Anxiety and Panic
Understanding persistent worry, physical symptoms, and panic attacks
We accept referrals from various health insurances including:
What is Anxiety and Panic?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threat. However, when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or difficult to control, it can begin to interfere with daily life.
Many people experience ongoing worry, a sense of unease, or physical symptoms such as a racing heart, breathlessness, dizziness, or muscle tension.
Panic attacks can feel particularly intense, often coming on suddenly and creating a strong fear of losing control or something serious happening. Over time, anxiety can lead to avoidance of situations, places, or activities, which can further reinforce the cycle.
Flexible ways to access support
In-clinic therapy
Calm, confidential setting in Jesmond, designed for comfort, privacy, and a reassuring experience
Online therapy
Flexible and accessible sessions delivered securely from your home environment
How anxiety and panic develop
Anxiety often builds through a combination of thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviours that interact with one another.
For example:
A worrying thought such as “Something isn’t right” can trigger physical symptoms
Physical sensations may then be interpreted as dangerous
This can increase anxiety, leading to further symptoms
Avoidance or safety behaviours may provide short-term relief but maintain the cycle
Panic attacks can follow a similar pattern, where fear of the symptoms themselves increases the likelihood of further episodes.
Understanding these patterns is an important first step in breaking the cycle.
Common experiences of anxiety
People experiencing anxiety or panic may notice:
Persistent or excessive worry
Difficulty relaxing or “switching off”
Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, or dizziness
Panic attacks or fear of having panic attacks
Avoidance of certain situations or places
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
These experiences can vary in intensity and may change over time.
What therapy can help with
Therapy for anxiety and panic focuses on understanding what is happening and developing effective ways to manage it.
This may include:
Identifying triggers and maintaining patterns
Learning skills to manage physical symptoms
Reducing avoidance and rebuilding confidence
Developing a more balanced relationship with anxious thoughts
Therapy is tailored to your individual experience and progresses at a pace that feels manageable.
What to expect in therapy
Assessment and formulation
We begin by developing a clear understanding of your anxiety, including how it shows up and what may be maintaining it.
Identifying patterns
Developing strategies
Building confidence
Common misconceptions about anxiety
“I should be able to control this on my own”
Anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It is a natural response that can become overactive and may need support to change.
“Avoiding things helps”
Avoidance can reduce anxiety in the short term, but often maintains it over time.
“Something is physically wrong with me”
Physical symptoms of anxiety can feel intense, but they are a normal part of the body’s response to perceived threat.
Benefits of therapy for anxiety
Therapy can help you to:
Feel more in control of your thoughts and reactions
Reduce the intensity and frequency of anxiety
Re-engage with situations you may have been avoiding
Improve overall wellbeing and confidence
Many people find that therapy not only reduces anxiety, but also provides long-term tools for managing future challenges.
Our approach
At northeast psychology, we offer evidence-based therapy for anxiety and panic that is:
Collaborative and supportive
Tailored to your individual needs
Grounded in approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness
Focused on practical and meaningful change
We understand that anxiety can feel overwhelming, and we work with you at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Is therapy right for you?
You may benefit from therapy if you:
Experience ongoing worry or anxiety
Have panic attacks or fear of panic
Avoid situations due to anxiety
Feel that anxiety is affecting your daily life
If you are unsure, we are happy to help you explore your options.
Next steps
If you are considering support for anxiety or panic, we offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you decide whether therapy feels right for you.