Exposure Therapy
Freedom from
the fear of dogs
is possible
"Healing happens best in the real world — at a pace that feels safe, with support at every step."Schedule a Consult
Evidence-based exposure therapy for cynophobia — conducted in person, in the environments that matter most to you.
Service Areas
Understanding Cynophobia
Fear of dogs is real —
and treatable
Cynophobia, the intense fear of dogs, is more common than many people realize and can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it began in childhood or developed after a frightening experience, this fear can significantly limit daily life — from avoiding parks and friends' homes to feeling anxious simply hearing a dog bark nearby.
The fear may feel irrational, but the emotional and physical response is very real. Sometimes even seeing a dog in the distance, hearing a bark, or recalling a past encounter can trigger intense anxiety. You don't have to keep living around it.
We offer evidence-based treatment for adults and youth, working with you at your pace in the environments where fear actually shows up — including your own home when applicable.
Who This Affects
You may be more vulnerable if you have
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Anxiety, depression, or panic attacks
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OCD or other phobias
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A history of trauma or PTSD
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Sensory or intellectual differences, including those associated with autism
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A family history of phobias or anxiety
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A frightening past encounter with a dog — even if there was no physical harm
"Fear of dogs can develop at any age — and regardless of when or how it started, effective treatment is available for both adults and young people."
Why In-Person Matters
Most effective
when done in the real world
Exposure therapy works best when it happens in the actual environments where fear shows up — not just in an office. That's why we offer in-home sessions when appropriate, bringing the therapeutic process into your everyday surroundings.
Sessions may take place in our office with certified therapy dogs, in controlled public settings, or in your home — whichever combination creates the most meaningful and lasting results for you.
We currently serve the following counties for in-person and home-based sessions:
New York
Rockland County
New York
Orange County
New York
Westchester County
Connecticut
Fairfield County
Our Approach
How we help you overcome cynophobia
Thorough Assessment First
Before any exposure work begins, we complete a comprehensive assessment of your history, current triggers, and goals — ensuring the process is safe and fully tailored to you.
In Vivo Exposure (ERP)
We use real-world, in-the-moment exposure paired with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to gradually retrain your brain's response to dogs — structured, safe, and always at your pace.
Flexible Settings
Sessions take place wherever makes the most sense — our office with certified therapy dogs, controlled public environments, or your home when beneficial and appropriate.
Lasting Confidence
The goal isn't just to get through a session — it's to reduce anxiety and build genuine, lasting confidence so you can move through everyday life with more ease.
Insurance & Fees
Insurance accepted for exposure therapy services
Exposure therapy for cynophobia is a covered service under many insurance plans. Visit our Fees page for details on accepted plans, rates, and what to expect at your first visit.
Getting Started
Your path forward
Schedule a Consult
Book a free consultation to talk through your experience with dogs, your triggers, and what you're hoping to achieve through treatment.
Clinical Assessment
A thorough intake to understand your history, the nature of your fear, and any co-occurring factors — so your treatment plan is precise and appropriate.
Structured Exposure Sessions
Gradual, supported exposure in the settings that matter most — office, community, or home — always at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Build & Maintain Confidence
Ongoing support to consolidate your progress, handle setbacks, and develop lasting strategies for navigating the world with more freedom and ease.
Ready to Take the First Step?
You don't have to keep
living around this fear
Effective, compassionate treatment is available for adults and youth across Rockland, Orange, and Westchester Counties in NY and Fairfield County, CT.