What is the focus of the therapeutic technique known as "exposure therapy"?

Exposure therapy is a psychological treatment designed to help individuals confront and reduce their fears or anxieties. The primary focus of this therapeutic technique is to gradually expose the individual to the feared stimuli in a controlled and systematic manner. This process allows the client to experience their fear in a safe environment, leading to a decrease in avoidance behavior and a reduction in fear response over time. By repeatedly facing the fear rather than avoiding it, individuals learn that the anticipated negative outcomes are often not as likely or severe as they believe. This gradual approach is essential in building confidence and helping clients manage their fears more effectively.