(((Monty))) I too feel sorry that you were hurt. A phobia is defined as an "IRRATIONAL fear", that's how I explain mine to people to TRY to get them to understand. I know that it does not make sense but I cannot help the anxiety and panic that mine causes. No one should feel like they are belittled for something they have no control over (and are probably embarrassed about already, as I am). BYW, has anyone ever done any therapy to get over a phobia, like exposure? My therapist wants to use emdr for that too, but we have other things to work on now. HUGS and Take Care!