Processing Imaginal Exposure for PTSD: Tips for Therapists

Meet Your Instructor: Barbara Olasov Rothbaum, Ph.D.

Associate Vice-Chair of Clinical Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
Director, Emory Healthcare Veterans Program
Director, Emory Trauma and Anxiety Recovery Program
Paul A. Janssen Chair in Neuropsychopharmacology

Key Points

As soon as the patient opens their eyes, say, “You did great. How was that for you?” This begins the emotional processing.
Let the patient describe their observations first.
Don’t tell the patient how they should feel or think.
Make comments that match the patient’s experience.
Phase your comments and questions appropriately.