Areas of Expertise

Occasional anxiety is normal. However, about 30% of adults suffer from conditions that result in intense, persistent anxiety that is difficult to control. Fears or worries can become overwhelming and interfere with daily routines. Despite being common, these conditions are treatable and the majority of adults who undergo CBT treatment are able to significantly improve their symptoms.  Specific phobias are the most common anxiety conditions and consist of a persistent, irrational fear of objects or situations that pose little threat but trigger intense anxiety or avoidance. Common phobias include fears of flying, driving, enclosed spaces, heights, needles, animals, choking, vomiting, or loud noises. Social Anxiety is a persistent fear of social situations or specific performance related situations (e.g. public speaking). A panic attack is a sudden onset of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms (e.g. heart racing, sweating, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath). Panic attacks can be triggered by feared situations or they can come on unexpectedly. Panic Disorder is diagnosed when someone experiences recurrent panic attacks and worries intensely about having another one or changes their behavior in order not to experience panic attacks. Agoraphobia is a fear of situations or places where escape may be difficult or embarrassing. Often people with this fear will avoid public places, driving, crowds, or leaving the house alone.