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Exposure Therapy

By , About.com Guide

Updated: April 28, 2008

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Definition: A process by which the therapist intentionally exposes the client to a feared object or situation.

Popular techniques used in exposure therapy include flooding and systematic desensitization.

Although exposure therapy was originated by behavior therapists, the techniques are commonly used in cognitive-behavioral therapy today.

Examples: Exposure therapy is often used to treat a fear of flying by leading the client gradually through spending time in airports, watching planes take off and land, and then finally boarding an airplane.
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