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Agoraphobia, or an intense fear of open spaces, comes in many forms. It can be simply high and open spaces that trigger the phobic response, or the sufferer may fear a panic attack when travelling alone, often on public transport.

Agoraphobia is now easily resolved. One former phobic gleefully went shopping (alone) to celebrate after one just session. After her next (and final) session she travelled abroad to a place she had always wanted to visit, and was overcome with joy. Her world tour continues.

Twice as many women as men seek help for this condition, but this may possibly be due to men's reluctance to show weakness in this way, and their greater use of drugs and alcohol to mask the symptoms.

The symptoms are very similar to a panic attack, in that the sufferer feel a strong desire to maintain a normal outward composure, whilst experience a strong adrenal response - trembling legs, desire to escape and seek safety, dry mouth, sweating, quavering voice, urgent need to urinate or defecate, blurred or spotted vision, fear of fainting. Typically these will be much stronger than any other panic or anxiety the individual suffers elsewhere.

Common coping mechanisms include: cultivating an 'air of mystery' around public appearances, employing a close friend or relative as a 'travelling companion' or 'assistant', feigned illness and 'exhaustion' and other ploys. 

Many of our clients developed this phobia only after sudden fame or being put in the forefront of attention caused some anxiety and stress. There is some suggestion of a link between previous benzodiazepine usage (in tranquilisers and sleeping tablets) and the onset of agoraphobia, but this is as yet unproven.

Trigger situations can include bridges, queues, crowds, concerts, mass events, rallies and being alone away from home, for example in a hotel, on tour or location, or in a private resort.