One of Dr. Millman’s interests is in the treatment of phobias, and of particular interest is the treatment of anxiety related to flying.  Dr. Millman is also a pilot; he holds a commercial pilot’s license with an instrument rating.

Treatment can be relatively simple for many people.  Often, providing some basic education (removing misconceptions), developing a relaxation strategy, and the use of ‘covert desensitization’ will alleviate anxiety sufficiently to allow someone to fly commercially, and manage the anxiety.  At times the use of medication as an adjunct is very helpful, when the patient understands what the medication can and can’t do, and how to utilize it appropriately.

There are situations where the use of ‘in vivo desensitization’ required as part of the treatment.  Though this is more commonly done in the treatment of driving anxiety, it can also be done with flying.