For the psychoeducation component, survivors learn that their symptoms are common reactions to trauma. The focus of the sessions are on the survivor's own reactions to trauma, such as guilt and anger. In addition, other reactions are addressed, such as depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, disruptions in relationships, sexual problems, and shame associated with the assault. The exposure component consists primarily of prolonged, repeated exposure to the traumatic memory and repeated in vivo exposure to trauma-related feared situations that the survivor avoids. The therapeutic goal is to activate trauma-related fear and modify the pathological elements that are thought to maintain PTSD symptoms. Doing so helps the survivor reduce intrusive
