Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Therapists in Oakdale, MN

Photo of Chaarissa Romero, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chaarissa Romero
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
Although my training stems from evidence-based treatments (ERP, CBIT, CBT), I draw from other techniques (play, mindfulness, art) as well.
I identify as a bicultural (Ecuadorian-American) and Latina provider. Because of this, I recognize everyone’s unique experiences and challenges. I meet individuals where he/she/they are at, but I am open to challenging my clients (at your pace!) too. I provide a collaborative, safe, humorous, and flexible environment. I am very much willing to move around in session, participate in other activities, or just calmly sit.
Although my training stems from evidence-based treatments (ERP, CBIT, CBT), I draw from other techniques (play, mindfulness, art) as well.
I identify as a bicultural (Ecuadorian-American) and Latina provider. Because of this, I recognize everyone’s unique experiences and challenges. I meet individuals where he/she/they are at, but I am open to challenging my clients (at your pace!) too. I provide a collaborative, safe, humorous, and flexible environment. I am very much willing to move around in session, participate in other activities, or just calmly sit.
(651) 240-3833 View (651) 240-3833
Photo of Rebecca A Murphy, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Rebecca A Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and mindfulness-based treatment.
MPS is an outpatient psychotherapy clinic in Woodbury that specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults with mental health concerns. We commonly treat the following concerns: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Generalized, Separation, Social, Phobias, Panic), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourettes/Motor Tic Disorder, Life and/or Family Changes, Grief and Loss, Psychosis, Trauma, and Attention & Focus Concerns (ADHD).
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and mindfulness-based treatment.
MPS is an outpatient psychotherapy clinic in Woodbury that specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults with mental health concerns. We commonly treat the following concerns: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Generalized, Separation, Social, Phobias, Panic), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourettes/Motor Tic Disorder, Life and/or Family Changes, Grief and Loss, Psychosis, Trauma, and Attention & Focus Concerns (ADHD).
(612) 324-8084 View (612) 324-8084
Photo of Caitlin Sparer, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Caitlin Sparer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
As a Mental Health Practitioner with a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, I enjoy working with teenagers, adults and seniors. We work together to progress through trauma, grief, depression, OCD, and anxiety. It is important to me to build a relationship with trust in order to provide a safe place for having those challenging conversations around life experiences. I approach my sessions with a gentle, compassionate and caring method of communication with the attempt to make therapy approachable and secure enough to work through treatment goals.
As a Mental Health Practitioner with a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, I enjoy working with teenagers, adults and seniors. We work together to progress through trauma, grief, depression, OCD, and anxiety. It is important to me to build a relationship with trust in order to provide a safe place for having those challenging conversations around life experiences. I approach my sessions with a gentle, compassionate and caring method of communication with the attempt to make therapy approachable and secure enough to work through treatment goals.
(651) 661-4737 View (651) 661-4737
Photo of Cole Riemer, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cole Riemer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing distress and concerns regarding anxiety, self-esteem, focus, obsessions and compulsions, interpersonal relationships, and depression. I recognize that every perspective holds a strength built from each day experienced, and I value utilizing the unique values in every individual to tailor an experience of comfort, motivation, and positive growth.
I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing distress and concerns regarding anxiety, self-esteem, focus, obsessions and compulsions, interpersonal relationships, and depression. I recognize that every perspective holds a strength built from each day experienced, and I value utilizing the unique values in every individual to tailor an experience of comfort, motivation, and positive growth.
(651) 240-3597 View (651) 240-3597
Photo of Dr. Randall L Morris-Ostrom, PsyD, JD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Randall L Morris-Ostrom
Psychologist, PsyD, JD, LP
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in the evaluation and evidence-based treatment of emotional disorders, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Included in this general category are also the unhealthy strategies people develop to control their distress such as perfectionism, inflexibility, emotion avoidance, over-regulation of emotion, and excessive dependence on others. I have a special interest in working with graduate and undergraduate students, especially those struggling with perfectionism and/or writing blocks.
I specialize in the evaluation and evidence-based treatment of emotional disorders, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Included in this general category are also the unhealthy strategies people develop to control their distress such as perfectionism, inflexibility, emotion avoidance, over-regulation of emotion, and excessive dependence on others. I have a special interest in working with graduate and undergraduate students, especially those struggling with perfectionism and/or writing blocks.
(952) 260-6109 View (952) 260-6109

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ben Dieffenbach, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Dieffenbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I've also been trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the most effective therapy for treating OCD.
