Is exposure therapy usually the best way to go about things?

[Brem]

Exposure therapy is something therapists have their patients do in order to face their fears. If someone is afraid of a dog for example, a therapist will have their patient see, touch and interact with a dog, to help take that fear away. For me, with my social anxiety, exposure therapy would have me going out into the world and talking and interacting with people. So, with that being said, have you ever done exposure therapy? Do you think it's the best tool to help those get over their fears and anxieties?

 

[Shree]

Exposure therapy can be very effective, especially for phobias, PTSD, or anxiety disorders, but it’s not always the best option for everyone. From what I’ve read and seen, gradual exposure under a trained therapist’s guidance often helps people face fears safely. For example, someone afraid of flying might start by looking at pictures of planes before progressing to short flights. Still, it depends on the individual, some may benefit more from cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, or a mix of treatments.