At WellHome Psychology, we offer Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy to help individuals recover from trauma and anxiety through gradual, supported exposure to distressing memories or avoided situations. Whether you're struggling with PTSD, social anxiety, or panic-related fears, PE can help you confront what feels overwhelming—at a pace that feels safe and empowering.

What makes our approach unique is that we offer community-based exposure options as part of your treatment plan, creating opportunities to apply therapeutic skills in real-life environments with the support of your therapist.

What Is PE Therapy?

PE is an evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help people reduce fear and avoidance by facing their memories or triggers head-on. It has been proven effective for trauma-related disorders and anxiety conditions.

Our clients often experience meaningful progress when they begin confronting their fears—whether it's returning to driving after an accident, stepping into a crowded store, or simply riding public transportation. At WellHome Psychology, these aren't just metaphors—we make them real, and we walk alongside you.

What Can PE Help With?

PE Therapy at WellHome Psychology is effective for:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Panic attacks and agoraphobia
• Social anxiety and performance fears
• Specific phobias (e.g., driving, public speaking, crowded spaces)
• OCD and fear-based compulsions
• Trauma from accidents, violence, or loss

Real-Life Exposure with Community-Based (or Home-Based) Sessions

We know that healing doesn't always happen best in an office. That's why, when appropriate, we offer therapy sessions in real-world settings as part of the PE process. These community-based exposures might include:

• Riding public transportation to reduce travel-related anxiety
• Visiting crowded spaces to manage social anxiety
• Driving again after a car accident
• Grocery shopping after pandemic-related avoidance
• Walking through a park or store with your therapist nearby
• Practicing skills in social situations (especially for children and teens)

These exposures are always tailored to your treatment goals and readiness—and are done at a pace that feels manageable. You're never asked to do anything alone.

How PE Works

PE combines imaginal exposure (talking through and processing the memory in session) and in vivo exposure (facing real-world situations you've been avoiding). Over time, this helps the brain reprocess fear signals, reducing the emotional intensity of the trauma or anxiety trigger.
By integrating office-based and real-world exposures, we help you:

• Decrease avoidance and safety behaviors
• Build emotional resilience
• Regain confidence and independence

What to Expect in Therapy

We begin with a comprehensive assessment and goal-setting session. Once trust and understanding are established, we'll begin exposure work using:

• Imaginal exposure (processing the memory through narrative)
• In vivo exposure (supported real-life practice)
• Between-session assignments that reinforce new learning

We will also discuss confidentiality considerations when engaging in public settings, and we'll take steps to respect your privacy while ensuring you feel safe and supported.

How Long Does PE Therapy Take?

PE is a short-term but intensive therapy, often completed in 8–15 sessions, depending on the severity and complexity of symptoms. Progress happens not just in session—but between sessions, in the spaces where life happens.

Is PE Effective?

Yes. PE is one of the most well-researched and widely recommended treatments for both trauma and anxiety-related disorders. It is endorsed by:

• The American Psychological Association (APA)
• The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
• The World Health Organization (WHO)
• The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

Recommended PE Videos

Curious to learn more about EMDR before or between sessions? These YouTube videos offer helpful overviews and demonstrations to deepen your understanding of how EMDR works and what you can expect. While these resources are not a replacement for therapy, they can help you feel more informed and empowered on your healing journey.
Note: These videos are for educational and supportive purposes only. EMDR should always be facilitated by a trained professional when addressing trauma or distressing memories.

1. PTSD and Prolonged Exposure

PE is an effective form of treatment for PTSD by re-telling the trauma to lessen its power over the person. Channel: National Center for PTSD (VA)

2. What is Prolonged Exposure (PE)?

Practice facing your fears in safety while practicing relaxation techniques to become less distressed. Channel:ADAA_Anxiety


At WellHome Psychology, we don't just talk about change—we help you live it.
Whether it's through office-based sessions or real-life practice, we're here to help you face fear, process trauma, and rebuild your confidence—step by step.
If you'd like to learn more or explore whether PE is a good fit for you, please contact us to schedule a consultation.