At Anxiety Training, we are passionate about recognizing the pioneers whose groundbreaking work continues to shape the field of evidence-based treatment for anxiety. One such trailblazer is Dr. Claire Weekes, a name that should be widely recognized among mental health professionals yet has, unfortunately, faded from common knowledge.

Our co-founder, Elizabeth DuPont Spencer, LCSW-C, recently wrote a featured article for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) honoring Dr. Weekes’ legacy. In her article, Elizabeth shares how Weekes’ revolutionary approach to treating anxiety—emphasizing direct exposure and attitude—laid the foundation for what we now know as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders.

Dr. Claire Weekes’ Legacy in Anxiety Treatment

Dr. Weekes’ journey into anxiety treatment was deeply personal. After developing anxiety following a misdiagnosed illness, she spent years struggling with symptoms that no doctor could explain. It wasn’t until a friend with wartime experience reassured her that her physical symptoms were a normal response to fear that she found relief. This insight led her to devote her career to helping others navigate anxiety with knowledge, acceptance, and courage.

Some of her most powerful insights include:

• Understanding the role of the nervous system in anxiety responses
• The concept of “first and second fear”—distinguishing between an initial anxious reaction and the secondary fear that worsens it
• Using direct exposure to feared situations as a path to recovery
• The importance of attitude in getting well, captured in quotes like:

“Panic is nothing but a few chemicals temporarily out of order in my brain.”

Why This Matters for Clinicians Today

Though Dr. Weekes never formally engaged in research or academic publishing, her work aligns with modern CBT and exposure therapy principles. She spoke directly to sufferers through her books, radio, and television, empowering people to face their anxiety head-on—an approach we continue to use in our clinical training.

As mental health professionals, we owe it to our clients—and to Dr. Weekes—to keep her teachings alive. Her work remains as relevant today as it was in the mid-20th century.

Read the Full Article on ADAA

To dive deeper into Dr. Weekes’ contributions and her lasting impact on anxiety treatment, read Elizabeth DuPont Spencer’s full article on the ADAA website here.

At Anxiety Training, we are committed to equipping clinicians with the tools to provide effective, evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. If you’re interested in learning more about our training programs, explore them here.

Let’s continue to honor pioneers like Dr. Weekes by bringing their insights into our modern practice. 💙