Phobias are extreme fears of specific objects, situations, or places. A phobia can add immense stress to your life, depriving you of rewarding social interactions, experiences, and opportunities. At Thriving Center of Psychology in Midtown, New York, NY, SoHo, NY, Los Angeles, CA, and Miami, FL, skilled professionals are dedicated to helping you understand your phobia and overcome it. To learn more about innovative and effective treatments, schedule an appointment today by going online or calling the offices directly.
Phobias Q & A
What are phobias?
With a phobia, a particular stimulus, such as a place, situation, or object, elicits in you a deep fear, panic, or irrational response. About 8% of U.S. adults have at least one phobia, and women are more likely to have them than men. Experts have identified hundreds of phobias, but some of the most well-known include:
- Acrophobia—fear of heights
- Agoraphobia—fear of open spaces or places
- Amaxophobia—fear of driving
- Arachnophobia—fear of spiders
- Aviophobia—fear of flying
- Claustrophobia—fear of closed or confined spaces
- Dentophobia—fear of going to the dentist
- Glassophobia—fear of public speaking
- Gephyrophobia—fear of bridges
- Hemophobia—fear of blood
- Social phobia—fear of social situations
It’s essential to understand the source and symptoms of a phobia. When left untreated, phobias can hamper your life and leave you separated from people, places, and regular activities.
When should I get help for phobias?
The caring psychologists and therapists at Thriving Center of Psychology encourage you to schedule an evaluation if you experience any of the following phobia-related symptoms:
- Fast talking
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest tightness or pain
- Upset stomach
- Inability to speak
- Trembling or shaking
Phobia symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with your work, family life, and personal relationships. Untreated phobias can deprive you of hobbies, social situations, and activities you might otherwise enjoy. At Thriving Center of Psychology, there is help, no matter how severe or minor your phobia seems to be.
How are phobias treated?
Thriving Center of Psychology offers innovative treatments that help you overcome your phobia and manage your symptoms. One of the most effective methods is virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET).
VRET is a cutting-edge treatment that uses customized videos to replicate realistic situations that usually elicit a phobic response. You can rest assured that exposure happens in a safe, monitored environment. During your VRET session, your practitioner monitors your vital signs, including heart rate and other physiological metrics. The ultimate goal is to gradually expose you to your feared stimulus and desensitize you to it.
Other phobia treatments include:
- Neurofeedback (electroencephalographic or EEG biofeedback)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
Thriving Center of Psychology has caring and capable providers who can help you overcome your phobia, manage your symptoms, and get back to living a full life. Book your phobia assessment today using the online scheduler or calling the offices directly.