Anxiety Psychiatrists in Highland Park, IL

Photo of Dr. Amber May, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amber May
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Our areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), & PTSD.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center, where we redefine truly comprehensive whole brain and body health. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple, integrating medicine and mental health in one clinic. You may schedule a visit with our Psychiatric Medical Director, Dr. Amber May, Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist or a combined visit with her physician partner. Our vision has been to offer an all-encompassing approach to wellness, both mental and medical healthcare. Our philosophy is to assess and treat the intrinsic mind body connection and true health encompasses all aspects of care.
Our areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), & PTSD.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center, where we redefine truly comprehensive whole brain and body health. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple, integrating medicine and mental health in one clinic. You may schedule a visit with our Psychiatric Medical Director, Dr. Amber May, Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist or a combined visit with her physician partner. Our vision has been to offer an all-encompassing approach to wellness, both mental and medical healthcare. Our philosophy is to assess and treat the intrinsic mind body connection and true health encompasses all aspects of care.
(847) 796-8967 View (847) 796-8967
Photo of Robin J Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Robin J Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
(312) 520-9603 View (312) 520-9603
Photo of Zachary Harris, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
(847) 320-9489 View (847) 320-9489
Photo of Kathryn Schoenbrod, MD, Psychiatrist
Kathryn Schoenbrod
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)
I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)
(847) 807-1781 View (847) 807-1781
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
(312) 561-3923 View (312) 561-3923
Photo of Brandon Pressley-Williams, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandon Pressley-Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Are you feeling unheard and invalidated? I know that listening and understanding are at the forefront of how care should be provided. I want you to feel confident and empowered that your treatment plan is as unique as you are. I hope you’ll find comfort in knowing I take an individualistic approach with every client I meet. Your needs matter and I want you to feel heard and seen. Whether you need help with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or other concerns, I am here to listen. I work with individuals from all walks of life but have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Are you feeling unheard and invalidated? I know that listening and understanding are at the forefront of how care should be provided. I want you to feel confident and empowered that your treatment plan is as unique as you are. I hope you’ll find comfort in knowing I take an individualistic approach with every client I meet. Your needs matter and I want you to feel heard and seen. Whether you need help with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or other concerns, I am here to listen. I work with individuals from all walks of life but have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(224) 529-3269 View (224) 529-3269
Photo of Harmony L Rich - Rainbow Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rainbow Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Our areas of interest include ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, body positive, sex-positivity, LGBTQ+, trans supportive, trauma, and alternative lifestyles.
Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.
Our areas of interest include ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, body positive, sex-positivity, LGBTQ+, trans supportive, trauma, and alternative lifestyles.
Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will listen to your needs? Welcome to Rainbow Mental Health. We are a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner operated clinic. We are here to help you reach your goals. We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. We focus on the whole person when working with clients and use evidence-based treatments to guide recommendations and our work together. We work with ages 12-55. We have a team of 3 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, when reaching out please let us know if you have a provider preference.
(224) 225-7305 View (224) 225-7305
Photo of Amer Smajkic - Amer Smajkic M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Amer Smajkic M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
Since 1995, Dr. Amer Smajkic has been practicing Psychiatry in the Chicago area. As a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Smajkic is applying his knowledge and skills as a Psycho-pharmacologist, Behaviorist and Cognitive Behavioral therapist. The focus of his care are ADHD disorders, Learning disorders, Developmental disorders, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.
(312) 697-1173 View (312) 697-1173
Photo of Amy Wasserman, MPH, PMHNP, APRN, CNM, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Amy Wasserman
Psychiatric Nurse, MPH, PMHNP, APRN, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.
Whether you are seeking preconception consultation, experiencing new or worsening perinatal mood/anxiety symptoms or managing mood changes related to hormonal transitions during your lifetime (i.e. puberty, lactation weaning, fertility treatments, perimenopause or starting gender-affirming hormones), my goal is to ensure you feel safe to share your story and be informed and knowledgeable about all your options. Together we will develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values and identities. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, alternative and complementary therapies, psychotherapeutic and/or pharmacologic options.
(872) 259-9753 View (872) 259-9753
Photo of Eugene Roginsky - Silver Lining Behavioral Health, LCSW, NP, CADC, LCPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Silver Lining Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, NP, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.
(708) 729-8882 View (708) 729-8882
Photo of Michael R Binder - Michael R. Binder M.D. Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael R. Binder M.D. Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
(847) 929-4808 View (847) 929-4808
Photo of Michelle Wolff, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
(630) 593-7720 View (630) 593-7720
Photo of Harmony Rich, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harmony Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
Getting help shouldn't be hard! Finding the right provider can often be worse than online dating. Are you looking for a medication prescriber who will spend time getting to know you, your unique needs, and actually explain treatment recommendations? I take an integrative and holistic approach to mental health. I focus on the whole person and use evidence-based treatments to guide care. I value the patient experience and want every client to feel fully informed and comfortable with their treatment recommendations. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental environment to help support your mental wellness goals.
(224) 504-1167 View (224) 504-1167
Photo of Jenny Plasky, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenny Plasky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
First things first, it is of vital importance to me that you, my future clients, know that I count it an honor to hold space for you. Yes, I studied. Yes, I understand how medications work and why the ones you are currently on may not be helping. Yes, I feel comfortable transitioning from your current med plan to one that may suit your needs more specifically. However, the most important thing to me as your provider is that you know and trust that I believe that YOU are the best informant of your care. It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, heard, and respected. I provide medication management for clients age 12-60.
First things first, it is of vital importance to me that you, my future clients, know that I count it an honor to hold space for you. Yes, I studied. Yes, I understand how medications work and why the ones you are currently on may not be helping. Yes, I feel comfortable transitioning from your current med plan to one that may suit your needs more specifically. However, the most important thing to me as your provider is that you know and trust that I believe that YOU are the best informant of your care. It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, heard, and respected. I provide medication management for clients age 12-60.
(224) 263-1976 View (224) 263-1976
Photo of Chrisantha E Anandappa, MD, Psychiatrist
Chrisantha E Anandappa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
(224) 532-5426 View (224) 532-5426

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of David Gavin, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
David Gavin
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Gavin focuses on using evidence based psychopharmacology and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treatment to address mental disorders, including depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
Gavin focuses on using evidence based psychopharmacology and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treatment to address mental disorders, including depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
(224) 269-2200 View (224) 269-2200
Photo of Michelle Gavin, MD, Psychiatrist
Michelle Gavin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
(754) 203-4386 View (754) 203-4386
Photo of Olukemi O Ajay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olukemi O Ajay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
My areas of interest include helping people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia.
I am a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
My areas of interest include helping people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia.
I am a Master of Science in Nursing graduate of Walden University and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am responsible for providing my patients with superior, evidence-based care to improve their quality of life. I place a lot of value on developing long-lasting relationships with people.
(224) 272-9623 View (224) 272-9623
Photo of Michael Ficaro, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Ficaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for ten years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for ten years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(847) 423-6645 View (847) 423-6645
Photo of Pooja J Patel, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
My specialty Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Psychosis, Bipolar disorder, and Autism.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
My specialty Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Psychosis, Bipolar disorder, and Autism.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
(779) 237-8721 View (779) 237-8721

See more therapy options for Highland Park

Anxiety Psychiatrists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular 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 Behavioral 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.