Phobias · Understanding fear
When fear gets
in the way.
Do you avoid a place, an animal or a situation because the fear feels too strong? Perhaps you know that the situation is reasonably safe, yet your feelings tell you otherwise.
A place to begin
Understanding
your fear.
A phobia is a strong fear connected with a particular thing or situation. It can make everyday activities difficult. You may plan your day around avoiding what frightens you, or feel upset long before you have to face it.
I want to understand what happens for you, what you do to cope, and how the difficulty is affecting your life.
Thoughts feelings and body sensations
What happens when the fear comes up?
01 · Your body
What do you notice?
Your heart may race, your breathing may change, or your body may feel tense.
02 · Your thoughts
What do you tell yourself?
You may think, “I cannot handle this,” and want to leave immediately.
03 · Your daily life
What are you avoiding?
Avoiding the situation can bring relief for a while. Over time, fear can continue to limit what you do.
There may be a disturbing experience connected with the fear. There may also be no clear event you can identify.
My approach
Working with fear
through EMDR.
My practice is primarily based in EMDR. I begin by understanding your history, the situations that bring up fear, and your readiness for the work.
EMDR can be considered when distressing memories are an important part of the difficulty. It works with a memory and the thoughts, feelings and body sensations connected with it. During part of treatment, we use guided eye movements or other stimulation that alternates from side to side.
Some research suggests that EMDR may help with certain phobias. Let us explore together if EMDR is the right approach for you.
EMDR is more than eye movements. It involves preparation and a treatment plan. Together we will explore and understand the steps we need to take before deciding to work with EMDR.
A goal that matters to you
What would you like
to do differently?
You may want to attend an appointment, travel, or take part in something you have been avoiding. A useful goal is something that matters in your own life.
Treatment takes work, and progress varies. We can begin with the situations that trouble you and consider what an appropriate next step might look like.
A thoughtful first step
Before we meet.
If fear is limiting your daily life, I would invite you to learn more about how I work with people. Together, we can explore your struggles and concerns. To get started, click Before We Meet.
James MiklosRegistered Psychotherapist
Read about the approach, then request the private details.