Prolonged Exposure Therapy for Trauma and PTSD
Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy is a highly researched treatment that helps you gently confront trauma reminders so they no longer control your life.

What Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy is an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related symptoms. Instead of avoiding reminders of what happened, PE helps you gradually and safely face them—with the support of a trained therapist.
Over time, this repeated, intentional contact with memories and triggers can decrease fear, shame, and emotional intensity, allowing you to reclaim parts of your life that trauma has limited.
How PE Works
PE typically includes several key components:
- Psychoeducation: understanding how trauma affects the brain and body.
- Breathing and grounding skills: tools to help your nervous system settle.
- Imaginal exposure: revisiting the trauma memory in detail, at a pace that feels safe and supported.
- In-vivo exposure: gradually approaching safe people, places, and situations that you’ve been avoiding because of trauma.
- Exposure Techniques (When Needed): Gradually facing feared situations to reduce anxiety and build resilience.
Real-Life Examples of PE Therapy
- Combat-Related PTSD: A veteran may recount a distressing event from deployment, allowing the memory to become less distressing over time.
- Survivors of Sexual Abuse: An individual might gradually reintroduce themselves to environments or situations that have triggered intense fear or discomfort, with compassionate guidance and support.
- Accident Trauma: Someone who experienced a car accident could practice driving in small, manageable steps, reducing anxiety and avoidance behaviors.
Why Choose PE Therapy with EK Mental Health Counseling?
- Trauma-Informed Care: We provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your experiences without judgment.
- Evidence-Based Approach: PE therapy is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for trauma and PTSD.
- Compassionate Support: : We walk with you every step of the way, ensuring that exposure exercises are paced appropriately and that you feel empowered throughout the process.
If you’re curious about whether PE might be right for you, we’d be honored to talk through your options.