Hello there,
I start prolonged exposure therapy in two weeks. My doctor said that it is risky to go through this type of therapy because there is a high drop-out rate at about week 8 because of the pain/distress involved, and if a person drops out, that stress becomes their new baseline. Nevertheless, I need to address past traumas rather than focusing on everyday issues with only cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She explained that PTSD is like having a broken leg that has never healed correctly. CBT is like a crutch or cane; it can help in functioning, but it does not fix the broken leg. PE is like going in and re-breaking the leg so that it can be fixed. Up until this new doctor, I have not found a therapist that is willing to discuss past issues which I know affect me so much to this day, so I believe the risk is worth it.
I am curious to know what your experience with PE was like and am wondering if you have any tips on getting through it. I am particularly worried about conflicts with my husband and everyday stress as I am in my last semester of college. Should I wait until I graduate? What should I expect?
Thank you in advance. I am new here.
I start prolonged exposure therapy in two weeks. My doctor said that it is risky to go through this type of therapy because there is a high drop-out rate at about week 8 because of the pain/distress involved, and if a person drops out, that stress becomes their new baseline. Nevertheless, I need to address past traumas rather than focusing on everyday issues with only cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She explained that PTSD is like having a broken leg that has never healed correctly. CBT is like a crutch or cane; it can help in functioning, but it does not fix the broken leg. PE is like going in and re-breaking the leg so that it can be fixed. Up until this new doctor, I have not found a therapist that is willing to discuss past issues which I know affect me so much to this day, so I believe the risk is worth it.
I am curious to know what your experience with PE was like and am wondering if you have any tips on getting through it. I am particularly worried about conflicts with my husband and everyday stress as I am in my last semester of college. Should I wait until I graduate? What should I expect?
Thank you in advance. I am new here.