Amy & Andy CBT

Question 1

CBT

Answer 1

Specific phobia treatment often involves cognitive behaviour therapy. Usually involves 8-10 sessions with a psychologist which aims to correct dysfunctional thoughts and/or behaviours that contribute to phobia. It involves two components, a cognitive component and a behavioural component.

Question 2

Cognitive component

Answer 2

Correcting dysfunctional thoughts such as “Buttons are dangerous” or “I can’t go anywhere where there are horrible buttons”. It involves becoming aware of these thoughts as they can be occurring automatically. These thoughts perpetuate the experience of phobia.

Question 3

Behavioural component

Answer 3

Using discussions, questionnaires, etc to identify behaviours that contribute to phobia. This includes avoidance and restricting avoidance which can be achieved through systemic desensitisation.

Question 4

Bodily sensations and CBT

Answer 4

The sight of the phobic stimulus triggers a fight flight freeze response but CBT aims to prevent this response from occurring.