Anxiety Therapists in Huntsville, AL

Photo of Wesam 'sam' Shash, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wesam 'sam' Shash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
I believe in the human capacity to change for the better. We all have strengths and possess the natural ability to overcome adversity. My goal is to help you find your strengths and understand the root causes of your struggles. Therapy will assist in the development of positive tools and new perceptions that allow you to experience happiness, fulfillment, & success in your life; whatever that may be for you as an individual. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, & Mental health challenges. I provide individual therapy to diverse populations & ethnicities.
I believe in the human capacity to change for the better. We all have strengths and possess the natural ability to overcome adversity. My goal is to help you find your strengths and understand the root causes of your struggles. Therapy will assist in the development of positive tools and new perceptions that allow you to experience happiness, fulfillment, & success in your life; whatever that may be for you as an individual. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, & Mental health challenges. I provide individual therapy to diverse populations & ethnicities.
(256) 208-3298 View (256) 208-3298
Photo of Tobea Cook Lpc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tobea Cook Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35824
Are you having trouble coping with your everyday lifestyle? Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, suicidal thoughts, or need help navigating through other emotional issues? Please allow me the opportunity to walk alongside you while working through these issues.
I truly believe everyone should have access to counseling no matter where you are. However, coming from a rural town in Alabama with limited resources, I have realized that many people suffer in silence due to fear of the stigma associated with traditional counseling or simply because there are not any counselors available within driving distance. For these reasons I am very passionate about offering flexible treatment options which include traditional sessions and virtual sessions. I counsel individuals, families, couples and groups.
Are you having trouble coping with your everyday lifestyle? Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, suicidal thoughts, or need help navigating through other emotional issues? Please allow me the opportunity to walk alongside you while working through these issues.
I truly believe everyone should have access to counseling no matter where you are. However, coming from a rural town in Alabama with limited resources, I have realized that many people suffer in silence due to fear of the stigma associated with traditional counseling or simply because there are not any counselors available within driving distance. For these reasons I am very passionate about offering flexible treatment options which include traditional sessions and virtual sessions. I counsel individuals, families, couples and groups.
(938) 999-9554 View (938) 999-9554
Photo of David L Barnhart, EdD, LPC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David L Barnhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
He and his staff include the use of exposure and response prevention in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Barnhart leads the exceptional Behavioral Sciences team, which understands teamwork's power in achieving optimal mental health. As an institutional member of the International OCD Foundation, they are at the forefront of cutting-edge treatments for OCD spectrum disorders. Their Intensive OCD Treatment Program is a testament to their commitment to providing unmatched care. Behavioral Science staff treat many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, and evaluating attention and learning difficulties of children, adolescent, and adults.
He and his staff include the use of exposure and response prevention in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Barnhart leads the exceptional Behavioral Sciences team, which understands teamwork's power in achieving optimal mental health. As an institutional member of the International OCD Foundation, they are at the forefront of cutting-edge treatments for OCD spectrum disorders. Their Intensive OCD Treatment Program is a testament to their commitment to providing unmatched care. Behavioral Science staff treat many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, and evaluating attention and learning difficulties of children, adolescent, and adults.
(256) 248-7750 View (256) 248-7750
Photo of Jennifer Alford, MA, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Alford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Additionally, I have experience in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, self-esteem and self-assertiveness needs, stress, grief, phase of life circumstances and gender identity.
My counseling approach is holistic in nature, taking into account the many unique aspects and experiences of each of my clients. Your comfort and trust are the guiding principles of my therapeutic interactions. I value that the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one for most, and with that knowledge, I will strive to meet you where you are with compassion and unconditional positive-regard for all you are experiencing.
Additionally, I have experience in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, self-esteem and self-assertiveness needs, stress, grief, phase of life circumstances and gender identity.
My counseling approach is holistic in nature, taking into account the many unique aspects and experiences of each of my clients. Your comfort and trust are the guiding principles of my therapeutic interactions. I value that the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one for most, and with that knowledge, I will strive to meet you where you are with compassion and unconditional positive-regard for all you are experiencing.
