Phobias
Within just a few sessions at the Apex Practice my life completely turned for the better – I’m delighted I took that first step. I am a new person – Mrs NG, Rickmansworth
At the Apex Practice, we recognise the sensitive nature of this problem and we treat you in the utmost confidence in a caring, sympathetic environment.
Phobia is a fear of a particular object, animal or situation. The fear is great enough that you wish to avoid the situation at all costs or cope with it with considerable anxiety. The most common phobias are fears of insects, mice, snakes, heights, public transport, and closed spaces.
Phobias can originate through learning – either connecting a bad experience with the things you are afraid of or observing someone who is afraid and learning from their fear. A third reason for phobias may be distortions in thinking.
The principal factor that maintains a phobia is avoidance. By avoiding your phobia you will never learn that you can overcome your fear. Another way of maintaining your phobia is by engaging in ‘safety behaviours’ . These are things you do or say that you think will protect you. You come to believe that avoidant behaviour and safety behaviours are necessary for you to overcome your fear but in fact the phobia is being prolonged.
