What is the primary therapeutic approach for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

The primary therapeutic approach for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is exposure and response prevention (ERP). ERP is a component of cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically designed to treat OCD. It involves exposing patients to the thoughts, images, and situations that trigger their obsessions while helping them to refrain from performing their compulsive behaviors in response. This method is effective in reducing the anxiety associated with obsessions and breaking the cycle of compulsive behavior.

While cognitive-behavioral therapy encompasses various strategies, ERP is distinctly focused on the specific behaviors and thought patterns associated with OCD. It helps patients learn that anxiety can be managed without resorting to compulsive rituals, ultimately leading to a reduction in OCD symptoms.

Other options, like medication management, may also play a role in treating OCD, particularly with the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, medication alone does not address the behavioral components of the disorder as effectively as ERP does. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is primarily used for borderline personality disorder and focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, making it less relevant for OCD.