Anxiety Therapists in DePaul, Chicago, IL

Photo of Frederick Cary Shepard, LCPC, Counselor
Frederick Cary Shepard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
Their main areas of focus include anxiety and mood concerns, discovery around gender and sexuality, as well as support for lived experience of neurodivergence.
Cary Shepard is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2016. They graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. Cary works from an eclectic approach, utilizing tools and theory from a variety of perspectives as it best meets the needs of their clients. Some tools and theories they routinely utilize include DBT, Psychodynamic, Existential and Humanistic and therapies.
Their main areas of focus include anxiety and mood concerns, discovery around gender and sexuality, as well as support for lived experience of neurodivergence.
Cary Shepard is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2016. They graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. Cary works from an eclectic approach, utilizing tools and theory from a variety of perspectives as it best meets the needs of their clients. Some tools and theories they routinely utilize include DBT, Psychodynamic, Existential and Humanistic and therapies.
(872) 205-3354 View (872) 205-3354
Photo of Michelle Elijah, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Elijah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I work predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety/panic, overwhelm/stress, grief/loss and relationship issues. Being an artist myself, I enjoy working with other creatives using the expressive arts to heal, self-soothe, and process trauma. In sessions with me, you can expect a supportive and nurturing space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
I work predominately with teens and adults on issues like anxiety/panic, overwhelm/stress, grief/loss and relationship issues. Being an artist myself, I enjoy working with other creatives using the expressive arts to heal, self-soothe, and process trauma. In sessions with me, you can expect a supportive and nurturing space for us to connect so that you feel seen and heard. I use a holistic and relational approach that encourages you to be an active participant in your own growth and healing. My goal is to help empower you to enhance your relationship with yourself in order to live a life that feels full and authentic.
(312) 940-3369 View (312) 940-3369
Photo of Yarely Reyes, Pre-Licensed Professional
Yarely Reyes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I have predominantly worked with adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
As a first-generation Latina, I am dedicated to supporting healing and wellness across communities of color. I have a passion for working with Latinx individuals, and my goal is to destigmatize thoughts and feelings surrounding mental health within this community. Everyone experiences hardships in their life, and I am here to help guide you through them. It can be difficult to know where to begin, or how get to your desired goals and outcomes, but together we can find those answers. My approach will be tailored to your needs.
I have predominantly worked with adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
As a first-generation Latina, I am dedicated to supporting healing and wellness across communities of color. I have a passion for working with Latinx individuals, and my goal is to destigmatize thoughts and feelings surrounding mental health within this community. Everyone experiences hardships in their life, and I am here to help guide you through them. It can be difficult to know where to begin, or how get to your desired goals and outcomes, but together we can find those answers. My approach will be tailored to your needs.
(872) 253-8354 View (872) 253-8354
Photo of Melissa Goosmann, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Goosmann
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and relationship: whatever your reason for seeking support, you deserve to find a therapist who fits. ​Current times are marked by constant change, challenges, and opportunities. Through understanding and validation, I strive to create an accepting environment for my clients while providing the skills needed to achieve meaningful change. I believe in evidenced-based and collaborative work cultivated by a trusting therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and relationship: whatever your reason for seeking support, you deserve to find a therapist who fits. ​Current times are marked by constant change, challenges, and opportunities. Through understanding and validation, I strive to create an accepting environment for my clients while providing the skills needed to achieve meaningful change. I believe in evidenced-based and collaborative work cultivated by a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(872) 204-0214 View (872) 204-0214
Photo of Natalie Sabo, LCPC, CAADC
Natalie Sabo
LCPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
The process of researching therapists who could be a good fit is overwhelming. Sometimes it's difficult to know what you should even be looking for. My approach is initially focused on developing rapport and ensuring that you feel comfortable with my style of practice. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or just don't feel supported in your relationships (personal or professional), we'll work together to set goals and establish the best route to help you feel less stuck.
The process of researching therapists who could be a good fit is overwhelming. Sometimes it's difficult to know what you should even be looking for. My approach is initially focused on developing rapport and ensuring that you feel comfortable with my style of practice. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or just don't feel supported in your relationships (personal or professional), we'll work together to set goals and establish the best route to help you feel less stuck.
