- Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that feel impossible to control?
- Does anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) interfere with your daily life and keep you from living fully?
- Do you engage in repetitive body movements such as skin picking, nail biting or hair pulling?
- Do you have a phobia that stops you from enjoying life to its fullest?
Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP)
What is ERP Therapy?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy is a powerful and effective treatment designed to help you break free from these patterns and reclaim your life.
ERP is used in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that focuses on challenging the distorted cognitions that often go with unwanted behaviors. At the same time you will gradually expose yourself to fears, or unwanted behaviors in a safe and supportive environment while resisting the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. By gradually exposing yourself to anxiety-provoking situations, you can reduce the intensity of your anxiety and learn healthier ways to respond. This often results in a reduction of intrusive thoughts so that you are free to live your life the way you want to!
What Does ERP Therapy Entail?
ERP therapy involves two key components:
- Exposure: Gradual and controlled exposure to feared thoughts, situations, or objects that trigger anxiety or compulsive behaviors.
- Response Prevention: Learning to resist the urge to engage in compulsions, rituals or avoidance behaviors that temporarily reduce anxiety.
This approach helps rewire the brain’s response to anxiety, enabling you to tolerate discomfort without relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms. ERP is highly structured and customized to each person’s unique triggers and challenges, with the goal of reducing anxiety and increasing tolerance for uncertainty.
Why ERP Therapy Is Important
ERP is considered the gold standard for treating OCD and related anxiety disorders. Research has consistently shown its effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving overall quality of life. ERP can help with:
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Trichotillomania
- Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Social Anxiety
- Specific phobias
- Panic disorder
- Health anxiety
By gradually facing fears and resisting compulsive behaviors, clients experience long-term relief and build resilience in managing anxiety.
Our Therapeutic Approach at Campbell Teen & Family Therapy
At Campbell Teen & Family Therapy, our experienced therapists understand that no two clients are the same. We tailor our ERP approach to meet your individual needs, guiding you step by step through the process with compassion and expertise.
We believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you feel safe exploring your fears. Our therapists use ERP therapy as part of a broader, holistic approach, integrating other evidence-based methods when appropriate to ensure comprehensive care. The goal is not just symptom management but helping you gain the confidence and skills to live a fulfilling life, free from the limitations of anxiety and compulsions.
Take the First Step Toward Freedom
If you’re ready to break free from anxiety and regain control over your life, we’re here to help. Schedule a 15-minute free consultation today and learn how Campbell Teen & Family Therapy can support you on your journey toward healing and resilience.
Let us walk alongside you as you take this important step toward lasting change.
Call (408) 628-0532 now to schedule an assessment to see if ERP Therapy is right for you! Campbell Teen & Family Therapy, Inc. (CTFT) is proud to provide services for Campbell, San Jose and the entire Bay Area!