So I went to a PhD today

[enitsirhc]

and basically she knew nothing!  This is the reason I have never went to one.  I explained my life story and all she did was so wow that can definately cause anxiety.  I have been through a lot with surgeries since i'm a child and thank God i'm ok now!  I'm trying to figure out why I am getting this anxiety and panic attacks.  She honestly had no answer and told me it seems that I want to help the symptoms.  (Well duh!)  She recommended something called FREEDOM FROM FEAR.  I am trying to find cognitive behavioral therapy in my area can someone explain exactly what it is?  Is it a group?  I need some info please!  I am also reading a book Power Over Panic it is very good!  

[ILADVOCATE]

Yes I like that mindset. The way I approach things is somewhat similar. I did put that in a journal entry on "partnering on recovery". On my end I do bring new information to providers that can be helpful to them but I have to respect their judgment. But what you are describe does indeed require some change on your behalf. But not just in life outlook as whoever told you that put it too simplistically. There are many forms of behavioral therapy. It depends which one would be appropriate. I'd rather someone who has been through it describe more. In cbt you have to be a willing participant to make overall modificiations in your thinking. Its different from talk therapy but in addition to medication and talk therapy can be very helpful on anxiety disorder. Aabt.org should have a listing of behavioral therapists in your area.

[MrGreen]

It is a one on one session with a therapist. Simple really. Change your thoughts to change the way you feel. That is about it in a nutshell. It takes a bit of time and a lot of practice. You explore why you fear what it is you fear. Then try and put some logic thinking into it. Like someone with health phobia. The odds on them catching something new every day. They would really fear it. Logic would tell them it would be rare. So the therapist tries to slowly get you to change the way you think about things. Turn your negative thoughts into positive thoughts. Works for some people. Others don't really care much for it. Maybe because it sounds so simple. Good luck with finding the help. Keep us posted.