Specific Phobias

Treatment for Specific Phobias at the CTSA

Specific phobias can include fear of flying, fear of heights, fear of small animals or insects, fear of blood, etc. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for specific phobia at the CTSA focuses on education about phobias, exposure to feared sensations and situations, and techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs.

Eligibility

Before entering a treatment program at the Center, patients first complete a phone screening interview with one of our intake coordinators. If appropriate, patients then schedule and complete an extensive psychological evaluation with a clinician. Patients are interviewed at length and complete a number of specialized assessment forms to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The information gathered during this evaluation is used to determine if the person has an anxiety or stress problem and which treatment best matches the patient's needs. The results of the evaluation are discussed with the patient and treatment recommendations are offered. If the evaluation indicates that the treatment programs at the Center are appropriate for the person, then arrangements for treatment will be made following the evaluation.