Beyond exposure therapy: formulation-based therapy treating a fear of urinary incontinence – a case study

Abstract

Abstract Background: The current literature on the specific phobia of urinary incontinence is limited, with no specific empirically established model or treatment protocol. Aims: This article consists of a case study of formulation-driven cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for phobia of urinary incontinence. Method: Martin attended a total of 12 treatment sessions. The treatment included the development of an idiosyncratic formulation, and the use of well-established cognitive and behavioural treatment strategies from other anxiety disorders. Results: Both outcome measures and Martin’s subjective report indicate that the treatment was effective. Conclusion: This case study contributes to the current limited literature on this phobia, and emphasises the importance of formulation-driven CBT to map for idiosyncratic features and target cognitive and behavioural factors.