(312) 766-6762 View (312) 766-6762
Photo of Samantha Greenwald, LCPC, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Greenwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
My main areas of treatment focus include experience with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, addiction, and other various life stressors/transitions.
I will begin the therapeutic journey with you by working together to create an individualized treatment plan aimed at the goals you would like to achieve. My overall approach remains solution-focused by encouraging growth and progress over the course of treatment together. Progress can be achieved through the use of evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I wholeheartedly believe your background, personal beliefs, and values are of primary importance leading to a place of health and happiness.
My main areas of treatment focus include experience with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, addiction, and other various life stressors/transitions.
I will begin the therapeutic journey with you by working together to create an individualized treatment plan aimed at the goals you would like to achieve. My overall approach remains solution-focused by encouraging growth and progress over the course of treatment together. Progress can be achieved through the use of evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I wholeheartedly believe your background, personal beliefs, and values are of primary importance leading to a place of health and happiness.
(872) 278-5073 View (872) 278-5073
Photo of Emily Woods, LCPC, Counselor
Emily Woods
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
(312) 436-2271 View (312) 436-2271
Photo of Lisa Rife - Lisa Rife, LCSW llc, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Rife, LCSW llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I am certified in Clinical Anxiety Treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy (MCBT).
I have 21+ yrs experience working with individuals to develop a more meaningful life, facilitating personal growth & finding ways to manage difficult life situations. If you have anxiety/depression, we will identify patterns of thoughts/behaviors that impact your well-being & functioning. People come to therapy for many reasons; to improve communication skills, address trauma, establish boundaries, or understand who they are and their place in the world. if you are unsure of what you need out of therapy, we will work together to figure it out. I am easy to talk to & have a sense of humor. Licensed in IL & CO
I am certified in Clinical Anxiety Treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy (MCBT).
I have 21+ yrs experience working with individuals to develop a more meaningful life, facilitating personal growth & finding ways to manage difficult life situations. If you have anxiety/depression, we will identify patterns of thoughts/behaviors that impact your well-being & functioning. People come to therapy for many reasons; to improve communication skills, address trauma, establish boundaries, or understand who they are and their place in the world. if you are unsure of what you need out of therapy, we will work together to figure it out. I am easy to talk to & have a sense of humor. Licensed in IL & CO
(312) 487-2693 View (312) 487-2693
Photo of Michele D. Briones, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michele D. Briones
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include women's issues, children and adolescent issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
My areas of specialty include women's issues, children and adolescent issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
(331) 979-3003 View (331) 979-3003
Photo of Deborah Birch Gaytan, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Birch Gaytan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
I want to help you reach your full potential, achieve your goals, and better understand yourself. To do this I will help you increase awareness of your healthy and unhealthy patterns and provide you with tools to change unhealthy patterns. I offer empathy and support in this process of developing your strengths. I have helped people attain the relationships they desired, achieve job satisfaction, and feel confident about their bodies and their lives. I have also helped many people successfully navigate through familial concerns, life transitions, identity issues, sexuality issues, depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
I want to help you reach your full potential, achieve your goals, and better understand yourself. To do this I will help you increase awareness of your healthy and unhealthy patterns and provide you with tools to change unhealthy patterns. I offer empathy and support in this process of developing your strengths. I have helped people attain the relationships they desired, achieve job satisfaction, and feel confident about their bodies and their lives. I have also helped many people successfully navigate through familial concerns, life transitions, identity issues, sexuality issues, depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
(312) 566-8956 View (312) 566-8956
Photo of Ashley Barrient, MEd, LCPC
Ashley Barrient
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
Ashley guides her clients in managing anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, and eating disorders. Ashley supports many clients with pre and post bariatric surgery care. Ashley provides a warm environment for self-exploration and growth. She offers a supportive space to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences and works collaboratively with her clients to explore strategies to overcome or gain acceptance around challenges, increase engagement in self-care, and optimize how clients navigate and engage in life experiences to live fully.
