Healing Trauma with Prolonged Exposure Therapy: A Proven Path for Adults Living with PTSD

If you've experienced trauma and still feel triggered by certain memories, places, or feelings, you’re not alone. Many adults living with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) find themselves stuck in cycles of avoidance—avoiding reminders, situations, or even thoughts that might bring up the pain. While this is a natural short-term coping strategy, it can lead to long-term emotional suffering. That’s where Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy can make a difference.

As a licensed psychologist providing online therapy in Massachusetts (MA), Rhode Island (RI), and Vermont (VT), I specialize in working with adults navigating the emotional effects of trauma, stress, anxiety, and high-pressure life roles. PE therapy is one of the most effective, research-backed treatments available for PTSD—and I offer it in a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment.

What Is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?

Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that helps people gradually and safely confront the trauma-related thoughts, memories, and situations they’ve been avoiding.

Rather than pushing the trauma away or trying to “move on” without resolution, PE helps you process the memory in a structured and empowering way, reducing its emotional grip over time. This treatment is not about re-traumatizing—it’s about helping you reclaim control in a steady, guided way.

Who Can Benefit from Prolonged Exposure Therapy?

PE therapy is designed for adults with PTSD or lingering trauma symptoms. It’s especially beneficial for those who have experienced:

• Combat trauma

• Sexual or physical assault

• Accidents or medical trauma

• Childhood abuse or neglect

• Sudden loss or life-threatening events

You might benefit from PE if:

• You feel haunted by traumatic memories, nightmares, or flashbacks

• You avoid certain people, places, or activities

• You feel emotionally numb or disconnected from others

• You often feel on edge, easily startled, or hypervigilant

• You’ve tried to move on, but trauma still impacts your daily life

What to Expect in PE Therapy

Prolonged Exposure Therapy typically involves 8–15 weekly sessions, with flexibility based on your needs and goals. Each session is led by a trained trauma therapist and includes several components:

• Psychoeducation: Learn how PTSD works, how avoidance fuels symptoms, and how exposure leads to healing.

• Breathing and grounding techniques: Build tools for managing anxiety in and out of sessions.

• Imaginal exposure: Gradually revisit trauma memories by describing them in detail, with the therapist’s guidance.

• In vivo exposure: Slowly re-engage with situations you’ve been avoiding—starting with less distressing challenges and progressing at your pace.

• Homework: Practice between sessions helps reinforce progress and promote real-life change.

Why Choose PE Over Other PTSD Treatments?

PE Therapy is one of the most well-researched and effective treatments for PTSD. It is:

• Evidence-based: Supported by decades of clinical research

• Collaborative and goal-oriented: You’re never forced to do anything you’re not ready for

• Long-lasting: Teaches you how to manage symptoms even after therapy ends

• Medication-free: No prescriptions required, though PE can complement psychiatric care if needed

Why Work with a Trauma-Focused Psychologist?

At Brenner Psychological Associates, I work with adults across all walks of life—from high-functioning professionals and caregivers to individuals managing the long-term effects of trauma, anxiety, or burnout.

My approach is:

• Trauma-informed: Respectful of your pace, needs, and safety

• Compassionate and nonjudgmental: Therapy is a space for you to be fully seen and supported

• Accessible: I offer online therapy in MA, RI, and VT so you can get care from the comfort of home

Take the First Step Toward Healing

You don’t have to keep reliving the past or avoiding life. Prolonged Exposure Therapy offers a clear, compassionate, and research-driven path to recovery.

📅 Curious if PE is right for you?Reach out today to schedule a free consultation. Together, we’ll explore how trauma-informed therapy can help you move forward—on your terms.