When was the last time you had a good laugh? Or felt like your brain was calm? Or felt really confident that you were running your own life; not your anxiety, or obsessive thoughts, or big emotions. If it feels like it's been a while since you could actually enjoy life, then maybe it's a good thing you're here. Therapy can seem like a really serious thing to jump into. It is! It doesn't need to feel that way though. It's possible to do hard things, face the fears and anxieties that keep you stuck, and grow into the person you want to be. You can do all of that, and it can even be fun. Enjoyable. Something you look forward to.
I've also been trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the most effective therapy for treating OCD.
When was the last time you had a good laugh? Or felt like your brain was calm? Or felt really confident that you were running your own life; not your anxiety, or obsessive thoughts, or big emotions. If it feels like it's been a while since you could actually enjoy life, then maybe it's a good thing you're here. Therapy can seem like a really serious thing to jump into. It is! It doesn't need to feel that way though. It's possible to do hard things, face the fears and anxieties that keep you stuck, and grow into the person you want to be. You can do all of that, and it can even be fun. Enjoyable. Something you look forward to.
(651) 538-2567 View (651) 538-2567
Photo of Sierra Claeson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sierra Claeson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
You’ll receive empathy, curiosity, humor, and candidness as part of our sessions together! I am trained in two evidence-based treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Inference-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy (ICBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am currently accepting new clients. Hi! I’m glad you’re here! Reading therapist bios and reaching out for therapy takes an enormous amount of courage and so proud of you for taking that first step! My job as your therapist is to help you navigate anxiety and OCD- utilizing evidence-based treatments. I will gently push you towards your goals, and challenge you at times, in a way that feels supportive and kind. I will work from the perspective of your values, while gaining awareness into your real authentic self. I am licensed/registered in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida!
You’ll receive empathy, curiosity, humor, and candidness as part of our sessions together! I am trained in two evidence-based treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Inference-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy (ICBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am currently accepting new clients. Hi! I’m glad you’re here! Reading therapist bios and reaching out for therapy takes an enormous amount of courage and so proud of you for taking that first step! My job as your therapist is to help you navigate anxiety and OCD- utilizing evidence-based treatments. I will gently push you towards your goals, and challenge you at times, in a way that feels supportive and kind. I will work from the perspective of your values, while gaining awareness into your real authentic self. I am licensed/registered in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida!
(763) 225-1691 View (763) 225-1691
Photo of Jenna Edlund, MA, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Jenna Edlund
Psychologist, MA, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125  (Online Only)
I utilize empirically supported treatments such as Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Behavior Analysis, SPACE, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and much more in order to help client’s expand their coping strategies and increase their ability to reach desired goals.
I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults increase their emotional and behavioral regulation for anxiety disorders, OCD, and early childhood behavioral challenges. Through a collaborative approach, I provide individual therapy with the child, while also involving parents in the process to provide parents with the tools to support their child/teen. My collaborative, relational, playful, light-hearted style allows me to develop a warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship with every client, which creates a safe environment for children, teens, and adults to learn the skills to manage daily life experiences.
I utilize empirically supported treatments such as Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Behavior Analysis, SPACE, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and much more in order to help client’s expand their coping strategies and increase their ability to reach desired goals.
I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults increase their emotional and behavioral regulation for anxiety disorders, OCD, and early childhood behavioral challenges. Through a collaborative approach, I provide individual therapy with the child, while also involving parents in the process to provide parents with the tools to support their child/teen. My collaborative, relational, playful, light-hearted style allows me to develop a warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship with every client, which creates a safe environment for children, teens, and adults to learn the skills to manage daily life experiences.
(952) 260-8344 View (952) 260-8344
Photo of Jayme Kolbo, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jayme Kolbo
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
I also utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), self-compassion, and mindfulness to help you reach your goals.
I specialize in treating individuals with OCD, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, hoarding disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and related anxiety disorders. If you are struggling with excessive fear, obsessive and/or intrusive thoughts, compulsive or ritualistic behaviors, chronic feelings of doubt, difficulty tolerating uncertainty, hopelessness, clutter, disorganization, shame, and/or patterns of avoidance that are impacting your life, you are not alone. There is hope and evidence-based therapy available.
I also utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), self-compassion, and mindfulness to help you reach your goals.
