Overcoming the Fear of Snakes: A Clinical Case Report of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Ophidiophobia

Abstract

The aim of this case report was to assess and treat severe ophidiophobia (specific phobia, animal type) in a 31-year-old male using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and to assess the changes in fear, avoidance and anxiety symptoms post intervention. Ophidiophobia is one of the most common animal-type specific phobias, characterised by intense fear and avoidance of snakes. It frequently results in substantial psychological suffering and impairment in work and daily life. A qualitative single case design was utilised. The client was tested using Clinical Interview, Mental Status Examination, Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Fear Survey Schedule-II (FSS-II), Snake Phobia Questionnaire (SPQ) and Behavioural Avoidance Test (BAT). A comprehensive ten session CBT treatment was implemented including psychoeducation, relaxation training, cognitive restructuring, imaginal exposure, in-vivo exposure and relapse prevention. Assessment revealed acute anxiety, significant avoidance and high snake-related phobia. There were large reductions in anxiety symptoms, catastrophic beliefs and avoidance strategies after therapy. Functional improvement at occupational activities was also seen. Early detection and treatment of certain phobias is suggested. Future research should evaluate the long-term efficacy of CBT with bigger clinical samples and follow-up evaluations.