Prolonged Exposure for Trauma (PE)

Prolonged Exposure (PE) is a leading, evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that helps you gradually and safely process trauma memories and reclaim the situations you’ve been avoiding.

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What is Prolonged Exposure therapy?

Prolonged Exposure is a structured, well-researched form of trauma-focused therapy for PTSD and trauma-related distress. It is built on the understanding that avoiding trauma reminders keeps the fear alive, while approaching them safely allows it to settle.

How does PE work?

PE combines two kinds of exposure: imaginal exposure, where we gently revisit and process the trauma memory together, and in-vivo exposure, where you gradually re-approach safe situations you’ve been avoiding. Over time the memory becomes something you can think about without being hijacked by it.

What does PE help with?

PE is effective for PTSD and post-traumatic stress symptoms following a single event or repeated trauma — including flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, numbing and avoidance. We move carefully and always at a pace that feels manageable for you.

What it feels like in session

This is paced, contained work with plenty of grounding and choice — you’re never forced to go faster than feels safe. Many people describe a real sense of relief as memories that once felt unbearable begin to lose their grip.

What PE can help with

  • PTSD and post-traumatic stress symptoms
  • Flashbacks, nightmares and hypervigilance
  • Avoidance of trauma reminders
  • Single-incident or repeated trauma

Frequently asked questions

Is Prolonged Exposure effective for PTSD?

Yes. Prolonged Exposure is one of the most strongly evidence-supported treatments for PTSD and is recommended as a first-line therapy by major clinical guidelines.

Will PE make me relive my trauma?

PE involves revisiting the memory in a contained, supported way — not re-living it helplessly. You stay grounded and in control throughout, and we build up gradually.

How is PE different from ERP?

Both are forms of exposure therapy. ERP targets OCD by preventing compulsions, while Prolonged Exposure targets PTSD by processing trauma memories and reducing avoidance of trauma reminders.

Selected clinical references

This approach is informed by established clinical research and treatment guidelines, including:

  1. Foa, E. B., Hembree, E. A., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2007). Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD: Emotional Processing of Traumatic Experiences.
  2. Powers, M. B., et al. (2010). A meta-analytic review of prolonged exposure for PTSD. Clinical Psychology Review.
  3. American Psychological Association (2017). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of PTSD (Prolonged Exposure strongly recommended).