I have had similar experiences. One piece of advice that I got that helped was to ask the scary DC to tell you what they represent. Have the character reveal the insecurity or fear that fuels them. Then express gratitude for the message and send it on its way, like you don't have the time to deal with it right now. Turn your back on it.

Something that I did on my own that was most effective was to make a totem, something small and attractive to you that you can keep with you all day, like a stone you like, a gameboard piece, or accessory. I used a pagan symbol necklace because I liked the metal material and the magical impression. Four or five times throughout the day I would take a full two minutes to meditate on the necklace fill it with a sense of power and protection. I kept this totem with me 24/7, in my dreams whenever I feel overwhelmed or a foreboding, I touch the necklace and imagine pulling that energy out and around me. Works like a charm, lol.