About phobias
A phobia is an intense, persistent fear of a specific object or situation (flying, animals, heights, blood…) that leads to avoidance. Gradual exposure therapy is highly effective and often requires a limited number of sessions.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in Uruguay
Public health system · Sistema Nacional Integrado de Salud (SNIS)
Under Ley 19.529 and Decreto 305/011, every SNIS provider (ASSE or the mutualistas) must offer psychological care in three modes: free group interventions for specific groups, psychotherapy with a set co-payment (for example for people aged 15 to 30, health workers, teachers and people after a suicide attempt), and longer treatment with a lower co-payment for severe conditions. Adults can receive up to 48 individual sessions a year depending on the mode. You can refer yourself or be referred by a health professional, and a reception committee decides the type of therapy. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP), Departamento de Habilitación y Control de Profesionales de la Salud. Ley 17.154 requires a licenciatura in psychology from an authorised university, or a revalidated foreign degree, and every psychologist must register their title with the MSP. Ask for the MSP registration; the digital registration certificate carries a QR code for verification.
- Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP). Health professionals, including medical specialists, must register their degree and postgraduate titles with the MSP to be authorised to practise in Uruguay.
Insurance and coverage
Psychotherapy is covered by SNIS providers for eligible groups, with a co-payment depending on the mode of care.
Urgent help in Uruguay
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: gub.uy, impo.com.uy, gub.uy
Signs to look out for
Fear is normal in dangerous situations. A phobia is an intense, persistent fear of something specific, such as flying, heights, animals, needles, blood or enclosed spaces, that is out of proportion to the real risk. It becomes a problem when you go out of your way to avoid it, feel panic when facing it, or when avoidance limits your work, travel, health care or relationships.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Specific phobias respond very well to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) with gradual exposure, in which you face the feared situation step by step with support. Exposure can be done in real life, through imagination or, in some cases, with virtual reality. Some phobias can improve with relatively short, intensive treatment. Psychologists and clinical psychologists usually lead this work.
When to seek urgent help
Phobias are rarely emergencies, but a fear of needles, doctors or hospitals should not stop you from getting necessary care; tell health staff so they can help. Contact your local emergency services if fear prevents you from seeking urgent treatment, or if intense panic comes with chest pain or symptoms you have not had before. Seek urgent help for any thoughts of self-harm.
What you can do in the meantime
Avoidance keeps fear alive, so small, planned steps towards what you fear can help, for example looking at pictures before approaching the real thing. Practise slow breathing to manage physical symptoms. Learn reliable facts about the real risk. Ask a supportive person to accompany you, and acknowledge each step forward. If fear is very intense, it is better to do this with a professional.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Uruguay cover psychological care?
Under Ley 19.529 and Decreto 305/011, every SNIS provider (ASSE or the mutualistas) must offer psychological care in three modes: free group interventions for specific groups, psychotherapy with a set co-payment (for example for people aged 15 to 30, health workers, teachers and people after a suicide attempt), and longer treatment with a lower co-payment for severe conditions. Adults can receive up to 48 individual sessions a year depending on the mode. You can refer yourself or be referred by a health professional, and a reception committee decides the type of therapy.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in Uruguay?
Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP), Departamento de Habilitación y Control de Profesionales de la Salud: Ley 17.154 requires a licenciatura in psychology from an authorised university, or a revalidated foreign degree, and every psychologist must register their title with the MSP. Ask for the MSP registration; the digital registration certificate carries a QR code for verification.