ERP Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
What Is ERP?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard, evidence-based treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It's a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) designed to help you break free from the exhausting cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions.
ERP works by gently and gradually exposing you to the thoughts, images, objects, or situations that trigger your anxiety—while helping you resist the urge to perform compulsions. Over time, this process reduces the power OCD has over your life. For those with trauma-related obsessions or religious scrupulosity, I integrate trauma therapy and spiritual support as needed.
How ERP Helps
ERP therapy can reduce both the intensity of intrusive thoughts and the need to engage in compulsions. It helps you:
Break free from cycles of checking, washing, counting, reassurance seeking, etc.
Reduce avoidance of places, people, or triggers
Lessen distress from unwanted or taboo intrusive thoughts
Decrease time spent in worrying and rumination
Reconnect with the things that matter most to you
Live more fully, making decisions based on values rather than fear
What ERP Looks Like in Practice
In ERP therapy, you and I work together to:
Explain
Explain the nature of OCD, how it develops, and how it is maintained
Identify
Identify your unique obsessions, fears, and compulsions
Practice Response Prevention
Practice strategies to sit with uncertainty instead of engaging in a ritual or compulsion
Create Hierarchy
Create a personalized hierarchy of challenges, starting small and building confidence
Practice Exposures
Practice exposures in a safe, supportive environment while resisting urges to perform compulsions
Build Resilience
Build resilience so that OCD no longer controls your life
The process is collaborative—we go at your pace, balancing safety with growth.
Why Work With Me
I specialize in OCD treatment and have advanced training in ERP. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental. Many clients are afraid to share their intrusive thoughts, but in therapy, you'll never be judged. Instead, you'll find understanding and tools that work.
Hope Is Possible
OCD can make life feel small, exhausting, and overwhelming—but it doesn't have to stay that way. With ERP therapy, recovery is possible, and freedom is within reach.
Book Your Free 15-Minute ConsultWhy Choose A New Day Psychology
Licensed Across States
Licensed in Missouri and New Jersey via PSYPACT
Evidence-Based Treatment
Advanced training in gold-standard ERP therapy
Flexible Telehealth
Convenient online ERP sessions from home
Individual Approach
Treatment customized to meet your specific needs
ERP Therapy in Missouri, New Jersey & Beyond
Gold-standard ERP therapy for OCD is accessible through secure telehealth. Whether you're in Kansas City, St. Louis, Newark, Jersey City, or anywhere in Missouri or New Jersey, expert exposure and response prevention treatment is available to help you break free from OCD.
Serving Missouri
Providing expert ERP therapy and OCD treatment throughout Missouri, including Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, and surrounding areas.
Learn About Missouri ServicesServing New Jersey
Offering specialized ERP therapy to clients across New Jersey, including Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, and the entire state.
Learn About New Jersey ServicesThrough secure telehealth technology, you can access specialized ERP therapy from the comfort of your home, anywhere in Missouri or New Jersey.
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Start your recovery with evidence-based ERP therapy. Book your free consultation today.
Get Help Today - Free ConsultationERP Therapy FAQ
What is ERP therapy and how does it treat OCD?
ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. It involves gradually facing feared situations (exposure) while resisting the urge to perform compulsions (response prevention). This teaches your brain that the feared outcomes won't happen and that you can tolerate anxiety without rituals. Over time, this breaks the OCD cycle and significantly reduces symptoms.
Is ERP therapy scary or painful?
ERP is designed to be challenging but manageable. We work together to create a personalized hierarchy, starting with easier exposures and gradually working up to harder ones at your own pace. While facing fears can feel uncomfortable initially, most clients report that it's far less scary than they anticipated and that the relief from OCD symptoms is worth the temporary discomfort.
How long does ERP treatment for OCD take?
Most people see significant improvement in 12-20 sessions of ERP therapy, though this varies based on OCD severity and individual needs. Some clients notice changes within the first few weeks, while others need more time. Research shows that consistent practice of ERP exercises between sessions speeds up recovery.
Can ERP therapy be done online?
Yes, ERP therapy is highly effective through telehealth. Virtual sessions allow you to practice exposures in your own environment, which can actually be beneficial for treatment. We can work together remotely to design exposures, monitor your progress, and provide support throughout your OCD recovery journey.
What if my OCD is too severe for ERP?
ERP is effective for all levels of OCD severity, from mild to severe. For severe OCD, we simply adjust the pace and start with smaller, more manageable steps. No OCD is too severe for ERP—in fact, ERP is the most effective treatment even for the most challenging cases. We'll work together at a pace that feels right for you.
Learn More About This Topic
Helpful articles from Dr. Pottenger on related topics
What Is ERP Therapy and Why Is It the Gold Standard for OCD?
Learn why Exposure and Response Prevention is considered the most effective treatment for OCD and what makes it different from traditional therapy.
Understanding OCD vs. Anxiety: What's the Difference?
Many people wonder if they have OCD or just anxiety. Learn the key differences and why accurate diagnosis matters for effective treatment.
Relationship OCD (ROCD): When Love Feels Like Anxiety
Constant doubts about your relationship or partner? Learn how ROCD differs from normal relationship concerns and how ERP therapy can help.
Related Services
Explore other areas where I can support you
OCD Therapy
Comprehensive OCD treatment including ERP, understanding OCD subtypes, and breaking the OCD cycle.
Trauma Therapy
Evidence-based trauma treatment for PTSD and traumatic experiences that may co-occur with OCD.
Spirituality Counseling
Support for religious OCD (scrupulosity), moral obsessions, and faith-based anxiety.