ERP: A Powerful Treatment for OCD
Do you ever find yourself compelled to perform a simple task often? Do you fear certainty? The uncertainty about the future and the countless "what ifs" creates distress. You are aware that these thoughts are irrational, yet an overwhelming fear prevents you from stopping. The discomfort seems never-ending, and your mind convinces you that these actions, regardless of their irrationality, are vital. You reassure yourself that just one more repetition will make you feel better.
The desire to control your thoughts consumes you, leading to a deep sense of shame when you realize you cannot master them. This shame reinforces the belief that something is wrong with you. On one hand, you want reassurance, but on the other, the intrusive thoughts feel too embarrassing to share with others. In this blog, we will learn about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the most common treatment for the disorder, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
What is OCD?
OCD is a mental health disorder where you experience unwanted thoughts or urges that keep coming back. These thoughts can be upsetting and make you feel anxious. These thoughts are called “obsessions.” To try and make these thoughts go away, you might do certain things over and over again. This describes "compulsions." Compulsions are like rituals, and they are done to try and reduce the anxiety caused by unwanted thoughts. However, the compulsions themselves are not actually logical or helpful long term. They are just part of the OCD, and you feel like they have to do them.
What is ERP?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a special kind of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) used to treat OCD. There are two parts to this type of therapy. The exposure component of ERP focuses on confronting the thoughts, objects, and situations that make you anxious and/or trigger your obsessions. The response prevention part of ERP refers to making a choice not to engage in compulsive behavior even when you are anxious!
How Does ERP Work?
Imagine someone presents in OCD therapy with the obsession that they leave their curling iron on every day after they leave for work. These thoughts bother them a lot, so they drive back home every morning to check to make sure they did not leave it on. Even after they have checked, they ask for reassurance from their coworkers many times that their house will not burn down.
In ERP, the person works with their OCD therapist to make a list of situations that scare them, starting from the least scary to the most scary. Then, they start facing these situations one by one.
For example, they might begin just thinking about leaving the curling iron on. Next, based on their hierarchy, they might leave their curling iron on and walk around the house for a few minutes. Here's the important part: They won't ask for reassurance or check to see if it is off. They'll learn to stay strong and not give in to their usual compulsion of seeking reassurance or checking.
By doing this, little by little, they get used to these situations without relying on the compulsion. Over time, this helps them feel less anxious and more in control of their thoughts and actions.
Is ERP effective?
Exposure therapy comes in various types, but one called ERP stands out as a very effective treatment for OCD. It works well for kids, teenagers, and adults. Even for adults who didn't see much improvement with OCD medication, ERP has been shown to make a big difference in their symptoms.
It's important to understand though, that not every treatment works for everyone. Each person is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Common Concerns and Misconceptions about ERP for OCD:
Fear of Making Things Worse:
A common concern is that addressing your fears and obsessions with ERP might make your OCD worse. Evidence has shown that ERP is carefully structured and guided by a trained OCD therapist, who helps you confront your fears in a controlled manner so this won’t happen.
Avoidance is Safer:
Because anxiety is scary, it’s common to think that avoiding situations or triggers related to OCD is a better way to manage your anxiety. Unfortunately, this actually reinforces obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, making OCD worse over time.
Exposure Causing Trauma:
The purpose of ERP is not to relive traumatic events or experiences but to confront the thoughts and situations associated with OCD. ERP therapists are trained to provide support and ensure that exposures are appropriate so you are not traumatized.
Fear of Letting Go of Compulsions:
Giving up compulsive behaviors can be hard and scary because they provide temporary relief from anxiety. You might worry that letting go of these rituals will lead to increased distress. Luckily, ERP helps you learn healthier ways to cope and manage anxiety without relying on compulsions.
Doubt About ERP's Effectiveness:
When you have OCD, it’s common to try many different treatments before you start ERP. You may doubt if ERP can help you because other OCD therapies have not been very effective. ERP has been shown to be one of the most effective OCD treatments, even for those who didn't respond well to previous therapy.
Fear of Embarrassment or Shame:
Talking about your intrusive thoughts and compulsions with an OCD therapist can be hard because of embarrassment or shame. But, therapists who specialize in ERP are understanding and non-judgmental. They are trained to handle these sensitive issues with empathy and confidentiality.
Begin OCD Treatment and ERP Therapy in Detroit, MI Today!
If OCD is interfering with your life and well-being, you are not alone. Our specialized OCD treatment and ERP therapy can help you get control over your thoughts and behaviors. Every individual’s experience with OCD is unique which is why the therapists at our practice personalize your therapy plan to address your specific challenges or triggers. Follow the steps below to get started with us at Embodied Wellness, PLLC:
Fill out our online contact form to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
Speak with our understanding and experienced ERP therapists.
Regain control of your life today.
Other Services Offered at Embodied Wellness throughout Michigan
At Embodied Wellness, PLLC, in addition to traditional OCD treatment and ERP therapy approaches, we offer other forms of therapy as well. We offer holistic therapies including EMDR, Somatic therapy, Internal Family Systems, therapy for empaths, and DBT. We also offer Teen and Adolescent Counseling, Trauma and PTSD treatment, and depression treatment. Do not let OCD hold you back any longer. Visit us today to begin living a more fulfilled life!