(938) 666-6434 View (938) 666-6434
Photo of Atonte Roxanne Myers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Atonte Roxanne Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Is your marriage falling a part? Are you one step away from calling a divorce attorney? Call me first! Are you feeling sad or anxious? Are you wanting a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, anxiety can be a barrier to peace and happiness. I work with couples, individuals and families helping them to resolve conflict and to find inner peace. As a wife and a mother I understand the challenges that come with marriage and family. As my client you will learn practical tools to overcome these challenges you are facing. You will learn how to reconnect and truly become one again!
Is your marriage falling a part? Are you one step away from calling a divorce attorney? Call me first! Are you feeling sad or anxious? Are you wanting a happier marriage and a deeper connection? Unresolved childhood trauma, depression, anxiety can be a barrier to peace and happiness. I work with couples, individuals and families helping them to resolve conflict and to find inner peace. As a wife and a mother I understand the challenges that come with marriage and family. As my client you will learn practical tools to overcome these challenges you are facing. You will learn how to reconnect and truly become one again!
(256) 363-6230 View (256) 363-6230
Photo of Rachel Derivaux, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Derivaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35811  (Online Only)
Telehealth Provider............Starting therapy is hard & taking that first step to reach out to someone can feel intimidating. I'm here to make that step a little easier. I believe that everyone deserves to have someone in their life who can lend a listening ear. Sometimes it's hard to share our deepest wounds with family & friends...sharing these things in a confidential space with someone who is 100% dedicated to your story & creating safety for you as you process life's toughest moments is essential for healing. In my practice I specialize in anxiety, trauma, & grief.
Telehealth Provider............Starting therapy is hard & taking that first step to reach out to someone can feel intimidating. I'm here to make that step a little easier. I believe that everyone deserves to have someone in their life who can lend a listening ear. Sometimes it's hard to share our deepest wounds with family & friends...sharing these things in a confidential space with someone who is 100% dedicated to your story & creating safety for you as you process life's toughest moments is essential for healing. In my practice I specialize in anxiety, trauma, & grief.
(256) 448-2823 View (256) 448-2823
Photo of Marisa Kennemer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisa Kennemer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
I have experience working with all ages of adults with a variety of concerns, but find I am especially helpful to young professionals that are ready to overcome the roadblocks that stand in the way of a more fulfilling life, including stress, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, and many more.
“Does life really have to be this hard?” For those of us who can’t seem to get out of our own heads, this is life’s big question. My passion is helping people figure out how to stop being their own worst enemy by controlling the overthinking and self-criticism that makes life harder than it has to be.
I have experience working with all ages of adults with a variety of concerns, but find I am especially helpful to young professionals that are ready to overcome the roadblocks that stand in the way of a more fulfilling life, including stress, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, and many more.
“Does life really have to be this hard?” For those of us who can’t seem to get out of our own heads, this is life’s big question. My passion is helping people figure out how to stop being their own worst enemy by controlling the overthinking and self-criticism that makes life harder than it has to be.
(256) 807-2722 View (256) 807-2722
Photo of Kalonda Coleman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kalonda Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35805
I love helping individuals successfully navigate life’s challenges. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards personal goals. I primarily use strength-based and solution-focused techniques, empowering clients to tap into their innate resilience and problem-solving abilities. However, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from various therapeutic modalities as necessary.
I love helping individuals successfully navigate life’s challenges. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards personal goals. I primarily use strength-based and solution-focused techniques, empowering clients to tap into their innate resilience and problem-solving abilities. However, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from various therapeutic modalities as necessary.
(256) 748-0401 View (256) 748-0401
Photo of Alicia Winkle Davila, MA, LPC-S, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Winkle Davila
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Think of it as a place you can finally take your filter off and not have to worry about what you say.
Hi! I'm Alicia. I am a LPC-S in Alabama, LPC in Georgia, and a LCMHC in New Hampshire. I also am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider. I have worked with all populations and believe that the key to therapy with any person is respect. I aim to help clients work through their problems to have a more enjoyable life. I use an integrative therapy approaching incorporating person centered therapy techniques (focuses on building strong rapport and respect between client and therapist) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in order to assist clients in making their thinking more positive and decrease negative thinking habits.
