Background  

Jane, a 61-year-old woman, came to our studio in Gateshead with a severe and debilitating phobia of spiders. Her reactions to even small spiders were extreme, including screaming and feeling uncomfortable in a room for days, even after the spider had been removed. The phobia impacted her daily life, as she constantly engaged in safety behaviours such as checking rooms before entering, keeping a hoover or cushion nearby to deal with potential spider sightings, and avoiding places where spiders had previously been seen. This fear was distressing, particularly because it affected her interactions with her family due to the anxiety she experienced several times per week.  

Initial Presentation 

When Jane arrived at our studio, she described feeling powerless over her reactions to spiders. Her anxiety had a significant impact on her home life, limiting her ability to feel comfortable in her own space. Even thinking about the possibility of encountering a spider would trigger intense anxiety. She felt embarrassed by her extreme responses and frustrated by how the phobia impacted her ability to remain calm in front of her family. 

Therapeutic Approach 

Given the deep-rooted nature of her phobia from past trauma’s, we adopted a combined approach using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), with elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and graded exposure-within our immersive environment. The therapy sessions took place in person at our Gateshead studio. EMDR helped Jane process and reframe the traumatic memories associated with spiders, while CBT elements challenged the irrational thoughts that perpetuated her fear. Graded exposure, beginning with images of small spiders and progressing to more realistic scenarios/scenes, allowed Jane to confront her fear gradually. 

Throughout her sessions, Jane practiced relaxation techniques and learned to challenge catastrophic thinking. She worked closely with her XRT therapist, breaking the cycle of avoidance and safety behaviours that had maintained her fear for years. 

Progress and Outcome 

Two months after completing the intervention, Jane reported significant improvements. She described being more comfortable around small spiders and less anxious when entering rooms where spiders had been spotted in the past. Although she had not encountered a large spider since treatment, she felt confident that the techniques she learned would help her manage her anxiety when that situation arises. 

Her family also noticed a positive change. Jane became more confident dealing with spiders in front of her family, reducing their anxiety also. The constant checking of rooms and reliance on items like hoovers and cushions had decreased, allowing her to feel more relaxed at home. 

Jane expressed satisfaction with the treatment, noting that while the initial stages were challenging, she felt supported throughout the process. Overall, she is now able to live more comfortably in her home and with her family, thanks to the therapy’s positive impact. 

*** when referring to our clients, we use the names Jane and John, these are not their real names, we do this to protect their identity and privacy.