Jonathan is afraid to ask a girl for a date, so his therapist instructs him to relax and simply imagine he is reaching for his cell phone and then calling a potential date. The therapist's technique best illustrates the process of

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The technique described by the therapist is a form of systematic desensitization, which involves gradually exposing someone to a feared situation in a relaxed state in order to reduce anxiety and fear. In this case, the therapist is helping Jonathan imagine the process of asking for a date in a relaxed state in order to help him overcome his fear. Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving relationships, free association involves freely sharing thoughts and feelings, and cognitive therapy involves changing negative thought patterns.

Jonathan Is Afraid to Ask a Girl for a Date