Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Phobias in teenagers involve intense, irrational fears that disrupt daily life and lead to avoidance of certain situations or objects. These fears can be triggered by animals, medical procedures, social situations, or specific environments. While it’s common for teens to experience some anxiety, a phobia goes beyond typical nervousness—it causes overwhelming distress and physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, or a racing heart. Without treatment for adolescent phobias, these fears can impact a teen’s emotional well-being, academic performance, and social life. Seeking professional support can help adolescents regain confidence and reduce avoidance behaviours. Learn more about treatment options for phobias and how professional support can help teens regain confidence and reduce avoidance behaviours.
Teenagers can develop phobias related to a variety of situations, including:
Fear of social situations, such as speaking in class, meeting new people, or attending social gatherings
Fear of needles, blood tests, or injections, which can cause avoidance of medical care
Fear of dental procedures, leading to difficulty receiving necessary treatment
Fear of spiders.
Fear of snakes.
Fear of dogs
Fear of heights, which may cause avoidance of escalators, balconies, or high places.
Fear of confined spaces, such as elevators or crowded rooms.
Fear of flying, which may prevent travel.
Fear of thunderstorms and lightning.
Fear of vomiting, which can lead to avoidance of certain foods or social situations.
While some fears are a normal part of growing up, phobias are persistent, excessive, and often irrational. Unlike mild anxiety, which can be overcome with reassurance, phobias cause extreme distress and lead to avoidance of important activities, such as attending school, socialising, or participating in hobbies.
Research shows that common phobias in adolescents include social phobia, trypanophobia, acrophobia, and claustrophobia. If left unchecked, these fears can limit a teenager’s independence and social development. However, treatment for adolescent phobias can help them gain control over their fears and reduce their anxiety over time.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most effective approach for treatment of adolescent phobias, helping teens identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. Exposure therapy, a key part of CBT, gradually introduces teens to feared situations in a safe and controlled way, allowing them to build confidence step by step. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindfulness, can also help manage anxiety in stressful moments.
If a phobia significantly impacts a teenager’s daily life—such as avoiding school, social activities, or important appointments—seeking treatment for adolescent phobias is essential. Without intervention, phobias can lead to increased anxiety, isolation, and long-term avoidance behaviours. Early support helps teens develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and regain confidence.
Please also read our webpage about phobias in adults, as much of the information is relevant to adolescents.
Our psychologists are highly qualified, holding Master’s or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We provide treatment for child and adolescent phobias using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT for Children), all of which are evidence-based approaches to help young people manage and overcome their fears. We also offer treatment for adult phobias—click here to learn more about our approach.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Saturday (Reception only) 7am to 3pm
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