Anxiety Therapists in Hamilton, ON

Photo of Beth Patterson - Centre for Anxiety, Attention Deficit and Trauma, MSc, BScN, BEd, RN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Centre for Anxiety, Attention Deficit and Trauma
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BScN, BEd, RN, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S
At the Centre for Anxiety, Attention Deficit and Trauma (CAAT), we treat individuals of all ages and provide therapy on an individual basis. Our clients typically suffer from anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder or agora phobia or specific phobias. We are also specialized in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I offer assessments for ADHD as well. The report may be used by your doctor to inform a medical diagnosis of ADHD.
At the Centre for Anxiety, Attention Deficit and Trauma (CAAT), we treat individuals of all ages and provide therapy on an individual basis. Our clients typically suffer from anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder or agora phobia or specific phobias. We are also specialized in treating depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I offer assessments for ADHD as well. The report may be used by your doctor to inform a medical diagnosis of ADHD.
(855) 722-6130 View (855) 722-6130
Photo of Samantha Black, MPS, MTS, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Samantha Black
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPS, MTS, BSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
I use my experience and training in health sciences, spiritual care, and psychotherapy to work WITH you to move beyond depression, anxiety, and grief to build a state of peace.
I know personally how difficult even day to day tasks can be when you are carrying the burden of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma. It can be impossible to brush your teeth, respond to a text, or see a possibility of a future without this struggle. Would you like to see what might be through this fog? Let's connect and explore how we can create a life and identity beyond these things.
I use my experience and training in health sciences, spiritual care, and psychotherapy to work WITH you to move beyond depression, anxiety, and grief to build a state of peace.
I know personally how difficult even day to day tasks can be when you are carrying the burden of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma. It can be impossible to brush your teeth, respond to a text, or see a possibility of a future without this struggle. Would you like to see what might be through this fog? Let's connect and explore how we can create a life and identity beyond these things.
(289) 277-7624 View (289) 277-7624
Photo of Kerri-Ann Fitzgerald, MSW, RSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerri-Ann Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
My areas of specialization include teaching skills to cope with stress and anxiety, calm the nervous system, improve relationships with self and others, manage chronic pain, address academic challenges and adapt to life transitions.
I appreciate and respect the courage it takes to reach out for support. We are all uniquely impacted by stress at certain points in our lifetimes, and your decision to connect with support is a positive step in caring for yourself. With over 20 years of social work practice, I am passionate and experienced in building strong, supportive relationships with my clients as we work together to navigate a variety of life challenges. Your session will be facilitated in a welcoming and nonjudgmental space from the perspective that everyone is capable of personal growth.
My areas of specialization include teaching skills to cope with stress and anxiety, calm the nervous system, improve relationships with self and others, manage chronic pain, address academic challenges and adapt to life transitions.
I appreciate and respect the courage it takes to reach out for support. We are all uniquely impacted by stress at certain points in our lifetimes, and your decision to connect with support is a positive step in caring for yourself. With over 20 years of social work practice, I am passionate and experienced in building strong, supportive relationships with my clients as we work together to navigate a variety of life challenges. Your session will be facilitated in a welcoming and nonjudgmental space from the perspective that everyone is capable of personal growth.
(289) 302-7927 View (289) 302-7927
Photo of Irena Fendic-Fleming - The Therapy Centre, Psychologist
The Therapy Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9A
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
(289) 274-3157 View (289) 274-3157
Photo of Lisa Marie Bourque - Dr. Lisa Bourque & Associates, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Lisa Bourque & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Dr. Lisa Bourque has worked in a private practice and a hospital setting for over 10 years. Dr. Lisa Bourque offers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to individuals, couples, and families. .CBT helps clients understand how their thoughts and behaviors influence their feelings. Dr. Lisa Bourque has a special interest in treating anxiety disorders ( panic attacks, agora phobia, social phobia, specific phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder), mood disorders, anger management, stress management, addiction, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Sliding scale and self-referrals accepted, along with third party insurance referrals such as WSIB, Manulife, Sunlife, and Great West Life.
