Three Processes

• > The Anxiety Hierarchy - First Process

  List of situations related to the specific phobic stimulus that provoke anxiety

  Arranged from most to least frightening

  Seen as a triangle, most frightening at the top
• > Relaxation - Second Process

  Therapist teaches relaxation techniques , for example , breathing exercises

  OR

  Use drugs

  It is impossible to be relaxed and afraid at the same time - reciprocal inhibition
• > Exposure - Third Process

  When in a relaced state , start exposure to the bottom of the anxiety hierarchy

  When relaxed in the presence of the lowest rung they can move up

  Takes place across many sessions

  Treatment is successful when they can stay relaxed at the top of the anxiety hierarchy