This week I’d like to welcome onto the blog Christopher Paul Jones who is a leading Harley Street phobia expert. Christopher has conducted many years of research into fears, anxiety and phobias and has developed an integrated approach to help combat fears by combining mainstream psychology with cutting edge techniques. He has also just published a book too: “Face Your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety “. Without any further ado, let’s chat to Christopher! Hi Christopher and welcome 👋

Hi 👋 I’m Christopher Paul Jones, a Harley Street phobia specialist based in London, near Richmond. I help people overcome fears and anxieties so they can live life with confidence and freedom.

Who or what inspired you to become a phobia expert?

It all started by chance. In my old job, I was working with someone who demonstrated rapid-change techniques, and it completely blew my mind. Back then, I thought therapy meant spending 20 years talking about your childhood. I had no idea you could make fast, lasting changes. I had my own fears at the time, so I started learning these techniques to help myself. Then I began helping others as a hobby—and before long, it turned into my full-time career.

Were there any aspects of writing your book or researching the Integrated Change System™ that surprised you?

Definitely. When I first learned these techniques over 20 years ago, they were considered quite alternative. What surprised me was how much has changed – today, neuroscience backs up many of these approaches.
Another big surprise was how something small, like a single comment or metaphor, can completely change someone’s life. Some sections of the book I nearly cut ended up being the ones people tell me made the biggest difference.

Can you explain a little bit about the Integrated Change System™ and its aims?

After years of working with clients, I realised there were seven key areas that needed to be addressed to overcome any fear. One technique alone rarely works for everyone, so I developed a system that covers all the bases. Here’s an overview of the seven steps:
1. Recognise – Identify what the fear really is and what triggers it.
2. Relax – Calm the mind and nervous system to stop fear spirals.
3. Reward – Understand the hidden benefit the fear gives you.
4. Recipe – Break down the fear pattern—fear is learned, so it can be unlearned.
5. Release – Let go of past events that feed the fear.
6. Recondition – Install new, positive responses in place of fear.
7. Realise – Visualise a future without fear and make it feel real.

The goal is to give people a practical way to overcome fear and take back control of their lives.

Have you always wanted a career in psychology or did you have other aspirations?

Not at all! Originally, I trained in media—I was a cameraman and editor. I discovered these techniques while filming courses. I started swapping skills, filming in exchange for learning, and at first I just wanted to improve my own life. Then I saw how powerful this work was and knew I wanted to help others too.

Have you experienced any phobias yourself?

Absolutely—I’ve been there myself. Growing up, I had several phobias: flying, public speaking, insects like spiders and wasps, and a lot of social anxiety. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping others—I know exactly how it feels.

What are the most common and unusual phobias you’ve encountered?

Some fears are incredibly common: public speaking, flying, spiders, snakes, dogs, weather-related fears like thunder and lightning, and medical phobias such as needles or choking.
But I’ve also seen some unusual ones. One client had a fear of Christmas tinsel. It turned out she’d been wrapped in tinsel as a child and choked during a game, so her brain linked tinsel with danger. Once we reconditioned that memory, the phobia disappeared.

Is Face Your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety available worldwide?

Yes, it’s available worldwide. A friend in Australia recently found a copy, so you can definitely find it on Amazon and in most major bookstores.

What outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Before I met my wife, I dressed very casually. These days, I lean towards smart-casual. For shoes, I like Ted Baker and Skechers trainers for comfort. Outfit-wise, GANT and Tommy Hilfiger are my go-tos.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

I shop at GANT, Ted Baker and Next, and I like Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren for classics. Marks & Spencer is great for good-quality basics.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

After attending Henley Regatta, I realised I only have very casual or very formal shoes. Next on my list is a pair of comfortable loafers that work for both. I’d also like a good summer jacket.

Boots or shoes?

Shoes, because they’re much more comfortable. Boots feel a bit restrictive, even though they’re great for winter.

Links you would like to share:

You can find my book Face Your Fears on Amazon and other major bookstores. For resources, free tools, and more information, visit www.christopherpauljones.com

All photographs have been published with kind permission of Christopher Paul Jones.

Social media/top photo is of Luton Airport UK by Linda Hobden