Prolonged Exposure Therapy

Understanding Prolonged Exposure Therapy

We believe in empowering our clients. By utilizing PE therapy, you can rewrite your narrative and take back control of your life. We will be there to support you each step of the way.

What is PE Therapy?

PE therapy is an evidence-based type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. PE works by processing past experiences and developing healthy coping skills to decrease avoidance behaviors.

PE is based on the idea that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms worsen due to avoidance of trauma-related stimuli. PE helps with PTSD by exposing individuals to the thoughts and feelings relating to their phobias or traumas in a safe and controlled environment.

Exposure can be real or imagined. This means it can be done through talk therapy or through real-life exposure.

Does It Work?

According to a research article published in ​​the Journal of Clinical Psychology, “PE was more effective than other treatments for PTSD, such as cognitive processing therapy and supportive therapy, with response rates of 62-80%.”

Another study published in Psychological Bulletin stated that “PE was significantly more effective than control conditions in reducing PTSD symptoms. PE was also effective in reducing comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms.”

Your therapist will work with you to develop healthy coping skills before beginning trauma exposure. Some emotional response is expected, but your therapist will be there to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout the process.

Benefits of PE

Some benefits of PE include:

• Increased sense of calm: You can learn how to decrease your anxiety in situations you once feared.
• Improved relationships: You may feel empowered to engage in social activities and form healthy relationships.
• Learning coping strategies: You can learn healthy ways to deal with triggers.
• Increased self-esteem: Overcoming your phobias and anxiety can be a confidence boost.
• Increased well-being: After counseling, you may feel a general sense of satisfaction and well-being.

To learn more about exposure for PTSD or schedule an appointment with a WPB prolonged exposure therapist, contact us today. 

Are You a Good Candidate?

PTSD exposure therapy is effective as an individual or group therapy for people who are living with phobias, PTSD, and anxiety. You can also talk to your West Palm Beach trauma counselor to conduct an assessment and receive a recommendation regarding the best type of PTSD treatment for you.

Although it is not recommended to participate in trauma exposure therapy for PTSD too soon after the traumatic event, the appropriate time to begin therapy is when you feel ready to address past experiences. PE is also effective for long-standing PTSD.

PE therapy typically takes 8-15 weekly sessions. However, some clients choose to participate in more sessions to process further traumatic memories.

Talk to your therapist about how many sessions are right for you. The exact number of sessions depends on the treatment plan you and your therapist create.

The price for PE therapy depends on the therapist’s:

• Experience
• Qualifications
• Location
• Length of session

Typically the cost of a PE session in Palm Beach County is $75 to $220. 

Some factors to consider before beginning PE therapy include:

• The severity of your PTSD symptoms
• How much your symptoms are interfering with your life
• Your level of willingness to talk about your memories
• Your level of support system

If you are experiencing PTSD, it is important to talk to a therapist to alleviate your symptoms and experience relief, empowerment, and hope. 

It is important to note that PE is not a treatment for eating disorders, but it can be helpful for co-occuring anxiety or phobias.

Your WPB Therapist

The Trauma Therapy Center is a group of compassionate therapists who are eager to help you use trauma therapy in West Palm Beach to overcome your traumatic experiences and cultivate a sense of calm and confidence. We are passionate about helping our clients and have found that PE helps individuals find peace and freedom from their symptoms. We pride ourselves on providing a safe and confidential space and tailored treatment plan for each person in our office.

Contact our office today to learn more about compassionate PE therapy in a safe and supportive environment in West Palm Beach, FL, and how we can help you overcome PTSD and reclaim control of your life.