Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a behavioral therapy commonly used in the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is considered one of the most effective treatments for OCD and is based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
ERP focuses on breaking the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking situations or triggers (exposure) while preventing the accompanying compulsive behaviors or rituals (response prevention). The goal is to help individuals confront their fears and anxieties directly, learn that their feared outcomes are unlikely to occur, and reduce the need to rely on compulsive behaviors for relief.
By consistently exposing individuals to their fears and preventing the accompanying compulsions, ERP helps to rewire the brain's response to anxiety-inducing situations. Over time, individuals experience a reduction in their obsessive thoughts, a decrease in anxiety, and a greater sense of control over their compulsions.
Rumination Focused Exposure & Response Prevention (RF-ERP)
Rumination Focused ERP is an emerging therapy focused on eliminating rumination. The belief in RF-ERP is that if we can eliminate rumination we can eliminate the compulsions and anxiety that occur with OCD and anxiety disorders. RF-ERP focuses on teaching the client to stop ruminating. We begin treatment by developing an understanding of the emotional and relational factors driving symptoms, and continually address these factors both within and alongside ERP.
Inference-based Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (I-CBT)
Inference-based Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (I-CBT) is a newer therapy, gaining popularity with those who have found other treatments ineffective. I-CBT is an evidence-based treatment based on the idea that obsessions are abnormal doubts about what “could be” possible (e.g. “I might have left the stove on”; “I might be contaminated”).
This approach suggests that obsessional doubts emerge due to a cognitive storytelling process that heavily relies on imagination while doubting the accuracy of sensory information. The narratives formed during obsessions often contain reasoning distortions that conceal the absence of any substantial basis in reality for the doubts. Consequently, obsessions continue to endure, and attempts to resolve them through compulsions are ultimately ineffective.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy using relaxing eye movements; people can see benefits within 1-5 sessions. ART treatment uses eye movements and image replacement to change the way that negative images are stored in the brain. ART can be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders, life stressors and trauma.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on promoting psychological flexibility and helping individuals live a more meaningful life. It is based on the idea that suffering arises from our attempts to avoid or control unpleasant thoughts, emotions, and sensations. ACT encourages individuals to accept their internal experiences, even if they are uncomfortable, and to commit to taking actions aligned with their values. Central to ACT is the concept of mindfulness, which involves being fully present and engaged in the present moment. Through various techniques, such as cognitive defusion, acceptance, and values clarification, ACT aims to help individuals develop psychological flexibility and make choices that lead to a rich and fulfilling life, even in the presence of difficulties. It is used to address a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, OCD, depression, and chronic pain.