OCD Counselling in Cairns and Online: ERP Therapy Explained

Written By Dave Segal

Introduction

Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can feel like being trapped in a loop of fear, doubt, and rituals. You might spend hours checking, worrying, or seeking reassurance — only to feel relief for a moment before the cycle begins again. The good news? Effective, evidence-based treatment exists.

At Cairns Wellbeing & Training, we specialise in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard therapy for OCD. Delivered with compassion, structure, and care, ERP helps you gradually step out of the cycle and reclaim your life.

Do You Struggle With...

  • Repetitive, intrusive thoughts you can’t switch off

  • Compulsions such as checking, cleaning, or mental rituals

  • Intense fears of harming others, contamination, or taboo thoughts

  • Constant guilt, self-doubt, or “what if” spirals that never end

If these sound familiar, you are not alone — and support is available.

What is ERP Therapy?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a structured form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It works by:

  1. Gradually facing feared situations, thoughts, or images (exposure).

  2. Resisting the urge to perform compulsions or rituals (response prevention).

Over time, ERP helps your brain learn that anxiety fades naturally and that uncertainty can be tolerated without compulsions. This breaks the OCD cycle and gives you back time, energy, and freedom.

Our Approach at Cairns Wellbeing & Training

ERP is highly effective, but it works best when it’s adapted to you. That’s why we provide:

  • ACT-informed ERP → blending ERP with Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you connect with your values, use mindfulness, and build resilience.

  • Collaborative and trauma-aware support → therapy is done with you, not to you.

  • Your pace, your goals → we focus on safety, consent, and gradual steps that feel manageable.

What to Expect in OCD Counselling

When you work with us, sessions are structured but flexible:

  • 1:1 sessions in Cairns or online — whichever works best for you.

  • Homework and real-world practice — exposures planned together, step by step.

  • Education, tools, and resources — helping you understand OCD and track progress.

  • Support between sessions if needed — you won’t be left alone in the process.

Why Choose Cairns Wellbeing & Training?

  • Local support in Cairns plus online availability

  • Affordable sessions at $80

  • After-hours appointments available

  • Experienced counsellor, trained in ERP and ACT

Take the First Step

OCD doesn’t have to control your life. With the right support, you can reduce compulsions, face fears with courage, and build a life guided by your values — not anxiety.

📅 Book a session today →

Dave Segal