Anxiety & Panic Disorder

Counselling for Anxiety & Panic Attacks in Bridgend, Cardiff, Carmarthen, Newport, and Porthcawl

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns, often presenting as ongoing worry, physical tension, restlessness, or overwhelming feelings that interfere with daily life. Panic attacks are sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort, typically involving symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, dizziness, shaking, or shortness of breath. Counselling provides effective tools to understand, manage, and reduce these symptoms, helping individuals regain emotional balance and confidence.

Symptoms of Anxiety & Panic Attacks

• Persistent worry, fear, or unease
• Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating
• Physical symptoms such as shaking, chest tightness, or restlessness
• Panic attacks involving dizziness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, or breathlessness
• Avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations
• Feeling overwhelmed or unable to relax

Causes of Anxiety & Panic Attacks

• Stressful or overwhelming life events
• Past trauma or unresolved emotional issues
• Biological or genetic factors
• Long-term stress or major lifestyle changes
• Medical or hormonal influences
• Personality traits such as perfectionism or high sensitivity

Treatments for Anxiety & Panic Attacks

Counselling is one of the most effective approaches for managing anxiety and panic-related symptoms. Using therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), person-centred counselling, grounding tools, and stress-reduction strategies, clients learn to recognise triggers, manage physical sensations, and shift unhelpful thought patterns. Our counsellors work collaboratively with you to build emotional resilience and reduce the impact of anxiety on daily life.

A typical counselling treatment plan for anxiety and panic attacks includes:

• An initial assessment to understand your symptoms, triggers, and goals
• Cognitive behavioural techniques to challenge negative thinking patterns
• Breathing and grounding exercises to reduce panic and restore calm
• Behavioural strategies to reduce avoidance and increase confidence
• Long-term coping tools to support ongoing emotional wellbeing