The first step in the process of systematic desensitization is to 

A) train the client in muscle relaxation.
B) help the client build an anxiety hierarchy.
C) have the client work through the hierarchy and try to remain relaxed.
D) expose the client to mild anxiety-arousing stimuli.

The first step in the process of systematic desensitization is to help the client build an anxiety hierarchy, which involves ranking a series of anxiety-provoking situations from the least anxiety-provoking to the most anxiety-provoking. This hierarchy serves as a roadmap for subsequent treatment sessions that involve exposure to feared situations in a gradual and controlled manner. Training in muscle relaxation typically follows the development of the hierarchy.