Think of it as a place you can finally take your filter off and not have to worry about what you say.
Hi! I'm Alicia. I am a LPC-S in Alabama, LPC in Georgia, and a LCMHC in New Hampshire. I also am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider. I have worked with all populations and believe that the key to therapy with any person is respect. I aim to help clients work through their problems to have a more enjoyable life. I use an integrative therapy approaching incorporating person centered therapy techniques (focuses on building strong rapport and respect between client and therapist) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in order to assist clients in making their thinking more positive and decrease negative thinking habits.
(256) 384-0800 View (256) 384-0800
Photo of Randy Rush - RDR Counseling Services, LLC, DMin, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
RDR Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35803
Experiencing trauma means a new normal by facing many fears.
When growing up feeling fear, shame or guilt, we can become adults with unresolved childhood messages perceiving fear, shame or guilt. Do you continue to relive blatant family dysfunction or subtle shadow of parents pain? Whichever family script used, these wounds have troubled your spirit, altered thoughts, unregulated emotions, or unhealthy behavior. Have your wounds prevented wholeness? Your internal voice affect ways information is processed. The way the body feels is a direct link to your well-being. Are you ready to end misplaced attempts with pursuits of impulsivity or feelings of isolation and move toward healing.
Experiencing trauma means a new normal by facing many fears.
When growing up feeling fear, shame or guilt, we can become adults with unresolved childhood messages perceiving fear, shame or guilt. Do you continue to relive blatant family dysfunction or subtle shadow of parents pain? Whichever family script used, these wounds have troubled your spirit, altered thoughts, unregulated emotions, or unhealthy behavior. Have your wounds prevented wholeness? Your internal voice affect ways information is processed. The way the body feels is a direct link to your well-being. Are you ready to end misplaced attempts with pursuits of impulsivity or feelings of isolation and move toward healing.
(256) 813-4659 View (256) 813-4659
Photo of Dr. Travis L. Davis, MS, ALC, Counselor
Dr. Travis L. Davis
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
My areas of expertise and specialization include anxiety, depression, anger, grief and behavioral and couple and marriage relationship issues.
Many people were taught early on that emotions and feelings should not be outwardly discussed or displayed; others become aware of the stigma surrounding mental health issues as they mature. This can lead to a fear of being labeled as mentally ill, which often serves as an obstacle to seeking therapy. Unhealthy thought patterns surrounding mental health have led to ongoing, systemic problems that create a lack of public awareness and prioritization of mental health issues. However, change can occur on the individual level once a person makes the courageous decision to seek out counseling, which can provide them with a fresh start.
My areas of expertise and specialization include anxiety, depression, anger, grief and behavioral and couple and marriage relationship issues.
Many people were taught early on that emotions and feelings should not be outwardly discussed or displayed; others become aware of the stigma surrounding mental health issues as they mature. This can lead to a fear of being labeled as mentally ill, which often serves as an obstacle to seeking therapy. Unhealthy thought patterns surrounding mental health have led to ongoing, systemic problems that create a lack of public awareness and prioritization of mental health issues. However, change can occur on the individual level once a person makes the courageous decision to seek out counseling, which can provide them with a fresh start.
(256) 937-2525 View (256) 937-2525
Photo of Reese Jefferson, LPC-S, NCC, MAC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reese Jefferson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, MAC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35805
Hi there :) It is not by accident that you have come across my profile. You have given so much to the point of exhaustion. You may not know who you are anymore. Or maybe you have been holding on to resentful feelings? I can help. It doesn’t matter if you are an adolescent or an adult who is experiencing a diagnosis of a serious mental illness, anxiety, depression, relationship skill difficulties, communication, adjustment issues, and other mental health needs. I listen and collaborate with you on your goals for your life. I pull from your strengths. I am your biggest supporter. Let me help you!
