Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024Phobias can be intense, overwhelming, and even life-limiting. Whether you're avoiding flying, social situations, animals, or specific places or objects, living with a phobia often means constantly managing fear. But the truth is—you don’t have to live this way. Phobia therapy is a powerful tool that can help you overcome avoidance, reduce anxiety, and reclaim your freedom.
Psychologist
Remote only
Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Phobia, Sleep Concerns, Obsessive-Compulsive Personality.
My main objective is to help clients manage their emotions, make decisions that are line with their values, and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
2409 South Rural Road, STE C, Tempe, Arizona 85282
Sandra Tursini is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat Phobia, Life Transitions, Panic.
Caring LPC with 30+ years’ expertise in diverse counseling areas, committed to recognizing individual worth and guiding clients through life's challenges
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
5540 Falmouth Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230
Stephen Barlow is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Richmond, Virginia. They treat Phobia, Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates, Alcohol Use.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, and stress stemming from relationships or past experiences, in individual or couples counseling.
Psychiatrist
Remote only
Ayeh Darvishzadeh is a Psychiatrist in undefined, undefined. They treat Phobia, Work/Life Balance, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
I am a psychiatric physician welcoming people seeking to improve their mental health with medications and therapy options.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Remote only
Stacy Ross is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 34 years. They treat Phobia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
We are highly trained clinicians who bring evidence-based treatment, infused with empathy and humor, to create a supportive and effective process.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
6197 South Rural Road, Tempe, Arizona 85283
Benitho Louissaint is a Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Tempe, Arizona. They treat Phobia, Self-Esteem, Insomnia.
We see clients of all genders, ethnicities, and cultures.
A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that is out of proportion to any actual danger. It goes beyond ordinary nervousness or discomfort—phobias often trigger immediate anxiety, panic, or physical symptoms and lead to avoidance behaviors that can significantly limit your life.
Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder, and they can be incredibly specific—like a fear of snakes (ophidiophobia), flying (aviophobia), or enclosed spaces (claustrophobia). Even though a person may logically understand that the feared object or situation isn’t truly dangerous, the fear response can feel uncontrollable.
The good news? You don’t have to “just live with it.” Phobia therapy offers effective, research-backed approaches to help you face and reduce these fears over time.
Everyone experiences fear—it’s a normal, healthy response to danger. Likewise, general anxiety can occur in stressful situations like public speaking, taking a test, or making a big decision. But phobias are different in intensity, duration, and impact.
Here’s how phobias stand apart:
Phobias are not about weakness—they’re a form of anxiety that can be treated with the right support.
Phobias can develop around nearly anything, but the most commonly recognized types include:
Specific Phobias
Fear of a particular object or situation, such as:
Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)
Fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social or performance situations.
Agoraphobia
Fear of places or situations where escape might be difficult or help wouldn’t be available—often associated with panic disorder.
Each of these types may respond differently to treatment, but all can be addressed with evidence-based phobia therapy.
Yes. It’s common for individuals to experience multiple phobias—for example, someone may fear both flying and needles, or social settings and public transportation. In some cases, phobias may develop independently; in others, they may stem from a shared traumatic event or underlying anxiety condition.
A skilled phobia therapist can help identify and address each specific fear and develop a treatment plan that tackles them one at a time or in a way that reflects your needs and goals.
Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Phobia and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.
