Specialties
Fear
Fear is a basic, necessary emotion: it protects us from real dangers. The problem arises when it appears disproportionately, in situations that objectively pose no threat, and starts to shape your decisions, your relationships or your peace of mind.
When fear stops being useful
There are very specific fears (of certain animals, of public speaking, of flying) and others that are more diffuse, related to the future, to losing control, or to something bad happening to someone close to you. In both cases, fear becomes a problem when its intensity or frequency doesn't match the real risk.
It can show up as avoidance (giving up doing things to avoid facing what you fear), as intense physical symptoms, or as a permanent state of alertness that becomes exhausting.
Why fear persists over time
One of the reasons a fear becomes chronic is precisely avoidance: by not facing what we fear, we never get the chance to prove to ourselves that we can handle it, and the fear is reinforced.
Past experiences related to the feared situation also play a role, as does the constant anticipation of negative scenarios, which keeps the body and mind on alert even when there's no present danger.
When might it be time to seek help?
- When you systematically avoid situations, places or decisions out of fear.
- If fear causes intense physical or emotional distress that's disproportionate to the real risk.
- When fear shapes important decisions in your personal or professional life.
- If you notice fear has grown over time instead of decreasing.
How we work on fear in therapy
- We identify together which specific fear is affecting you, how it shows up, and what you usually do to avoid or face it.
- We work progressively and by mutual agreement, respecting your pace, so you can gradually regain ground against avoidance.
- The goal is for fear to stop making decisions for you, so you gain the freedom and confidence to act in a way that's coherent with what you want.
Frequently asked questions about fear
What types of fear can be worked on in therapy?
Both specific fears (of particular situations, objects or events) and more general fears related to the future, control or uncertainty can be addressed. The first session helps assess your case.
Will I have to face what I fear from the very first session?
No. The work is approached progressively and always by mutual agreement with you, respecting your pace at every stage of the process.
Can fear be related to other difficulties, such as anxiety?
Yes, it's common for them to be connected. That's why the initial assessment takes your whole situation into account, not just the specific symptom.
Want to work on fear?
Write to me and let's talk, with no obligation, about your specific situation.