Interoceptive Exposure Therapy

Interoceptive exposure therapy (IE) is a therapy intervention designed to help people face their fears and break down the pattern of avoidance that many people get stuck in. Many people avoid situations that make them anxious, which can lead to worsening of symptoms over time. Interoceptive exposure therapy (IE) is performed by inducing uncomfortable somatic or anxiety symptoms and helping someone stay connected to this experience in order to help break the fear interpretation and response in these situations. In this way, a person becomes desensitized to these symptoms, which can help to significantly reduce anxiety symptoms over time. Individuals who receive this type of therapy learn to attach new, more realistic beliefs about feared objects, and learn to run towards their fears instead of avoid them.

Therapists will work with individuals to understand the rationale of this approach and to collaborate on the pace for therapy.