Get weekly notifications for new group therapy session times.
Are you interested in joining an online group therapy session? Subscribe and receive weekly updates for new group therapy session times at Grouport.
Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
Learn moreThe ocean, vast and mysterious, has always captivated the human imagination. Its boundless beauty, teeming with marine life and endless horizons, has inspired explorers, scientists, and dreamers alike. However, for some, the very sight of the ocean can bring a sense of unease. Thalassophobia, or the fear of the ocean, is a deeply unsettling condition that affects many people, causing them to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even terrified when faced with the vastness of the sea.
Thalassophobia is the intense fear of large bodies of water, especially the open ocean. This fear can stem from the fear of drowning, being lost at sea, or encountering creatures that lurk beneath the surface. The ocean's depth and the unknown world beneath it can swim around in a person's mind, escalating their anxieties and making them feel powerless.
For many with thalassophobia, just the thought of being in deep water can bring on a panic attack. Whether they are standing on a beach and gazing at the endless expanse of water or imagining themselves swimming far from shore, the fear can be overwhelming. This fear doesn't necessarily come from an immediate danger but from the sheer unknown of what might be hidden beneath the surface.
The origins of thalassophobia are varied, and its causes are deeply personal. For some, it may stem from a traumatic experience such as near-drowning, while others may have inherited a fear of water from family members. For many, it's not the water itself but what lies beneath it that causes them to feel fear. The deep, dark waters of the ocean are a vast unknown, and for some, that sense of mystery can be downright terrifying.
Additionally, media and pop culture often perpetuate fear of the ocean. Movies like Jaws or The Meg have popularized the idea of monstrous sea creatures lurking in the deep. These portrayals, though fictional, can trigger anxiety in individuals, causing them to be scared of swimming in the ocean or even approaching large bodies of water.
For those who suffer from thalassophobia, the fear can be all-consuming, limiting their ability to enjoy activities like swimming, surfing, or simply visiting a beach. The anxiety of being near the ocean can scare some people away from coastal vacations or even prevent them from engaging in certain water sports. This fear can affect mental health, leading to avoidance behaviors and sometimes even social isolation, particularly if the fear is severe.
While thalassophobia can be a debilitating fear, it is treatable. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been shown to help individuals manage their anxiety by addressing negative thought patterns and gradually exposing them to their fear in a controlled manner. Exposure therapy, which involves gradually increasing one's exposure to the feared object or situation, can help reduce the intensity of the fear over time.
For those who want to face their fear, taking small steps can be key. Start with activities that involve smaller bodies of water, such as swimming in a pool or walking along a lake. Gradually, exposure to the ocean or even taking swimming lessons in the ocean can help a person become more comfortable. For some, simply learning more about the ocean and its ecosystems can demystify it and reduce the fear.
Thalassophobia, like all fears, is a deeply personal experience. For some, the idea of swimming in the vast expanse of the ocean can scare them more than they care to admit. However, with the right support and strategies, it is possible to confront and manage this fear. The ocean, while intimidating to some, remains a beautiful and awe-inspiring part of our world, one that, with time, may no longer swim around in your mind as a terrifying presence but instead become a source of wonder and fascination.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, intensive outpatient program, teen therapy, and a DBT-Self Guided Program. All our sessions are therapist-led, held virtually, and meet over video chat at the same time each week. All our sessions are therapist-led and are held virtually and meet over video chat at the same time each week. For group therapy, we have groups on many topics including Dialectical Behavior Therapy "DBT", Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Anger Management, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Narcissistic Abuse, Self-Compassion, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Substance Abuse, Supporting A Loved one with BPD, among others. Each group is led by a licensed therapist that typically has over a decade of experience treating a wide range of specialties, and the group meets at the same time each week for an hour with the same members and therapist.
As reported by our members, 70% experienced significant progress within 8 weeks, including reduced anxiety & depression symptoms.
Our care coordinators can help assist you to craft the perfect treatment plan for you that's tailored to your needs. We provide speedy matches to quality care, and also provide the flexibility to switch your therapist or group at anytime ensuring that you're always meeting with the right therapist fit at a time that's convenient for your schedule. Whatever type of therapy you’re seeking, Grouport offers a range of options to suit your schedule and preferences. Explore our programs to find the support you need. If you need help finding the right type of therapy, schedule a free call with a care coordinator here.
We offer online group therapy, & each group has a personalized program of guidance, support, skills, and advice developed by our therapists.
Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.