Understanding
Phobias
Phobias involve intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities that lead to significant avoidance and can severely impact daily functioning.
Understanding
Phobias
Phobias involve intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities that lead to significant avoidance and can severely impact daily functioning.
Understanding
Phobias
Phobias involve intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities that lead to significant avoidance and can severely impact daily functioning.
What do phobias feel like?
Living with a phobia means experiencing overwhelming fear and panic when encountering or even thinking about the specific trigger, whether it's spiders, heights, flying, or social situations. The fear response is immediate and intense, often involving physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and difficulty breathing, even when the person logically understands the fear is disproportionate to the actual danger. This can lead to elaborate avoidance strategies that gradually restrict life activities and opportunities.
The anticipatory anxiety about potentially encountering the feared object or situation can be as distressing as the actual encounter, creating a constant state of vigilance and planning around avoidance. This often results in shame and embarrassment, particularly when others don't understand the intensity of the fear response to seemingly harmless things.
Common Symptoms
Immediate intense fear or panic when exposed to the phobic trigger
Physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat
Avoidance of situations where the feared object might be present
Anticipatory anxiety about potential encounters with the trigger
Recognition that the fear is excessive or unreasonable
Significant interference with daily activities and life choices
Panic attacks when unable to avoid the feared situation
Physical symptoms even when just thinking about the trigger
What do phobias feel like?
Living with a phobia means experiencing overwhelming fear and panic when encountering or even thinking about the specific trigger, whether it's spiders, heights, flying, or social situations. The fear response is immediate and intense, often involving physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and difficulty breathing, even when the person logically understands the fear is disproportionate to the actual danger. This can lead to elaborate avoidance strategies that gradually restrict life activities and opportunities.
The anticipatory anxiety about potentially encountering the feared object or situation can be as distressing as the actual encounter, creating a constant state of vigilance and planning around avoidance. This often results in shame and embarrassment, particularly when others don't understand the intensity of the fear response to seemingly harmless things.
Common Symptoms
Immediate intense fear or panic when exposed to the phobic trigger
Physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat
Avoidance of situations where the feared object might be present
Anticipatory anxiety about potential encounters with the trigger
Recognition that the fear is excessive or unreasonable
Significant interference with daily activities and life choices
Panic attacks when unable to avoid the feared situation
Physical symptoms even when just thinking about the trigger
What do phobias feel like?
Living with a phobia means experiencing overwhelming fear and panic when encountering or even thinking about the specific trigger, whether it's spiders, heights, flying, or social situations. The fear response is immediate and intense, often involving physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and difficulty breathing, even when the person logically understands the fear is disproportionate to the actual danger. This can lead to elaborate avoidance strategies that gradually restrict life activities and opportunities.
The anticipatory anxiety about potentially encountering the feared object or situation can be as distressing as the actual encounter, creating a constant state of vigilance and planning around avoidance. This often results in shame and embarrassment, particularly when others don't understand the intensity of the fear response to seemingly harmless things.
Common Symptoms
Immediate intense fear or panic when exposed to the phobic trigger
Physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat
Avoidance of situations where the feared object might be present
Anticipatory anxiety about potential encounters with the trigger
Recognition that the fear is excessive or unreasonable
Significant interference with daily activities and life choices
Panic attacks when unable to avoid the feared situation
Physical symptoms even when just thinking about the trigger
History of Phobias
From ancient fears to modern understanding of anxiety and avoidance learning
Ancient Times
Greek and Roman texts documented irrational fears, with Hippocrates describing cases of individuals with intense fears of specific situations, though these were often attributed to supernatural causes or moral failings.
1871
Carl Westphal first used the term "agoraphobia" to describe the fear of public spaces, marking the beginning of systematic clinical study of phobic disorders and their impact on human functioning.
1920
John Watson's "Little Albert" experiment demonstrated how phobias could be learned through conditioning, revolutionising understanding of how fears develop and laying groundwork for behavioural treatment approaches.
Present
Phobias are recognised as highly treatable anxiety disorders affecting 7-9% of the population, with exposure therapy and CBT offering effective treatment with success rates of 80-90% for most specific phobias.
