Why do so many therapists hesitate to use exposure therapy for PTSD, even when the research strongly supports it?

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice podcast, Ray sits down with Dr. Carmen McLean and Dr. Elizabeth Goetter to unpack the myths, fears, and misunderstandings surrounding Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE). Together, they explore why avoidance keeps PTSD symptoms alive, why many clinicians feel anxious delivering trauma-focused care, and what the science actually says about retraumatization, dropout rates, and treatment outcomes.

The conversation also dives into some of the newest developments in PTSD treatment, including intensive treatment models, telehealth delivery, virtual tools, culturally responsive adaptations, and how PE is being used with complex comorbidities like substance use, borderline personality disorder, and suicidality.

Along the way, they reflect on the legacy of Dr. Edna Foa, the pioneer behind PE, and discuss why evidence-based trauma treatment still remains out of reach for far too many people.

This episode is packed with practical insight for clinicians, graduate students, and anyone interested in how trauma treatment continues to evolve.

Their New Book: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-72720-7

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To hear more and stay up to date with Paul Wagner, MS, LPC and Ray Christner, Psy.D., NCSP, ABPP visit our website at:

http://www.psychedtopractice.com

“Be well, and stay psyched"