Break Free from Anxiety and Panic
Anxiety disorders affect over 8 million people in the UK each year. Panic attacks, in particular, can be terrifying—seemingly striking out of nowhere, leaving individuals feeling powerless, breathless, and overwhelmed.
But here’s the truth: anxiety and panic are highly treatable conditions. With the right approach, you can reclaim your life, regain control, and step away from the constant fear of when the next attack might strike.
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we specialise in helping people overcome anxiety and panic using a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Counselling, and Psychotherapy.
Our therapists bring decades of experience, working with individuals just like you to break free from the grip of anxiety.
Understanding the Anxiety and Panic Response
Anxiety is a natural response to perceived danger. It’s the body’s way of preparing to fight, flee, or freeze in the face of a threat. However, when this response becomes overactive and disproportionate, it can result in excessive worry, intrusive thoughts, and panic attacks.
These episodes often include symptoms such as racing heart, dizziness, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and an overwhelming sense of doom.
Theoretical models of anxiety, particularly those outlined by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), explain how negative thought patterns fuel anxiety cycles.
For example, a single panic attack may lead to fear of having another, which then increases hypervigilance and, ironically, triggers further episodes. This self-perpetuating loop can make anxiety feel impossible to escape.
Research-backed interventions, such as exposure therapy, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques, can significantly reduce symptoms.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), CBT is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders and panic attacks.
However, therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all—which is why our practice offers a more integrative approach, tailoring treatment to each person’s unique experience.
How Therapy Helps in Overcoming Anxiety and Panic
Many people struggling with anxiety feel like they’re constantly on edge. Others avoid situations they fear might trigger an attack. Therapy provides the space, tools, and strategies needed to break free from this cycle.
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we work collaboratively with clients to:
- Identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to anxiety.
- Develop practical coping strategies to manage symptoms.
- Process past experiences that may be fuelling current distress.
- Build emotional resilience, so anxiety no longer controls daily life.
Our approach blends several therapeutic modalities to ensure the best possible outcome.
Which Therapies Work Best for Anxiety and Panic?
Different therapies target anxiety from different angles. A combination of these approaches often leads to the most effective results.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard for treating anxiety and panic. This structured approach helps clients:
- Recognise and change thought patterns that contribute to excessive worry.
- Gradually expose themselves to feared situations in a controlled way.
- Learn techniques such as breathing exercises, grounding strategies, and cognitive reframing to regain control in triggering moments.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Originally developed for trauma, EMDR has been proven effective in reducing anxiety and panic attacks. It works by helping the brain process distressing memories and fears so they no longer trigger overwhelming emotional responses.
EMDR can be particularly beneficial for those whose anxiety stems from past experiences or phobias.
Hypnotherapy for Deep Relaxation and Reprogramming Anxiety Responses
Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool for reprogramming subconscious thought patterns linked to anxiety. Through deep relaxation and guided suggestions, clients can:
- Reduce the intensity of physical symptoms.
- Unlearn automatic fear responses.
- Develop a calmer, more confident mindset.
Psychotherapy and Counselling for Anxiety
Sometimes, anxiety is rooted in deeper emotional issues. Long-term psychotherapy and counselling provide a safe space to explore underlying causes, improve self-awareness, and develop long-term emotional resilience.
This approach is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or health anxiety.
The Power of an Integrative Approach
No two individuals experience anxiety in the same way. That’s why we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model.
Instead, our experienced therapists take an integrative approach, blending elements from different therapies to create a treatment plan that aligns with each person’s needs.
By combining techniques from CBT, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and Counselling, we maximise effectiveness while ensuring a personalised experience.
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we also take into account NICE guidelines, ensuring our therapeutic approaches align with the latest clinical recommendations.
Why Choosing the Right Therapist Matters
Overcoming anxiety and panic isn’t just about finding the right therapy—it’s about working with the right therapist. Experience, training, and approach all play a crucial role in effective treatment.
Our therapists have decades of experience in helping people reclaim their lives from anxiety disorders. We understand that trust, compassion, and expertise make all the difference.
Our focus is on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to make lasting change.
Take the First Step Towards Overcoming Anxiety and Panic
Anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. With the right support, you can move beyond fear and towards a calmer, more confident future.
Whether you’re experiencing panic attacks, social anxiety, or generalised anxiety, we’re here to help.
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we offer in-person and online therapy sessions to make accessing support as easy as possible.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards overcoming anxiety and panic, get in touch today. Your journey to peace of mind starts here.