History of Phobias
From ancient fears to modern understanding of anxiety and avoidance learning
Ancient Times
Greek and Roman texts documented irrational fears, with Hippocrates describing cases of individuals with intense fears of specific situations, though these were often attributed to supernatural causes or moral failings.
1871
Carl Westphal first used the term "agoraphobia" to describe the fear of public spaces, marking the beginning of systematic clinical study of phobic disorders and their impact on human functioning.
1920
John Watson's "Little Albert" experiment demonstrated how phobias could be learned through conditioning, revolutionising understanding of how fears develop and laying groundwork for behavioural treatment approaches.
Present
Phobias are recognised as highly treatable anxiety disorders affecting 7-9% of the population, with exposure therapy and CBT offering effective treatment with success rates of 80-90% for most specific phobias.
History of Phobias
From ancient fears to modern understanding of anxiety and avoidance learning
Ancient Times
Greek and Roman texts documented irrational fears, with Hippocrates describing cases of individuals with intense fears of specific situations, though these were often attributed to supernatural causes or moral failings.
1871
Carl Westphal first used the term "agoraphobia" to describe the fear of public spaces, marking the beginning of systematic clinical study of phobic disorders and their impact on human functioning.
1920
John Watson's "Little Albert" experiment demonstrated how phobias could be learned through conditioning, revolutionising understanding of how fears develop and laying groundwork for behavioural treatment approaches.
Present
Phobias are recognised as highly treatable anxiety disorders affecting 7-9% of the population, with exposure therapy and CBT offering effective treatment with success rates of 80-90% for most specific phobias.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy for phobias primarily uses exposure therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to gradually reduce fear responses and avoidance behaviours. Exposure therapy involves carefully planned, gradual contact with the feared object or situation in a safe environment, helping the brain learn that the feared outcome doesn't occur. Therapists work collaboratively to challenge catastrophic thinking patterns and develop coping strategies for managing anxiety symptoms.
The therapeutic process typically involves creating a hierarchy of fears, starting with less threatening exposures and gradually progressing to more challenging situations. Many people experience significant improvement within 8-12 sessions, with some phobias responding even more quickly to focused treatment approaches.
Benefits of Therapy
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Improved quality of life and expanded life opportunities
Better understanding of anxiety and effective coping strategies
Reduced anticipatory anxiety and worry about encounters
Enhanced self-efficacy and sense of personal control
Decreased impact on work, relationships, and social functioning
Prevention of phobias from becoming more severe or generalised
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about phobias and their highly effective treatments
How are phobias different from normal fears?
Normal fears are proportionate to actual danger and don't significantly interfere with daily life. Phobias involve intense, irrational fear that's disproportionate to any real threat, causes significant distress, and leads to avoidance behaviours that impact functioning. For example, being cautious around large dogs is normal, but being unable to leave your house because dogs might be present indicates a phobia.
Can phobias be cured or will I always have some fear?
Most specific phobias respond extremely well to treatment, with many people experiencing complete or near-complete elimination of their phobic response. Some individuals may retain slight discomfort but can function normally without avoidance. The key is that even if some mild anxiety remains, it no longer controls or limits your life choices and activities.
Is exposure therapy safe, and will it make my fear worse?
Exposure therapy is very safe when conducted by trained professionals. The process is gradual and collaborative - you're never forced into situations you're not ready for. While you may experience temporary increases in anxiety during treatment, this is normal and necessary for recovery. The vast majority of people find their fears decrease significantly rather than worsen through properly conducted exposure therapy.
How quickly can I expect to see improvement with therapy?
Many people notice significant improvement within 6-12 sessions of exposure therapy, with some specific phobias responding even faster. Simple phobias like fear of animals or situations often show dramatic improvement quickly, while more complex fears may take longer. The timeline depends on factors like severity, how long you've had the phobia, and your commitment to practicing exposure exercises.
How therapy can help
Therapy for phobias primarily uses exposure therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to gradually reduce fear responses and avoidance behaviours. Exposure therapy involves carefully planned, gradual contact with the feared object or situation in a safe environment, helping the brain learn that the feared outcome doesn't occur. Therapists work collaboratively to challenge catastrophic thinking patterns and develop coping strategies for managing anxiety symptoms.