I specialize in treating individuals with OCD, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, hoarding disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and related anxiety disorders. If you are struggling with excessive fear, obsessive and/or intrusive thoughts, compulsive or ritualistic behaviors, chronic feelings of doubt, difficulty tolerating uncertainty, hopelessness, clutter, disorganization, shame, and/or patterns of avoidance that are impacting your life, you are not alone. There is hope and evidence-based therapy available.
(612) 234-2205 View (612) 234-2205
Photo of Sarah Cheney, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Cheney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
I have 12 years of training and experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
We all want a life of peace and ease; however, life includes challenges and struggles with painful experiences. Fortunately, modern, science-based mental health interventions help people reduce suffering and live life with more meaning and engagement with the world. I can help you identify personal values, develop unique strengths, build coping skills, and experiment with behavior changes. Our work together will help connect you with who and what you most care about and help you build a fulfilling and active life.
I have 12 years of training and experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
We all want a life of peace and ease; however, life includes challenges and struggles with painful experiences. Fortunately, modern, science-based mental health interventions help people reduce suffering and live life with more meaning and engagement with the world. I can help you identify personal values, develop unique strengths, build coping skills, and experiment with behavior changes. Our work together will help connect you with who and what you most care about and help you build a fulfilling and active life.
(218) 427-4393 View (218) 427-4393
Photo of Damaris Axelson, MPS, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Damaris Axelson
Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working on various types of anxiety, obsessive compulsive and trauma, and I am trained in both ERP for OCD and EMDR for PTSD.
With 10+ years of experience in behavioral health, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I am a LGBTQIA-affirming therapist, I'm dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
I specialize in working on various types of anxiety, obsessive compulsive and trauma, and I am trained in both ERP for OCD and EMDR for PTSD.
With 10+ years of experience in behavioral health, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I am a LGBTQIA-affirming therapist, I'm dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
(952) 260-1307 View (952) 260-1307
Photo of Dr. Brittany Pfleghaar, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Brittany Pfleghaar
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Roseville, MN 55113
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I have pursued extensive training in treating OCD and Anxiety Disorders through the use of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques.
My clients would describe my approach as warm, genuine, and relational. I pursued doctoral training in Clinical Psychology within a medical school and therefore have developed unique expertise in the intersection of emotional, behavioral, and physical concerns. I truly believe in treating the whole person through making lasting healthy lifestyle changes. Think of me as your mental health coach helping you to process and make changes in your daily life to achieve your goals.
Additionally, I have pursued extensive training in treating OCD and Anxiety Disorders through the use of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques.
My clients would describe my approach as warm, genuine, and relational. I pursued doctoral training in Clinical Psychology within a medical school and therefore have developed unique expertise in the intersection of emotional, behavioral, and physical concerns. I truly believe in treating the whole person through making lasting healthy lifestyle changes. Think of me as your mental health coach helping you to process and make changes in your daily life to achieve your goals.
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Photo of William Schultz, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Wondering if you have OCD? Looking for OCD treatment (such as ERP)? Signs of OCD include anxiously asking "What if..." questions like: What if I contact a germ in the environment? What if I left the stove on? What if I hit someone with my car? What if I uncontrollably do something terrible? What if something bad happens to my baby? What if I can't trust my memory? If these questions are frequently on your mind (especially if you're often anxious, repetitively check, seek reassurance, or avoid situations most others don't), you could be experiencing symptoms of OCD, a form of anxiety which can take over your life.
Wondering if you have OCD? Looking for OCD treatment (such as ERP)? Signs of OCD include anxiously asking "What if..." questions like: What if I contact a germ in the environment? What if I left the stove on? What if I hit someone with my car? What if I uncontrollably do something terrible? What if something bad happens to my baby? What if I can't trust my memory? If these questions are frequently on your mind (especially if you're often anxious, repetitively check, seek reassurance, or avoid situations most others don't), you could be experiencing symptoms of OCD, a form of anxiety which can take over your life.
(651) 927-7939 View (651) 927-7939
Photo of Erin Venker - OCD and Anxiety Center of Minnesota, MA , LPCC
OCD and Anxiety Center of Minnesota
MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Welcome to OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center of Minnesota, where we provide top-quality, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety disorders. Our center is dedicated to helping our clients achieve lasting relief and regain control over their lives. At our center, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other proven therapeutic modalities.
Welcome to OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center of Minnesota, where we provide top-quality, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety disorders. Our center is dedicated to helping our clients achieve lasting relief and regain control over their lives. At our center, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), inference-based CBT (I-CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other proven therapeutic modalities.
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Photo of Michael Greenberg - OCD Associates, PhD, Psychologist
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
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 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.
