Anxiety Therapists in Germantown, MD

Photo of Megan Mills, LCPC
Megan Mills
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Megan Mills is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who is committed to providing quality treatment for anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, adjusting to life changes, and other issues. Megan has over 8 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples for treatment of mental illnesses in inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Community Counseling at Johns Hopkins University. She has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Megan Mills is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who is committed to providing quality treatment for anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, adjusting to life changes, and other issues. Megan has over 8 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples for treatment of mental illnesses in inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Community Counseling at Johns Hopkins University. She has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(301) 321-8331 View (301) 321-8331
Photo of Nicole McAnally-Turner, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Nicole McAnally-Turner
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
I specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ODD, ADHD, parent/child relational issues, gender dysphoria, and dual-diagnoses.
I have been working as a licensed therapist since 2016 but have been working with people for over 14 years. I have experience working with a diverse group of clients, with a wide range of treatment needs. Facing life’s difficulties can be overwhelming. I am here to provide a confidential environment where therapy is a collaborative process. It is my goal to help my clients gain the necessary tools to aid in healing and a positive mindset. It is my belief that mental health and physical health work hand-in-hand with neither one more important than the other.
I specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ODD, ADHD, parent/child relational issues, gender dysphoria, and dual-diagnoses.
I have been working as a licensed therapist since 2016 but have been working with people for over 14 years. I have experience working with a diverse group of clients, with a wide range of treatment needs. Facing life’s difficulties can be overwhelming. I am here to provide a confidential environment where therapy is a collaborative process. It is my goal to help my clients gain the necessary tools to aid in healing and a positive mindset. It is my belief that mental health and physical health work hand-in-hand with neither one more important than the other.
(301) 900-5720 View (301) 900-5720
Photo of Dr. Ali Koochek, PsyD, LCPC
Dr. Ali Koochek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
My ideal client is eager to explore their emotions and experiences in a supportive environment. They might be dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem problems, or the aftermath of trauma. These clients need a safe space to express themselves, receive active listening, and develop effective coping strategies. For those who have experienced trauma, my approach is tailored to their unique needs. I prioritize creating a trusting relationship where clients feel secure enough to share their experiences. Using TFCBT interventions, I help them process and integrate their experiences to reduce distress and promote healing.
My ideal client is eager to explore their emotions and experiences in a supportive environment. They might be dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem problems, or the aftermath of trauma. These clients need a safe space to express themselves, receive active listening, and develop effective coping strategies. For those who have experienced trauma, my approach is tailored to their unique needs. I prioritize creating a trusting relationship where clients feel secure enough to share their experiences. Using TFCBT interventions, I help them process and integrate their experiences to reduce distress and promote healing.
(240) 873-2451 View (240) 873-2451
Photo of Paul White, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul White
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
I specialize in integrative somatic psychotherapy for young adults and teens, helping you manage trauma and anxiety.
Feeling stressed about university or life as a young adult? Overwhelmed by the world's challenges or looking for balance? I'm here to help! Together, we'll create a therapy plan just for you, tackling the emotional weight of being a young adult. Let's find your passion and purpose again. Build resilience, gain clarity, and feel stronger. Your thoughts and ideas deserve the best support.
I specialize in integrative somatic psychotherapy for young adults and teens, helping you manage trauma and anxiety.
Feeling stressed about university or life as a young adult? Overwhelmed by the world's challenges or looking for balance? I'm here to help! Together, we'll create a therapy plan just for you, tackling the emotional weight of being a young adult. Let's find your passion and purpose again. Build resilience, gain clarity, and feel stronger. Your thoughts and ideas deserve the best support.
(240) 266-0209 View (240) 266-0209
Photo of Delverene Mills, MPA, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Delverene Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
If you are ready to take the next step in learning how to manage your anger, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, bipolar disorder, stress and relationships schedule an appointment with me.
Are you looking for a change and a way to erase the stigma within communities that seeking outside help is not what "we" do? I believe you are, as you took the first big step to do the research. I am proud of you! Therapy is a way for people from all walks of life to express themselves while learning effective therapeutic positive skills to assist with managing their everyday life through the various trials and tribulations they may face.
If you are ready to take the next step in learning how to manage your anger, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, bipolar disorder, stress and relationships schedule an appointment with me.
Are you looking for a change and a way to erase the stigma within communities that seeking outside help is not what "we" do? I believe you are, as you took the first big step to do the research. I am proud of you! Therapy is a way for people from all walks of life to express themselves while learning effective therapeutic positive skills to assist with managing their everyday life through the various trials and tribulations they may face.
(240) 775-1375 View (240) 775-1375
Photo of Keisha Hawthorne-Jones, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keisha Hawthorne-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
I focus on helping clients navigate difficult life transitions, anxiety, stress, grief/loss, communication and family/relationship issues.
