Top-Rated Irvine Phobia Therapist Dr. Adrianna Holness

Living with a phobia can feel heavy and lonely. You might find yourself avoiding elevators, canceling plans, or feeling trapped by fears that seem bigger than you. As a phobia therapist in Irvine, I want you to know you don’t have to carry this by yourself. 

At Worth and Wellness, I offer compassionate, evidence-based care designed to help you feel more grounded and free to step back into the life you deserve. Whether you’re seeking support for agoraphobia, social phobia, or another specific fear, our work together can create space for healing and confidence.

Meet your Irvine phobia therapist

Dr. Adrianna Holness

phobia therapist irvine

  • Treats phobias ✓

  • Credentials: Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY #31501)

  • Clientele: Adult women

  • Location: Irvine, CA 92612

  • Virtual therapy: Yes, across California

Common reasons why people seek phobia therapy

  • A fear of flying makes it hard to visit loved ones or pursue career opportunities.

  • Social anxiety gets in the way of dating, friendships, or showing up fully in your life.

  • Driving on freeways feels impossible, limiting your sense of independence and freedom.

  • Medical fears cause you to delay necessary healthcare or procedures you need.

  • A fear of dogs or other animals makes even simple walks around your neighborhood stressful.

  • Heights, enclosed spaces, or other specific triggers keep you from enjoying experiences you’d love to have.

  • Panic attacks or intense physical symptoms make even thinking about your phobia overwhelming.

  • Shame or embarrassment creeps in when you notice how much fear is shaping your choices.

How phobia therapy can help

Find relief in your body

Phobias don’t just live in your mind—they show up in your body, too. With approaches like EMDR and mindfulness, you’ll learn how to calm the racing heart, sweating, or panic that can feel so overwhelming, so your body can finally feel more at ease.

Build tools you can actually use

Together, we’ll explore evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFIT). These aren’t just “theories”—they become practical strategies you can lean on when fear shows up, helping you feel more confident and less controlled by anxiety.

Gently work through past experiences

Many phobias are connected to earlier experiences or trauma. In our work, we’ll honor your pace while using trauma-informed care, including EMDR, to address the roots of your fears. Healing at this level creates more lasting freedom than only focusing on surface symptoms.

Reclaim the parts of life you’ve been missing

As your phobia loosens its hold, new possibilities begin to open. Maybe that means traveling, pursuing your career, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply feeling safer in your daily routines. Therapy gives you space to step into the life you truly want—with more confidence and self-trust.

FAQs about phobia therapy

  • Every journey looks a little different. Some women notice shifts within the first few sessions, while deeper, lasting change often unfolds over several months of steady work together. We’ll go at a pace that feels safe for you, balancing gentle progress with meaningful growth.

  • I support women who are navigating fears such as social phobia, fear of flying, driving anxiety, medical phobias, or specific fears that interfere with everyday life. Together, we’ll work not only on reducing the symptoms but also on healing the deeper experiences that may be fueling those fears.

  • I draw on evidence-based methods like EMDR, CBT, EFIT, and Prolonged Exposure therapy, while always honoring your pace and your unique story. My approach is both gentle and effective—rooted in warmth, cultural awareness, and a belief that you already carry the strength to move through your fears.

  • We’ll begin by exploring how your phobia shows up in your life and what matters most to you. From there, we’ll build coping tools and slowly practice facing fears in a way that feels safe and supportive. Over time, you’ll notice more space opening up—for freedom, choice, and connection.

  • The women I work with are often ready to challenge the fears that have kept them feeling small or stuck. My practice might be a good fit if:

    • You want a therapist who understands the intersections of anxiety, trauma, and identity.

    • You value a warm, authentic connection over a one-size-fits-all approach.

    • You’re seeking evidence-based treatment grounded in compassion and cultural sensitivity.

    • You want to feel truly seen as you do the brave work of healing.

    If this resonates, you’ll find a safe space here to explore your fears without judgment and to build the life you deserve.

  • My practice specializes in supporting adult women and older teens (16+), but you’re not without options if your needs fall outside of that scope. For children and younger teens, I often recommend connecting with pediatric specialists or child-focused therapy practices in Orange County.

  • The first step is simple: book a free consultation call. This no-pressure conversation gives us a chance to talk through your concerns, answer your questions, and make sure you feel comfortable before beginning therapy.

Start working with an Irvine phobia therapist today