Anxiety, Control, Panic attack, Phobias Susana Lara Anxiety, Control, Panic attack, Phobias Susana Lara

From one panic attack to a phobic disorder: what people with panic and phobias have in common

Do you suffer from panic attacks or high anxiety?

Did you know that this can be effectively treated with Brief Strategic Therapy (BST), a model that has shown over 30 years of clinical effectiveness in the treatment of phobias and panic attacks, often in a relatively brief period of time?

A panic attack is usually characterised by a sudden peak of intense anxiety, where the person experiences sensations such as feeling they are going to die, lose control of their body, faint, or “go crazy”. 

Read More
Anxiety, Panic attack, Phobias, Fear Susana Lara Anxiety, Panic attack, Phobias, Fear Susana Lara

Case Sofia: Overcoming a Specific Phobia with Brief Strategic Therapy

Even strong, competent, and highly functional people can feel completely powerless in the face of a specific fear. This real case illustrates how phobias can persist through well-intentioned coping strategies—and how Brief Strategic Therapy can break these patterns.

Sofia, a confident paediatric nurse, was terrified of spiders. Despite her resilience, encountering one left her paralysed and dependent on others. Through a structured, strategic process, she learned that fear diminishes not when avoided, but when approached in the right way—transforming how she perceived and responded to the phobic object.

Read More
Anxiety, Perfectionism, Control Susana Lara Anxiety, Perfectionism, Control Susana Lara

Perfectionism: When Perfection Becomes the Flaw

Perfectionism can drive success but often leads to frustration, self-criticism, and emotional exhaustion. High standards, harsh inner critics, and the pursuit of flawlessness can strain relationships and wellbeing. Brief Strategic Therapy (BST) helps break these patterns, teaching practical strategies to embrace imperfections, focus on progress, and reclaim a balanced, fulfilling life.

Read More
Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Anger, Anxiety Susana Lara Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Anger, Anxiety Susana Lara

The Lingering Wound: When the Past Refuses to Let Go

Experiencing trauma can leave a lasting imprint on a person’s life, creating a distinct "before" and "after." Pain, fear, anger, guilt, and shame may persist long after the event, particularly when coping strategies like avoidance or trying to forget only intensify distress.

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, but those who do often get trapped in unhelpful patterns that reinforce fear, flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional numbness. These strategies can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

Read More
Anxiety, Panic, Fear Susana Lara Anxiety, Panic, Fear Susana Lara

Phobias: Navigating Fear and Anxiety

Fear and anxiety are natural, adaptive responses, helping humans react to perceived threats. However, when these emotions exceed functional levels, they can lead to limitations, phobias, and anxiety-related disorders. Many individuals fall into psychological traps—such as avoidance, repeated help requests, or attempts to control physiological responses—which can intensify fear and reduce self-confidence

Read More

Follow Me on Instagram for More Insights