Anxiety Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Matt Temple, MA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Matt Temple
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I have experience with various issues such as conflicts in relationships, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that everyone experiences life in his or her own unique way. Whatever your situation, my goal is to listen and understand your needs while exploring new ways of living. I aim to create an environment that is safe in order to work with you to explore your past and create freedom to become the person you were meant to be. I am comfortable and trained in working with individuals, couples, and families.
I have experience with various issues such as conflicts in relationships, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that everyone experiences life in his or her own unique way. Whatever your situation, my goal is to listen and understand your needs while exploring new ways of living. I aim to create an environment that is safe in order to work with you to explore your past and create freedom to become the person you were meant to be. I am comfortable and trained in working with individuals, couples, and families.
(343) 300-0327 View (343) 300-0327
Photo of Margie Lauzon, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Margie Lauzon
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
We all face challenges at different phases in our lives. Perhaps you are feeling stuck and having difficulty finding direction or making a life decision. You may have experienced a loss and need some help to work through the grief. Or you may be struggling with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression. Sometimes the struggle is related to relationship issues or parenting difficulties.
We all face challenges at different phases in our lives. Perhaps you are feeling stuck and having difficulty finding direction or making a life decision. You may have experienced a loss and need some help to work through the grief. Or you may be struggling with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression. Sometimes the struggle is related to relationship issues or parenting difficulties.
(343) 430-0374 View (343) 430-0374
Photo of Jeff Hedderson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jeff Hedderson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, coping with stress, and trauma-related issues.
Life can sometimes become overwhelming and people can benefit from a safe, open space to share their stories and receive support. Counselling and psychotherapy are services delivered through a therapeutic relationship with someone who is trained to support others. Some benefits to engaging in counselling and psychotherapy are: finding ways to solve problems, improving your self-esteem, practicing new and more positive behaviours, learning to manage emotions from stressors, developing a greater degree of self-awareness, learning to love and accept yourself, and improving your overall well-being.
I have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, coping with stress, and trauma-related issues.
Life can sometimes become overwhelming and people can benefit from a safe, open space to share their stories and receive support. Counselling and psychotherapy are services delivered through a therapeutic relationship with someone who is trained to support others. Some benefits to engaging in counselling and psychotherapy are: finding ways to solve problems, improving your self-esteem, practicing new and more positive behaviours, learning to manage emotions from stressors, developing a greater degree of self-awareness, learning to love and accept yourself, and improving your overall well-being.
(613) 702-2422 View (613) 702-2422
Photo of Samantha Harris, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Samantha Harris
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing empathy, authenticity, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing empathy, authenticity, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
(343) 321-1226 View (343) 321-1226
Photo of Kelly Quinn, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Kelly Quinn
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I have experience helping older adolescents and adults cope with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, interpersonal relationships, career transitions, and other life challenges.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do / With your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver, "The Summer Day" ----- There are so many things that I love about these lines by the poet Mary Oliver. She reminds us that we have choices about what we want to do with the unique and precious life that each of us has. That word 'wild' can encompass beauty and pain, joy and struggle. But even when life is at its most difficult, and even when we feel least in control, we can make meaningful change.
I have experience helping older adolescents and adults cope with anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, interpersonal relationships, career transitions, and other life challenges.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do / With your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver, "The Summer Day" ----- There are so many things that I love about these lines by the poet Mary Oliver. She reminds us that we have choices about what we want to do with the unique and precious life that each of us has. That word 'wild' can encompass beauty and pain, joy and struggle. But even when life is at its most difficult, and even when we feel least in control, we can make meaningful change.
(613) 801-2703 View (613) 801-2703
Photo of Laurinda Cheng, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Laurinda Cheng
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I have experience working with are trauma, depression, anxiety, consensual non-monogamy (e.
I believe it takes great courage to explore our experiences, confront our problems, and dare to change ourselves. I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental space where we can deeply engage with the issues you have brought to therapy. I am based in Ottawa providing individual counselling/psychotherapy services virtually in English to individuals 18 years of age and older in Ontario. I welcome clients of all backgrounds. I am allied to the BIPOC, LGBTQ, non-monogamous, and kink communities. I am also a provider for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program for First Nations and Inuit.
Some of the areas I have experience working with are trauma, depression, anxiety, consensual non-monogamy (e.
I believe it takes great courage to explore our experiences, confront our problems, and dare to change ourselves. I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental space where we can deeply engage with the issues you have brought to therapy. I am based in Ottawa providing individual counselling/psychotherapy services virtually in English to individuals 18 years of age and older in Ontario. I welcome clients of all backgrounds. I am allied to the BIPOC, LGBTQ, non-monogamous, and kink communities. I am also a provider for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program for First Nations and Inuit.
(613) 801-8374 View (613) 801-8374
Photo of Mvumbi Kumbu, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Mvumbi Kumbu
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Do you ever wonder why you are so anxious? Are you struggling to identify the source of your depression? Do you ever look for answers about the purpose of the situation you are going through in your life? Are you sometimes discouraged, disengaged, demotivated to get back on your feet because you feel you have tried everything?
