It gradually exposes individuals to anxiety-provoking thoughts, images, or situations (exposure) while teaching them to resist the urge to perform their usual compulsive rituals (response prevention). This process breaks the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by allowing patients to learn—through repeated practice and support—that anxiety naturally decreases over time even when compulsions are not performed, a process known as habituation.

Over time, people gain increased control over their symptoms, decrease their distress, and develop coping skills that prevent relapse, with research showing about 80% experience significant symptom relief and improvement in their daily functioning.

ERP therapy can feel challenging and even intimidating at first because it asks clients to face their fears and anxieties head-on, rather than avoiding them. Many individuals report that symptoms may temporarily increase when starting ERP, since they’re not able to perform their usual compulsive behaviors for comfort. With careful, gradual exposures and skilled therapist support, most people find ERP gets easier and becomes empowering—leading to meaningful recovery and reduced OCD symptoms.