Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy

is widely acknowledged as one of the most effective therapy models for trauma, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Instead of avoiding the impact of trauma and emotional distress, PE helps individuals confront and process traumatic memories, enabling emotional freedom and regaining control over their lives.

If the lingering effects of PTSD are leaving you powerless, you are not alone. Many people who suffer severe trauma withdraw from family and friends as they try to make sense of their thoughts and feelings. At Berg Counselling, I use PE, to help people understand and manage symptoms of their trauma.

People who have PTSD may experience feelings such as:

  • Insomnia

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Irritability

  • Anger

  • Hypervigilance

  • Depression

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

  • Guilt or shame

  • Compulsive behaviours

Avoiding the emotions and symptoms that accompany trauma and PTSD symptoms is natural. Avoidance can help keep you safe in some cases, as you work through the details of the traumatic event. Seeking help from an experienced and compassionate therapist can help you reduce the severity and frequency of painful memories.

Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy can help you gradually approach the emotions surrounding PTSD so you can move forward.

You don’t have to feel powerless and overwhelmed with the symptoms that accompany severe trauma. Many people prevent themselves from relieving traumatic events because they are afraid of the results. PE helps guide these individuals through the details of the event in a safe and controlled environment by working through several steps:

  • Imaging specific images or situations

  • Learning breathing control

  • Talking about the details of the event

Studies show that PE is an effective, evidence-based treatment to help people manage the life-altering symptoms of PTSD. Repeated PE sessions can gradually desensitise emotional responses, helping people separate their past fears from present reality.

Schedule A Consultation Today

PE can give you the confidence to manage your trauma symptoms and move forward with your life. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and start the journey toward freedom from your trauma.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you or someone you know is suffering from the effects of PTSD, PE can help them find emotional freedom. I aim to provide comprehensive and compassionate therapy sessions to help people understand their symptoms and find healing.

  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is a well-established and science-based, cognitive-behavioral treatment typically used to help those who have experienced traumatic events, such as those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PE therapy directs clients to confront trauma-related memories, thoughts, and circumstances that are uncomfortable and ignored, allowing them to eventually process and make meaning of their experiences. As the term suggests, this traumatic material exposure is maintained in a controlled and secure therapeutic setting. Through repeated exposure, individuals learn to limit their emotional distress and avoidance behaviours, which can prolong the trauma's effects. Prolonged Exposure Therapy has been shown to be especially effective at reducing PTSD symptoms and enhancing overall mental health.

  • PE is an effective therapy option for those suffering from the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder or other severe trauma. PE involves working directly with traumatic memories, encouraging clients to recall specific details of the traumatic event. If you struggle with other mental health concerns, other therapy methods may meet your unique mental health needs.

  • Feeling nervous about sharing your thoughts and feelings with a stranger is normal. I understand there is a social stigma surrounding therapy. However, talking with a licensed mental health professional can provide a different view of your situation and help you move past the challenges preventing you from living a full life. If you're still worried about your first session, read this article.