CBT for Anxiety and Panic

Panic attacks, health anxiety, agoraphobia and phobias are among the most common problems I see, along with the kind of excessive worry that just won’t switch off.

Feeling anxious is a normal part of being human. It becomes a problem when it starts to decide what you do, where you go and how much of life you feel able to take part in.

How does CBT help with anxiety?

CBT is a talking therapy based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings and behaviour all affect one another. With anxiety, that often means a frightening thought, the physical feelings that come with it, and then whatever we do to feel safe again, such as avoiding, checking or asking for reassurance.

Avoidance brings short-term relief, but it keeps the anxiety alive. In CBT we often do the opposite of what the anxiety is telling us. We do this gradually, at a pace we agree together, and often find that it is far more manageable than we feared.

CBT is one of the most extensively researched talking therapies and is recommended by NICE as a first-line treatment for anxiety, panic, OCD and depression. Many people notice some benefit within a few sessions, though how quickly things change depends on the individual and what they’re working on.

What happens in CBT sessions?

CBT is practical and collaborative. We work together to understand what is keeping your anxiety going, set clear goals, and try out new ways of thinking and responding. The aim is to give you a ‘toolbox’ of strategies you can use throughout life to help you manage in the future without a therapist.

To read more about CBT and how it can help, head to What Is CBT and How Can It Help?