Last reviewed by Shannon Tarolli, LPCMH, NCC, CCATP — May 2026
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for OCD. It works by gradually and systematically exposing clients to situations that trigger obsessive thoughts, while guiding them to refrain from compulsive responses. Over time, this breaks the anxiety-compulsion cycle and builds lasting tolerance.
Shannon Tarolli and Jen Meehan both specialize in ERP at Clarity Counseling of Delaware, bringing compassionate, structured support to clients who have often felt trapped by their OCD for years.
Collaboratively mapping out your specific triggers, obsessions, and compulsions to build a structured exposure hierarchy — ordered from least to most distressing.
Understanding how OCD works, why compulsions provide only temporary relief, and how ERP interrupts the cycle.
Working through the exposure hierarchy at a pace that challenges you without overwhelming. Each step builds confidence for the next.
Learning to sit with anxiety and uncertainty without performing compulsions — developing the tolerance that breaks the OCD loop.
Building a long-term plan to maintain gains and handle future flare-ups with confidence.
ERP produces significant symptom reduction in 60–80% of OCD patients
Abramowitz et al. (2011), Behaviour Research and TherapyERP is recommended as first-line treatment by the American Psychological Association and the International OCD Foundation
APA Clinical Practice Guideline for OCD; IOCDF Treatment Recommendations
Accepting Clients With over 11 years of experience, Shannon specializes in grief, OCD, trauma, and anxiety. She takes a client-centered approach, creating a safe and supportive space built on trust and compassion. Her goal is to help clients build resiliency, practice psychological flexibility, and develop a new, profound acceptance of their emotions.
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Waitlist Jen's expertise covers a range of concerns, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, family conflict, and grief. She is committed to a client-centered approach, working alongside each client to identify their unique needs and build a personalized path to healing.
Book a ConsultationERP is a specific type of CBT developed specifically for OCD. While standard CBT focuses on changing thoughts, ERP focuses on changing behavior — particularly the compulsive responses that reinforce OCD cycles.
Exposures are always designed collaboratively and are never forced. You start where you are and progress at a pace that challenges you without feeling overwhelming. Your therapist is with you every step of the way.
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