Hi there :) It is not by accident that you have come across my profile. You have given so much to the point of exhaustion. You may not know who you are anymore. Or maybe you have been holding on to resentful feelings? I can help. It doesn’t matter if you are an adolescent or an adult who is experiencing a diagnosis of a serious mental illness, anxiety, depression, relationship skill difficulties, communication, adjustment issues, and other mental health needs. I listen and collaborate with you on your goals for your life. I pull from your strengths. I am your biggest supporter. Let me help you!
(256) 858-7189 View (256) 858-7189
Photo of David R Stephens, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David R Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
We are at the vanguard of a scientific revolution in psychology and neuroscience. Research has repeatedly demonstrated that by synchronizing emotional, behavioral, and physical health, we increase our capacity to understand, cope, and overcome anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, or other issues that prevent us from reaching our maximum potential in life. By implementing the latest research and clinically proven methods/techniques, we are able to gain a much more accurate picture of ourselves and the world around us. Therefore, we are able to find hope, formulate solutions, take action, create opportunities and achieve the life we want.
We are at the vanguard of a scientific revolution in psychology and neuroscience. Research has repeatedly demonstrated that by synchronizing emotional, behavioral, and physical health, we increase our capacity to understand, cope, and overcome anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, or other issues that prevent us from reaching our maximum potential in life. By implementing the latest research and clinically proven methods/techniques, we are able to gain a much more accurate picture of ourselves and the world around us. Therefore, we are able to find hope, formulate solutions, take action, create opportunities and achieve the life we want.
(256) 277-1307 View (256) 277-1307
Photo of Lorna S Bell, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorna S Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I assist clients with managing personal concerns, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression along with building self esteem.
Warm greetings, I am Lorna Bell and I've been available to support individuals for over 20 years with many challenges along life's journey. I am open to serving clients with a willingness and desire for change. Helping you to achieve your healthiest version of yourself. I'd love to help you work through concerns involving mood, anxiety and depression by utilizing Motivational Interviewing skills, CBT and DBT skills. It will be my pleasure to assist you with kindness and compassion with personalized goals and objectives.
I assist clients with managing personal concerns, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression along with building self esteem.
Warm greetings, I am Lorna Bell and I've been available to support individuals for over 20 years with many challenges along life's journey. I am open to serving clients with a willingness and desire for change. Helping you to achieve your healthiest version of yourself. I'd love to help you work through concerns involving mood, anxiety and depression by utilizing Motivational Interviewing skills, CBT and DBT skills. It will be my pleasure to assist you with kindness and compassion with personalized goals and objectives.
(938) 253-9412 View (938) 253-9412
Photo of Amy Player, LPC, LPCS, LPCMHSP, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Player
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, LPCMHSP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35802
I help clients learn how to cope on a daily basis with; relationships, depression, anxiety, codependency, trauma, self esteem, spiritual trauma & LGBTQAI+ issues.
Just so you know, my eyes don't see the person you used to be, I only see the person you are fighting to become! This defines the work I do daily with my clients. The willingness to face things you want to change, is all it takes. Fear is expected as change comes, however we can BUILD a toolbox of coping skills to diminish the fear & anxiety you have. I will support you with empathy & compassion along the pathway to healing. Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart. Peace in your soul is obtainable, let me help you
I help clients learn how to cope on a daily basis with; relationships, depression, anxiety, codependency, trauma, self esteem, spiritual trauma & LGBTQAI+ issues.
Just so you know, my eyes don't see the person you used to be, I only see the person you are fighting to become! This defines the work I do daily with my clients. The willingness to face things you want to change, is all it takes. Fear is expected as change comes, however we can BUILD a toolbox of coping skills to diminish the fear & anxiety you have. I will support you with empathy & compassion along the pathway to healing. Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart. Peace in your soul is obtainable, let me help you
(256) 824-9823 x210 View (256) 824-9823 x210
Photo of Amanda Robinson Wilks, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Robinson Wilks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Welcome! I feel that I act as a guide for my clients on their journey toward self-awareness and self-discovery. I strive to provide a safe and peaceful space in which clients can learn new coping skills to enable them to move toward their life goals. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and insight therapy to help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, loss, anger, relationship issues, and stress. I tailor my counseling style to each individual client's needs.
