Overcoming Fear: A Therapist’s Journey with Resilience, CBT, and Faith

Liberation Lunes

September 2nd, 2024

Fear can be a relentless companion, whispering doubts and uncertainties just when we’re about to take a leap of faith. I have gone through challenging fear my entire life, but this past February, I found myself in the grip of this powerful emotion again as I prepared to launch the Holistic Counselor Podcast. Now, let me tell you, I am much more comfortable in a one-on-one therapy session than I am speaking in front of crowds. The idea of putting my voice out there for the world to hear was downright terrifying! What if people didn’t resonate with my message? What if my words didn’t come out right? The fear of judgment and failure loomed large.

But here’s the thing—fear doesn’t get to have the final say. Just like when I started this blog, Liberation Lunes, I realized that fear is often just False Evidence Appearing Real (F.E.A.R.). I knew that the only way to silence these doubts was to confront them head-on.

Starting Liberation Lunes and the Holistic Counselor Podcast

When I first considered starting Liberation Lunes, I was filled with the same doubts. Who would read it? Would my words have any impact? The fear of putting myself out there was overwhelming. But I also knew that I had a message to share—a message of hope, resilience, and holistic healing. So, I decided to face my fears and hit ‘publish.’

And you know what? The world didn’t end. In fact, the response was encouraging. People were resonating with my words, finding solace and strength in the messages I shared. This small victory gave me the courage to tackle the next big challenge: launching the Holistic Counselor Podcast.

I won’t sugarcoat it—starting the podcast was nerve-wracking. Speaking into a microphone felt so much different than speaking to a client. I had to remind myself that fear is often a sign that we’re stepping into something meaningful. With each episode, I felt my confidence growing, and I realized that fear could be transformed into a driving force rather than a stumbling block.

Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

Public speaking has always been one of my greatest fears. Give me a cozy therapy room with a single client, and I’m in my element. But ask me to speak in front of a group, and I can feel the anxiety start to creep in. However, launching the Holistic Counselor Podcast has helped me begin to conquer this fear. Each episode has been a step toward embracing the discomfort and realizing that my message matters. It’s been a journey of growth, one where I’ve had to remind myself that fear is just a part of the process.

This October, I’m scheduled to speak in front of The Wise Practice Summit in North Carolina. Now, it’s easy to create the presentation behind the screen on Canva, but then I start thinking about being on stage, and my stomach gets upset—I even throw up a little in my mouth (I know gross but hey I am usually pretty raw and say it like it is). This is fear. This is discomfort. But nowhere in the Bible does it say we are meant to be comfortable. In fact, the obstacle is the way. Facing the fear is what takes us to the next level in our healing journey.

Fears of the Last Few Years: COVID-19, War, and the Media

The last few years have been challenging for all of us. Personally, I struggled with an intense fear of dying from COVID-19. The pandemic brought uncertainty and anxiety on a global scale, and like many of you, I found myself caught in the web of fear. The constant stream of news, which I often refer to as “fear porn,” only amplified this anxiety. The more we fear, the more control we give away—to others, to circumstances, to the unknown.

The fear of war and global instability has also weighed heavily on my mind. It’s easy to feel powerless when faced with such overwhelming challenges. But in these moments, I’m reminded of the importance of faith. Faith allows us to reclaim our power over our thoughts and actions, even when the world around us seems to be falling apart.

Facing the Fear of Publishing My Creative Work

Fear has not only appeared in public speaking and global concerns but also in my creative work. I’ve published two works: Wrath to Riches, Justice to Gems and Anima Resuscitation. Each of these books represents a journey of transformation, but they also stirred up a lot of fear. The fear of judgment, of putting my most personal thoughts and emotions on display, was almost paralyzing.

Now, as I revisit my other writings, Amoranza and Billy, that fear has returned. These works are deeply personal, and the thought of sharing them with the world is both exciting and terrifying. What if people don’t understand my message? What if they judge me harshly? These fears can be overwhelming and sometimes leave me feeling stuck in a place I’ve visited many times before—a place of self-doubt and hesitation.

During my years in the South Florida film industry, I faced a similar fear. I remember auditioning for roles and not getting the gig, which was tough, but even harder were the nasty comments people left on my social media. As someone who is highly sensitive to criticism (shoot I am highly sensitive to everything thank you cPTSD), this was difficult to handle. But it was during this time that I began to meditate deeply on Galatians 1:10:

“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

This verse became my mantra, reminding me that my worth is not defined by others’ opinions but by my relationship with God. It helped me to keep going, to push through the negativity, and to stay true to my calling. Even now, as I contemplate sharing Amoranza and Billy with the world, I lean on this verse to guide me.

The Different Kinds of Fear and How to Challenge Them

Fear comes in many forms—fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of the unknown, fear of success, and even fear of waiting. Each of these fears can keep us stuck, unable to move forward. But understanding the nature of these fears is the first step in overcoming them.

