The effects of using exposure response prevention therapy for reducing addicitive behaviors

Title : The effects of using exposure response prevention therapy for reducing addicitive behaviors

Abstract:

Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is a behavioral therapy technology that reduces a person’s pre-disposition to respond to a set of stimuli.  For example, ERP has been used to treat phobias and compulsions by exposing the person to the phobic situation or thing (stimuli set) and then preventing them from executing their dysfunctional response. 

ERP Therapy has been applied to the problem of substance abuse.  One of the key hurdles a person must overcome is to remain substance free to refrain from suing when exposed to stimuli (people. places, and things) formerly conditioned to their substance abuse.  Failure to be able to ignore these conditioned stimuli is a primary cause of relapse.  The range of stimuli conditioned as triggers of substance abuse is varied and individualized.  There are, however, common triggers.  These are sensory stimuli associated with the substance of choice, it acquisitions and preparation of use.  Secondly, there is a typical use of setting, such as bar, time of day or special event.  Finally emotional stressors while more individualized are another frequent trigger.

ERP Therapy helps a client extinguish their substance seeking behaviors & impulses by systematically exposing them in a controlled environment, to a sampling of the three sets of stimuli.  It also reconditions the client’s cognitive self-talk over a period of sessions.  ERP Therapy is a eclectic approach that is another piece of the recovery process.  It is compatible with many other approaches and added to traditional services it has been found to be a beneficial adjunct.   

Objective of Presentation on Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) for Substance Abuse

1. Participants will learn WHY ERP is effective for their clients
2. Participants will learn the rationale, theory, and approaches for incorporating ERP sessions into their practice.
3. Data will be presented reviewing the Outcome Study conducted.  

Biography:

Robert J. DeLetis, Director of ERP Therapy.  Since 1992, Mr. DeLetis is currently a Nationally & Internationally Certified Drug Counselor.  He is also the co-author of KILL THE CRAVING, a book that introduces Exposure Response Prevention to professional and their clients who want a new and innovative way to deal with their addiction.  Mr. DeLetis, the creator of ERP Therapy for Substance Abuse, has been utilizing this process to help clients who are incarcerated, in residential program, and in outpatient settings for the last 25 years.  He has developed training seminars, in-service training, as well as developed full professional ERP Kits for counselors. Psychologists and doctors to learn this new and exciting approach to substance abuse treatment.  Over the years Mr. DeLetis has been employed in the criminal justice field, substance, abuse field (Rehabs & MOUD settings), and as a mental health counselor.