GG,

The pain in the throat is because your stiffining up that muscle. You dont really notice it but thats whats going on. I also clench my teeth really bad which causes me to get bad headaches.
I think reaching out for IRL friends is a great idea. I too have trust issues. I open up to very few Real life people because I am afriad of rejection. So I totally understand your aprehension (sp).
I am so proud that you have left a message and have taken the first step toward therapy. This is a poistive move and you should be so proud of yourself.
Grey,
I have been reading your posts for a long while. I cant remember if you take meds for your anxiety or not. I know for me I waited as long as possible to take meds cause I have a medication phobia that ties in with my OCD. However, I currently take effexor xr. It has helped a great deal with my anxiety. Not 100% but at least I can semi-function. I don't know if maybe that is something you could look into or even an option for you.
Please do keep me posted on the therapy. I am very interested to know how that turns out for ya.
Take great care of yourself GG. Have a wonderful Day!!!