It always breaks my heart hearing stories of people who have tried to get help and been failed by the system and people in it. Especially when they’ve been told that they will have to live with their problems for the rest of their lives when this is just factually incorrect.

It’s also really disappointing that you saw multiple therapists and none of them introduced you to principles of exposure. What you outlined that helped you is a big part of applied relaxation therapy which is commonly used in modern, cognitive based psychology for anxiety disorders.

All that confirms is your final point though, not every professional will be the best fit for you or have the right treatment. People have to keep looking, keep trying, whether it’s through personal research or changing therapists. Eventually the right solution will be found.

I’m glad you found your solution and are willing to spread awareness about it as well.