Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) in Silico: Neurocognitive mechanisms of OCD treatment failure

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common disorder that is considered one of the most incapacitating mental health conditions. Unfortunately, the current recommended treatment for OCD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is not effective for a large proportion of patients, and we do not know why it fails for the individual. To understand this, I will use novel computational methods to characterise how patients behave during ERP, and pinpoint brain mechanisms that could explain the failure of treatment and help improve outcomes. I will also explore other areas where OCD treatment currently does not adequately target. Using cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques, I will examine how distressing intrusive thoughts (obsessions) in patients come about and how we can target them effectively. This work will significantly advance our understanding of OCD treatment and open new avenues to improve and build interventions that work for the individual.