[timotheeeee]

I'm intensely frightened of public speaking. Unfortunately, I also just began law school. This phobia almost forced me to decide against law school, but I decided that later in life I would have hated myself for such a stupid rationale. But now that I'm here and faced with the prospect of speaking in front of groups of people it's really all I can think about; I probably won't have to speak for a while but I'm already getting anxiety.

Is there any way to mitigate this fear without practicing in front of others? I understand that this practice is probably the best way to get over it, but listening to reason isn't helping.

Anyone? Suggestions? I don't really want to take anxiety medication, but I won't discount the advice offhand.

Thanks