Specific Phobias

Specific phobias cause  strong, irrational fear reactions to specific things and work hard to avoid common places, situations, or objects even though they know there’s no threat or danger. They may know these fears are irrational but are unable to overcome them. These irrational fears can cause severe anxiety and keep people from enjoying life.

Phobias can disrupt your day-to-day life by affecting self-esteem, efficiency at work or school and may disrupt relationships. Some specific phobias commonly focus on animals, insects, heights, thunder, driving, public transportation, flying, dental or medical procedures, and elevators.

Counseling for Specific Phobias

Counseling can help you overcome your specific phobias. Specifically, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that is effective in the treatment of phobias. Through weekly sessions and homework assignments most people experience results in 10-15 sessions. CBT helps you understand incorrect assumptions and then gradually provides exposure exercises to expose you to the phobia source to increase your tolerance and reduce your fears.