Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety-related conditions. At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, ERP therapy helps individuals learn how to face intrusive thoughts, fears, and urges without engaging in compulsive behaviors—creating lasting relief and increased confidence.
ERP is not about forcing discomfort. It is about building tolerance, flexibility, and trust in your ability to manage anxiety without it controlling your life.
Exposure and Response Prevention is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to interrupt the cycle of anxiety and compulsive behaviors. ERP works by gradually exposing you to feared thoughts, images, situations, or sensations while intentionally reducing or eliminating the behaviors used to neutralize anxiety.
Over time, your nervous system learns that anxiety naturally rises and falls without the need for avoidance or compulsions.
ERP therapy is especially effective for individuals experiencing:
ERP therapy can be helpful for adolescents and adults and is often integrated with other trauma-informed or supportive therapies to meet individual needs.
At Daybreak Counseling, ERP therapy is always delivered with compassion, collaboration, and respect for your pace.
Your ERP work may include:
Identifying fear triggers and patterns
Gradual, supported exposure planning
Learning how to resist compulsive responses
Building distress tolerance and emotional flexibility
Processing progress and setbacks together
We never rush exposure work. Treatment is tailored, structured, and grounded in safety and trust.
Many individuals with OCD or anxiety also have a history of trauma. Our clinicians approach ERP therapy through a trauma-informed lens, ensuring exposures are thoughtful, consent-based, and emotionally supportive.
When appropriate, ERP may be integrated with other modalities such as I-CBT, ACT, EMDR, or mindfulness-based therapy.
Daybreak Counseling offers ERP therapy for clients across Des Moines and surrounding Iowa communities. Services are available both in-person and via telehealth, depending on provider availability and client needs.
If intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or compulsive behaviors are limiting your life, ERP therapy can help you regain a sense of control and confidence.
Beginning ERP therapy starts with a comprehensive assessment and collaborative treatment planning. We’ll take time to understand your symptoms, history, and goals before determining if ERP is the right fit for you.
You do not have to face anxiety alone. Support is available—and effective treatment exists.
