Fear of flying courses are taught online and in person by a wide variety of instructors. While some aerophobia sufferers can overcome the fear on their own, others find that the phobia is much more deeply rooted. Fear of flying courses, like all group therapy seminars, are a possible alternative to traditional therapy for those whose aerophobia is uncomplicated by other disorders.
Where Can I Find a Fear of Flying Course?
Because the fear of flying is so common, courses are taught in multiple venues. Many major airports offer evening or weekend sessions. University counseling centers and community mental health centers are also likely venues. In smaller towns, check with the local senior center or recreation complex. Your family doctor or mental health professional may have additional suggestions. Courses are also taught online, but be careful to check credentials and legitimacy before signing up. Remember that it is often easier to get away with a scam online than in person.
Who Teaches Fear of Flying Courses?
Fear of flying courses may be taught by pilots, counselors, psychologists, flight attendants or even former aerophobia sufferers. Many people find that the best courses are taught by a team. Pilots and flight attendants have the technical knowledge about planes and flying, while mental health professionals understand the principles of psychology. Working together, they can help you develop a workable plan of action for conquering your fear.
What Techniques do Fear of Flying Courses Use?
Most fear of flying courses use a combination of cognitive and behavioral techniques. You may learn breathing and visualization exercises to use before the flight and while on the plane. You may be taught ways of replacing your fearful thoughts about flying with healthier alternatives. You might be gradually introduced to the idea of flying with a series of baby steps that begin with spending time in the airport and ends with actually sitting on a plane.
Instead of physically visiting the airport and boarding a plane, some classes use virtual reality technology. Although still relatively rare, these classes allow you to experience flying in all sorts of weather and emergency conditions. You will wear a headset and work your way slowly through a series of virtual reality experiences.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Fear of Flying Course?
There is never a guarantee that a particular treatment method will work for a specific phobia sufferer. However, those who do best in fear of flying courses tend to fall into a certain pattern. They are basically psychologically healthy with no other mental health disorders. They are self-motivated and interested in conquering their fear. They are more interested in solving the problem than exploring its roots, and they are willing to commit to the program.
If you have any doubts or concerns, or feel that your phobia may be more complicated, then it is best to consult individually with a mental health professional.
Sources:
"Airports address fear of flying." USA Today. July 28, 2008. Retrieved September 17, 2010 from http://www.usatoday.com/travel/columnist/baskas/2008-07-08-fear-of-flying-classes_N.htm
Virtual Reality Medical Center: Fear of Flying Information. Retrieved September 17, 2010 from http://www.vrphobia.com/flying.htm
