Phobias

Is A Phobia Limiting Your Life?

Are you intensely afraid of a specific object, place or being in a situation that you cannot control, such as on an airplane, in an elevator or a passenger in a car? Does exposure to your phobia illicit extreme panic – causing you to instantly fear that you’re going to die, feel disconnected from your surroundings or wonder if you’re going crazy? Do you then suffer physical reactions, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking or shortness of breath? Has your phobia prevented you from living the life you want to live? Perhaps it has impacted relationships negatively, affected work efficiency, limited daily routines or reduced your self-esteem. Or maybe, as in the case of agoraphobia, your phobia has become so extreme that you cannot leave your home. Do you desperately want to get over your phobia and live a life without the limitation of fears and anxiety?

Living with a phobia can be an extremely restrictive, isolating and fearful experience. Depending on the specific phobia, it can manifest as an occasional aggravation or it can be completely debilitating. For example, someone living in downtown Seattle who has a phobia of snakes may not be affected by their phobia on a daily basis. However, if that same person suffers from a fear of elevators or high-rise buildings, their ability to live well would be seriously impacted. Regardless of the severity of your phobia, how long you have suffered or how it developed, with the right phobia treatment, recovery is very possible.

Phobias Are Very Common And Can Be Cured With Specific, Proven Phobia Treatment Techniques

Anxiety is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder in the U.S., and more people experience the fear and dread of phobias than any other anxiety disorder. Roughly 19 million American adults suffer from a specific phobia, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

Although your phobia may make you think that something is really wrong or unfixable with you, the fear you are experiencing is a conditioned response. This is good news. Since your phobia was conditioned in your mind as an intensely fearful response to particular stimuli, it is also entirely possible to recondition your mind so the stimulus (your phobia) no longer produces anxiety and fear. Our minds are better equipped to help us heal from a phobia than any new technology or medication could ever be.

I Can Help You Release The Fear Your Phobia Creates So You Can Live A Life Without Limits

When done properly, phobia treatment therapy can be extremely effective. In our sessions together, I can teach you to take charge of your mind. You can learn how it works and how to use it more consistently, practically and effectively. Drawing from a multitude of methods, I can create a phobia treatment approach that is tailored to your unique personality and learning style. I can also use a gentle exposure approach, which can help you confront your phobia in a less traumatizing context. I will instruct and coach you on how to use these various physiological techniques and guide you step-by-step in the process so that you can implement them in the real world on a daily basis. Practicing these techniques outside of the office will speed up your recovery. In fact, many clients who regularly complete their “homework assignments” make a rapid recovery.

Even if you now feel like your phobia is running your life, it is very possible to entirely remove the fear that your phobia creates and live a normal and joyful life. With help, a willingness to do the work and the right approach, you truly can enjoy a life without limitations and fear.

But, you still may have questions or concerns…

I’ve heard that phobia treatment is expensive and can take a long time.

First, I encourage you to ask yourself how much your phobia is limiting your life. Is it causing you to suffer daily and keeping you from living the life you want to live? If so, I encourage you to imagine yourself doing all the things that your phobia currently prevents you from doing and ask yourself what that is worth.

Second, my practical approach is different than most therapists. Years of experience have enabled me to fine tune techniques and create tailor-made treatment strategies for each individual. The techniques I use and teach work effectively and efficiently, and my success rate for treating phobias is very high. Together, we can create an integrated approach and plan that addresses your specific phobia, personality and situation.

Why therapy for my phobia? Isn’t there medication to relieve phobia symptoms?

While medications can provide short-term results for phobic reactions, they often produce unwanted side effects and rarely provide long-term results. Many people suffering from phobias also try to self-medicate, such as consuming alcoholic beverages on an airplane ride. Alcohol or other drugs, such as benzodiazepines, do provide moderate or temporary relief, but they can be addictive and do not remove the underlying causes of the phobia. Since alcohol and medications cannot address these underlying fears, their use is like putting a bandage on a deep wound that requires major suturing.

Alternatively, working on changing your thinking using Cognitive Therapy, imagery techniques and a gentle exposure approach can produce long-lasting results. In addition, the techniques you learn in phobia treatment therapy can also be utilized on an everyday basis for real life situations to relieve stress, calm anxious feelings and promote overall well being.

I’ve tried everything – even therapy – to get rid of my phobia. How are you different?

