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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a gold-standard, evidence-based treatment approach used primarily for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other anxiety-related conditions. ERP is a type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that helps individuals gradually face their fears without engaging in the compulsions or avoidance behaviours that keep anxiety in place.

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At Wellness Counselling Centre, we use ERP to help clients reduce anxiety, break free from intrusive thoughts or behaviours, and regain a sense of confidence and control in daily life—all within a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space.

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How ERP Can Help

​ERP is highly effective for individuals experiencing:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Managing intrusive thoughts and reducing compulsive behaviours

• Phobias & Specific Fears – Gradually confronting fears (e.g., heights, germs, driving) with supportive guidance

• Health Anxiety – Reducing the need for reassurance or checking behaviours

• Social Anxiety – Increasing tolerance of discomfort in social situations without avoidance

• Panic Disorder – Learning to face panic symptoms and reduce avoidance

• Generalized Anxiety – Addressing worry cycles and behaviours that maintain anxiety

ERP helps disrupt the cycle of fear and avoidance, supporting lasting change and emotional freedom.

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Who Can Benefit from ERP?

​ERP is suitable for:

• Teens & Adults with OCD or anxiety disorders – Learning to face fears in a safe, gradual, and supported way

• Individuals stuck in worry or ritualistic behaviours – Breaking free from patterns that interfere with daily life

• People with past unsuccessful attempts at managing anxiety – Especially when traditional talk therapy has felt ineffective

• Parents of Children with OCD – Supporting caregivers in reducing accommodation behaviours while helping their child build resilience

ERP is most helpful for individuals motivated to face fears and ready to engage in structured, skills-based work at their own pace.

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What to Expect in ERP Therapy

​ERP is structured but collaborative. In sessions, you and your therapist will work together to:

• Identify Obsessions or Fears – Understanding the specific thoughts, situations, or sensations that trigger anxiety

• Create a Hierarchy of Fears – Ranking fears from least to most distressing

• Begin Gradual Exposures – Facing these fears step-by-step, in real life or through imagery

• Practice Response Prevention – Learning to resist the urge to engage in compulsions, checking, or avoidance

• Build Confidence & Resilience – Strengthening your ability to tolerate distress and trust your ability to cope

ERP is gentle, respectful, and paced according to each client’s comfort level—designed to be empowering, not overwhelming.

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Our Approach to ERP

At Wellness Counselling Centre, we often integrate ERP with other evidence-based therapies to support a holistic healing experience:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Reframing unhelpful thinking patterns

• Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Supporting emotional regulation and present-moment awareness

• Somatic Therapy – Addressing the body’s response to anxiety and promoting nervous system regulation

• Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Exploring parts of self that may hold fear, shame, or the urge to avoid

• Trauma-Informed Approaches – Ensuring emotional safety, especially when fears are rooted in past experiences

This integration allows ERP to be personalized, compassionate, and grounded in long-term resilience.

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Take Steps Toward Freedom from Fear

ERP can help you face fears, break free from anxiety cycles, and build confidence in your ability to navigate life without avoidance.