Fears and Phobias
A phobia is defined as a persistent fear of an object, creature or situation in which the sufferer goes to great lengths to avoid. The fear is typically disproportional to the actual danger posed, often being recognised as an irrational fear.
Specific Phobias
There are, in the main, two types of phobias. A ‘specific’ phobia is where a person reacts negatively when they come into contact with the thing or situation that causes fear. Common examples are spiders, dentists, needles, flying and public speaking.
Complex Phobias
Complex phobias can cause fear and anxiety continually. Emetophobia (fear of vomit) is one such example. In severe cases this can result in the sufferer not wanting to leave home in case they are confronted with the object or situation which causes fear.
Another complex phobia is social phobia, a fear of social situations, such as weddings or going out to dinner with people. Frequently people with a social phobia have a fear of embarrassing themselves or of being humiliated in public.
How can hypnotherapy help with phobias?
Hypnotherapy can help by reducing anxiety and disempowering the fear response, giving you back control.
Hypnotherapy helps us to learn new patterns of behaviour, such as being more relaxed and calm, which can help overcome ‘specific’ phobias very quickly.
A specific phobia can be overcome in 4 sessions, while a complex phobia affecting more aspects of your life can take longer to effectively treat.
Testimonials
“Carolyn, just want to thank you for your help with my phobia. Flight went really well, I was so relaxed. Crazy thing was I was trying to calm my fella down as he was scared and I was sharing your tips. I’m looking forward to the future with plans for further holidays. Thank you.” Amanda
“Dear Carolyn, thank you for all your patience, kindness, professionalism and help with my dental phobia. Since I saw you last I have completed all my dental treatment. I am able to smile once more and feel a lot more confident, all because of your help.” Sue