Agoraphobia is more than just a fear of open spaces – it involves intense anxiety about being in situations where escape might feel difficult or where help might not be available. This can lead to avoiding places like shopping centres, public transport, crowded areas, or even leaving home.
Agoraphobia often develops after panic attacks or high-anxiety experiences, leading a person to associate certain places with fear. Over time, avoidance can grow, making it harder to engage in daily activities. For some, the fear is so intense that they feel safest staying at home, which can significantly impact work, relationships, and overall well-being.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that recovering from agoraphobia requires a tailored, evidence-based approach. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
Signs and Symptoms of Agoraphobia:
Agoraphobia involves both psychological distress and physical symptoms of anxiety, especially in feared environments.
Common symptoms include:
- Fear of situations where escape might be difficult, such as public transport, crowded places, or large open spaces.
- Avoiding places out of fear that help won’t be available if anxiety occurs.
- Experiencing intense panic-like symptoms (e.g., rapid heartbeat, dizziness, trembling) when in feared situations.
- A strong need to have a “safe person” present when going outside.
- Feeling trapped or out of control when outside of a safe space (such as home).
- Significant distress or disruption to daily life due to avoidance behaviours.
While some people with agoraphobia experience panic attacks, others primarily feel a strong sense of discomfort, fear, or dread in certain places. Over time, avoidance can reinforce the fear, making it harder to break the cycle.
Treatment for Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is treatable, and therapy can help individuals regain confidence and independence.
- Exposure Therapy (Gradual Exposure): A structured, step by step approach helps individuals slowly face feared situations at their own pace, building confidence over time.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals challenge unhelpful thoughts about safety, develop new coping strategies and gradually reduce avoidance behaviours.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Strategies: Techniques such as grouding exercises, mindfulness and controlled breathing can help manage distress when encountering feared environments.
- Medication: In some cases, medications like SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications may be considered as part of a broader treatment plan, in consultation with a GP or psychiatrist.
- Panic Management Techniques: For those who experience panic attacks, learning how to regulate breathing, muscle tension, and catastrophic thinking can help reduce anxiety in triggering situations.
How we can support you
At VPC, we provide evidence-based treatment to help individuals with agoraphobia regain confidence and independence.
- We help clients work toward re-entering avoided places at their own pace.
- Our psychologists help reframe anxious thoughts and build coping skills.
- We teach practical skills for managing anxiety in real-world settings.
- Every person’s experience with agoraphobia is different, and therapy is tailored to their needs and goals.
If agoraphobia is impacting your ability to live the life you want, effective support is available.
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