Other therapists may have encouraged you to face your fear, but not given you the guidance and appropriate tools to do so safely and effectively. Confronting a phobia without the proper approach and instruction can actually cause a re-traumatization, which can make your phobia experience even worse.

Years of study, experience and counseling specific to phobias enable me to design and integrate multiple, personality-specific strategies and tools – including a gentle exposure approach – that can provide quick relief. I will guide you step-by-step through the process so you know how it is supposed to work and can practice on your own, which can speed up your recovery. As you learn and utilize these techniques, you will cultivate a sense of mindfulness and your intensely fearful reaction to your phobia will significantly lessen, if not completely stop.

I invite you to call me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific needs and any questions you have about phobias, treatment or my practice. Call me directly @ (206)745-4933

Exposure Therapy: How Imaginal Exposure Techniques Help with Phobias

Exposure Therapy: How Imaginal Exposure Techniques Help with Phobias Are you struggling to cope with a phobia? Does it compel you to act in a certain way to soothe it? Do you want to break your phobia, but don’t know how? Have you ever considered imaginal exposure therapy? This method can be helpful for those looking for a solution for dealing with their phobias in an intentional and safe way. What is Exposure Therapy? Exposure therapy is a counseling technique in which one is gradually exposed to whatever triggers their phobia. Afterwards, the client may discuss their emotions with a therapist to better understand why they experience a phobia and how to overcome it. For example: A person afraid of germs touches different objects over time that she perceives to be dirty. First, she touches a small object, then a doorknob, and eventually shakes hands. Someone afraid of crowds first spends time with two people, then 4-5 people, then a larger group, and finally a large crowd. A person afraid of the water stands in a puddle, then in shallow water to the ankles, then on the shallow side of a pool, and finally wades in the deep end of a pool. These situations happen in real life, but what if it’s not always possible to get a “real world exposure experience? Imaginal Exposure Therapy Imaginal exposure therapy takes the concept of exposure therapy and sets it in the counseling office. The client imagines a situation where they would experience anxiety from their phobia. They would then discuss with the therapist what they were feeling and work with the therapist to come up with solutions. This can be a useful method because real-life exposures might not be practical, or too dangerous, to be a useful solution. Examples of Imaginal Exposure Therapy Creating a scenario in your mind where you must touch something that is “dirty.” Thinking about being in a group of people for fear of crowds. Imagining a situation where you must be in an airplane and fly. Focusing on how you might be afraid of swimming pools and water. These are not flashbacks, which are associated with people who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In fact, these are guided scenarios that you and your therapist intentionally create. The Worst Doesn’t Have to Happen with Imaginal Exposure Therapy The problem with phobias is the persistent belief that performing a soothing action will calm your thoughts, and keep the worst from happening. For some, this might mean catching a disease, or even dying. However, practicing imaginal exposure therapy can actually help with beating your phobia in that if you do have these thoughts, the worst won’t actually happen. This is because you are intentionally creating the thoughts! Taking Imaginal Exposure Therapy to New Levels Previously, imaginal exposure therapy occurred in one’s own mind. With advances in technology, we can actually take the leap from the mind to a simulator. As mentioned above, imaginal exposure therapy can be useful in situations when it would be impractical or too dangerous to experience them in reality. For veterans who struggle with PTSD, a simulator can recreate a combat situation that triggers anxiety, without having to return to the battlefield. This includes the sights and sounds of war. Afterwards they can then process with a therapist. Living with a phobia means that you are spending energy every day having to make sure that either the phobia doesn’t occur, or practicing soothing rituals if it does. What if you could get that energy back. What would you do with it? You could learn something new, spend more time with your family, and generally experience less worry in your life. Imaginal exposure therapy is another tool available to help you resolve your symptoms, and free yourself of your phobia. Questions, Concerns, Thoughts? I invite you to call me for a free 15 – minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs and to answer any questions you have about anxiety, treatment and my practice. Please visit my website @ www.theanxietydocseattle.com or call me directly @ (206) 745-4933. Read more about Phobia Treatment.
Exploring Phobias: A Look at the 10 Most Common Phobias

