3 Things That ERP for Children Can Do

When your child is living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it can feel exhausting for them—and for you as a parent, too. You may see your child stuck in repetitive routines, worried about “what ifs,” or needing constant reassurance. The good news is that there is an effective treatment available. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a type of CBT for children and adolescence, is widely considered the gold standard for OCD. But what can ERP actually do for your child?

Here are three powerful ways ERP can help:

1. Break the cycle of OCD

OCD works by trapping children in a cycle: anxious thoughts (obsessions) lead to repetitive actions (compulsions) that temporarily relieve anxiety. ERP helps children face their fears step by step while resisting the urge to perform compulsions. Over time, this breaks the cycle and reduces OCD’s grip on their daily life.

2. Build confidence and resilience

ERP gives children a chance to discover their own strength. Each time they take a small step—whether that’s touching something they fear or resisting the urge to repeat an action—they learn that anxiety can pass without giving in to compulsions. This not only helps with OCD but also boosts overall confidence, making everyday challenges feel more manageable.

3. Empower the whole family

ERP doesn’t just help children—it supports parents, too. Many therapists include families in the process, offering guidance on how to respond to OCD in helpful ways. This can reduce stress at home and give you practical tools to support your child. In many cases, families find they grow closer as they work through challenges together.

Alongside ERP, counselling for children can also provide emotional support, helping kids express feelings, cope with stress, and feel less alone in their journey.

ERP is not always easy—but with a gentle, step-by-step approach, children often make remarkable progress. The journey takes time, patience, and encouragement, but ERP can truly help your child reclaim their freedom and flourish with greater peace of mind.