Agoraphobia is a type of phobia in which an individual feels an overwhelming, intense sense of fear, which causes them to avoid certain places or situations. This condition can cause people to become housebound, unable to do everyday activities, such as driving a car or grocery shopping. In most cases, agoraphobia is best treated with a specific type of short-term psychotherapy called cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy involves helping people gradually become more comfortable with situations that frighten them.