Dr. Lisa Bourque has worked in a private practice and a hospital setting for over 10 years. Dr. Lisa Bourque offers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to individuals, couples, and families. .CBT helps clients understand how their thoughts and behaviors influence their feelings. Dr. Lisa Bourque has a special interest in treating anxiety disorders ( panic attacks, agora phobia, social phobia, specific phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder), mood disorders, anger management, stress management, addiction, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Sliding scale and self-referrals accepted, along with third party insurance referrals such as WSIB, Manulife, Sunlife, and Great West Life.
(844) 402-1329 View (844) 402-1329
Photo of Marta Evans - Evans Family Counselling & Psychotherapy, RP, MEd, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Evans Family Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Can you relate to these? Anxiety and self doubt. Unexpected challenges or changes in your life. Drinking/eating/thinking/ scrolling too much. The pull of perfectionism. Constantly running to attain what we think we're supposed to chase after. Wondering why some of our reactions and behaviours happen. Hating some aspects of ourselves and really not showing up in a way that we know we can. And seeking answers to all of this and just not finding it in therapy.
Can you relate to these? Anxiety and self doubt. Unexpected challenges or changes in your life. Drinking/eating/thinking/ scrolling too much. The pull of perfectionism. Constantly running to attain what we think we're supposed to chase after. Wondering why some of our reactions and behaviours happen. Hating some aspects of ourselves and really not showing up in a way that we know we can. And seeking answers to all of this and just not finding it in therapy.
(289) 274-7693 View (289) 274-7693
Photo of Nazia Zeb, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nazia Zeb
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9B
We all find ourselves entangled in our thoughts and emotions, leading to struggles in various aspects of our lives, including anxiety, depression and relationship issues. However, we possess the power to make a conscious decision to liberate ourselves from these entanglements and embrace a fulfilling existence. I prioritize your needs, ensuring that you are the focal point of my attention. Together, we create an environment characterized by openness, curiosity, and compassion.
We all find ourselves entangled in our thoughts and emotions, leading to struggles in various aspects of our lives, including anxiety, depression and relationship issues. However, we possess the power to make a conscious decision to liberate ourselves from these entanglements and embrace a fulfilling existence. I prioritize your needs, ensuring that you are the focal point of my attention. Together, we create an environment characterized by openness, curiosity, and compassion.
(289) 207-1417 View (289) 207-1417
Photo of Esther Bulk, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Bulk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Maybe you or your child are dealing with a difficult life transition, a low mood, anxiety, or perhaps you need an ally, coping strategies, or a new approach with a loved one. Esther has extensive experience supporting children, youth and their families in a variety of ways; from managing various mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety, to supporting individuals with low self-worth, trauma, anger, or aggression. Esther can help with complex family dynamics that are interfering with an individual's functioning. Esther is also practiced in conducting risk assessments and safety planning.
Maybe you or your child are dealing with a difficult life transition, a low mood, anxiety, or perhaps you need an ally, coping strategies, or a new approach with a loved one. Esther has extensive experience supporting children, youth and their families in a variety of ways; from managing various mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety, to supporting individuals with low self-worth, trauma, anger, or aggression. Esther can help with complex family dynamics that are interfering with an individual's functioning. Esther is also practiced in conducting risk assessments and safety planning.
(289) 723-1571 View (289) 723-1571
Photo of Wafa Naseem - Accepting New Clients!, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Wafa Naseem - Accepting New Clients!