Do you ever wonder why you are so anxious? Are you struggling to identify the source of your depression? Do you ever look for answers about the purpose of the situation you are going through in your life? Are you sometimes discouraged, disengaged, demotivated to get back on your feet because you feel you have tried everything?
(343) 307-0835 View (343) 307-0835
Photo of Tiffany Patterson, MA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Tiffany Patterson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
As a trained psychotherapist, my experiences include working one-on-one with people dealing with depression, anxiety, personal concerns, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessional-compulsive disorder (OCD), guilt and shame, and issues around spirituality.
My treatment approach guides people through a self-examination into how they experience themselves, their relationships and their world. Symptoms are relieved through increased personal insight and finding new ways of perceiving old situations, allowing for the development of healthier behaviours. I view the therapist-client relationship as truly unique - one that can help, in a lasting way, to heal and steer personal relationships.
As a trained psychotherapist, my experiences include working one-on-one with people dealing with depression, anxiety, personal concerns, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessional-compulsive disorder (OCD), guilt and shame, and issues around spirituality.
My treatment approach guides people through a self-examination into how they experience themselves, their relationships and their world. Symptoms are relieved through increased personal insight and finding new ways of perceiving old situations, allowing for the development of healthier behaviours. I view the therapist-client relationship as truly unique - one that can help, in a lasting way, to heal and steer personal relationships.
(855) 997-0254 View (855) 997-0254
Photo of Leigh Karos, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Leigh Karos
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
(613) 402-2484 View (613) 402-2484
Photo of Veronica Valladares, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Veronica Valladares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
My practice specializations include working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, and emotion regulation issues.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
My practice specializations include working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, and emotion regulation issues.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
(343) 338-5166 View (343) 338-5166
Photo of Marina Johnston, RN, MEd
Marina Johnston
RN, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
Imagine if you had a free, safe and effective tool right at your fingertips to reduce stress and overwhelm right in the moment. Hello and welcome. My name is Marina Johnston and I am an RN Psychotherapist registered in Ontario. I am also a certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) Practitioner and certified Transformational Coach. I typically work with professional women dealing with issues of anxiety, perfectionism and imposter syndrome. I provide a supportive, strengths based approach that engage the body, mind and spirit. My clients learn to manage their anxiety and cultivate new ways of being, thinking and healthy coping.
Imagine if you had a free, safe and effective tool right at your fingertips to reduce stress and overwhelm right in the moment. Hello and welcome. My name is Marina Johnston and I am an RN Psychotherapist registered in Ontario. I am also a certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) Practitioner and certified Transformational Coach. I typically work with professional women dealing with issues of anxiety, perfectionism and imposter syndrome. I provide a supportive, strengths based approach that engage the body, mind and spirit. My clients learn to manage their anxiety and cultivate new ways of being, thinking and healthy coping.
(450) 390-6763 View (450) 390-6763
Photo of Jennifer Williams, BA,  MSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Williams
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing a difficult life transition, a mental health struggle such as anxiety or depression or who want to heal from past trauma. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals for personal growth, and to help individuals live a more authentic life. Evidence-based individual therapy can increase self-awareness, resiliency and overall happiness. I work with couples experiencing turbulence in their relationship, to recover from infidelity, to recreate that spark or improve communication. I also specialize in family therapy and work with children and youth.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing a difficult life transition, a mental health struggle such as anxiety or depression or who want to heal from past trauma. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals for personal growth, and to help individuals live a more authentic life. Evidence-based individual therapy can increase self-awareness, resiliency and overall happiness. I work with couples experiencing turbulence in their relationship, to recover from infidelity, to recreate that spark or improve communication. I also specialize in family therapy and work with children and youth.
(343) 312-7422 View (343) 312-7422
Photo of Sarah Stilling, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sarah Stilling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the team at CMAP Health. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I am supervised by highly trained psychiatrists and psychologists at CMAP Health. I provide services in English for individual therapy specializing in treating eating disorders, adult ADHD, anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. My availability is evenings (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday) and I offer daytime slots on Fridays.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the team at CMAP Health. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I am supervised by highly trained psychiatrists and psychologists at CMAP Health. I provide services in English for individual therapy specializing in treating eating disorders, adult ADHD, anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. My availability is evenings (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday) and I offer daytime slots on Fridays.
(343) 600-9592 View (343) 600-9592
Photo of Sahra Haji-Mohamed Said - Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy , RECE, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RECE, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
(343) 453-0134 View (343) 453-0134
Photo of Ryan Wyatt, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ryan Wyatt
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
and have experience working with adolescents (13+) and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, work-place stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues and difficulties adjusting to life transitions and sport performance.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa as well as a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. My five years working in education helped me realize the passion I have for working with others to overcome challenges and improve their lived experiences. My lived experiences and interactions with others have made me a firm believer in the strength and resiliency of people. It is our responses to these challenges that can help foster healthy thinking patterns, behaviours and a belief in our own strengths.
and have experience working with adolescents (13+) and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, work-place stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues and difficulties adjusting to life transitions and sport performance.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa as well as a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. My five years working in education helped me realize the passion I have for working with others to overcome challenges and improve their lived experiences. My lived experiences and interactions with others have made me a firm believer in the strength and resiliency of people. It is our responses to these challenges that can help foster healthy thinking patterns, behaviours and a belief in our own strengths.
