Once having considered an operation to sever her nerves, “Diane”, in her 40’s, describes her resolution – through therapy via telephone – of erythrophobia. When Diane initiated treatment she was at a “low point”. Her fear of blushing prevented her from getting “in front” of the people necessary to advance her career. Her avoidance was causing depression. Her anxiety was based on her belief that when she blushed “people would think she was not smart enough”. She describes how she learned to be “very good at hiding things” . Her insight into the ingrained character of the problem, and the fact that its’ seeds were in grammar school, was crucial for her healing.

When considering treatment for social and performance anxiety thoughtful evaluation would say that a model adapted to the specific needs of this specific anxiety is productive rather than trying to fit the condition into rigid restrictive existing models; most noticeably the nonsensical promises and absurd research perpetuated by the CBT community. I want to be very clear. Behavior and cognition are very important variables to consider in treatment but if you miss the emotion-physiological connection you are playing the wrong game. A productive model is going to have several tools. Since 1978 one of the tools that I have integrated into therapy is the utilization of mind states. The objective of this podcast is to introduce you to each state.

Hear “Ray” describe his battle and success with performance anxiety and fear of public speaking in an ultra-competitive business. Core work included resolution of embarrassment, shame, and unresolved anger and rage at non-conscious levels. The client evolved from not getting out of bed in the morning due to anxiety and depression to major career advancement and harmony in his personal life.