1. Fear of Failure: This fear often stems from a belief that we’re not good enough or that we won’t meet expectations. CBT can help by challenging these negative thoughts. Ask yourself, “What evidence do I have that I will fail? What if I succeed instead?”

2. Fear of Judgment: This is the fear that others will criticize or reject us. To challenge this fear, consider, “Whose opinion truly matters in the grand scheme of my life? How can I focus on staying true to my values rather than seeking approval?”

3. Fear of the Unknown: Uncertainty can be frightening. We often fear what we can’t control or predict. CBT encourages us to ask, “What is the worst that could happen? How can I prepare myself, and what is within my control?”

4. Fear of Success: It might sound strange, but sometimes we fear success because it brings new responsibilities or changes our lives in unexpected ways. Challenge this by asking, “What am I really afraid of losing if I succeed? How can success bring positive changes into my life?”

5. Fear of Waiting: Sometimes, fear manifests as impatience. We fear that waiting will lead to missed opportunities. However, Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord’s timing. Ask yourself, “Is this fear telling me to act now, or is the Holy Spirit guiding me to wait? How can I remain faithful and patient during this waiting period?”

Facing Everything and Rising

Facing these fears is not easy, but it’s necessary if we want to grow. Fear can keep us stuck in the muck, unable to move forward. But with faith, resilience, and the right tools, we can rise above it. Whether it’s fear of failure, judgment, success, or waiting, remember that you have the power to challenge these fears and take control of your life. Facing everything and rising is all part of the journey. If you don’t confront your fears, you stay stuck—and that’s no way to live.

Practical Tools to Conquer Fear

If you’re resonating with my journey, here are some practical tools and tips that have helped me—and that I believe can help you too:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): One of the most effective tools I’ve used to confront my fears is CBT. Start by identifying the thoughts that trigger your fear. Ask yourself, “What is the evidence that this thought is true?” and “What alternative, more balanced thoughts can I focus on instead?” By challenging the validity of your fears, you can begin to see them for what they are—often, just F.E.A.R.

2. Grounding Techniques: When fear starts to take over, grounding yourself in the present moment can help. Simple techniques like deep breathing, counting backward from 100, or focusing on the textures and colors around you can pull you out of the spiral of anxious thoughts.

3. Journaling: Write down your fears. There’s something powerful about putting them on paper—once they’re out of your head, they often seem less intimidating. Use journaling to track your progress, celebrate small victories, and reflect on what triggers your fears.

4. Prayer and Meditation: These spiritual practices have been lifelines for me. When fear feels overwhelming, turning to prayer and meditation can provide comfort and clarity. Ask God for strength and guidance, and meditate on His promises to stay grounded.

5. Visualization: Picture yourself successfully overcoming the situation that triggers your fear. What does it look like? How do you feel? By visualizing success, you can create a positive mental image that helps reduce anxiety.

6. Seeking Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s through therapy, talking with a trusted friend, or seeking wise counsel, having someone to walk with you through your fears can make all the difference.

7. Take Action: Sometimes the best way to overcome fear is simply to take action. Whether it’s publishing that blog post, hitting record on that podcast episode, or stepping up to speak, action can break the cycle of fear and build confidence.

Overcoming Fear through Prayer and Faith

Whenever fear arises, I turn to prayer, asking God for the strength and wisdom to move forward. I remind myself of His promises:

• Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

• Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

• 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

These verses anchor me in truth and give me the courage to keep going, even when fear feels overwhelming.

Conclusion

Fear is a constant companion on the journey of life, but it doesn’t have to control our destiny. By using CBT techniques, grounding practices, prayer, and seeking wise counsel, we can face our fears and rise above them. Whether it’s the fear of judgment, failure, or success, remember that you are not alone. God is with you, guiding you through every valley, and leading you to a place of peace, purpose, and resilience.

Call to Action: If you’re struggling with fear or anxiety and are looking for a holistic approach to therapy, I’m here to help. I have a few openings available for new clients in Florida. Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today, and let’s work together to help you rise above your fears and step into the life you’re meant to live.

Lord Jesus,

Thank You for being our source of strength and courage. As we face the fears that try to hold us back, remind us that with faith in You, we can overcome any obstacle. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, knowing that through You, we find the resilience to rise above our fears. May our journey bring glory to Your name and inspire others to walk in faith and courage.

In Your mighty name, we pray. Amen.

PS: For more on overcoming fear, listen to my podcast episode “Breathe in Faith, Rise Above Fear” where I delve deeper into these themes and share more practical tools. Listen here.

In Service,Faith, Hope, and Love,

Diana

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Disclaimer:

The content provided on Liberation Lunes is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. The views expressed on this blog are my personal opinions and do not represent the views of any professional organizations with which I am affiliated. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, 911, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) immediately. Liberation Lunes does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the blog. Reliance on any information provided by Liberation Lunes, others appearing on the blog at the invitation of Liberation Lunes, or other visitors to the blog is solely at your own risk.

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