Are you feeling isolated while experiencing a major life change? Are you looking for a safe space to share and grow? Would you like to address the issues of your past, abandonment, toxic relationships, grief/loss or workplace stress? Do you need practical skills managing depression and anxiety? Need help with communication in your relationship? Congratulations, you’re looking in the right place! You decided to take the initial step on your quest of healing and self-discovery. It takes courage to put yourself and your well-being first and I applaud you! Allow me to join you on the journey to prioritize your mental health.
I focus on helping clients navigate difficult life transitions, anxiety, stress, grief/loss, communication and family/relationship issues.
Are you feeling isolated while experiencing a major life change? Are you looking for a safe space to share and grow? Would you like to address the issues of your past, abandonment, toxic relationships, grief/loss or workplace stress? Do you need practical skills managing depression and anxiety? Need help with communication in your relationship? Congratulations, you’re looking in the right place! You decided to take the initial step on your quest of healing and self-discovery. It takes courage to put yourself and your well-being first and I applaud you! Allow me to join you on the journey to prioritize your mental health.
(443) 294-7346 View (443) 294-7346
Photo of Nina Anagnostopoulos, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Nina Anagnostopoulos
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in working with adults who experience persistent anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, family conflict, multicultural issues, and difficulty around life transitions. More specifically, I support clients with challenges around mood, assertiveness, self-esteem, boundary-setting, “people pleasing”, frequent guilt, neglect, or just not feeling good enough. I work especially well with those who have experienced unhealthy relationship dynamics, such as emotional abuse or manipulation. My background as a first-generation Greek-American has also contributed to my knowledge of and interest in cross-cultural concerns.
Welcome! I specialize in working with adults who experience persistent anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, family conflict, multicultural issues, and difficulty around life transitions. More specifically, I support clients with challenges around mood, assertiveness, self-esteem, boundary-setting, “people pleasing”, frequent guilt, neglect, or just not feeling good enough. I work especially well with those who have experienced unhealthy relationship dynamics, such as emotional abuse or manipulation. My background as a first-generation Greek-American has also contributed to my knowledge of and interest in cross-cultural concerns.
(301) 321-8787 View (301) 321-8787
Photo of Nakia Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nakia Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with diverse populations treating depression, anxiety, trauma, financial wellness, addictions and family issues, in individual, group and/or family/couples therapy sessions.
How we respond or react to people, places or things both personally and professionally, can be traced back to our past, past hurts, past experiences, past trauma, etc., they are also indicators of whether we are surviving or thriving. The unhealed parts of our past, impact our ability to respond while thriving, causing reactions in order to survive, how are your unhealed parts showing up? In 2018, I graduated with a Master of Social Work degree concentrating in Public Health, from Morgan State University in Baltimore Maryland. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), I have been in private practice for 4 years now.
I am experienced in working with diverse populations treating depression, anxiety, trauma, financial wellness, addictions and family issues, in individual, group and/or family/couples therapy sessions.
How we respond or react to people, places or things both personally and professionally, can be traced back to our past, past hurts, past experiences, past trauma, etc., they are also indicators of whether we are surviving or thriving. The unhealed parts of our past, impact our ability to respond while thriving, causing reactions in order to survive, how are your unhealed parts showing up? In 2018, I graduated with a Master of Social Work degree concentrating in Public Health, from Morgan State University in Baltimore Maryland. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), I have been in private practice for 4 years now.
(240) 387-8362 View (240) 387-8362
Photo of Lolita Ramsey - Dream Counseling, LCPC, Counselor
Dream Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Living with anxiety, depression, or another mood disorder can cause you to feel crippled or stuck. It seems like you have no control over your life and struggle to manage relationships with your friends, family, and peers. Emotional distress may make it hard to complete simple task and achieve goals. Many times you probably feel misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to feel understood and to be able to better understand you own emotions, thoughts, and symptoms. You would feel like you are finally being heard and gain confidence in your ability to solve your problems, manage your mood, and overcome past experiences.
Living with anxiety, depression, or another mood disorder can cause you to feel crippled or stuck. It seems like you have no control over your life and struggle to manage relationships with your friends, family, and peers. Emotional distress may make it hard to complete simple task and achieve goals. Many times you probably feel misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to feel understood and to be able to better understand you own emotions, thoughts, and symptoms. You would feel like you are finally being heard and gain confidence in your ability to solve your problems, manage your mood, and overcome past experiences.
(301) 685-0506 View (301) 685-0506
Photo of Tiffani Smithson, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffani Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20875  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with busy Moms' of color, struggling with depression and anxiety along with couples (dating, premarital, married).
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
My specialty is working with busy Moms' of color, struggling with depression and anxiety along with couples (dating, premarital, married).
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
(240) 226-1392 View (240) 226-1392
Photo of Audrey Elkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Elkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
(301) 298-3347 View (301) 298-3347
Photo of Kim Rowan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Rowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
(301) 265-3640 View (301) 265-3640
Photo of Erin Yurchenko, MA, EdS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Yurchenko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
My clinical strengths are treating anxiety, stress, trauma, adjustment, relational issues and grief/loss.