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L  (Online Only)
Feeling like life's a rollercoaster you can't get off? Anxiety, ADHD, people-pleasing—everything's hitting you at once. Relationships are rocky, figuring out who you are feels like a puzzle, and work's just exhausting. But deep down, you know you're capable of more and want more than just chaos. You crave clarity, peace, and the skills to handle life's ups and downs with confidence. If this sounds like you, you're in the right place. Together, we'll delve into the root causes, embrace the messiness of being human, and navigate this journey side by side. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Feeling like life's a rollercoaster you can't get off? Anxiety, ADHD, people-pleasing—everything's hitting you at once. Relationships are rocky, figuring out who you are feels like a puzzle, and work's just exhausting. But deep down, you know you're capable of more and want more than just chaos. You crave clarity, peace, and the skills to handle life's ups and downs with confidence. If this sounds like you, you're in the right place. Together, we'll delve into the root causes, embrace the messiness of being human, and navigate this journey side by side. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
(365) 363-1437 View (365) 363-1437
Photo of Sharlene April MacLennan, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sharlene April MacLennan
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
I provide mental health assessments, and evidence-based treatments for diagnosed disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
I know that asking for help can be scary. I also know first hand, that facing difficult times with the right supports and help in place, is easier than facing them alone. Whether you are struggling with intense emotions and thoughts, or it is a behavior that you can not seem to get under control, you do not have to navigate this by yourself. My passion is helping individuals, parents and families learn how to cope and manage more effectively, in order to achieve meaningful change today and hope for the future.
I provide mental health assessments, and evidence-based treatments for diagnosed disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
I know that asking for help can be scary. I also know first hand, that facing difficult times with the right supports and help in place, is easier than facing them alone. Whether you are struggling with intense emotions and thoughts, or it is a behavior that you can not seem to get under control, you do not have to navigate this by yourself. My passion is helping individuals, parents and families learn how to cope and manage more effectively, in order to achieve meaningful change today and hope for the future.
(289) 274-9425 View (289) 274-9425
Photo of Alexandria Magee, BA, RHN, RYT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Alexandria Magee
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, RHN, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9H
A life where you achieve your goals, such as overcoming anxiety or reclaiming a healthy relationship with food, is possible.
You're someone who values personal growth and well-being, but still find yourself struggling with overwhelming anxiety, feeling trapped in a constant state of worry and fear. It's affecting your ability to enjoy life, hindering your relationships, and leaving you feeling powerless. You deserve to experience peace and confidence in your everyday life. You're ready to break free from anxiety's grip, reclaim your inner strength, and rediscover joy and tranquility. Most of all, you're ready to transform into a resilient, empowered individual who lives life to the fullest. I want to help you get there.
A life where you achieve your goals, such as overcoming anxiety or reclaiming a healthy relationship with food, is possible.
You're someone who values personal growth and well-being, but still find yourself struggling with overwhelming anxiety, feeling trapped in a constant state of worry and fear. It's affecting your ability to enjoy life, hindering your relationships, and leaving you feeling powerless. You deserve to experience peace and confidence in your everyday life. You're ready to break free from anxiety's grip, reclaim your inner strength, and rediscover joy and tranquility. Most of all, you're ready to transform into a resilient, empowered individual who lives life to the fullest. I want to help you get there.
(289) 312-8248 View (289) 312-8248
Photo of Maryann El-Dairy - Couples Therapist- Maryann Dawood, MPharm, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Couples Therapist- Maryann Dawood
Registered Psychotherapist, MPharm, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9B  (Online Only)
You’re probably feeling so alone and hopeless right now. The relationship you once looked to for strength and joy is beginning to feel like a source of pain and disconnection. You feel like you have tried everything that you know to make your relationship better. You’ve tried talking about your issues but somehow always end up spiraling into a fight- leaving you feeling frustrated, disconnected and more hurt each time. You worry about where your relationship is headed if something doesn’t change. I want you to know you are in the right place. You can transform your disconnection and negative communication patterns into connection.
