Understanding Phobias
Intense, specific fears that limit where you go and what you do.
Phobias respond reliably to exposure-based therapy, often within a focused course of treatment. We add medication when the fear is severe enough to block progress, and address the physiology that keeps the fear locked in.
How it shows up
Phobias are intense, specific fears — of an object or situation — that drive avoidance, sometimes far out of the way, and that feel out of proportion to the actual danger.
What's driving it
Phobias respond reliably to exposure-based therapy, often within a focused course, with medication when the fear is severe enough to block progress. The physiology that keeps the fear locked in can be retrained.
When to seek help
If a specific fear is limiting where you go or what you do, treatment is brief and effective. You don't have to live around the avoidance.
The evidence
Specific phobias affect about 1 in 10 adults over a lifetime and are among the most treatable anxiety conditions with exposure therapy.
Source: Wolitzky-Taylor et al., 2008
Quick Self-Check
Could it be Phobias?
Answer a few questions to see whether your responses point toward Phobias or toward something else. Either way, we'll help you take the next step.
Over the past two weeks, how often have you experienced each of the following?
01Intense fear of a specific object or situation
02Avoiding that object or situation, sometimes going far out of your way
03Physical symptoms (racing heart, sweating, panic) when confronted
04The fear feeling out of proportion to the actual danger
05The avoidance limiting your daily life or activities
Take the next step.
Whether the screening pointed here or somewhere else, the right next move is a conversation. Reach out and we'll help you find your path.
Get started