Fears and Phobias
About Fears and Phobias
Fear is a natural and protective response to perceived danger. It activates our survival instincts and triggers physiological changes – such as a rapid heart rate, increased adrenaline, and heightened sensory alertness. These responses prepare the body to respond quickly to potential threats.
However, when fear becomes persistent or disproportionate, it can shift from being protective to problematic. The fear response may be triggered by an overestimation of danger or even by something harmless, leading to distress and disruption in daily life.
A phobia is a specific type of anxiety disorder marked by an intense, persistent and irrational fear of a particular object, animal, or situation. Unlike general fears, phobias are out of proportion to any actual threat and can lead to significant anxiety or even panic attacks. In some cases, even thinking about the feared stimulus can trigger a strong reaction.
Common Symptoms
Psychological
- Intense fear in anticipation of or during exposure to the feared object or situation (e.g. animals, flying, injections, vomiting, spiders)
- Fear is out of proportion to the actual threat
- Feelings of dread, panic, or loss of control
- Avoidance of feared stimulus or endured with intense distress
- Avoidance of social or triggering situations
- Persistent worry about the fear itself, being judged, or feeling embarrassed
Physical
- Muscle tension
- Shortness of breath, dry mouth, or choking sensation
- Sweating and trembling
- Nausea, dizziness, feeling faint, or lightheaded
- Rapid heartbeat
How We Can Help
We offer cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), an evidence-based psychological treatment that explores the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. CBT is structured and goal-focused, helping to identify and change the patterns that maintain phobic responses.
Core components of CBT for phobias include psychoeducation to understand how fear works, cognitive restructuring to challenge unhelpful beliefs, and exposure therapy to reduce anxiety through gradual, controlled contact with the feared object or situation. These techniques support the development of healthier coping strategies and help manage both emotional distress and physical symptoms.
Depending on the nature and severity of your phobia, a personalised treatment plan may be recommended to meet your specific needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals.
Our approach is compassionate and tailored to your individual needs. Therapy is available in person or remotely via phone or online sessions.
Your Free Consultation
- 20-minute session by phone or online
- A friendly, informal chat at a time that suits you
- Brief discussion about your challenges and goals
- Overview of how evidence-based therapy could support you
- Time to ask any questions
- No pressure, just a chance to see if we’re the right fit
Our Approach
We understand that taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting. That’s why we’re passionate about ensuring you feel heard, understood, and respected from the very start. Our approach is warm, down-to-earth, and rooted in evidence-based therapies designed to support meaningful, lasting change. You will be treated with compassion, respect, and discretion, with a focus on creating a supportive and comfortable experience.