A phobia is an intense anxiety about one or more specific things or situations. Most of us have some triggers for revulsion or avoidance, like mice, public speaking, or leaning over a balcony in a high building, but these are fairly normal. Phobias, on the other hand, actually cause a disruption in normal functioning and/or such an intense reaction that it becomes a problem to the individual.

Like other anxiety problems, specific phobias are best treated with some version of exposure therapy (a gradual tolerance of the source of the anxiety). This is usually bolstered by cognitive behavioral therapy or supportive therapy. Although some therapists may disagree, I believe it is fruitless to search for the source of the phobia in one’s personal history (although it can be interesting). Even when you recall that Uncle Herman scared you when you were a preschooler with his pet snake, the connection will rarely alleviate symptoms.

Hypnotherapy, relaxation techniques, and in some cases assertiveness training, are other helpful methods. Although there are currently no practitioners of biofeedback in our area, it has also been shown to be an effective practice in some cases.