Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy in Burr Ridge

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related symptoms. It helps people gradually confront trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations that they’ve been avoiding so they can regain control over their lives.

What Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?

After a traumatic event, it’s common for people to avoid anything that reminds them of what happened. While avoidance can feel protective in the short term, it often keeps the trauma “locked in,” allowing fear, anxiety, and distress to continue over time.

PE works by helping individuals confront these memories and reminders in a safe and structured way, allowing the brain to process the trauma and reduce its emotional impact.

How PE Works

PE therapy typically consists of 8–15 weekly sessions with a trained therapist. The process includes:

• Psychoeducation: Learning about common trauma responses and how avoidance keeps symptoms going.
• Breathing techniques: Practicing controlled breathing to manage anxiety and stay grounded.
• Imaginal exposure: Repeatedly revisiting the traumatic memory by describing it out loud in detail with the therapist, helping to reduce the intensity of the memory over time.
• In vivo exposure: Gradually facing safe but avoided situations, places, or activities that are reminders of the trauma, helping the brain relearn that they are not dangerous.

Who Can Benefit?

PE is most often used for individuals with PTSD, but it can also help people who struggle with:

• Anxiety or panic related to trauma
• Avoidance of certain activities, places, or people
• Nightmares and flashbacks
• Emotional numbing or detachment
• Hypervigilance or irritability

It’s especially beneficial for people who are ready to actively work through their trauma in a focused, structured way.

Is PE Effective?

Yes, Prolonged Exposure is one of the most researched and validated treatments for PTSD. Studies show that most people who complete PE experience significant reductions in symptoms, improved functioning, and a greater sense of empowerment.

It’s recommended by leading mental health organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

What to Expect

PE can be emotionally challenging, especially at first. Confronting trauma memories isn’t easy, but it’s done at a pace that feels manageable, with the support of a trained therapist. Over time, most people feel relief, clarity, and a renewed sense of strength.

For more information, please contact our main office.