Intermediate
Technical
IVT
exposure therapy
A therapeutic technique that gradually exposes clients to feared objects or situations to reduce anxiety responses.
Full Definition
A behavioral intervention based on extinction principles where individuals are systematically exposed to anxiety-provoking stimuli in a controlled, gradual manner. The exposure can be in vivo (real-life), imaginal (through visualization), or virtual reality-based. This approach is considered a first-line treatment for phobias, PTSD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of exposure (in vivo, imaginal, etc.) in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The treatment protocol included exposure therapy sessions to address the client's social anxiety." — Treatment plan
- "Exposure therapy techniques were modified to accommodate the client's developmental level." — Pediatric treatment note
Also known as
systematic desensitization
graded exposure
Contrasted with
avoidance therapy
Don't confuse with
flooding
behavioral activation