Direct therapeutic exposure

Direct Therapeutic Exposure (DTE) is a technique pioneered by Patrick A. Boudewyns, where stressors are vividly and safely confronted to help combat veterans, and patients suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, or phobias. A similar therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). First known publication in book form is Flooding and Implosive Therapy: Direct Therapeutic Exposure in Clinical Practice by Patrick A. Boudewyns, Robert H. Shipley. 1983. ISBN 0-306-41155-5.

Other techniques for treating PTSD include family therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, creative arts therapy, outward bound programs, and cognitive behavior therapy. It is not uncommon to combine some of these therapies with DTE treatment.

Other publications about DTE outcomes:

Boudewyns, P.A. & Hyer, L. (1990). "Physiological Response to Combat Memories and Preliminary Treatment Outcome in Vietnam Veteran PTSD patients treated with Direct Therapeutic Exposure." Behavior Therapy, 21, 63-87.