Take back control of your health

White Coat Syndrome

Fear of needles (trypanophobia), fear of blood (hemophobia), fear of doctors (iatrophobia), and fear of medical procedures (tomophobia) are common phobias that can prevent you from seeking essential medical care. Avoiding these appointments can lead to worsening health conditions or complications. This is especially important as we approach flu season when getting a vaccine can mean the difference between mild and severe illness.

At ActiveMind Counseling in Chicago, we specialize in effective, science-based treatments for phobias that help you overcome these fears and regain control. Many clients experience significant improvement within just 4 to 6 weeks. If you have an upcoming medical procedure or test, we offer intensive treatment plans tailored to your needs. Don’t let fear stop you—schedule your first session with us today and take the first step toward better health.

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How Severe Is My Phobia?

Answer questions below to see the severity of your phobia.

Specific Phobia Assessment

Severity Measure for Specific Phobia—Adult

Please select the situation that makes you most anxious:

Phobia Treatments Available from ActiveMind Counseling

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    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for phobias is an effective treatment that focuses on breaking the cycle of fear through structured and practical approaches. In CBT, clients learn to identify the irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to their phobias. By gradually exposing themselves to the feared object or situation in a controlled and safe environment, they can challenge and modify these negative thought patterns. This process not only helps individuals gain a more realistic perspective of their fears but also equips them with coping strategies to manage anxiety. The emphasis on active participation and skill-building empowers clients to face their phobias with increased confidence, ultimately leading to greater emotional resilience and improved quality of life.

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    Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a unique and effective framework for treating phobias by promoting acceptance of fear-based thoughts and feelings rather than striving to eliminate them. In ACT, clients learn to observe their fears without letting them dictate their behavior. By cultivating mindfulness, individuals can create space between themselves and their phobias, reducing the power these fears hold over them. The therapy emphasizes understanding personal values and encourages clients to take constructive actions that align with those values, even when fear is present. This approach enables individuals to face their phobias with a sense of courage and commitment, leading to greater psychological flexibility and a more satisfying life.

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    Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

    Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a therapeutic approach specifically designed to help individuals confront and manage their phobias. This method involves gradually and systematically exposing you to the feared object or situation in a safe and controlled environment, allowing you to build resilience and reduce anxiety over time. By learning to tolerate the feelings of fear without resorting to avoidance behaviors, you can reclaim control over your life and diminish the impact of your phobia. Our skilled therapists at ActiveMind Counseling are here to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a supportive experience as you work towards lasting change.

meet your therapist

Brian Pelletier, LCPC, NCC

“Hi I’m Brian. And just like you, I had a fear of needles. Usually, I could get through vaccinations, but blood draws, were a completely different story.

I would often faint either in the middle of the procedure or immediately afterward. It was scary and embarrassing. After learning some therapeutic techniques, I was able to face these important medical procedures successfully. I’ve helped many people conquer their fear and can help you, too.”

BRIAN PELLETIER, LCPC with a big smile in a suit standing in front of a colorful neon light display.
Schedule An Appointment

Questions? Contact us

Example Treatment Plan for Phobias

Approach: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure Therapy (ERP)
Duration: 11 Sessions (2x Week - 6 Weeks)

Session 1: Assessment & Psychoeducation

Goals:
- Learn about phobias and how we develop them.
- Learn about anxiety and the brain.
- Learn about the treatment process.

Session 2: Hierarchy Creation & Values

Goals:
 – Build an exposure hierarchy
- Identify values to guide you through exposures

Session 3: Imaginal Exposures

Session 4: Imaginal Exposures

Session 5: Intro to Scripting

Session 6: Continued Scripting

Session 7: Interoceptive Exposures

Session 8: Interoceptive Exposures

Session 7: In-Vivo Exposures

Session 8: In-Vivo Exposures

Session 9: Consolidation

Session 10: Relapse Prevention

Session 11: Termination

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Example Treatment Plan Cost Estimate*:

Private Pay Rate:
$150/Individual session (sliding scale available)

11 sessions x 150 = $1650
Private Pay Package Price (Paid In Advance) $1150

*Note: This example is provided for informational purposes. Each treatment plan is customized to your unique needs. Treatment time and session content may vary. Cost will vary depending on insurance coverage and client needs. We will make reasonable effort to notify you if anticipated costs will be more than the estimated cost.

If you have insurance, we will be happy to run a benefits check to help you estimate costs so that we can limit surprises.

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