Exposure Therapy
If You’re Afraid of Dogs There is Hope
Exposure therapy is an evidence based intervention and the best approach to help people face their fear of dogs. By using this technique, the fear gradually diminishes as we increase the exposure to well behaved and dependable dogs. We practice mindfulness, affirmations and breathing techniques to manage the “fight or flight” response which is a result of the phobia. I also educate people on dog behavior and body language, because we’re afraid of things we don’t understand.
Exposure therapy involves using a hierarchy of exercises with a real dog to provide safe, supervised and positive experiences. The exercises go from just being near a dog to eventually petting and walking a well behaved and friendly dog.
Clients learn to feel safe and in control around dogs. The goal is to gradually build confidence around dogs so that people can live their life without always worrying about whether they will encounter a dog.
If left untreated, cynophobia can turn into a significant source of anxiety, family stress and social/emotional issues. Many children do not outgrow this fear. Parents have contacted me because they do not want to pass their fear of dogs down to their children.
I am assisted by well behaved and dependable dogs with their handlers. Many of whom are therapy dog teams.
