In this episode, Helen is joined by Becky and Romanah to talk about specific phobias and how CBT can help.

Becky shares her personal experience of living with a phobia of medical situations, also known as blood-injury phobia, what it took for her to seek help, and what the journey through therapy was really like, including the tough moments alongside the breakthroughs. Romanah was Becky's CBT therapist in an NHS Talking Therapies service and explains how CBT approaches specific phobias, the importance of working collaboratively, and how exposure work helps people gradually build confidence in situations they have long been avoiding.

Becky reflects honestly on how hard the process was, how the anxiety got worse before it got better, and what it meant to build trust with a therapist who was both supportive and willing to give her a gentle push. Both guests share advice for anyone who recognises themselves in the discussion and is thinking about reaching out for help.

Resources & Support:

If you or someone you know needs urgent help, reach out to Samaritans at 116 123 (UK) or visit samaritans.org.

Find out more about NHS Talking Therapies services and where to find help here

We have more information on how you can find help and support on our Mental health support services page here

Find more information about CBT on the BABCP website

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Credits: Music is Autumn Coffee by Bosnow from Uppbeat Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/autumn-coffee License code: 3F32NRBYH67P5MIF

This episode was produced by Steph Curnow