Why does anxiety feel so limiting—like your world is shrinking? For Dr. Patricia Zurita Ona, better known as Dr. Z, the key to freedom isn’t control—it’s committed action. As Director of the East Bay Behavior Therapy Center and a leader in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she helps clients break out of fear-based cycles and reconnect with their values. With nearly two decades of clinical experience and under her belt, Dr. Z brings an evidence-based, deeply compassionate approach to emotional resilience and cognitive flexibility—especially for high-achievers and those facing OCD, panic, and anxiety. In this episode, Dr. Z unpacks: Why avoiding anxiety often makes it worse What to do (and not do) during a panic attack How ACT helps regulate the nervous system and reshape your relationship with fear The role of mindful performance and value-driven action in lasting recovery Stay connected to Dr. Z’s work at and explore a new path forward—one grounded in clarity, compassion, and therapy that works. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: