Monday, March 01, 2010
The aim of most approaches to the treatment of specific phobias is to modify both the response to the feared item/issue and the thought processes that help to sustain the fear. Collectively, this treatment approach is known as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). A client with a specific phobia will wor...
Jerry
Thanks so much for posting this. I know many people wonder exactly what happens during exposure therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Understanding that they will remain safe and this will be done within the confines of therapy rather than being "thrown" into a situation or place they may feel uncomfortable will help.
Eileen
Hi Eileen,
Yes indeed. The days of immersing people with the feared situation (called flooding) have all but past. It's actually quite difficult to find psychologists that do flooding techniques. Last time I looked around I could only find a place in Germany!
Even so, if flooding is ever suggested it's always done with preparation and with the support of the therapist. The client still remains in control and can call it off. Having said this, some feared situations are easier to get out of than others.