Ashley guides her clients in managing anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, and eating disorders. Ashley supports many clients with pre and post bariatric surgery care. Ashley provides a warm environment for self-exploration and growth. She offers a supportive space to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences and works collaboratively with her clients to explore strategies to overcome or gain acceptance around challenges, increase engagement in self-care, and optimize how clients navigate and engage in life experiences to live fully.
(773) 945-1476 View (773) 945-1476
Photo of Marla Micor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marla Micor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I have extensive experience with LGBTIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and mindfulness.
Possibly one of the most overlooked yet effective approaches to taking care of yourself is the simple act of listening" “listening to yourself, listening to your body, and having someone you trust listening to you. Listening is where I like to start "“ to ensure that before anything else, I take the time to understand who you are. Each individual takes a unique path and one of my goals is to embrace that in a collaborative and open treatment experience. I take a nonjudgmental and empowering approach to ensure that my clients are strengthening their sense of self while acknowledging the past and present challenges.
I have extensive experience with LGBTIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and mindfulness.
Possibly one of the most overlooked yet effective approaches to taking care of yourself is the simple act of listening" “listening to yourself, listening to your body, and having someone you trust listening to you. Listening is where I like to start "“ to ensure that before anything else, I take the time to understand who you are. Each individual takes a unique path and one of my goals is to embrace that in a collaborative and open treatment experience. I take a nonjudgmental and empowering approach to ensure that my clients are strengthening their sense of self while acknowledging the past and present challenges.
(872) 250-4692 View (872) 250-4692
Photo of Ari Goldstein - Cognitive Solutions Learning Center, Inc., MA, PhD, Psychologist
Cognitive Solutions Learning Center, Inc.
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
Cognitive Solutions Learning Center in Chicago, Illinois offers a staff composed of highly educated trained specialists from a variety of disciplines. Our focus is on proper diagnosis and research based treatment for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Learning Disabilities (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia), Autism, Anxiety, PTSD, and Depression. In addition to comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological testing, our programs include EEG neurofeedback, educational therapy, psychotherapy, tutoring, and executive functioning skills training.
Cognitive Solutions Learning Center in Chicago, Illinois offers a staff composed of highly educated trained specialists from a variety of disciplines. Our focus is on proper diagnosis and research based treatment for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Learning Disabilities (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia), Autism, Anxiety, PTSD, and Depression. In addition to comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological testing, our programs include EEG neurofeedback, educational therapy, psychotherapy, tutoring, and executive functioning skills training.
(872) 252-7706 View (872) 252-7706
Photo of Deepa Patel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deepa Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
She has gained practice working with adolescents and adults whom encounter depression, anxiety, trauma, couple relations and identity development.
Deepa Patel is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who offers individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage therapy and family therapy for adolescents and adults who seek support in transforming their lives and relationships. Deepa's approach to therapy focuses on using experiential, mindfulness and systemic method. Her nonjudgmental environment helps clients explore the tools they bring to therapy along with learning how to utilize those tools to improve symptoms. Deepa strives to provide clients with insight that leads to change in ways that are more authentic to the client.
She has gained practice working with adolescents and adults whom encounter depression, anxiety, trauma, couple relations and identity development.
Deepa Patel is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who offers individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage therapy and family therapy for adolescents and adults who seek support in transforming their lives and relationships. Deepa's approach to therapy focuses on using experiential, mindfulness and systemic method. Her nonjudgmental environment helps clients explore the tools they bring to therapy along with learning how to utilize those tools to improve symptoms. Deepa strives to provide clients with insight that leads to change in ways that are more authentic to the client.
(872) 201-5292 View (872) 201-5292
Photo of Natalie Woulf, LCPC
Natalie Woulf
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I do specialize in treating all of the aforementioned concerns of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, mood instability, life transitions, and trauma/PTSD.
I am currently a licensed clinical professional counselor and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I received my BA in psychology from the University of Arizona (Go Cats! ) and then received my MA in counseling psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where I specialized in treating both mental health and substance abuse concerns. My experience has been primary with adults, adolescents, and their families who struggle with co-occurring concerns, which include substance abuse, anxiety/depression/mood instability, and additional concerns related to experiencing trauma.