The therapeutic process typically involves creating a hierarchy of fears, starting with less threatening exposures and gradually progressing to more challenging situations. Many people experience significant improvement within 8-12 sessions, with some phobias responding even more quickly to focused treatment approaches.
Benefits of Therapy
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Improved quality of life and expanded life opportunities
Better understanding of anxiety and effective coping strategies
Reduced anticipatory anxiety and worry about encounters
Enhanced self-efficacy and sense of personal control
Decreased impact on work, relationships, and social functioning
Prevention of phobias from becoming more severe or generalised
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about phobias and their highly effective treatments
How are phobias different from normal fears?
Normal fears are proportionate to actual danger and don't significantly interfere with daily life. Phobias involve intense, irrational fear that's disproportionate to any real threat, causes significant distress, and leads to avoidance behaviours that impact functioning. For example, being cautious around large dogs is normal, but being unable to leave your house because dogs might be present indicates a phobia.
Can phobias be cured or will I always have some fear?
Most specific phobias respond extremely well to treatment, with many people experiencing complete or near-complete elimination of their phobic response. Some individuals may retain slight discomfort but can function normally without avoidance. The key is that even if some mild anxiety remains, it no longer controls or limits your life choices and activities.
Is exposure therapy safe, and will it make my fear worse?
Exposure therapy is very safe when conducted by trained professionals. The process is gradual and collaborative - you're never forced into situations you're not ready for. While you may experience temporary increases in anxiety during treatment, this is normal and necessary for recovery. The vast majority of people find their fears decrease significantly rather than worsen through properly conducted exposure therapy.
How quickly can I expect to see improvement with therapy?
Many people notice significant improvement within 6-12 sessions of exposure therapy, with some specific phobias responding even faster. Simple phobias like fear of animals or situations often show dramatic improvement quickly, while more complex fears may take longer. The timeline depends on factors like severity, how long you've had the phobia, and your commitment to practicing exposure exercises.
How therapy can help
Therapy for phobias primarily uses exposure therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to gradually reduce fear responses and avoidance behaviours. Exposure therapy involves carefully planned, gradual contact with the feared object or situation in a safe environment, helping the brain learn that the feared outcome doesn't occur. Therapists work collaboratively to challenge catastrophic thinking patterns and develop coping strategies for managing anxiety symptoms.
The therapeutic process typically involves creating a hierarchy of fears, starting with less threatening exposures and gradually progressing to more challenging situations. Many people experience significant improvement within 8-12 sessions, with some phobias responding even more quickly to focused treatment approaches.
Benefits of Therapy
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Dramatic reduction in fear intensity and avoidance behaviours
Improved quality of life and expanded life opportunities
Better understanding of anxiety and effective coping strategies
Reduced anticipatory anxiety and worry about encounters
Enhanced self-efficacy and sense of personal control
Decreased impact on work, relationships, and social functioning
Prevention of phobias from becoming more severe or generalised
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about phobias and their highly effective treatments
How are phobias different from normal fears?
Normal fears are proportionate to actual danger and don't significantly interfere with daily life. Phobias involve intense, irrational fear that's disproportionate to any real threat, causes significant distress, and leads to avoidance behaviours that impact functioning. For example, being cautious around large dogs is normal, but being unable to leave your house because dogs might be present indicates a phobia.
Can phobias be cured or will I always have some fear?
Most specific phobias respond extremely well to treatment, with many people experiencing complete or near-complete elimination of their phobic response. Some individuals may retain slight discomfort but can function normally without avoidance. The key is that even if some mild anxiety remains, it no longer controls or limits your life choices and activities.
Is exposure therapy safe, and will it make my fear worse?
Exposure therapy is very safe when conducted by trained professionals. The process is gradual and collaborative - you're never forced into situations you're not ready for. While you may experience temporary increases in anxiety during treatment, this is normal and necessary for recovery. The vast majority of people find their fears decrease significantly rather than worsen through properly conducted exposure therapy.
How quickly can I expect to see improvement with therapy?
Many people notice significant improvement within 6-12 sessions of exposure therapy, with some specific phobias responding even faster. Simple phobias like fear of animals or situations often show dramatic improvement quickly, while more complex fears may take longer. The timeline depends on factors like severity, how long you've had the phobia, and your commitment to practicing exposure exercises.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)