What ages do you treat Emetophobia for at the Center for CBT? 

Kids, Teens, and Adults

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What is Emetophobia? 

Emetophobia is an intense fear of vomiting. This phobia can extend to the fear of seeing others vomit or even the anticipation of vomiting. It can significantly impact daily life, leading individuals to avoid various situations where they believe vomiting might occur. Symptoms can include:

• Severe Anxiety: Intense worry or panic at the thought or mention of vomiting.

• Avoidance Behavior: Steering clear of certain foods, situations, or places where vomiting might happen.

• Physical Reactions: Symptoms such as sweating, shaking, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat when faced with triggers.

• Obsessive Thoughts: Constant worry about vomiting, which can dominate one's thoughts and affect daily functioning.

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What is the Treatment for Emetophobia? 

The most effective treatment for Emetophobia is called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).  This is very important for folks with Emetophobia to know because this treatment is not used for any other phobias - only Emetophobia. While other phobias are best treated with CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Emetophobia does not respond to CBT and can actually get worse with traditional CBT.  

 

While Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is most often used to treat OCD, we know from a lot of experience and research that it is also the most effective treatment there is for Emetophobia.  This is why it's so important to go to an Emetophobia specialist as opposed to an anxiety specialist; Emetophobia requires specialized knowledge and care.  

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Our Emetophobia specialists have extensive experience utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to treat Emetophobia in all ages.  We have seen how debilitating Emetophobia can be and are honored to work alongside patients to successfully treat Emetophobia every day. If you or a loved one is suffering from Emetophobia, please know that it's VERY common (even though most people don't know about it) and with proper treatment, you WILL get better.