I do specialize in treating all of the aforementioned concerns of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, mood instability, life transitions, and trauma/PTSD.
I am currently a licensed clinical professional counselor and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I received my BA in psychology from the University of Arizona (Go Cats! ) and then received my MA in counseling psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where I specialized in treating both mental health and substance abuse concerns. My experience has been primary with adults, adolescents, and their families who struggle with co-occurring concerns, which include substance abuse, anxiety/depression/mood instability, and additional concerns related to experiencing trauma.
(872) 219-0790 View (872) 219-0790
Photo of Nikki Diaz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikki Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I enjoy working with adults, teens, and adolescents with issues related to anxiety, depression, traumatic life events, life transitions, relationships, and self-esteem.
Everyone has the right to openly express their feelings, understand their emotions, and learn new skills to alleviate stress and challenges experienced throughout life. I understand how difficult the first steps may be and I am motivated to help those in need reach their personal goals. The power of listening to and speaking with each other while using skills learned in sessions can create amazing changes that I seek to see in my clients. By creating a safe space together where you can feel comfortable, understood, and free of judgment, the power of growth and healing will come hand in hand.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, and adolescents with issues related to anxiety, depression, traumatic life events, life transitions, relationships, and self-esteem.
Everyone has the right to openly express their feelings, understand their emotions, and learn new skills to alleviate stress and challenges experienced throughout life. I understand how difficult the first steps may be and I am motivated to help those in need reach their personal goals. The power of listening to and speaking with each other while using skills learned in sessions can create amazing changes that I seek to see in my clients. By creating a safe space together where you can feel comfortable, understood, and free of judgment, the power of growth and healing will come hand in hand.
(312) 262-5575 View (312) 262-5575
Photo of Maureen D. Zigulich, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen D. Zigulich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I have a background as a marketing/advertising professional, fitness instructor/division 1 athlete, and comedic writer lay a foundation for empathy with those who struggle with relationships, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and navigating life transitions.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to knowing yourself. Seeking therapy is a brave and honorable act. Healing and growth come from inviting ourselves to listen to our mind and body so we are able to approach life with self awareness and acceptance. By creating a safe space where one can feel heard, understood and accepted, I use humor and warmth to help clients gain insight, self awareness and finding resiliency in life's challenges.
I have a background as a marketing/advertising professional, fitness instructor/division 1 athlete, and comedic writer lay a foundation for empathy with those who struggle with relationships, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and navigating life transitions.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to knowing yourself. Seeking therapy is a brave and honorable act. Healing and growth come from inviting ourselves to listen to our mind and body so we are able to approach life with self awareness and acceptance. By creating a safe space where one can feel heard, understood and accepted, I use humor and warmth to help clients gain insight, self awareness and finding resiliency in life's challenges.
(312) 626-8232 View (312) 626-8232
Photo of Missy Williams, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Missy Williams
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
Missy is trained in treating anxiety, depression, social-emotional deficits, ADHD, trauma, low self-esteem, and interpersonal challenges.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
Missy is trained in treating anxiety, depression, social-emotional deficits, ADHD, trauma, low self-esteem, and interpersonal challenges.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
(872) 204-1198 View (872) 204-1198
Photo of Kate Kelley-Schneider, LCPC, Counselor
Kate Kelley-Schneider
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
(847) 416-2867 View (847) 416-2867
Photo of Mary Questad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Questad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DePaul, Chicago, IL 60614
I love working with children, the inner child in every adult and couples. I particularly specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, developmental delays, ADHD and behavior issues. I take a warm, collaborative and judgement-free approach. I’ll include you in your treatment planning because I think you’ll be more invested in a plan if you had a part in creating it.
I love working with children, the inner child in every adult and couples. I particularly specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, developmental delays, ADHD and behavior issues. I take a warm, collaborative and judgement-free approach. I’ll include you in your treatment planning because I think you’ll be more invested in a plan if you had a part in creating it.
(312) 376-3023 View (312) 376-3023

See more therapy options for DePaul, Chicago

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.