About me
You're not being dramatic. You're not weird. And you're not alone.
Emetophobia, the fear of vomiting or seeing others be sick, is one of the most misunderstood and underestimated fears there is. But it is very treatable, and you don't have to keep living like this.
I'm Jacky, an NHS-trained CBT therapist with specialist emetophobia experience, and this is my primary focus. I work online with adults & teens across the UK, so wherever you are, you can access support.
If you find yourself constantly monitoring your body, avoiding foods, journeys, or social situations, always with an escape plan "just in case", you'll know how exhausting and isolating this fear can be. Many of my clients have spent years feeling too embarrassed to talk about it, or have been told it's "just anxiety" without anyone really understanding what they're going through.
That changes here.
Using a compassionate, structured approach combining ACT and CBT, including specialist emetophobia techniques informed by the work of Anna Christie, David Veale, and Ken Goodman, I'll help you understand how the fear works, gently face what you've been avoiding, and reconnect with the life emetophobia has been keeping you from.
How I work
I won't force you into exposure before you're ready, and we go at a pace that builds trust in your ability to cope, not just tolerance.
We'll begin by mapping out how emetophobia shows up in your life, thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and avoidance patterns, so you can see the cycle clearly.
From there, we'll use evidence-based techniques such as:
Step-by-step exposure designed specifically for emetophobia (always collaboratively planned)
ACT tools for defusion, mindfulness, and values-based action
CBT strategies to test predictions and build tolerance of uncertainty
Emotion-avoidance coaching, helping you stay present during anxiety surges rather than getting stuck in your head
Most clients describe this work as both gentle and empowering, less about forcing change and more about learning new ways to relate to fear. Sessions are online.
Common reasons people contact me
"I'm terrified of vomiting or seeing someone else be sick."
"My fear of germs, travel or food is controlling my life."
"I constantly check how I'm feeling and worry I'll be ill."
Things that are often keeping the problem going (key tip, it's not your fault!)
Monitoring your body constantly
Avoiding foods, places, travel, or other people
Using safety behaviours (checking, reassurance, looking for exits; leaving early)
Trying to guarantee you won't be sick
You're welcome to message me for an initial chat to see if this feels right.
I am a highly qualified therapist with extensive experience supporting adults with anxiety and phobias, including emetophobia. My approach draws on the work of leading specialists in this field, including Anna Christie, whose 11-week exposure programme for emetophobia I have studied in depth, alongside the research and clinical work of David Veale and Ken Goodman, author of The Emetophobia Manual.
I have worked in the NHS and now run a private practice, combining clinical expertise with a practical, compassionate approach. For further details and to book a FREE 15 minute Discovery call reach out to me on jackyadams.com
Training, qualifications & experience
I am a highly qualified therapist with extensive experience supporting children, teens, and adults with anxiety and phobias, including emetophobia. I completed specialist emetophobia training with Anna Christie, giving me in-depth knowledge of this fear and how to treat it effectively.
I hold:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Humanistic Therapeutic Counselling
- Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Teenagers
- Postgraduate Certificate in Special Needs (Behavioural Problems)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (English)
- BA (Hons)
I have worked in the NHS and now run a private practice, combining clinical expertise with a practical, compassionate approach. I also have experience as a high school teacher, supporting teens and children with autism, an experience that gives me unique insight into working with children, parents, and families.
I work collaboratively with parents in sessions when appropriate and have significant experience helping families navigate the challenges of emetophobia, ensuring therapy is supportive, structured, and practical.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The BABCP is the lead organisation for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in the UK. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the practice, theory or development of CBT. BABCP also provides accreditation for CBT therapists. BABCP accredited members adhere to the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics in the Practice of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies, and are willing to be scrutinised in this adherence as required.
Accredited register membership
The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£85.00 - £95.00
Additional information
Appointments 9-4pm £85; Appointments outside those times £95
You’re welcome to message me for an initial FREE 15-minute conversation to see how we might work together.
Contact details are 07896 953003
jackyadams04@yahoo.co.uk
When I work
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Further information
How Therapy Can Help
Together, we’ll look at how emetophobia has been shaping your life the thoughts, sensations, and avoidance habits that keep it going and then build a clear, personalised plan to change that pattern.
Our work might include:
- Step-by-step exposure therapy (designed specifically for emetophobia and always under your control)
- Building tolerance for uncertainty and bodily sensations
- Reconnecting with your values the people, activities, and goals that matter most to you
If you’re a parent supporting a child with emetophobia, I can also guide you through how to respond supportively while helping them regain confidence and independence. Parents can sometimes attend sessions with their child.
Sessions are available online and we’ll always go at a pace that feels manageable.
Is this the right time to start?
Many people wait until emetophobia has started to limit travel, food, or relationships before seeking help. You don’t have to wait for that point.
Contact me on jackyadams.com and book in your FREE 15-minute Discovery Call today.
