Edna Foa, Who Pioneered Exposure Therapy to Treat PTSD, Dies at 88

[Pelican Press 0]

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On February 18, 2023, Edna Foa, a renowned psychologist who developed exposure therapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), passed away at the age of 88 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Foa was a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and the founder of the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety. Her work revolutionized the field of trauma treatment, and her methods have been widely adopted by therapists and clinicians around the world.

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president, Frank Farley, praised Foa’s contributions, stating that “her pioneering work has helped countless individuals overcome the debilitating effects of PTSD.”
Foa’s approach, known as prolonged exposure therapy, involves gradually exposing patients to the traumatic memories or stimuli that trigger their symptoms, in a controlled and safe environment. This approach has been shown to be highly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, with studies demonstrating a significant reduction in symptoms in up to 80% of patients.
“Edna Foa’s work has had a profound impact on our understanding of PTSD and its treatment,” said Dr. Barbara Rothbaum, a psychologist at Emory University. “Her dedication to helping individuals overcome trauma has inspired a generation of researchers and clinicians.”
A quiet turn in events, Foa’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and former patients, who have shared stories of her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her work. As news of her death spread, many have taken to social media platforms such as

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to share their condolences and memories of Foa.
The following are some key facts about Edna Foa’s life and work:

• She was born on December 28, 1934, in Haifa, Israel
• She earned her Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Illinois in 1970
• She published over 200 research papers and books on anxiety and PTSD

Foa’s legacy extends beyond her research and clinical work. She was also a dedicated educator and mentor, who trained countless students and clinicians in her methods. As Dr. Rothbaum noted, “Edna Foa’s impact will be felt for generations to come, as her work continues to inspire and guide researchers and clinicians in the field of trauma treatment.”
What happens next will depend on how her work is carried forward by her colleagues and former students, but one thing is certain – Edna Foa’s contributions to the field of psychology will not be forgotten.

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