Can you explain written exposure therapy?
Written exposure therapy (WET) is designed to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It helps a person reframe unhelpful thoughts by reflecting on the traumatic experience. Putting it into words on paper can change how someone relates to the trauma. It allows them to alter the story they’ve been telling themselves and feel more in control in the here and now, which helps transform shame and blame. Ultimately, it changes their reaction to their trauma story.
WET is effective in reducing symptoms, such as:
- Recurrent nightmares or flashbacks
- Avoidance of places, people, activities, or objects that are reminders
- Irritability or inability to manage mood
Like other forms of exposure therapies, a trained clinician compassionately guides an individual to help them turn toward the traumatic memory.
How does written exposure therapy work?
WET happens in a group setting. Over time, each person adds more details about their traumatic experience and reports on their stress levels before and after. The group members talk about what it was like writing about their trauma without sharing details about the trauma itself. They may share emotions or breakthroughs.
Between sessions, the therapist collects the writings to provide comments or questions in the margins to each person, offering individualized guidance and prompts to explore in the next writing session.
Does someone have to be a good writer for WET to be effective?
Absolutely not. In fact, the most important part of WET is engaging with the traumatic memory while the therapist offers support and guidance throughout the process.
What are the benefits of written exposure therapy?
People dealing with symptoms of PTSD benefit from written exposure therapy in several ways.
- Confronts trauma in a slow, approachable way
For those who have difficulty verbalizing their experience or feel uncomfortable talking about it, WET offers the opportunity to work through it in writing. Therapists work with people to expand their trauma memory until they’ve exposed themselves to all or most of the details. Typically, that’s where you find the pieces that they’re avoiding.
- Is effective in significantly reducing PTSD symptoms
While it’s considered emerging evidence, clinical studies show WET is just as effective as more intensive forms of exposure therapy.
- Is brief and time efficient
WET typically involves seven to ten sessions that last 45 to 60 minutes, which includes time for writing and processing. Since it’s considered brief intervention, it’s beneficial for those who can’t commit a lot of time to treatment.
- Feels more tolerable
The group setting combined with shorter session times and no homework between sessions make it a more manageable type of therapy.
What advice do you have for someone supporting a loved one going through WET?
People often feel like they need to have the right words to say to someone going through trauma treatment, when all we can do sometimes is simply show up and listen, allowing the person to be whoever they are in that moment.
By Jennifer Parra Nelsen, clinical director, Trauma Recovery residential care for adults and Fire Watch
Rogers provides trauma treatment
We understand how difficult it can be to recover from trauma and PTSD. You deserve help and healing. We’ll be here when you’re ready to take that first step.
To get started, call 833-308-5887 for a free, confidential screening.
