Exposure and Response Prevention Prahran
Exposure and response prevention is a therapy used most often with obsessive-compulsive disorder. However it can also be used to treat other anxiety related disorders.
"You don't have to control your thoughts; you just have to stop letting them control you" - Dan Millman
Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD
Understanding Obsessions and Compulsions
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Obsessions are intrusive thoughts, images or urges that create distress or anxiety.
Compulsions are behaviours or mental rituals that people use to try to reduce that distress.
Examples may include:
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checking behaviours
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reassurance seeking
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mental reviewing or rumination
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avoidance of certain situations
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repeated cleaning or rituals
While these behaviours can temporarily reduce anxiety, they often maintain the cycle of OCD over time.
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How Exposure and Response Prevention Works
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ERP involves gradually approaching situations or thoughts that trigger anxiety while learning to resist the urge to perform compulsive behaviours.
Through repeated experiences of exposure without the usual response, the brain learns that anxiety can reduce naturally without the need for rituals or avoidance.
This process can help individuals develop greater tolerance for uncertainty and discomfort.
A Collaborative and Gradual Process
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Exposure work is always approached collaboratively and at a manageable pace.
Therapy may involve:
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identifying triggers and patterns of avoidance
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developing a structured exposure plan
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learning strategies for tolerating anxiety
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building confidence in responding differently to distressing thoughts
The aim is to support people in developing a more flexible and less restricted relationship with anxiety.
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ERP is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as CBT to provide comprehensive care.