phobias

A phobia is an excessive and irrational fear reaction. If you have a phobia, you may experience a deep sense of dread or panic when you encounter the source of your fear. The fear can be of almost anything; from certain animals to buttons. More commonly they tend to be around a certain place, situation (such as driving or flying or social scenarios)  or objects, such as spiders or needles. Unlike general anxiety disorders, a phobia is usually connected to something specific.  The impact of a phobia can range from annoying to severely disabling. People with phobias often realize their fear is irrational, but they’re unable to do anything about it. Such fears can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships.

Can phobias be cured?

Whilst there are no guarantees of a complete "cure",  phobias can often be overcome; either  managed to a better degree or completely removed.

There are a few different techniques that are known to help; one is CBT, (cognitive behavioural therapy), which helps look at, understand and change thinking and behavioural patterns.  Often a desensitisation course is used to re-train the mind into seeing the object of the phobia as less threatening. NLP (neuro-linguistical programming) and/ or EMDR can also be very helpful in cases of phobia.  

It is important to remember that any phobia feels very real to the person who has it and may feel terrifying to them , no matter how irrational it may seem to another. The body's responses and brain chemistry are very real and create strong reactions when triggered. Our therapists will help you to manage your fears so that you can regain control of yourself and work with you to lessen or remove the symptoms.