From the author: If you notice a rake that you have stepped on more than once, then this is no longer just a “rake”, but your life coping strategy. My client A. suffers from panic disorder and dissociative symptoms. At the same time, her appearance and behavior do not correspond at all to the problem she came with. Outwardly, A. looks quite confident and even defiant, her voice sounds loud and clear. A. says that she would never be able to show how she really feels. A. defined her coping strategy a long time ago and calls it a “façade.” Behind the “facade” the girl feels ready for any life situations. But at the same time, it is the “facade” that completely prevents her from contacting even herself. She often cannot understand what she really needs. She usually has no ideas on how she, for example, could have fun or relax. You can understand what a defensive coping strategy brings into our lives only by looking at its advantages and disadvantages. This is how A. and I saw her defense when we looked at it from both sides. Advantages of the “facade” Disadvantages of the “facade” I look competent and confident Others cannot notice that I have problems I can focus on my responsibilities at work I don’t look like a “psychopath” I feel safe I can avoid conflicts I can’t feel my own emotions I can’t express my feelings towards other people I always feel distant from others, even when I clearly like or like them I often feel sad and lonely I cannot reduce my social anxiety and insecurity because I am unable to feel closeness in relationships with others