The therapist will ask a series of questions and based on the answers look for meaning in those answers, a sort of Socratic line of questioning. This line of questioning serves to get the patient to see problems differently and find alternative solutions. Once these alternative solutions are identified, experiments can be conducted to see if these solutions will work. When the patient responds with avoidance, reduced activity, or behaviors that may be detrimental to treatment, they risk continuing problems or making the person feel worse. The therapist will work to gradually reduce the patient's anxiety to the point where they feel comfortable trying new behavioral skills that will ultimately eliminate the anxiety.