(646) 437-8902 View (646) 437-8902
Photo of Jennifer Marks, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Marks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55129  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt the weight of unresolved pain holding you back from the life you envision? Taking that first step towards healing can seem daunting, yet it's often the crucial leap towards reclaiming our happiness. We may find ourselves entangled in suffering, losing sight of our core values as we attempt to evade discomfort. But here's the truth: confronting our pain, guided with compassion, can lead us to a life grounded in authenticity and purpose.
Have you ever felt the weight of unresolved pain holding you back from the life you envision? Taking that first step towards healing can seem daunting, yet it's often the crucial leap towards reclaiming our happiness. We may find ourselves entangled in suffering, losing sight of our core values as we attempt to evade discomfort. But here's the truth: confronting our pain, guided with compassion, can lead us to a life grounded in authenticity and purpose.
(612) 255-9621 View (612) 255-9621
Photo of Michelle Marie Young, MS, LPCC , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Marie Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC , LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
My expertise includes treating obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, skin picking and hair pulling disorders, various anxiety disorders (such as separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, social phobia, illness/health anxiety, and specific phobias like emetophobia), disordered eating, and perinatal mental health (both maternal and paternal). I have experience working in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs, and have had the privilege of presenting at local and national conferences. I am an independent contractor with Mind Matters Collective, which is a group of private practice clinicians.
My expertise includes treating obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, skin picking and hair pulling disorders, various anxiety disorders (such as separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, social phobia, illness/health anxiety, and specific phobias like emetophobia), disordered eating, and perinatal mental health (both maternal and paternal). I have experience working in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs, and have had the privilege of presenting at local and national conferences. I am an independent contractor with Mind Matters Collective, which is a group of private practice clinicians.
(715) 801-2883 View (715) 801-2883
Photo of Jesse Kardong, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesse Kardong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I work with adults who feel as though worries and fears interfere with daily life. These issues might manifest as social anxiety, panic attacks, fears of specific objects or situations, general feelings of being "on edge," insomnia, or symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (intrusive, upsetting thoughts/feeling driven to "do something" in response).
I work with adults who feel as though worries and fears interfere with daily life. These issues might manifest as social anxiety, panic attacks, fears of specific objects or situations, general feelings of being "on edge," insomnia, or symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (intrusive, upsetting thoughts/feeling driven to "do something" in response).
(651) 371-9560 x317 View (651) 371-9560 x317
Photo of Virginia Fitch-Braun, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Virginia Fitch-Braun
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55115  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling stuck or notice feeling overwhelmed with things you previously were not bothered by? These are challenging times and maybe you aren’t feeling quite like yourself. Starting therapy can feel scary and I want you to know you are not alone in this feeling. Therapy can be hard work, as it requires you to share and be vulnerable. It also allows you the space to process independently from others’ opinions or attitudes to sort through thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, it is important to me to meet you where you are in your journey to balance and healing.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck or notice feeling overwhelmed with things you previously were not bothered by? These are challenging times and maybe you aren’t feeling quite like yourself. Starting therapy can feel scary and I want you to know you are not alone in this feeling. Therapy can be hard work, as it requires you to share and be vulnerable. It also allows you the space to process independently from others’ opinions or attitudes to sort through thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, it is important to me to meet you where you are in your journey to balance and healing.
(651) 505-3229 View (651) 505-3229
Photo of Michael Tiede, MA,  LP, Psychologist
Michael Tiede
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55129  (Online Only)
When my clients takes the first step towards healing, they are often unsure about what they want, what they will talk about, or how they will ever get there. Taking that first step to get help is commendable. As a Mayo Clinic trained clinician, I am here to support them on their journey to a happier, healthier life. Those who see me most often are adults with mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, or stress. I also specialize in teens struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Depression and men who are navigating areas of stress in their roles, relationships, and/or career. Together, we build a foundation for lasting emotional growth and well-being.
When my clients takes the first step towards healing, they are often unsure about what they want, what they will talk about, or how they will ever get there. Taking that first step to get help is commendable. As a Mayo Clinic trained clinician, I am here to support them on their journey to a happier, healthier life. Those who see me most often are adults with mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, or stress. I also specialize in teens struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Depression and men who are navigating areas of stress in their roles, relationships, and/or career. Together, we build a foundation for lasting emotional growth and well-being.
(651) 571-5465 View (651) 571-5465

See more therapy options for Oakdale

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.