Overcoming the Fear of Fear: CBT Tools for Panic, Health & Somatic Anxiety
In panic disorder and health-related anxieties, fear is often triggered by our own physical sensations. Racing heart, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, sweating, chest tightness, or feeling detached can be interpreted as alarming signs of danger. Fearing these internal sensations can fuel a spiral of avoidance, panic, constant reassurance-seeking, and an increasingly restricted life.
Jill Levitt, Ph.D.
November 13th, 2026
Course Description:
Practicing body-sensation exposure (known as interoceptive exposure) is one of the most effective CBT tools for directly addressing this "fear of fear." However, therapists often find it challenging to explain and use this approach in a way that feels clear, supportive, and engaging. I know I have!
This session focuses specifically on interoceptive exposure techniques and the core therapy skills needed to help clients overcome their fear of these sensations. You will learn how to identify feared sensations and the frightening predictions attached to them, explain the rationale for exposure in a way that builds client buy-in, and design exercises that help client discover that they can tolerate and overcome the distress these sensations create.
The webinar includes a live, interactive demonstration and a hands-on exercise so you can start using these tools with greater ease and confidence. We will also leave time at the end of your questions.
What You'll Gain:
In This Free Webinar, You'll Learn How To:
Recognize how the "fear of fear" mechanism operates across panic, health concerns, and other forms of somatic anxiety.
Pinpoint specific physical sensations and the anxious predictions associated with them.
Explain the clinical purpose of interoceptive exposure in clear language to build client trust and engagement.
Guide clients through exposure exercises smoothly and collaboratively.
Why Attend?
This training offers practical CBT strategies to help clients change how they react to anxiety-provoking sensations. Whether you work with panic disorder, health anxiety, general worry, social anxiety, or other forms of body-focused anxiety, this workshop will strengthen your exposure skills and help your clients make meaningful progress.
Learning Objectives:
After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role of fear of anxiety-related physical sensations in maintaining anxiety.
- Explain the rationale for interoceptive exposure.
Training Details:
Date: Friday, November 13th, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 10 AM PT / 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM ET
CE Credit: 1 Continuing Education Credit available
Cost: Free
Open to: Therapists, mental health professionals, and the general public
Can't attend live? Register anyway to access the recording so you can earn your CE on-demand at your own pace.
Instructor Bios:
Jill Levitt, Ph.D., is a co-founder and the Director of Training at the Feeling Good Institute and a Level 5 TEAM-CBT Trainer. She frequently co-teaches CE webinars and workshops with Dr. David Burns on topics including interoceptive exposure, anxiety and exposure therapy, perfectionism, procrastination, and building a collaborative therapeutic alliance. She has more than 30 years of experience helping patients overcome anxiety.
November 13th, 2026