Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

How it works

With a trained therapist, a person gradually and deliberately faces situations that trigger obsessions—starting small—while practicing not doing the compulsion or reassurance-seeking that usually follows. Over repeated practice, anxiety and the urge to ritualize tend to fall, and the person learns they can tolerate uncertainty.

What the evidence says, use by use

Evidence is specific to the condition, population and—for devices—the exact product. One label never covers everything.

Who usually provides it

A psychologist or therapist with specific OCD/ERP training—general talk therapy is not the same thing.

Cautions & things to know

• For autistic people, ask about concrete language, visual steps, sensory needs and consent-based pacing. A clinician should distinguish OCD fears from other causes of distress.
• ERP is deliberately uncomfortable; a good therapist builds the steps with you, not to you.
• Family members often 'accommodate' OCD; effective care usually involves them.