A phobia is a condition based on fear, where you are afraid that you may be in danger. Whether it is touching something you believe is contaminated or being trapped in an enclosed space, there are many kinds of phobias out there. The website Fearof.net has listed what it considers to be the top 100 phobias, but for our purposes, let’s look at the top 10. 10. Trypophobia: Fear of Holes Having trypophobia does not mean that you are afraid of a hole in the ground. Rather, the condition is associated with a fear of holes on the skin of the body. According to Trypophobia.net, a person may stare at holes or bubbles on the skin, then try to find a way to eliminate them. 9. Aerophobia: Fear of Flying Fear of flying is a more common phobia, in which the sufferer fears of becoming overwhelmed while on an airplane, possibly even having a panic attack. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) says twenty percent of the U.S. population suffer from aerophobia. 8. Mysophobia: Fear of Germs Another commonly known phobia is the fear of germs. Mysophobia can cause sufferers to exhibit symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), such as excessive hand washing or refusal to touch certain objects that are “dirty.” 7. Claustrophobia: Fear of Small Spaces Small, enclosed spaces can cause some people to feel claustrophobic. These spaces could include closets, elevators, caves, rooms, MRI machines, etc. Harold Levinson, M.D., writes in Psychology Today how the brains of claustrophobics do not like being deprived of sensory information, thus, enclosed areas can trigger a fight/flight response. 6. Astraphobia: Fear of Lightning and Thunder A thunderstorm can be scary for anyone, but if you suffer from astraphobia, a storm can be a frightening trigger, causing you to believe you are in real danger. People who struggle with this condition may, in their past, have been been caught outside during turbulent weather or even shocked by electricity during a lightning storm. 5. Cynophobia: Fear of Dogs If you are afraid of dogs, you may have had a negative experience with a dog in your past. An encounter with a scary or aggressive dog, or your parents’ protective warnings during your childhood might have instilled a fear of dogs. 4. Agoraphobia: Fear of Crowded or Open Spaces Psychology Today defines agoraphobia as being afraid, “of any place where escape may be difficult.” This could include crowds, wide open areas, or certain forms of transportation. This condition may also make suffers want to stay at home or afraid to leave their homes. 3. Acrophobia: Fear of Heights Living with a fear of heights can mean not wanting to be on rooftops, ladders, or any space that requires significant height above the ground. People may believe that the structure supporting them is unsound and could collapse underneath them, that they might get pushed over the edge, or that they will get dizzy or even be tempted to jump. 2. Ophidiophobia: Fear of Snakes If you are afraid of snakes, you may be afraid that you will get bitten or perhaps die from poisonous venom. As with many phobias, you may try to avoid places where snakes are common. You are also in good company; the character Indiana Jones portrayed by actor Harrison Ford could bravely face any danger, except snakes. 1. Arachnophobia: Fear of Spiders Perhaps the only phobia to have a movie named after it, arachnophobia is the most common phobia. According to Fear.net, if you suffer from this condition, you may be afraid of catching a disease or being poisoned from a spider bite. Seeing a spider may also cause a “disgust response.” Phobias are fear-based, and certainly these common phobias occur because we are exposed to things that frighten us, like spiders, snakes, enclosed spaces, etc. But when these fears overtake our lives and interfere with day-to-day activities, they become a problem. Thankfully, there are treatment options available if you suffer from a phobia. It is entirely possible to live a phobia-free life. Questions, Concerns, Thoughts? I invite you to call me for a free 15 – minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs and to answer any questions you have about anxiety, treatment and my practice. Please visit my website @ www.theanxietydocseattle.com or call me directly @ (206) 745-4933. Read more about Phobia Treatment.
Phobias: What are They and How are They Treated?

