Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves exposing individuals to the feared object, situation, or activity in a safe and controlled manner. The exposure can be done in vivo (real-life situations) or through imaginal exposure (mental imagery). The goal is to provide repeated and prolonged exposure to the phobic stimulus, allowing the person to confront their fear and gradually reduce their anxiety response over time. Exposure therapy can be conducted individually or in group settings.

Systematic Desensitization: Systematic desensitization is a specific type of exposure therapy that involves creating a hierarchy of feared situations or stimuli. The individual starts with the least anxiety-provoking item on the hierarchy and gradually works their way up to more challenging ones. Through relaxation techniques and exposure to the feared stimuli, the person learns to associate relaxation with the phobic stimulus, reducing anxiety and fear.

Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of phobias. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be used to reduce anxiety and panic symptoms associated with phobias. Benzodiazepines may also be prescribed on a short-term basis to alleviate acute anxiety symptoms, although they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to their potential for dependence.