I used to have the same difficulties that you are having. I basically got over it by starting with small pills/candies. I tried putting the pill on my tongue, and swallowing a mouthful of water. That never seemed to work for me. Here's what I do now. I put the pill right behind my teeth, in front of my tongue,basically as far forward in my mouth as I can. Then I take in a mouthful of water or juice. To swallow the pill I take my whole head, slam it back, and swallow. The head motion makes the pill go to the back of my mouth and goes down with the water.
Robert