Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy
in the Sutherland Shire

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for children, adolescents and adults across the Sutherland Shire and Sydney. Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the primary evidence-based treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), particularly when intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours feel difficult to manage.

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ERP helps people gradually face the thoughts, situations, images, objects, or sensations that trigger anxiety while reducing compulsions, rituals, avoidance, or reassurance-seeking. Over time, this can reduce fear and change the cycle that keeps anxiety going.

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What is ERP Therapy?

 

ERP is based on the understanding that avoidance and compulsive behaviours can bring short-term relief but often reinforce anxiety over time. In therapy, people are gradually and safely exposed to situations, thoughts or sensations that trigger distress, while learning new ways to respond.

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ERP is collaborative and structured, it does not involve being forced into distressing situations without preparation or consent. Therapy is adapted to each person's pace, and considers any co-occurring presentations such as autism, ADHD or trauma.

 

Therapy may include identifying obsessions, fears, rituals or avoidance patterns; understanding how anxiety is maintained; developing a gradual exposure plan; learning how to reduce compulsions or reassurance-seeking; and practising new responses between sessions where appropriate.

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What does ERP therapy help with?

 

ERP is most commonly used for:

• intrusive thoughts and obsessions

• compulsions, rituals or checking behaviours

• reassurance-seeking or avoidance

• anxiety that feels difficult to manage

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ERP is the primary therapy for OCD. It is also used in anxiety counselling and for panic attacks, particularly where phobias or avoidance are maintaining distress.

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ERP Therapy in the Sutherland Shire

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We work with children, adolescents, adults and older adults across the Sutherland Shire and Sydney, including Menai, Bangor, Illawong, Alfords Point, Barden Ridge, Engadine, Woronora Heights, Sylvania, Kirrawee, Gymea, Miranda, Caringbah, and surrounding suburbs.

 

Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.

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