Welcome! I feel that I act as a guide for my clients on their journey toward self-awareness and self-discovery. I strive to provide a safe and peaceful space in which clients can learn new coping skills to enable them to move toward their life goals. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and insight therapy to help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, loss, anger, relationship issues, and stress. I tailor my counseling style to each individual client's needs.
(256) 829-2535 View (256) 829-2535
Photo of Brynnan Reddy, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brynnan Reddy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
As a therapist, I view counseling as a collaborative journey in healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental space where clients can engage in an interactive process. I have extensive experience working with anxiety and mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship concerns, family conflict, emotion regulation, self harm, grief and loss, and trauma. Additionally, I'm passionate about working with women and couples who are in the process of trying to conceive, pregnant, or in the postpartum stage of life.
As a therapist, I view counseling as a collaborative journey in healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental space where clients can engage in an interactive process. I have extensive experience working with anxiety and mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship concerns, family conflict, emotion regulation, self harm, grief and loss, and trauma. Additionally, I'm passionate about working with women and couples who are in the process of trying to conceive, pregnant, or in the postpartum stage of life.
(256) 666-1064 View (256) 666-1064
Photo of Heidi Carter, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Are you struggling with grief? Have you been diagnosed with anxiety, or have trouble coping with daily stress? Do you struggle with coping in healthy ways? I am here to help. I see adolescents, and adults. I have ample knowledge and experience working with clients who have a history of complex experiences, life adjustments and co-occurring disorders. Whether you're walking through a life adjustment or struggling with deep rooted issues, I would love to be a resource for you in this season.
Are you struggling with grief? Have you been diagnosed with anxiety, or have trouble coping with daily stress? Do you struggle with coping in healthy ways? I am here to help. I see adolescents, and adults. I have ample knowledge and experience working with clients who have a history of complex experiences, life adjustments and co-occurring disorders. Whether you're walking through a life adjustment or struggling with deep rooted issues, I would love to be a resource for you in this season.
(256) 414-8619 View (256) 414-8619
Photo of Heather Blankenship - Heather Blankenship Counseling, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Blankenship Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I work with children and adults who are experiencing difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and loneliness. I work with individuals who are looking for strategies to manage their emotions using healthy coping skills and applying a different understanding to their thought patterns and thinking styles. Many people find it helpful and productive to talk through their experiences, emotions, and behaviors to help them move forward.
I work with children and adults who are experiencing difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and loneliness. I work with individuals who are looking for strategies to manage their emotions using healthy coping skills and applying a different understanding to their thought patterns and thinking styles. Many people find it helpful and productive to talk through their experiences, emotions, and behaviors to help them move forward.
(512) 256-0065 View (512) 256-0065
Photo of Lauren S Grider, ALC, NCC, CCFP, Counselor
Lauren S Grider
Counselor, ALC, NCC, CCFP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Are you passionate about helping others, but struggling with anxiety, depression, and exhaustion? Can you sense someone else's mood or the "vibe" of a room easily? Are you a healthcare worker, teacher, animal rescuer, or other Helper? Do you struggle to find a sense of identity and meaning outside of your work? Do you have ADHD or identify as neurodivergent? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? Are you pouring from an empty cup? Let me help you find yourself again! I can help you learn to make choices based on your core values, to establish healthy boundaries, to choose helpful coping strategies, and to create a more joyful life.
Are you passionate about helping others, but struggling with anxiety, depression, and exhaustion? Can you sense someone else's mood or the "vibe" of a room easily? Are you a healthcare worker, teacher, animal rescuer, or other Helper? Do you struggle to find a sense of identity and meaning outside of your work? Do you have ADHD or identify as neurodivergent? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? Are you pouring from an empty cup? Let me help you find yourself again! I can help you learn to make choices based on your core values, to establish healthy boundaries, to choose helpful coping strategies, and to create a more joyful life.
(256) 598-9989 View (256) 598-9989
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Anxiety Therapists

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.