Group therapy makes anxiety less of a worry

A team of clinical psychologists is offering a group therapy programme for anxiety sufferers at the University's Centre for Psychology in Albany.

Fearing the worst will happen, experiencing a sudden sense of panic, and feeling self-conscious are among common anxiety symptoms, says Anita Bellamy, a registered clinical psychologist. A certain amount of anxiety is normal, she says, but if it becomes overwhelming help is available.

From next month Ms Bellamy and her colleagues will run a programme of weekly group sessions of cognitive behaviour therapy, a widely used short-term therapy effective for conditions such as depression and anxiety.

"CBT teaches skills and coping strategies to help people deal with anxiety, so that it doesn't control or take over their lives," she says. The added advantage of group therapy is that it helps participants feel less alone with their problems.

It provides a sense of normality by helping people to understand that a certain amount of anxiety is a function of our evolutionary adaptation and a necessary survival mechanism. "What CBT does is to enable participants to better tolerate high stress and anxiety levels that can threaten to overwhelm, or to reduce a person's wellbeing," she says.

Ms Bellamy, who has 15 years' experience in private and public mental health work, coordinates clinical training for the psychology school's doctoral programme. She will run the sessions with clinical psychologist Robyn Vertongen and clinical psychology intern Mieke Sachsenweger. The eight-week course is available to people aged 18 and over.

The Centre for Psychology is based in Albany village and provides a range of community programmes.