Exposure Therapy for Misophonia: Concepts and Procedures

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Audiology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Misophonia is a disorder characterized by an extreme aversion to specific sounds.
• Despite increased research, evidence-based treatments for misophonia are lacking.
• Promising therapeutic options are currently under empirical investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel treatment protocol for adults diagnosed with misophonia.
• To detail considerations for applying exposure therapy to misophonia.
• To describe stress management techniques that support exposure therapy engagement.

Main Methods:

• The protocol integrates stress management strategies with exposure therapy.
• It includes specific guidance on creating exposure hierarchies for misophonia.
• Example exposure exercises and homework assignments are provided.

Main Results:

• Two case examples demonstrate the protocol's application in clinical settings.
• The first case highlights treatment where misophonia was the primary concern.
• The second case illustrates treatment where misophonia was secondary to relationship issues.

Conclusions:

• The presented protocol offers a structured approach for treating misophonia.
• It can serve as a foundation for future research into misophonia treatments.
• The protocol aims to guide clinicians in managing individuals with misophonia.