back your life.
Are you feeling trapped by your OCD/anxiety, stuck in a cycle of fear & avoidance? Is your trauma history impacting your mental health & relationships? Are you looking for support to help you better understand your neurotype or identity? Whatever your journey is, I am here to come alongside you! My mission is to help trauma survivors from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, & non-monogamous communities learn how to get unstuck, break free from fear, & live according to your values— what matters most to you. Serving clients via telehealth in Virginia, South Carolina, Florida, and Vermont!
(434) 216-2751 View (434) 216-2751
Photo of Cheri Ann Meadowlark, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheri Ann Meadowlark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
We use Equine assisted therapy combined with CBT, DBT, Trauma Focused Therapy, ERP and Prolonged exposure.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I create a safe space for you to work through trauma, OCD, anxiety and depression. This is a judgment free zone. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that supports you in reaching your goals. .
We use Equine assisted therapy combined with CBT, DBT, Trauma Focused Therapy, ERP and Prolonged exposure.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I create a safe space for you to work through trauma, OCD, anxiety and depression. This is a judgment free zone. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that supports you in reaching your goals. .
(276) 323-9682 View (276) 323-9682
Photo of Andrew E Colsky - Andrew E. Colsky, JD, LLM, LPC, LMHC, JD, LLM, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew E. Colsky, JD, LLM, LPC, LMHC
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, LLM, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with OCD, Tourettes, insomnia, anxiety, phobias or trauma? These issues can be distressing and debilitating. The good news is that there are effective treatments that work relatively quickly. I am specially trained and certified to treat patients with these disorders. I use exposure and response prevention therapy ( ERP) and Inference-based CBT for anxiety and OCD, CBIT for Tourettes, CBT-I for insomnia and EMDR for trauma. I work with patients who have these disorders as well as family members and loved ones. Serving Florida & Virginia through Telehealth statewide.
Are you struggling with OCD, Tourettes, insomnia, anxiety, phobias or trauma? These issues can be distressing and debilitating. The good news is that there are effective treatments that work relatively quickly. I am specially trained and certified to treat patients with these disorders. I use exposure and response prevention therapy ( ERP) and Inference-based CBT for anxiety and OCD, CBIT for Tourettes, CBT-I for insomnia and EMDR for trauma. I work with patients who have these disorders as well as family members and loved ones. Serving Florida & Virginia through Telehealth statewide.
(703) 783-9320 View (703) 783-9320
Photo of Gail M Quick, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Gail M Quick
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 25 years of experience providing psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I work with individuals facing a wide variety of mental health concerns and specialize in the treatment of OCD, OCD-related disorders, and anxiety. I also provide consultation to other professionals treating individuals with OCD. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP) and individualize these evidence-based treatments to help my clients achieve lasting change.
I have more than 25 years of experience providing psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I work with individuals facing a wide variety of mental health concerns and specialize in the treatment of OCD, OCD-related disorders, and anxiety. I also provide consultation to other professionals treating individuals with OCD. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP) and individualize these evidence-based treatments to help my clients achieve lasting change.
(804) 374-9621 View (804) 374-9621
Photo of Michelle Kempf, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Kempf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Are stress and anxiety negatively impacting in your life? Do you frequently feel stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts and have difficulty being present and engaged? Perhaps you've been avoiding activities that you want/need to do, and notice that your comfort zone gets smaller and smaller? If you feel that your life is being controlled by fear, worry, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or repetitive/compulsive behaviors, please know that there is hope! During our work together you will develop evidence based strategies to manage intrusive thoughts, withstand anxiety, and reclaim your time, energy, and attention.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Are stress and anxiety negatively impacting in your life? Do you frequently feel stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts and have difficulty being present and engaged? Perhaps you've been avoiding activities that you want/need to do, and notice that your comfort zone gets smaller and smaller? If you feel that your life is being controlled by fear, worry, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or repetitive/compulsive behaviors, please know that there is hope! During our work together you will develop evidence based strategies to manage intrusive thoughts, withstand anxiety, and reclaim your time, energy, and attention.
(804) 534-2410 View (804) 534-2410
Photo of Maria Rheba Estante, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Rheba Estante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
Therapy tailored to your needs with a specialization in Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for OCD.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story. Clinical supervision for pre-licensed therapists in California. Professional Consultations for clinicians.
Therapy tailored to your needs with a specialization in Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) for OCD.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story. Clinical supervision for pre-licensed therapists in California. Professional Consultations for clinicians.
(804) 575-5946 View (804) 575-5946
Photo of Carla J. Crews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla J. Crews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229  (Online Only)
I am foundationally trained in DBT, RO DBT, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, and ERP.
Have you tried traditional talk therapy in the past, yet still struggle with issues that are impacting your life and ability to have the relationships that you want? Are you ready to explore your problematic patterns of behavior and change them? I have experience with a number of evidence-based practices to help clients address their mental health issues in a way that will create lasting change and help them create a life with more meaning, purpose and capacity for joy. I enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression and loneliness, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma and PTSD, as well as OCD.
I am foundationally trained in DBT, RO DBT, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, and ERP.
Have you tried traditional talk therapy in the past, yet still struggle with issues that are impacting your life and ability to have the relationships that you want? Are you ready to explore your problematic patterns of behavior and change them? I have experience with a number of evidence-based practices to help clients address their mental health issues in a way that will create lasting change and help them create a life with more meaning, purpose and capacity for joy. I enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression and loneliness, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma and PTSD, as well as OCD.
(804) 599-4454 View (804) 599-4454
Photo of Jeffrey Taulbee, LCPC
Jeffrey Taulbee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Is your life being restricted by fear, worry, phobias, shyness, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or repetitive/compulsive behaviors? Do you feel that your "comfort zone" has been shrinking, you've been avoiding things that you want/need to do, or that you get "stuck in your head" and can't be present in your life? There's good news: things can get better. My goal is to always bring a compassionate, authentic attitude to therapy that respects each client’s individuality, while utilizing powerful, evidence-based practices that have been proven to work.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention ( ERP), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Is your life being restricted by fear, worry, phobias, shyness, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or repetitive/compulsive behaviors? Do you feel that your "comfort zone" has been shrinking, you've been avoiding things that you want/need to do, or that you get "stuck in your head" and can't be present in your life? There's good news: things can get better. My goal is to always bring a compassionate, authentic attitude to therapy that respects each client’s individuality, while utilizing powerful, evidence-based practices that have been proven to work.
