Although effective, Exposure therapy can be incredibly difficult and at time, it can even make certain anxieties worse and can reinforce avoidant behaviors.  When individuals first confront their fears or anxiety-provoking situations, they often experience a surge of intense anxiety and distress. This can be uncomfortable and overwhelming, leading some individuals to resist or avoid exposure altogether.  This can then trigger avoidant behaviors which leads to a drop in anxiety.  Ultimately, this can reinforce the anxiety cycle and the use of avoidant behaviors as an appropriate solution to avoid the anxiety.