Imaginal exposure
Process traumatic or fear-inducing memories by revisiting them in imagination. The emotional charge decreases step by step.
What is Imaginal exposure?
Imaginal exposure helps you revisit feared or traumatic memories in your imagination, in a controlled therapeutic setting. It's particularly used for PTSD, nightmares and phobias where in vivo exposure isn't yet possible.
By systematically revisiting traumatic memories, the brain's emotional response diminishes. The memory becomes less 'hot' and intrusive over time.
How does it work?
Safe revisiting
The therapist creates a secure context in which you can approach the traumatic memory gradually, without being overwhelmed.
Processing through repetition
Each time the memory is revisited, the brain has a chance to process it more fully. Like a book read many times, it loses its power to shock.
What can you expect?
The therapist explains the rationale and prepares you with stabilisation techniques.
You identify the traumatic memory and create a narrative of the event.
The memory is revisited in imagination, with guidance, in a controlled way.
After each session, you reflect on what emerged and what shifted.
Sessions continue until the emotional charge has substantially decreased.
Suitable for
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Book an intake session with a provider who specialises in this approach. Together you'll look at what fits best for your situation.
Source: Foa et al. (1991) · Powers et al. (2010), Psychological Bulletin