(410) 983-3844 View (410) 983-3844
Photo of Maria Rheba Estante - Exposure Therapy Designs , Marriage & Family Therapist
Exposure Therapy Designs
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
ERP is a collaborative and creative approach to learning new skills and strategies to become comfortable with uncertainty and more confident in your ability to handle life’s unexpected challenges.
If someone asked you not to think for 10 minutes how hard would that be? Is overthinking about the “What Ifs” driving you to relentlessly check things over and over again? Are you determined to find certainty in an uncertain world? Do you frequently ask others repeatedly if something or someone is going to be OK? No matter how much you do a task or say a particular thing does peace of mind elude you? Does the compulsion to handwash, re-read, double check, pray, or re-arrange items never provide lasting relief? Do you find yourself burdened by intrusive thoughts that strike against your will and preoccupy your mind for hours a day?
ERP is a collaborative and creative approach to learning new skills and strategies to become comfortable with uncertainty and more confident in your ability to handle life’s unexpected challenges.
If someone asked you not to think for 10 minutes how hard would that be? Is overthinking about the “What Ifs” driving you to relentlessly check things over and over again? Are you determined to find certainty in an uncertain world? Do you frequently ask others repeatedly if something or someone is going to be OK? No matter how much you do a task or say a particular thing does peace of mind elude you? Does the compulsion to handwash, re-read, double check, pray, or re-arrange items never provide lasting relief? Do you find yourself burdened by intrusive thoughts that strike against your will and preoccupy your mind for hours a day?
(571) 200-3779 View (571) 200-3779
Photo of Robin Usher - Glacier Health, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glacier Health
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
Glacier Health practices from the belief that everyone can succeed if given the resources to do so, and we know that everyone has a purpose to discover. Our practice offers comprehensive services, including counseling, medication management, care coordination, and mentoring.
Glacier Health practices from the belief that everyone can succeed if given the resources to do so, and we know that everyone has a purpose to discover. Our practice offers comprehensive services, including counseling, medication management, care coordination, and mentoring.
(804) 554-5978 View (804) 554-5978
Photo of Dr. Sharon W Moody - MEPS Centered Psychological & Evaluation Services, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
MEPS Centered Psychological & Evaluation Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Sharon. I’m a military spouse of 26 years and counting, with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Traveling the country and meeting people from all walks of life helped solidify my passion and desire to help others achieve their personal self-care goals and become the best versions of themselves. Caring for others is my small way of helping to make a difference in the lives of others during these challenges times. I believe in treating the whole person, the mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects.
Hi, my name is Sharon. I’m a military spouse of 26 years and counting, with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Traveling the country and meeting people from all walks of life helped solidify my passion and desire to help others achieve their personal self-care goals and become the best versions of themselves. Caring for others is my small way of helping to make a difference in the lives of others during these challenges times. I believe in treating the whole person, the mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects.
(804) 626-5530 View (804) 626-5530
Photo of Rachel Baylor, LPC, Counselor
Rachel Baylor
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Rachel Baylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She received her M. A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and her B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University with a minor in Children and Family studies. Rachel is a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, and her approach is person-centered and strength based. Perhaps you are single, feeling alone in your relationships, struggling to connect with your partner. Maybe you are a parent struggling to bond with your child or looking for ways to best support your child(ren).
Rachel Baylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She received her M. A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and her B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University with a minor in Children and Family studies. Rachel is a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, and her approach is person-centered and strength based. Perhaps you are single, feeling alone in your relationships, struggling to connect with your partner. Maybe you are a parent struggling to bond with your child or looking for ways to best support your child(ren).
(804) 352-6259 View (804) 352-6259
Photo of Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-va
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-va
(804) 322-4300 View (804) 322-4300
Photo of Lisa Berman, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Berman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
My ideal client is one who wants to building a collaborative relationship that will help to foster change. I believe that most of the work of therapy happens in between sessions, so my clients will benefit if they are willing to practice the things that we agree will be helpful. I am less focused on diagnoses than beliefs, feelings, and behaviors that are amenable to change. I am hoping that my clients have decided that they are willing to be vulnerable at this point in their lives and that they are open to having me participate in their journey toward a more effective life strategy.
My ideal client is one who wants to building a collaborative relationship that will help to foster change. I believe that most of the work of therapy happens in between sessions, so my clients will benefit if they are willing to practice the things that we agree will be helpful. I am less focused on diagnoses than beliefs, feelings, and behaviors that are amenable to change. I am hoping that my clients have decided that they are willing to be vulnerable at this point in their lives and that they are open to having me participate in their journey toward a more effective life strategy.
(804) 258-4939 View (804) 258-4939
Photo of Blair Marini Bowman, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blair Marini Bowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
Eating challenges, whether yours or your loved ones, can feel lonely, confusing, and shameful. And yet, for many, they can also feel stabilizing and familiar, or simply unavoidable. The relationships we keep with our food and body can be incredibly complex and influenced by a multitude of factors. After years of experience working with eating disorders at all levels of care, I understand those complexities and the sensitive nature of this type of work. I offer a collaborative space for those individuals and families who are ready to work towards a life where eating is intuitive, connective, and safe.
Eating challenges, whether yours or your loved ones, can feel lonely, confusing, and shameful. And yet, for many, they can also feel stabilizing and familiar, or simply unavoidable. The relationships we keep with our food and body can be incredibly complex and influenced by a multitude of factors. After years of experience working with eating disorders at all levels of care, I understand those complexities and the sensitive nature of this type of work. I offer a collaborative space for those individuals and families who are ready to work towards a life where eating is intuitive, connective, and safe.
(804) 805-4578 View (804) 805-4578
1
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists

