Clinical areas
A specific phobia is an intense, persistent, disproportionate fear of a specific object or situation. Although recognised as irrational, the fear causes real distress and can significantly limit daily life.
The approach
The CBT approach for specific phobias is based on gradual and systematic exposure to the feared stimulus, accompanied by anxiety regulation techniques and cognitive restructuring. It is among the interventions with the strongest scientific evidence of efficacy.
When to seek help
When fear limits concrete choices — avoiding flights, medical care, specific work or social situations.
What to expect
Specific phobias respond well to CBT intervention, often within a contained timeframe, provided exposure is approached with gradualness and consistency.
