Exposure Therapy

 

Exposure therapy is a specific behavioral treatment the Cognitive Behavior

Therapy & Mindfulness Center uses for anxiety and phobias. Research

continually provides evidence that exposure therapy is among the most

effective treatments for reduction of anxiety. As with all effective

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment, a strong collaborative

working relationship between client and therapist is key to treatment

success. 

 

At the center, exposure therapy treatments are tailored to individuals and treatment

targets are chosen together in the interest of helping patients overcome fears and reduce avoidance behavior. This modality is best used by well trained clinicians who have a clear understanding of the theoretical rationale for the treatment. Through the treatment, many clients who undergo exposure therapy at the center find that they are able to thrive in situations that previously caused them significant distress.

For Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), therapists at our center use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) as the primary treatment modality. This involves overcoming fears while learning to disengage from compulsions that act as unhelpful avoidance strategies. Through support, training, and consistent practice, the majority of our clients are able to significantly reduce OCD behavior and live more comfortable lives.

 

Intensive Anxiety Program

​

When our schedules permit, we offer an individualized intensive anxiety treatment program for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social phobia, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and specific fears. Treatment is conducted one-on-one and the program runs two or three days a week, for multiple hours a day. Length of treatment is tailored to fit the needs of each client. Our program focuses on Exposure and Response Prevention. We integrate behavioral and cognitive interventions that include education about anxiety and scientifically supported treatment, creating and instituting an exposure plan, relaxation training, stress management skills, and relapse prevention strategies.

 

This program is for individuals who would benefit from supervised guidance over the initial course of treatment. Candidates for the program have moderate to severe symptoms that need to be addressed in a more aggressive treatment than weekly therapy or have tried outpatient therapy without success. The goal of the program is to reduce symptoms from the moderate to severe range to the subclinical to mild range in a reduced time period. Clients in the program attend until they are able to successfully transition to weekly therapy with the option of continuing on at the center.

 

The program is private pay and the center provides billing statements as some insurance companies will reimburse for the treatment. In some cases, prior approval may be needed for reimbursement. For further details please contact the center at 925.400.9604.