Support for
Phobias are highly treatable with focused psychological treatment.
Evidence-based treatment for specific phobias and avoidance — including graded exposure and cognitive approaches.
Key information you should know
- Specific phobias respond exceptionally well to evidence-based treatment — many people see significant change within a small number of sessions.
- Graded exposure (working towards what you fear, gently and at your pace) is the gold-standard approach.
- Common phobias include flying, driving, enclosed spaces, needles, and animals — treatment works the same way regardless.
Signs you might benefit from phobias support
- Intense fear or panic when faced with a specific situation, object, or animal
- Going to significant lengths to avoid the trigger
- Physical symptoms — racing heart, sweating, dizziness — when exposed
- Knowing the fear is out of proportion but feeling unable to control it
- Avoidance that affects work, travel, medical care, or daily life
- Fear that started after a specific event, or that's been there as long as you can remember
How therapy can help with phobias
Specific phobias produce intense fear and avoidance that shrink life: travel, medical procedures, animals, heights, or driving are common examples. Phobias respond well to graded exposure therapy.
Treatment is usually shorter than for generalised anxiety, with clear steps agreed in advance. You work at a pace that feels challenging but manageable.
Psychologists who support phobias
3 psychologists with experience in phobias.
Dr Catherine Hart
Founder & Clinical Director
Catherine is a Clinical Psychologist, APS Supervisor of the Year (2024), and co-founder of Succoris Psychology Group. She leads clinical standards across the group and is passionate about supporting psychologists to build sustainable, ethical practices.
Accepting new clientsBook with KristyKristy Ward
Psychologist & Director
Kristy is a warm, highly experienced psychologist who brings nearly two decades of clinical practice to helping people feel understood, supported and confident as they work towards meaningful change.
2 clinics
Nikita Kettlewell
Clinical Psychologist & Clinic Manager
Nikita works collaboratively with clients to identify goals and strategies for each individual, using a warm, empathic and non-judgemental approach. She has a background in individual and group therapy.
Works from Succoris Bendigo
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