Phobias are more common than you think and, for many people, a phobia can have a significant impact on their lives. This includes affecting how they interact with the world on a daily basis. However, there are phobia treatment options available for those who want help in addressing and treating their phobias. What is a Phobia? The Mayo Clinic defines a phobia as, “an overwhelming and unreasonable fear of an object or situation that poses little real danger but provokes anxiety and avoidance.” The definition goes beyond feeling anxious in certain situations, but instead is based on fear which can affect how you go about your daily life. Some common phobias that you may have heard of include: Claustrophobia: fear of enclosed spaces. Arachnophobia: fear of spiders Agoraphobia: fear of open spaces and crowds. Germophobia (Mysophobia): fear of germs. Effects of Phobias People who struggle with phobias may take extraordinary steps to avoid them, such as not going outside or washing their hands excessively. Over time, this can affect how you interact with people in your job, at home, and in other social situations. Also, being afraid all the time takes a lot of energy, which can have an impact on mood. Because phobias are based on fear, which is something that has been programmed into our brains, treatment of a phobia requires a multi-pronged attack. These can include therapy, medication, and behavior modification. Using Medication for Phobia Treatment There are several kinds of medications available to help people who suffer from phobias. The Mayo Clinic suggests: Antidepressants: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) that affect serotonin, the brain, and mood. Beta Blockers: Used to block the effects adrenaline has on the body. Sedatives: Used to help with relaxation, but could be addictive. Medications should only be used after consultation with a doctor and your therapist to determine what is appropriate for you in the treatment of your symptoms. Many phobias can easily be treated without the need for any medication. Talking to a Therapist for Phobia Treatment Consulting with a therapist trained in addressing phobias is another treatment option. A therapist can provide a non-judgmental environment where you can explore the reasons why you have a phobia. A therapist can coach you on different strategies that can help address your symptoms, and may give you tasks to perform out of session that can be helpful in relieving symptoms. A skilled therapist can create a treatment plan specifically designed to meet your needs. Using Exposure Therapy for Phobia Treatment One way a therapist can help guide you through phobia treatment is by the use of exposure therapy. Johanna S. Kaplan, Ph.D., and David F. Tolin, Ph.D., in Psychiatric Times identify steps practitioners can take for exposure therapy. These include: Develop an exposure hierarchy by identifying phobias and ranking them. Conduct exposure gradually and systematically. Elimination of “safety behaviors” that contribute to the phobia, such as washing hands. Challenging cognitive distortions that affect “catastrophizing.” Exposure therapy should be practiced in consultation with a trained therapist. Remember that too much exposure too soon can be overwhelming, which could be a detriment to treatment. For instance, if you are afraid of crowds it would not be the best idea to drop you in Times Square in New York City on New Year’s Eve. However, attending a small gathering or meeting in your community might be a better way to start. Having a phobia doesn’t mean you are crazy. Your brain is wired to identify dangers and to act accordingly to maintain preservation. When the brain says there is danger when none exists, the consequences can be problematic. This can have a negative effect on how you interact with the world. However, by combining medications, talking to a therapist, and exposure exercises can find relief from your phobia. Questions, Concerns, Thoughts? I invite you to call me for a free 15 – minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs and to answer any questions you have about anxiety, treatment and my practice. Please visit my website @ www.theanxietydocseattle.com or call me directly @ (206) 745-4933. Read more about Phobia Treatment.

Lawrence M. Glanz, Ph.D.

"Joe is a highly competent and compassionate psychologist. He works well with a variety of populations, and he maintains the highest standards of ethical practice."

Dr. Joseph Weiss - Anxiety Specialist - Seattle, WA

2014-03-28T19:58:16+00:00

"Joe is a highly competent and compassionate psychologist. He works well with a variety of populations, and he maintains the highest standards of ethical practice."

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Paul J. Friday, Ph.D., Chief, Clinical Psychology – UPMC – Shadyside, President, Shadyside Psychological Services

"I have known and worked with Dr. Weiss for many years while he was a staff psychologist at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh. I have found his insights to patients’ problems and his cognitive interventions to be effective in helping his patients solve a variety of emotional and interpersonal problems. Dr. Weiss’ unique approach to therapy and ability to garner trusting relationships has helped many people resolve issues over the many years that I have known him. Seeking Dr. Weiss’ guidance will be a good investment in your time and energy."

Dr. Joseph Weiss - Anxiety Specialist - Seattle, WA

2014-03-28T19:57:08+00:00

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Michael B. Kaiser, PhD

"I have known Dr. Joseph Weiss for more than 30 years on both a personal as well as professional level. I think you will find him to be a very warm, engaging individual who has integrated a number of well established clinical techniques into his practice including CBT, REBT, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and EMDR. He has fine tuned his approach over the years to take into consideration the need for focused, time limited therapy. He has the ability to quickly assess the needs of his clients and the flexibility to utilize different techniques in an effort to maximize treatment effectiveness. He also has a good sense of humor!"

Dr. Joseph Weiss - Anxiety Specialist - Seattle, WA

2014-03-28T19:53:02+00:00

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Dr. Joseph Weiss - Anxiety Specialist - Seattle, WA