How can I help her overcome this phobia?

To put things into perspective, she isn't just a little afraid of spiders, oh no. It's so bad she won't open the windows in the house for fear of a spider crawling in. I've tried to explain to her that upstairs windows aren't exactly a spider's first choice for gaining access to our house, but she still won't listen. Plus, it's getting quite hot in this bedroom. :/

Whenever she sees spiders, she runs away screaming hysterically. It's quite embarrassing, but I try to be sympathetic. After all, I do love her ... but I'm starting to get a little worried as these "totally freaking out at a tiny spider" episodes are happening a little too often. The phobia seems to be taking over, and I don't want that to happen.

So, do you have any advice?

Also, please share your spider experiences, and tell us whether you love them or hate them and why. Thanks.