ERP Essentials

As an eating disorder specialist, I understand that each person is has unique goals they want to address and that there are different ways of attaining said goals. I have seen incredible results when doing ERP with clients with eating disorders and am of the belief that a felt sense of safety comes first.

What is ERP?

Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is a behavioral therapy in which one purposefully and gradually exposes themselves to a feared or uncomfortable situation with the goal of reducing or eliminating the response (usually distress or an unwanted behavior). The client creates a fear hierarchy and addresses these fears in and out of session, using grounding skills to cope through the distress without engaging in unwanted behaviors. While ERP can be difficult, consistent exposure work can greatly improve quality of life.

Who can benefit from ERP in therapy?

ERP is considered the gold-standard of treatment for those with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, ERP can be helpful in other areas as well, such as eating disorders. Those who struggle with an eating disorder can create a hierarchy of foods they are open to trying and work with the therapist or dietitian to reduce the overwhelm that can come with eating. 

Non-negotiables

 ERP work can be difficult to address due to its very nature—individuals are facing their fears head on. Because of this, it is important that ERP is always:

            -Collaborative

            -Trauma-informed

            -Consent-driven

            -Respectful

            -Done only after trust is built

 ERP should never be coercive, contingency-based, forced, or shaming.

 My goal for clients doing ERP work in session with me is simple—for them to feel safe in addressing their goals. It is a complete honor to be entrusted with this role in these moments.

 If you are wanting to start exposure work, I encourage you to reach out today.