A client experiences panic attacks when confronted with riding in elevators. The therapist is teaching the client ways to relax while incrementally exposing the client to getting on an elevator. This technique is called:

Choice A reason: Combination therapy refers to using multiple treatment modalities, such as medication and psychotherapy. While helpful, it does not describe the specific behavioral technique of gradual exposure paired with relaxation. Choice B reason: Flooding involves exposing the client to the feared stimulus all at once without gradual buildup. This can be overwhelming and is not the technique described in the question. Choice C reason: Cognitive restructuring focuses on changing maladaptive thought patterns. While useful in anxiety treatment, it does not involve gradual exposure to elevators. Choice D reason: Systematic desensitization is the correct technique. It combines relaxation training with gradual exposure to the feared stimulus, helping the client reduce anxiety step by step.