Phobias

What is a Phobia?

A phobia is an intense, persistent fear of a specific situation, object, or activity that leads you to avoid it at all costs. The three main types of phobias include:

• Social Phobia: Fear of public speaking, meeting new people, or other social situations.
• Agoraphobia: Fear of being outside or in situations where escape might be difficult.

• Specific Phobias: Fear of specific things or situations, such as:
  • Flying
  • Spiders
  • Bridges
  • Swimming
  • Driving
  • Public speaking
  • Needles (a common specific phobia)

When Should You Reach Out?

It’s normal to have some fears, but when they begin to interfere with your daily life, it’s time to seek help. For example:

• A dog phobia makes it impossible for you to walk in your neighborhood.
• A flying phobia prevents you from traveling for work or vacations.
• A needle phobia causing you to avoid necessary medical treatments or blood draws.
• A social phobia makes you avoid social events and isolate yourself.

If these types of fears are holding you back from living the life you want, we can help.

How Psychotherapy Can Help

Phobias are treatable, and the good news is that you don’t have to live with fear controlling your life. We work with you to:

• Explore the root cause of your phobia: Understanding where the fear began helps us tailor the treatment.
• Systematic Desensitization: Gradual exposure to the feared situation or object, combined with relaxation techniques, to help you slowly overcome the fear.
• Clinical Hypnosis: A powerful tool that helps you reframe your fear responses and take control over your phobia.

Our Psychotherapy Process

Your first step is to call us to schedule your initial appointment. We will link you up with the therapist that we believe will be the best fit for you.

Your initial evaluation session provides an opportunity to build rapport with the therapist and provide them with some background about yourselves and the reasons you are seeking counseling. In addition, they will be able to answer your questions regarding services, confidentiality, and what to expect in psychotherapy.

At the end of your first session, if you decide to move forward and work with that therapist, you will be asked to schedule further appointments. At your second appointment, we will create a treatment plan together that is compatible with your personality, needs, resources and your unique cultural background.

Call +1 630 774 8316 Dr. Asif or +1 630 674 1138 Dr. Yasmeen and speak to us to learn more or schedule an appointment.