You’re probably feeling so alone and hopeless right now. The relationship you once looked to for strength and joy is beginning to feel like a source of pain and disconnection. You feel like you have tried everything that you know to make your relationship better. You’ve tried talking about your issues but somehow always end up spiraling into a fight- leaving you feeling frustrated, disconnected and more hurt each time. You worry about where your relationship is headed if something doesn’t change. I want you to know you are in the right place. You can transform your disconnection and negative communication patterns into connection.
(365) 298-0233 View (365) 298-0233
Photo of Rachel Barletta, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Rachel Barletta
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life, we face hard times. We may find ourselves facing mental and emotional distress; unexpected and stressful changes in our lives; and other challenges that affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Therapy can have great value during times like these, when your usual coping skills may not feel like enough. As an experienced psychotherapist, I am here to support you with compassion and acceptance. I offer therapeutic support for a variety of mental health and personal struggles, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, stress, parenting, perinatal challenges, anger, and more.
Sometimes in life, we face hard times. We may find ourselves facing mental and emotional distress; unexpected and stressful changes in our lives; and other challenges that affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Therapy can have great value during times like these, when your usual coping skills may not feel like enough. As an experienced psychotherapist, I am here to support you with compassion and acceptance. I offer therapeutic support for a variety of mental health and personal struggles, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, stress, parenting, perinatal challenges, anger, and more.
(289) 312-5166 View (289) 312-5166
Photo of Jeffrey Weatherby, DPsych, CPsych, Psychologist
Jeffrey Weatherby
Psychologist, DPsych, CPsych
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8N
Please visit my website to book a free initial consultation at www.hamiltonpsychologist.com. I have extensive experience dealing with clients who feel unsatisfied about themselves or their lives and might be limiting or sabotaging their relationships, their work or even their friendships. This, in turn, might be leading them to feelings of sadness, a lack of motivation, feeling overwhelmed, angry, anxious, panicky, irritable, or even trouble with sleep. Most times, no matter how they try, they can't seem to figure out how to change these difficulties. It's not because they don't want to! I offer a free initial consultation.
Please visit my website to book a free initial consultation at www.hamiltonpsychologist.com. I have extensive experience dealing with clients who feel unsatisfied about themselves or their lives and might be limiting or sabotaging their relationships, their work or even their friendships. This, in turn, might be leading them to feelings of sadness, a lack of motivation, feeling overwhelmed, angry, anxious, panicky, irritable, or even trouble with sleep. Most times, no matter how they try, they can't seem to figure out how to change these difficulties. It's not because they don't want to! I offer a free initial consultation.
(855) 782-3631 View (855) 782-3631
Photo of Stephen Hudecki, BFA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephen Hudecki
Registered Psychotherapist, BFA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
Waitlist for new clients
The imagination is a wonderful tool that can bring answers to help sort out our confusion, anxiety and sorrow.
I bring a mindful/meditative practice, from my own life and from my education to be of service to you and whatever is ailing you. No problem is too big or too small. Whatever is impacting your life, in a negative way is worth sorting through together. I have a special interest in working with people involved in healthcare because I've spent the last 10 years working in hospitals. Pain and suffering are part of life. How we live and learn from our suffering is our life's work. Once we discover ourselves, our true nature, we are free to live with more happiness and love.
The imagination is a wonderful tool that can bring answers to help sort out our confusion, anxiety and sorrow.
I bring a mindful/meditative practice, from my own life and from my education to be of service to you and whatever is ailing you. No problem is too big or too small. Whatever is impacting your life, in a negative way is worth sorting through together. I have a special interest in working with people involved in healthcare because I've spent the last 10 years working in hospitals. Pain and suffering are part of life. How we live and learn from our suffering is our life's work. Once we discover ourselves, our true nature, we are free to live with more happiness and love.
(289) 302-8325 View (289) 302-8325
Photo of Casey Boyce, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Casey Boyce
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
Hi! Congratulations on taking the first step of your mental health journey! Do you struggle with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you going through a life transition that is causing problems and uncertainty in your life? Are you unsure on what your next steps are to develop future life goals? Or perhaps you are struggling with different relationships in your life. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges from a client-focused approach.
