Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy in Burlingame, CA
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, a proven treatment for individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). ERP therapy helps patients confront their fears gradually while learning how to manage their responses, reducing anxiety and improving daily functioning. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care in a supportive and safe environment. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 877 Mahler Road, Suite 160, Burlingame, CA 94010.




Table of Contents:
What is exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy?
How does ERP therapy help treat anxiety and OCD?
Who can benefit from exposure and response prevention therapy?
What conditions can ERP therapy treat?
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we are committed to providing evidence-based treatments that help individuals regain control over their mental health and improve their quality of life. One of the specialized therapies we offer is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, a highly effective form of cognitive-behavioral therapy for people struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related anxiety disorders.
In ERP therapy at Banyan Behavioral Health, our experienced therapists work closely with clients to identify the specific thoughts, images, situations, or objects that trigger their anxiety, depression, or obsessive thoughts. Through a supportive and structured process, clients are gradually and systematically exposed to these anxiety-provoking triggers in a safe environment. The “exposure” component helps individuals face their fears directly, while the “response prevention” aspect encourages them to resist engaging in the compulsive behaviors or rituals they might typically use to manage their anxiety.
Over the course of treatment, clients at Banyan Behavioral Health learn that their anxiety will decrease naturally—even without performing compulsions—and that the feared outcomes often do not occur. This process retrains the brain to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, empowering clients to tolerate discomfort and regain confidence in their ability to manage anxiety.
ERP is widely recognized as a first-line treatment for OCD, with a strong track record of success. Our team is dedicated to guiding each individual through a personalized ERP program, tailored to their unique needs, and providing compassionate support at every step of the journey toward recovery.
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we are committed to providing evidence-based treatments that empower our clients to manage and overcome anxiety disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). One of the most effective therapies we offer is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
ERP therapy is a structured and proven approach designed to help individuals confront the situations, thoughts, or images that trigger their anxiety or obsessions. Rather than avoiding these triggers, our highly trained therapists guide clients through gradual and controlled exposures in a safe environment. The primary goal is to resist engaging in compulsive behaviors or rituals—actions that may temporarily reduce anxiety but ultimately reinforce the cycle of OCD.
Through repeated and supported exposure, clients at Banyan Behavioral Health learn that their fears are often less likely or less severe than anticipated. This process, known as habituation, helps weaken the link between the trigger and the anxiety response. Over time, clients develop healthier coping skills and build greater tolerance for uncertainty—essential steps in managing and reducing OCD symptoms.
Our compassionate team at Banyan Behavioral Health is dedicated to helping individuals break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions. With consistent practice and expert support, ERP can lead to significant symptom reduction and an improved quality of life. As the gold standard in behavioral therapy for OCD, ERP is backed by robust clinical research and is a key part of our comprehensive mental health services.
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we are committed to offering evidence-based treatments that truly make a difference in our patients’ lives. One such treatment is Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP), a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy. ERP is widely recognized as the gold standard for individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but its benefits reach far beyond OCD alone.
Our licensed mental health professionals use ERP to help patients who experience various anxiety-related disorders, including certain phobias, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. ERP is especially effective for those who are troubled by intrusive thoughts, ritualistic behaviors, or compulsive avoidance—patterns that can significantly disrupt daily life.
In addition, individuals who struggle with body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling) or skin-picking, can also find relief through ERP. By working collaboratively with our experienced therapists, patients learn to gradually face feared situations or thoughts in a safe, supportive environment, ultimately breaking free from cycles of fear and avoidance.
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we understand that each person’s experiences and challenges are unique. That’s why ERP therapy is carefully tailored to meet the specific needs and circumstances of every individual. Our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your treatment is both safe and effective.
At Banyan Behavioral Health, we offer Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy as part of our comprehensive approach to mental health care. ERP is a proven form of cognitive behavioral therapy that is highly effective for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, our experienced team also utilizes ERP to support individuals facing a wide range of anxiety-related conditions. ERP therapy at Banyan Behavioral Health can benefit patients struggling with:
● Social phobia and specific phobias (such as fear of germs, flying, or heights)
● Panic disorder, especially when avoidance behaviors interfere with daily life
● Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), particularly when compulsions or persistent avoidance are present
● Health anxiety (hypochondriasis)
● Body-focused repetitive behaviors, including skin picking and hair pulling
Our skilled clinicians use ERP to help patients gradually face anxiety-provoking situations or intrusive thoughts in a safe, supportive environment. With guidance, individuals learn to resist compulsive or avoidant behaviors, leading to reduced anxiety and improved overall functioning.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety or compulsive behaviors, Banyan Behavioral Health is here to help. Our ERP therapy program is designed to empower you with effective tools for lasting recovery and a better quality of life. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 877 Mahler Road, Suite 160, Burlingame, CA 94010. We serve patients from Burlingame CA, Foster City CA, South San Francisco CA, San Bruno CA, Belmont CA, Hillsborough CA, Millbrae CA, San Mateo CA and surrounding areas.

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