(343) 312-7496 View (343) 312-7496
Photo of Pamela Green, MA, RP, CCTP, Registered Psychotherapist
Pamela Green
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified clinical trauma professional, I provide counselling to individuals with varying mental health concerns including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, personal and interpersonal relational issues, stress management, self-esteem, confidence, acute or chronic illness, and transitionary changes such as career, education or familial changes.
Welcome! Making the choice to engage in therapy requires courage, however it can be an empowering and positive experience towards a more fulfilling life. Over the past 14 years I have integrated my training and work in clinical and agency settings to offer counselling to clients looking to improve their mental wellness and overall functioning. Some clients report feeling ready when they cannot eliminate feelings like they are "facing an uphill battle" or that they are "overwhelmed" by daily life stressors and need support.
As a certified clinical trauma professional, I provide counselling to individuals with varying mental health concerns including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, personal and interpersonal relational issues, stress management, self-esteem, confidence, acute or chronic illness, and transitionary changes such as career, education or familial changes.
Welcome! Making the choice to engage in therapy requires courage, however it can be an empowering and positive experience towards a more fulfilling life. Over the past 14 years I have integrated my training and work in clinical and agency settings to offer counselling to clients looking to improve their mental wellness and overall functioning. Some clients report feeling ready when they cannot eliminate feelings like they are "facing an uphill battle" or that they are "overwhelmed" by daily life stressors and need support.
(613) 900-0462 View (613) 900-0462
Photo of Rohama Kabeer- Neurodivergency + Stress, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Rohama Kabeer- Neurodivergency + Stress
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I work in various areas, encompassing interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, stress management, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, emotional regulation, academic stressors, burnout, coping skills, and loneliness.
Currently Accepting Clients! Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? I'm here to support you. As someone deeply passionate about mental health, I work in assisting teens and adults in tackling issues like anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, life transitions and more. With my cultural sensitivity skills and lived experiences as a South Asian woman, I'm well-equipped to help individuals from similar and diverse communities. My background includes volunteering at Kids Help Phone and providing therapy to university students. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
I work in various areas, encompassing interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, stress management, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, emotional regulation, academic stressors, burnout, coping skills, and loneliness.
Currently Accepting Clients! Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? I'm here to support you. As someone deeply passionate about mental health, I work in assisting teens and adults in tackling issues like anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, life transitions and more. With my cultural sensitivity skills and lived experiences as a South Asian woman, I'm well-equipped to help individuals from similar and diverse communities. My background includes volunteering at Kids Help Phone and providing therapy to university students. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
(343) 338-3761 View (343) 338-3761
Photo of Jenny Stark, BSc, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jenny Stark
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at CMAP Health. I have professional experience working in multiple developmental and behavioural sciences settings that have provided expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Social Anxiety Disorder. I also have a background in sports and athletics, which has driven a special interest in helping those with sports and exercise-related difficulties, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I aim to use this background to help all clients reach their highest potential in their personal goals.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at CMAP Health. I have professional experience working in multiple developmental and behavioural sciences settings that have provided expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Social Anxiety Disorder. I also have a background in sports and athletics, which has driven a special interest in helping those with sports and exercise-related difficulties, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder, eating disorders, and performance anxiety. I aim to use this background to help all clients reach their highest potential in their personal goals.
(343) 301-5142 View (343) 301-5142
Photo of Weijo Patricia Yu, BSc, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Weijo Patricia Yu
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
With over two years of experience in psychotherapy under supervision, fluent both in English and Mandarin, I've had the privilege of assisting clients in navigating their personal journeys in anxious, insecure, healing, life transitioning moments.
Life's transitions and emotional pains can be profoundly challenging to navigate. If you're currently in the midst of such a journey, please know that you're not alone. I'm here to extend a hand of support, offering a safe haven where your experiences are met with understanding, empathy, and respect. My commitment to creating a non-judgmental, compassionate, and culturally sensitive environment means that you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, finding solace and growth on your unique path towards healing.
With over two years of experience in psychotherapy under supervision, fluent both in English and Mandarin, I've had the privilege of assisting clients in navigating their personal journeys in anxious, insecure, healing, life transitioning moments.
Life's transitions and emotional pains can be profoundly challenging to navigate. If you're currently in the midst of such a journey, please know that you're not alone. I'm here to extend a hand of support, offering a safe haven where your experiences are met with understanding, empathy, and respect. My commitment to creating a non-judgmental, compassionate, and culturally sensitive environment means that you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, finding solace and growth on your unique path towards healing.
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Photo of Joy Tabakman, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Joy Tabakman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
(343) 312-9805 View (343) 312-9805
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Anxiety Counsellors

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.