Thanks for the reply Josie
I have started the program and am currently on the step regarding exposure work. I have actually halted there since I have been having trouble challenging my anxious thoughts lately. I feel as though I shouldn't advance any further until I at least have some success with the steps I have previously covered.
The main issue I have found is that I can't produce challenging thoughts that fully convince myself when I am in that state. I have always been a very deep thinker and I question everything, but I also have a habit if being very stubborn. So when one part of me is convinced I am about to have a panic attack and there is nothing I can do about it, the other part tries to convince myself otherwise while being handicapped.
It may sound stupid but the easiest way for me to describe it is in a sports (hockey) analogy.
Team A: My thoughts causing my anxiety
Team B:My challenging thoughts.
Basically Team A is already up in the game by 2 goals and Team B has to come in shorthanded and try to win the game.
As for my doctor he has been on leave for several weeks now, I have actually not had the chance to see him in some time which has also caused some anxiety. I am also in the process of trying to find another counselor which I can see on a more regular basis.