What can exposure and response prevention therapy help with?
Generally speaking,
Exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy involves two parts: exposing a client to stimuli that triggers their obsessions and preventing their customary response. ERP is considered the gold-standard treatment for
obsessive-compulsive disorder, but it can also help treat other conditions, including anxiety, phobias, and eating disorders.
How does exposure and response prevention therapy work?
Exposure and response prevention therapy begins with a thorough assessment, in which the therapist will identify the client’s specific triggers and maladaptive responses. The client is then slowly and gradually exposed to increasingly distressing stimuli under the therapist’s supervision; this allows the client to learn to tolerate their distress better and practice not responding in their usual ways.How effective is exposure and response prevention therapy?
Exposure and response prevention therapy can be highly effective, depending on the severity of the condition being treated and the perseverance of the client. In the case of obsessive-compulsive disorder, studies have found that 50-60 percent of clients who completed exposure and response therapy treatment saw a significant improvement in symptoms over the long term. As a result, ERP is considered a first-line treatment for OCD, but it can also help with other mental health conditions that are characterized by obsessions and compulsions.How can I recognize a good exposure and response prevention therapist?
Look for a licensed mental health professional who has helped clients with similar issues using exposure and response prevention therapy. Ask if they have experience with other therapy techniques as well. It’s important to have a strong therapeutic bond and to respect and trust the therapist since ERP involves being exposed to upsetting stimuli and facing emotional triggers.