Phobias are anxiety related disorders that present as deep and irrational fears of a situation or an object. Sometimes, phobias seem to appear from thin air, but they are usually a result of increased levels of generalized anxiety. They can feel all-encompassing and they limit our abilities to live life functionally if left untreated.
What is Phobia Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Phobia therapy, particularly Exposure and Response prevention (ERP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can provide lasting solutions when it comes to phobias. At Mind + Zest, our phobia therapists have vast experience in treating fears and phobias and can work with you to identify irrational thought patterns related to a phobia. From there, they expose you to the object of fear in small and incremental stages, helping you dissociate said object with your anxiety along the way.
How does Phobia Therapy at Mind + Zest Work?
1. 15-minute intake Session
We begin with a 15-minute intake session with one of our dedicated intake specialists.
During these 15-minutes, we dig deep, and try to identify the issue you are looking to address. We then assess the best approach at assisting you with your phobia. We also try to get a good sense of your personality. At Mind + Zest, we want to match you with the therapist that would make the best possible fit based on what you need, and who you are. This consultation is also a great opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
At the end of the session, our intake counsellor will set you up with a tailored ‘plan of action’ that includes the recommended phobia therapist best suited to help you, the recommended duration of your therapy, and a suggestion for any further testing or psychological service they feel would best fit your needs.
2. 50-minute Sessions
After the initial intake, clients will attend regular 50-minute sessions for the recommended duration of treatment. Here, we work with you through the treatment plan, and build towards the objectives set during your intake session. We can re-evaluate and tweak these goals as time goes on.
3.Finish and Reflect
After concluding the treatment plan, we take time to reflect. Here, you tell us what your experience was like. If you still find yourself struggling in certain areas of your life, we may suggest further therapy to keep you on track and maintain a healthy mindset. If you feel like you have achieved the goals you have set for yourself, your sessions with us will end there. We will likely provide readings to help maintain and further your progress, and you are welcome to book a check-in appointment any time you feel you may need one. We also love to hear how you’re doing, and what you’ve achieved since your treatment plan!
Reading on Phobia Therapy
Bourne, E.J. The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook, (2007).
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