Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of situations or places where escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack or other distressing symptoms. This fear often leads to avoidance of certain places or situations.
Common Symptoms of Agoraphobia:
- Fear of being in crowded places or open spaces
- Avoidance of situations such as public transportation, shopping malls, or being far from home
- Feelings of panic or anxiety when faced with these situations
- Physical symptoms like dizziness, sweating, or rapid heartbeat when exposed to feared places
- Reliance on others to accompany you to feared places
In our sessions, we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) tools, including:
- Exposure Therapy: Gradual, controlled exposure to feared situations to reduce avoidance and build confidence in managing anxiety.
- Cognitive Restructuring: Identifying and challenging irrational beliefs related to the feared situations to alter anxious thinking patterns.
- Panic Management Techniques: Strategies to manage and reduce symptoms of panic that may occur in feared situations.
- Behavioral Activation: Encouraging engagement in activities and situations that help reduce avoidance behaviors.
We offer a compassionate and structured approach to help you overcome agoraphobia, develop effective coping strategies, and regain control over your daily life and activities.