Do I need exposure and response prevention therapy?

Many clients decide to seek help for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors when these symptoms are distressing enough to disrupt everyday life. Any thoughts or behaviors that cause friction in close relationships are also worth addressing. In addition, the client’s symptoms don’t have to be severe for them to benefit from ERP therapy.

Is exposure and response prevention therapy part of cognitive behavioral therapy?

Exposure and response prevention is one specific type of CBT that focuses on behavioral change in response to triggering stimuli. It is related to exposure therapy but adds an additional component of preventing compulsive and harmful responses.

How long does exposure and response prevention therapy take?

While every patient is different, exposure and response prevention therapy typically lasts around 12 sessions, although some treatments can take longer. A therapist will determine if the treatment is complete based on how the client faces their fears, particularly the strongest ones. When a client feels less anxiety about stimuli that once evoked terror or distress, that is generally an indication that they are nearing the end of ERP therapy.

What are the limitations of exposure and response prevention therapy?

The most common pitfalls of exposure and response prevention therapy include not addressing a client’s core fears, allowing the client to avoid their most distressing stimuli, and using imaginary exposure when the client requires real-life exposure (and vice versa). ERP therapy is most effective when the client commits to the full course of treatment; if the client stops early or doesn’t practice what they have learned outside of therapy sessions, they are less likely to have successful outcomes.