Prolonged Exposure Therapy

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

PE is a form of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) designed to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Because PTSD is marked by symptoms of avoidance PE seeks to confront distressing thoughts and beliefs about the world in two ways. The first is through imaginal exposure, in which you relive the trauma repeatedly in your mind and recount what happened aloud. The second part is in vivo exposure, where you confront safe situations that you have become afraid of following your trauma. Despite this sounding incredibly frightening for many who suffer with these symptoms PE is one of the most studied treatments for PTSD with the largest treatment effects in regards to symptom reduction (US Department of Veteran Affairs, 2019).

PE is an integral part of re-integration back into the work place. Imaginal exposure is a key element incorporated into individual treatment plans while in vivo exposures are also utilized but often hinge on a clients individual needs and employer participation.

Treatment consists of approximately 8-15 90 min sessions however several assessment and preparation sessions are required before treatment begins.