Exposure Therapy for Anxiety

In-office therapy in San Jose and virtually throughout California

Have you been feeling at the whim of your anxiety?

You may find yourself stuck in anxious thoughts and distress, trying to do what you can to feel more in control and to relieve your anxiety.

Exposure therapy is a type of evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy used to treat anxiety by helping individuals face anxiety-provoking situations, thoughts, and sensations through exposures. Exposures are intentionally exposing yourself to anxiety triggers in a structured and supported way. For example, exposures for someone with social anxiety might include introducing themselves to new people, public speaking, etc. Repeated exposure allows the brain to learn new information, so the triggers can begin to feel like less of a threat, and discomfort, uncertainty, and the possibility of feared outcomes can feel more tolerable.

Over time, this process can reduce anxiety and increase confidence to handle anxiety-provoking situations, so that you can live your life more fully, focusing on what is most important to you.

Exposure therapy can be used for:

• Generalized anxiety

• Social anxiety

• Specific fears or phobias

• Panic attacks

What makes exposure therapy different than being exposed to anxieties in daily life?

Unlike the unplanned exposures that can happen in daily life, exposure therapy is structured to be intentional and prolonged.  This structure supports responding to anxiety in a new way which helps break the anxiety cycle and increases the likelihood that remain in the situation long enough for the brain to engage in new learning.  

What to expect starting exposure therapy

At the beginning we'll examine the patterns of your anxiety and explore the underlying core fears.  Together we’ll create a list of anxiety triggers that will guide exposures.  Exposures are intentionally placing yourself in a situation, thought, or sensation that is anxiety-provoking. Exposures begin in session so you can be guided through exposures that are structured to be effective. 

Exposure therapy can be done step-by-step, often starting with milder anxiety-provoking situations and building toward more challenging ones.  Exposures will continue in sessions, and you’ll also be coached on completing exposures outside of session.  Practicing exposures between sessions is an essential component of treatment that your therapist will help prepare you for. 

If you are interested in more information or exploring your start exposure therapy you can schedule a call with me below.