Phobias

Overcoming Fear with Compassion and Expertise

A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that poses little to no actual danger. This overwhelming anxiety can significantly disrupt daily life, leading individuals to avoid certain places, activities, or situations. Phobias are more than just heightened fears; they are profound reactions that can feel uncontrollable.

Common Types of Phobias We Treat

At Inner Citadel, we recognise that phobias can manifest in various forms. Some of the common phobias we address include:

Specific Phobias: Fear of particular objects or situations, such as:

• ANIMALS – Spiders (arachnophobia), dogs (cynophobia), insects (entomophobia).
• NATURAL ENVIRONMENT – Heights (acrophobia), thunderstorms (astraphobia), water (aquaphobia).
• SITUATIONAL – Flying (aviophobia), enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), driving (vehophobia).
• BLOOD–INJECTION–INJURIES – Needles (trypanophobia), blood (hemophobia), medical procedures.

Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder): Intense fear of social situations, leading to avoidance of social interactions due to fear of embarrassment or judgment.

Agoraphobia: Fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult, such as open spaces, crowds, or public transportation.

Symptoms of Phobias

Phobias can elicit a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including:

Physical Symptoms

• Dizziness, light-headedness, or feeling faint
• Choking sensation
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Chest tightness or pain
• Sweating, hot or cold flushes
• Shortness of breath or a smothering feeling
• Nausea or gastrointestinal distress
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Trembling or shaking

Psychological Symptoms

• Intense anxiety or panic attacks when exposed to the feared object or situation
• Overwhelming desire to avoid the feared object or situation
• Recognition that the fear is irrational, yet feeling powerless to control it
• Preoccupation with the fear, impacting daily activities and relationships

Our Integrative Approach to Phobia Treatment

At Inner Citadel, we offer personalised, evidence-based therapies to help individuals confront and manage their phobias in a supportive and understanding environment. Our comprehensive approach includes:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): We assist clients in identifying and challenging distorted thought patterns that contribute to their fears, fostering healthier responses.

Exposure Therapy: Through gradual and controlled exposure to the feared object or situation, clients can desensitise their anxiety responses, reducing avoidance behaviours.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: We teach strategies to help clients remain present and calm, reducing anxiety symptoms during exposure to fear triggers.

Holistic Therapies: Incorporating approaches such as somatic therapy to address the physical manifestations of fear and promote overall well-being.

Why Choose Inner Citadel

Our team of highly qualified therapists, accredited by HCPC, UKCP, and BPS, brings extensive expertise in various therapeutic approaches. We are committed to providing personalised care that respects each individual’s unique experiences and needs. Whether through in-person sessions at our Oxford clinic or online consultations, we strive to make therapy accessible and effective.