Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is based on the idea that post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD) worsen due to avoidance of trauma-related stimuli. PE helps with PTSD by exposing clients to the thoughts and feelings they have been avoiding in a safe and controlled environment. The longer feelings are pushed down, the bigger they grow. PE helps clients notice their feelings, process them, and then let them go. PE helps clients gain freedom from their fears and traumatic memories.
I believe in empowering my clients to find their solutions with the supportive guidance of a therapist. By utilizing PE therapy, I can help my clients rewrite their narratives and take control of their lives.
What Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that is effective in treating PTSD. PE works by confronting the thoughts and feelings related to the trauma that may have been pushed down for a long time. Exposure can be real or imagined. This means the exposure can be done through talk therapy or in real life (in vivo).
Does Prolonged Exposure Therapy 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. The effect size of PE was large (d = 1.00), and the response rate was 62%. PE was also effective in reducing comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms.”
Embrace Healing The Power of Trust in Therapeutic Relationships
“In my experience, the most effective aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Establishing trust between a client and clinician is the first step to healing.”
Does Prolonged Exposure Therapy Worsen PTSD?
PE doesn’t worsen PTSD symptoms but it may bring up unpleasant feelings. To avoid the negative effects of bringing attention to difficult memories, your therapist will make sure you are proficient in regulating your emotions before beginning exposure.
How Long and Frequent is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
PE therapy typically takes 8-15 weekly sessions, however, some clients choose to do more to process further traumatic memories. The exact number of sessions depends on the treatment plan you and your therapist create.
How Much Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
The price for PE therapy depends on the therapist’s:
- Experience
- Qualifications
- Location
- Length of session
Typically the cost of a PE session is $75 to $200. Contact our office to check the rates for sessions of varying duration.
When Is It Appropriate to Start Exposure Therapy for PTSD?
Although it is not recommended to participate in PE therapy for PTSD too soon after the traumatic event, the appropriate time to begin therapy is when you feel ready to look at what happened to you.
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.
Contact us today to learn more about trauma therapy in West Palm Beach and how we can help you heal from PTSD.