What is Prolonged Exposure (PE)?
Prolonged Exposure (PE) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In PE therapy, individuals gradually confront and process traumatic memories and situations that they have been avoiding due to fear or distress. By repeatedly exposing themselves to these memories in a controlled therapeutic setting, individuals can reduce their anxiety and emotional distress over time.
PE has been shown to be highly effective in helping individuals with PTSD recover by helping them reprocess traumatic events in a way that lessens their emotional impact. The therapy involves both in-session exposure and homework assignments to confront fears in real life.