In ERP for OCD, which step is typically the first?

In ERP for OCD, which step is typically the first?

• A. Psychoeducation
• B. Ritual/fear analysis
• C. Exposure and response prevention
• D. Medication management

Answer: (A)

Psychoeducation is the starting point because it gives the client a clear understanding of OCD, how exposure and response prevention (ERP) work, and what to expect from treatment. This foundation helps reduce fear about the therapy itself, clarifies why avoidance maintains symptoms, and builds motivation and engagement so the client will participate fully in later steps. Once the client understands the process, you can move into ritual/fear analysis to map triggers and rituals, then develop a graded exposure hierarchy and begin ERP. Medication management isn’t the initial ERP step unless pharmacotherapy is indicated by severity or other clinical factors; it may be considered alongside therapy but not as the first ERP component.

Psychoeducation is the starting point because it gives the client a clear understanding of OCD, how exposure and response prevention (ERP) work, and what to expect from treatment. This foundation helps reduce fear about the therapy itself, clarifies why avoidance maintains symptoms, and builds motivation and engagement so the client will participate fully in later steps. Once the client understands the process, you can move into ritual/fear analysis to map triggers and rituals, then develop a graded exposure hierarchy and begin ERP. Medication management isn’t the initial ERP step unless pharmacotherapy is indicated by severity or other clinical factors; it may be considered alongside therapy but not as the first ERP component.