Remembering Dr Edna Foa: Pioneer of Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD

Dr Edna Foa, who recently passed away, was a leading expert in PTSD and the developer of prolonged exposure (PE) therapy.

PE helps patients gradually confront memories, feelings, and situations linked to trauma, allowing them to emotionally process and reduce PTSD symptoms. Studies show it is effective for 65% to 80% of clients.

Initially met with scepticism, PE is now widely taught because it is simple, logical, and effective.

Research and Impact

Dr Foa’s research, starting in 1991, demonstrated PE’s effectiveness over other therapies. Shorter sessions achieved the same results as the original long exposures. PE also reduces depression, anxiety, anger, guilt, and self-harm.

Compared with EMDR, PE allows patients to fully tell their story and emotionally process the trauma with a therapist. Recent studies even combine PE and EMDR for intensive treatment programmes.

Dr Foa was exploring whether estrogen can improve learning during PE, potentially enhancing outcomes. Her work has transformed PTSD treatment, helping millions process trauma and reclaim their lives.