When anxious thoughts spiral, it can feel impossible to switch off. You might replay conversations, imagine worst-case scenarios, or avoid situations altogether. Counselling creates a rhythm where you can gently unpack what your mind is trying to protect you from and develop kinder ways to respond.
How anxiety and overthinking appear day to day
- Constant mental rehearsal of possible problems.
- Physical cues such as a tight chest, racing heart, or nausea.
- Trouble sleeping because your mind reviews every detail of the day.
- Difficulty making decisions in case you choose "wrong".
- Avoiding social plans even when you crave connection.
- Feeling detached from the present moment because you are living in “what if”.
Why it can be hard to quieten anxious thinking alone
Anxiety thrives on the illusion that if you prepare for every outcome, nothing bad will happen. This keeps you analysing and double-checking, even though the reassurance never lasts. Past experiences, cultural expectations, or neurodivergence can shape how anxiety shows up for you. Without a steady witness to help make sense of these patterns, the mind keeps spinning stories in the dark.
How counselling supports calmer thinking
In therapy we slow down the pace, notice the stories anxiety tells, and understand what they are protecting. We co-create practical tools that work for your lifestyle—whether that means grounding exercises, boundary-setting, or compassionate self-talk. Because I hold sessions weekly at a consistent time, you always know when you will have space to process without homework hanging over you.
Approaches I may weave in
- Pluralistic counselling to adapt strategies to your preferences and needs.
- EMDR resourcing for when anxiety is linked to distressing memories.
- Mindfulness-informed practice to rebuild trust in the present moment.
- Parts work to honour the protective role of your anxious inner voices.
Support for men living with anxiety
Men often receive messages to "man up" rather than seek support. In therapy we can explore these expectations, how they affect relationships, and how to express worry without feeling weak. Many men find relief in having somewhere they can admit fear and uncertainty while still feeling respected.
Affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients with anxiety
Minority stress, coming out journeys, and navigating prejudice can heighten hypervigilance. I hold space for the unique ways LGBTQ+ people experience anxiety, including how community safety, dating, and family dynamics interact with worry. Together we build strategies that protect your wellbeing without shrinking your identity.
FAQs about anxiety and overthinking therapy
Will we use breathing techniques?
We will explore grounding tools that suit you. For some people that includes breathwork; for others it might involve sensory anchors, movement, or creative expression.
Can therapy help with panic attacks?
We talk about what panic feels like for you, map possible triggers, and prepare responses that fit your circumstances. Everyone experiences panic differently, so we practise strategies you can rely on when waves arise.
What if I overthink therapy itself?
It is common to analyse the counselling process. We will talk openly about anything that feels unclear so the space remains collaborative and transparent.
Do you set homework between sessions?
I do not set homework like you might find in CBT therapy but I will encourage you to try ideas between sessions so you can see how they support you.
Next steps
Anxiety does not have to run the show.
Book a consultation to share what overthinking looks like for you. If we begin working together, your session will take place weekly at the same time, giving your nervous system a predictable rhythm to lean on.