Educational reference
Treatment overview
Prolonged exposure is a trauma-focused psychological therapy built around approaching, rather than avoiding, what has become frightening.
It has two components. In imaginal exposure a person recounts the traumatic memory repeatedly, in a structured way and at a manageable pace, so that its capacity to overwhelm reduces. In in vivo exposure they gradually re-engage with safe situations that have been avoided since the event - places, activities, or being alone.
The rationale is that avoidance prevents the fear from resolving. Approaching, with support and at a tolerable pace, allows it to.
It has strong evidence in post-traumatic stress and is recognised in clinical guidance. It is demanding, and distress often rises before it falls, which is why preparation, pacing and a trained practitioner matter. It is not suitable for everyone or at every point in recovery, and that judgement belongs with a qualified professional.