Exposure Therapy in Frankfort, IL
Face Fears. Build Courage. Regain Control.
Exposure Therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals gradually confront and reduce fear, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors. By safely and systematically exposing clients to the thoughts, situations, or memories that cause distress, this therapy helps them develop confidence and resilience. At Full Circle Counseling and Wellness, our trauma-informed therapists guide clients through each step with compassion and care—creating a supportive environment that encourages growth and emotional safety.
How Exposure Therapy Works
Exposure Therapy is based on the principle that avoidance reinforces fear. By carefully facing the source of anxiety in a safe, therapeutic setting, clients learn that feared situations or sensations are not as dangerous as they feel.
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Common techniques include:
In Vivo Exposure: Gradually facing real-life situations that trigger fear.
Imaginal Exposure: Recalling and processing distressing memories in a safe, guided way.
Interoceptive Exposure: Gently confronting physical sensations associated with anxiety (like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath).
Through consistent practice, clients retrain the brain’s fear response and regain a sense of control over their lives.
Who Can Benefit from Exposure Therapy
Exposure Therapy can be transformative for individuals struggling with:
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Phobias (such as fear of driving, flying, or animals)
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Panic disorder or anxiety attacks
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Social anxiety or avoidance behaviors
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Health-related anxiety or generalized anxiety disorder
This therapy helps clients reduce avoidance patterns, improve confidence, and enhance daily functioning.
Your Exposure Therapy Specialist at Full Circle
Recommended Therapist: Elizabeth Mabbott, LPC
Liz brings deep expertise in evidence-based approaches for anxiety, trauma, and depression. Her compassionate and mindful techniques help clients confront fear in a safe, structured, and empowering way.
Elizabeth helps clients gradually face what feels impossible—transforming fear into strength and avoidance into freedom.
Other Supporting Therapists:
Kristine Cain, LCPC – Integrates Exposure Therapy with EMDR and trauma-informed techniques for clients processing fear-based memories.
AnneMarie Nawrocki, LSW – Helps clients navigate anxiety and reclaim a sense of safety through structured exposure and mindfulness tools.
What to Expect During Exposure Therapy
In the first sessions, your therapist will help you identify specific fears and avoidance patterns. Together, you’ll develop a personalized exposure plan that progresses at a comfortable pace. Gradual exposure—whether through visualization or real-world exercises—helps retrain your emotional response, reducing anxiety over time. Throughout the process, your therapist will provide grounding and coping strategies to manage discomfort safely. Many clients find that consistent sessions lead to lasting improvements in confidence, calmness, and emotional regulation.
Begin Exposure Therapy in Frankfort, IL
If fear or anxiety is holding you back, Exposure Therapy can help you break free. At Full Circle Counseling and Wellness, our caring therapists offer structured, evidence-based guidance to help you face your fears and rediscover confidence in everyday life.
Reach out today to begin your journey toward calm, courage, and lasting relief.