When fear becomes so intense that we avoid situations in which we might encounter our fear, this is called a phobia. Some examples of phobias are:

• Public speaking
• Social interaction
• Agoraphobia
• Flying
• Heights

Phobias can be of anything though, and none are unreasonable or “silly”. In fact, fear serves and important biological role by helping our brains identify threats so we can avoid them.

Some of our brains do this so well though, that it impacts our ability to function or reach our goals because we are so debilitated by fear.

If your phobia is causing you suffering, we can work together to come up with a plan to show your brain that it’s not as bad as it thinks. In our first sessions we will talk about your phobia and how it effects your life. Together we will determine which specific scenarios are most challenging, and when you are ready we will use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the most evidence-based tool to address phobias, to help your brain feel safer when your fear is present, but not a true threat. This technique will be on your terms though, and we will collaborate on when and how you proceed with ERP.

The first step is the bravest, but if you are ready, so am I.