Hi! Congratulations on taking the first step of your mental health journey! Do you struggle with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you going through a life transition that is causing problems and uncertainty in your life? Are you unsure on what your next steps are to develop future life goals? Or perhaps you are struggling with different relationships in your life. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges from a client-focused approach.
(289) 806-4939 View (289) 806-4939
Photo of Catherine Howson, MA, RP, CCAC, Registered Psychotherapist
Catherine Howson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Anxiety is understandable.
I am passionate about working with people who are seeking professional and compassionate support to address areas of distress in their lives - including anxiety, depression, grief, stress and substance use concerns, etc. I believe that people are generally resilient and, at times, require support to inventory their coping skills - by tweaking existing skills and/or adding new tools to their coping toolbox - in order to live balanced lives. I can provide treatment for diagnosed or suspected acute trauma, mood and anxiety disorders.
Anxiety is understandable.
I am passionate about working with people who are seeking professional and compassionate support to address areas of distress in their lives - including anxiety, depression, grief, stress and substance use concerns, etc. I believe that people are generally resilient and, at times, require support to inventory their coping skills - by tweaking existing skills and/or adding new tools to their coping toolbox - in order to live balanced lives. I can provide treatment for diagnosed or suspected acute trauma, mood and anxiety disorders.
(289) 272-7490 View (289) 272-7490
Photo of Julian Da Cambra - SolutionFirst Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
SolutionFirst Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
We specialize in anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, BPD, addiction, interpersonal issues, depression and more.
Accepting New Clients! Imagine a therapy clinic that didn't just ask you how your week was, but instead created a plan to help you overcome your problems. Now imagine being matched up with a therapist that is specialized in the problem you face. Now imagine where you could be in 6 months if you work with this plan and apply the steps provided by this specialist. We are a clinic with over 40 therapists, all with different specializations and areas of expertise. We are here to help you overcome the issues you face!
We specialize in anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, BPD, addiction, interpersonal issues, depression and more.
Accepting New Clients! Imagine a therapy clinic that didn't just ask you how your week was, but instead created a plan to help you overcome your problems. Now imagine being matched up with a therapist that is specialized in the problem you face. Now imagine where you could be in 6 months if you work with this plan and apply the steps provided by this specialist. We are a clinic with over 40 therapists, all with different specializations and areas of expertise. We are here to help you overcome the issues you face!
(365) 536-1055 View (365) 536-1055
Photo of Ashley Montreuil, MC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley Montreuil
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8W
I provide a safe place for clients to share their most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I help you figure out what is keeping you stuck and work with you toward the goals that you believe will make your life more fulfilling. I do this by helping you challenge thoughts and beliefs that leave you feeling sad or anxious, helping you understand and share your emotions with others, and by aiding you in changing behaviours you no longer find useful. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
I provide a safe place for clients to share their most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I help you figure out what is keeping you stuck and work with you toward the goals that you believe will make your life more fulfilling. I do this by helping you challenge thoughts and beliefs that leave you feeling sad or anxious, helping you understand and share your emotions with others, and by aiding you in changing behaviours you no longer find useful. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
(365) 601-6417 View (365) 601-6417
Photo of Sarah Yellapa, MSW, RSW
Sarah Yellapa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
My passion for mental health and well-being fuels my commitment to empowering clients in navigating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, perfectionism, stress, bullying, self-harm, ADHD, and emotion regulation.
Hi! I’m Sarah, a fully bilingual (English/French), Registered Social Worker supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and parents seeking new ways to support their child.
My passion for mental health and well-being fuels my commitment to empowering clients in navigating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, perfectionism, stress, bullying, self-harm, ADHD, and emotion regulation.
Hi! I’m Sarah, a fully bilingual (English/French), Registered Social Worker supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and parents seeking new ways to support their child.
(289) 985-1344 View (289) 985-1344
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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.