Seeking therapy is a brave first step! My work largely centers around women's issues, healing from trauma, young adult adjustment issues, relationship difficulties, and helping clients struggling with anxiety (OCD/GAD). My goal is to help my clients reach their full potential in their personal, relational and professional lives.
My clinical strengths are treating anxiety, stress, trauma, adjustment, relational issues and grief/loss.
Seeking therapy is a brave first step! My work largely centers around women's issues, healing from trauma, young adult adjustment issues, relationship difficulties, and helping clients struggling with anxiety (OCD/GAD). My goal is to help my clients reach their full potential in their personal, relational and professional lives.
(240) 771-3672 View (240) 771-3672
Photo of Erica Moran Etter, Psychologist
Erica Moran Etter
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultations. To treat anxiety and mood disorders, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, incorporating gradual exposure therapy when appropriate. I also have extensive experience utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP) to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as using Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I integrate elements of family systems, motivational interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as needed for each client.
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultations. To treat anxiety and mood disorders, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, incorporating gradual exposure therapy when appropriate. I also have extensive experience utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP) to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as using Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I integrate elements of family systems, motivational interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as needed for each client.
(240) 213-8434 View (240) 213-8434
Photo of Aisha Meertins, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aisha Meertins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in some way? Do you find yourself not knowing how to manage overwhelming feelings, overwhelming anxiety, or overwhelming stressors? I believe the the clients I work with are their own biggest advocate in directing their path to improved functioning. I'm committed to helping my clients become the best version of themselves they seek to be. I aim to help my clients develop insight into areas of their life which may be challenging as well as learn skills for overcoming barriers to change.
Do you feel stuck in some way? Do you find yourself not knowing how to manage overwhelming feelings, overwhelming anxiety, or overwhelming stressors? I believe the the clients I work with are their own biggest advocate in directing their path to improved functioning. I'm committed to helping my clients become the best version of themselves they seek to be. I aim to help my clients develop insight into areas of their life which may be challenging as well as learn skills for overcoming barriers to change.
(240) 201-2998 View (240) 201-2998
Photo of Andrea Morley - Connected Wellness LLC, LCSW-C
Connected Wellness LLC
LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
(410) 896-1622 View (410) 896-1622
Photo of Adrienne Gardner, LCSW -C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
(240) 820-3863 View (240) 820-3863
Photo of Janay Taylor, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janay Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is seeking to work with clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, parenting education, communication, and relationship issues.  Janay completed both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University. She comes from an environment of working with people involved in the Child Welfare system, guiding them towards reunifying children with birth families.
Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is seeking to work with clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, parenting education, communication, and relationship issues.  Janay completed both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University. She comes from an environment of working with people involved in the Child Welfare system, guiding them towards reunifying children with birth families.
(240) 376-5013 View (240) 376-5013
Photo of Stanley Tamale - Stanley Tamale Counseling Services, LCPC
Stanley Tamale Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Stanley Tamale is a Licensed Professional Counselor in state of Maryland specializing in adult, adolescent and group counseling. Stanley completed his Masters degree at the Grand Canyon University and his bachelor's in psychology from the University of North Texas. Stanley has extensive experience treating disturbances such as substance abuse, anger, depression anxiety and mood disorders. Stanley has provided counseling and education services to teenagers and adults struggling with substance abuse and dual diagnosis disorders. Stanley's therapeutic models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution focused Therapy.
Stanley Tamale is a Licensed Professional Counselor in state of Maryland specializing in adult, adolescent and group counseling. Stanley completed his Masters degree at the Grand Canyon University and his bachelor's in psychology from the University of North Texas. Stanley has extensive experience treating disturbances such as substance abuse, anger, depression anxiety and mood disorders. Stanley has provided counseling and education services to teenagers and adults struggling with substance abuse and dual diagnosis disorders. Stanley's therapeutic models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution focused Therapy.
(301) 820-7864 View (301) 820-7864
Photo of Kathleen Murray, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Katie works to provide her clients with education around mindfulness techniques, supporting them in gaining effective tools to manage presenting symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression, to help empower their sense of confidence, self-awareness and emotional regulation throughout the course of therapy.
Katie is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical. She maintains a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach with all clients. Katie is a welcoming and affirming therapist for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The basis of her work with clients is supported by the frameworks of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Katie is on the national registry of therapists certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and specializes in working with individuals who have a history of acute and complex traumatic experiences.
Katie works to provide her clients with education around mindfulness techniques, supporting them in gaining effective tools to manage presenting symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression, to help empower their sense of confidence, self-awareness and emotional regulation throughout the course of therapy.
Katie is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical. She maintains a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach with all clients. Katie is a welcoming and affirming therapist for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The basis of her work with clients is supported by the frameworks of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Katie is on the national registry of therapists certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and specializes in working with individuals who have a history of acute and complex traumatic experiences.
(301) 478-9282 View (301) 478-9282
1
...
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.