What can Comprehensive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Achieve in People with Spider Phobia? - A Case Series

Background and Objectives This study evaluated the effectiveness of an optimised and comprehensive cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) course for spider phobia using the most up-to-date, evidence-based techniques combined into a treatment programme. Methods Twelve individuals with spider phobia were recruited to receive a sequential CBT package delivered by trained psychiatrists. Questionnaire measures (Fear of Spiders Questionnaire (FSQ), Fear Survey Schedule-III (FSS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)) and brain imaging techniques were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the CBT course. Results Scores on the FSQ and the spider related item (80) on the FSS in phobics were significantly reduced following a course of this CBT treatment and were related to the ability to cope with spiders and touch them. The overall FSS and the BAI were unchanged. Limitations Limitations of the work included a small sample size, two of whom withdrew pre-treatment, and one after 4 sessions. The study was conducted with a wide age range of participants (16-44). Conclusions Our results indicate that the CBT treatment described is effective in addressing spider phobia specifically. CBT treatment did not eradicate all spider related fear, but coping was improved very significantly. This should be discussed with patients who choose CBT treatment for spider phobia to ensure they have reasonable expectations of what therapy can achieve.