Time Intensive CBT for a Specific Phobia of Vomiting

The aims of this project are to determine the effectiveness of a time intensive form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Specific Phobia of Vomiting (SPOV). Current research shows that this brief format can be effective in other specific phobias e.g. insects and animals. However, to date limited research has been conducted on the effectiveness of time intensive forms of CBT for SPOV. A single case experimental design will be used to analyse specific and idiosyncratic outcome measures in 6-8 cases of SPOV, referred to the Centre for Anxiety Disorders and Trauma (CADAT) for treatment. Specifically, the project will explore the effectiveness of CBT delivered in a time-intensive format and imagery rescripting elements of the treatment. This initial study will provide important information about which elements of CBT are most effective at reducing targeted symptoms and whether symptom reduction can be achieved in a shorter number of sessions. It represents a crucial step before this format of CBT can be more rigorously evaluated and compared to other treatment approaches by Randomised Controlled Trial.