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

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

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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is an evidence-based treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), particularly when intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours feel difficult to manage. ERP treatment aims to reduce the cycle of anxiety, avoidance and compulsive behaviour that can keep OCD 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 commonly used in therapy for OCD. Exposure-based approaches may also be used for anxiety, panic and phobias, particularly where avoidance is maintaining anxiety.

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ERP treatment in Sydney and the Sutherland Shire

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If you are looking for ERP treatment or ERP therapy near you, our psychologists and counsellors work with children, adolescents and adults across Sydney and the Sutherland Shire.

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Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice in the Sutherland Shire and online 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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