How do psychiatrists treat phobias?

Plenty of people have aversions or irrational fears. For example, you might have a fear of driving or going to the dentist. But when those fears turn into a phobia, it’s best to see a psychiatrist or other mental health professional for treatment. 

Fortunately, working with a mental health professional can help you overcome your fear and improve your well-being. Therapists, psychologists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), and psychiatrists can all treat phobias and other anxiety disorders. 

What are phobias?

Phobias are anxiety disorders involving persistent and uncontrollable fears about a specific place, object, or situation. By some counts, specific phobias are the most common type of anxiety disorder in the U.S. 

You may be living with a specific phobia if:

• You make an effort to avoid your fear at all costs.

• Your fear nearly always triggers immediate anxiety and distress.

• Your fear can’t be explained by your culture or context.

• Your fear has lasted for at least six months. 

• Your fear is impacting your work, relationships, or mental health.

How can a psychiatrist help with phobias?

Often, phobias can be overcome with therapy alone, but medication can be a helpful part of a treatment plan. In that case, seeing a psychiatric provider may be right for you. 

Here’s how a psychiatrist can help you cope with your phobia. 

1. Talk therapy 

Therapy is a first-choice treatment for most phobias. Some psychiatric providers offer talk therapy, and others will refer you to a therapist who does. Therapy can help you identify triggers for your phobia and practice healthy coping strategies. You may also learn what's causing that fear in the first place. 

One of the best types of therapy for phobias is exposure therapy. This is a version of cognitive behavioral therapy that gradually exposes you to your fears in a safe setting. While your gut may tell you to avoid your fears, exposure therapy teaches you how to confront and control your triggers.

With exposure therapy, you’ll learn to cope with the discomfort and overcome avoidance behavior. For example, if you have a phobia of heights, you might start by looking at a picture of a high location or standing on a low stool. From there, you may work toward visiting a roof deck or riding an elevator to the top floor. 

2. Psychiatric medication 

For some people, treatment may involve a combination of therapy and medication. There aren't currently any medications approved by the FDA to specifically treat phobias. However, psychiatrists often prescribe medication to manage anxiety and co-occurring mental health conditions.

For example, medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), beta blockers, and benzodiazepines can reduce the intensity of your panic and distress. In many cases, medication is a short-term or situational solution. 

For example, if you have a fear of flying, your psychiatrist might prescribe something to take before boarding an airplane. Alternatively, daily medication — like an SSRI — can reduce your overall anxiety and make it easier for you to participate in therapy. 

If you’re interested in medication, it’s important to find the right prescription and dosage for your needs. Your psychiatric provider can share which medications are likely to be most effective, possible side effects, and how long they will take to work. They can also help you change your dosage or taper the medication once you no longer need it.

3. Holistic care

Some psychiatric providers use more holistic or integrative approaches that you might find helpful in your recovery. These providers may use various complementary practices that focus on improving your overall well-being and emotional regulation. 

For example, your psychiatric provider may use or recommend a range of mind-body techniques, like mindfulness, meditation, massage, and yoga. They may also provide exercise and nutritional counseling or recommend dietary supplements. 

All psychiatric providers should emphasize the importance of shared decision making. This means you have a chance to take a more active role in learning to manage and overcome your fears. You can work with your psychiatric provider to find tools and coping methods that feel right for you.

Clinician's take

When someone has lived with a phobia for a long time, they may become resigned to the limitations it puts on their lives. It’s important to remember that phobias are treatable. Accessing care — whether in the form of therapy, medication, or both — can be life changing.

Stephanie J Reed, MSW, MSN, PMHNP-BC

Clinical reviewer

Find care with Rula

Having a phobia can be anywhere from distracting to downright debilitating. Fortunately, working with a psychiatrist can help you overcome your fears. Through medication, talk therapy, and more holistic approaches, they can help you feel empowered to live your life free from fear.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we're here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.