Group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (Group ERP)

A supportive, evidence-based approach where individuals practice ERP skills alongside peers facing similar challenges.

Quick Overview

A snapshot of who this therapy is for and how it works

Best for

OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety, panic disorder

Session format

Group (typically 6–10 participants) · In person or virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly

Duration

Typically 12–20 weeks, with maintenance groups available

Often combined with

Individual ERP, ACT, CBT, Family support, medication management

Evidence base

Research consistently shows group ERP is highly effective and cost-efficient

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What Is Group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy?

Group ERP is a structured therapy program that delivers Exposure and Response Prevention in a group environment. Instead of working solely one-on-one with a therapist, individuals join peers who share similar OCD or anxiety challenges. Together, they practice exposures, discuss strategies, and support one another in resisting compulsions.

Sessions typically include:

OCD & Anxiety Education

Psychoeducation about OCD, anxiety, and exposure work

Personalized Fear Plan

Building personalized fear hierarchies

Therapist-Guided Group Exposure

Group-based exposures with therapist support

Between-Session Practice

Homework assignments to reinforce progress

How Group ERP Supports Recovery and Growth

Shared support and structured exposure for lasting progress

Build accountability

Build accountability

Encourages consistent follow-through on exposures

Reduce shame

Reduce shame

Normalizes OCD experiences by sharing them openly with peers

More affordable

More affordable

Group sessions are often lower cost than individual therapy

Strengthen skills

Strengthen skills

Offers strategies from therapists and peers

What to Expect in group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy Session

Group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy sessions are structured, collaborative, and therapist-guided to ensure each participant feels supported while practicing exposures in a safe, paced environment.

A Structured Group Format

Each session typically begins with grounding practices, brief check-ins, or mindfulness exercises to help participants settle in and prepare for exposure work.

Education About OCD and anxiety

Therapists teach key concepts such as how obsessions work, why rituals persist, and how exposures retrain the brain. This prepares participants to engage with exposures more confidently.

Building Personalized Exposure Hierarchies

Each group member creates an individualized list of anxiety triggers, ranked from least to most distressing. These hierarchies guide exposures at a pace that feels manageable and safe.

Guided Exposure Practice in Session

Participants work through exposures during the group meeting, with therapists offering coaching, encouragement, and response prevention guidance. Each person practices based on their own hierarchy, not the group’s.

Peer Support and Shared Reflection

After exposure exercises, participants reflect on what they experienced, celebrate progress, and learn from others. Peer encouragement helps reduce shame and reinforces resilience.

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Who Benefits from Group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy?

Support for individuals seeking community, structure, and evidence-based tools

Group ERP is ideal for people who want effective OCD and anxiety treatment while also benefiting from peer encouragement, shared learning, and a sense of belonging.

Individuals with OCD who Feel Alone or Misunderstood

Individuals with OCD who Feel Alone or Misunderstood

Connection and support with others facing similar intrusive thoughts and compulsions

People Seeking a More Affordable ERP Option

People Seeking a More Affordable ERP Option

Group therapy provides high-quality care at a more accessible price point.

Individuals Motivated by Accountability and Peer Support    

Individuals Motivated by Accountability and Peer Support  

Seeing peers practice exposures boosts motivation and confidence.

People with Phobias or Anxiety Disorders

People with Phobias or Anxiety Disorders

Structured exposure practice alongside others facing related challenges

Families Looking for Community Support for a Loved One

Families Looking for Community Support for a Loved One

A structured place for their family member to grow, learn, and gain encouragement

Anyone Comfortable Practicing Exposures in a Group Setting

Anyone Comfortable Practicing Exposures in a Group Setting

A collaborative environment where everyone moves at a safe, supportive pace

Why TruPaths Highlights Group ERP

TruPaths highlights Group ERP because it combines gold-standard OCD treatment with the healing power of community. Group ERP helps individuals feel understood, supported and encouraged making recovery more accessible and less isolating.

FAQs About Group Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy

Yes. Research shows group ERP can be just as effective as individual therapy for many people.
Yes. Group ERP typically costs less because the therapist’s time is shared among several clients. You still receive structured exposure work, guidance, and support at a more affordable rate.
No. You only share what you feel comfortable with. Many clients find that simply listening to others helps them feel less alone, and you can choose how much you want to participate.
Yes. Many programs offer virtual group ERP sessions. Online sessions can be just as effective and allow you to participate from home while still receiving therapist support.
That’s completely okay. ERP is personalized. Each person works on their own exposure goals, even while learning from the group’s process. The therapist helps everyone stay on track with their specific fears.
Yes. Many providers offer specialized group ERP for teens, families, or parents. These groups are tailored to the developmental needs and support systems of each age group.

Find Recovery Options Offering Group ERP Therapy

You do not have to face OCD alone. Group ERP provides structure, encouragement, and evidence-based strategies alongside peers on the same path.

About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.

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