Anxiety Therapists in Kentfield, CA

Photo of Diane E Donnelly, PhD, Psychologist
Diane E Donnelly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Therapy can be a source of tremendous relief and gratification. Unhappiness and anxiety that feel unbearable can lessen and disappear when you have someone who can help you understand the reasons for your suffering. A good therapist can also help you more easily get your mind off upsetting thoughts that preoccupy you. Or if you find yourself acting in self-defeating ways, studying it with a therapist can be of enormous help. Ideally, you will leave an initial consultation with a new way of thinking about the problem that brought you in.
Therapy can be a source of tremendous relief and gratification. Unhappiness and anxiety that feel unbearable can lessen and disappear when you have someone who can help you understand the reasons for your suffering. A good therapist can also help you more easily get your mind off upsetting thoughts that preoccupy you. Or if you find yourself acting in self-defeating ways, studying it with a therapist can be of enormous help. Ideally, you will leave an initial consultation with a new way of thinking about the problem that brought you in.
(415) 702-3387 View (415) 702-3387
Photo of Lisa Hamilton, MC, LPCC
Lisa Hamilton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
No matter what you’re going through, you can transform your life. And you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling down about yourself or your life, not sure how to handle relationship problems, or working through the impacts of trauma, I can help you better understand your circumstances and find your way forward.
No matter what you’re going through, you can transform your life. And you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling down about yourself or your life, not sure how to handle relationship problems, or working through the impacts of trauma, I can help you better understand your circumstances and find your way forward.
(415) 322-1606 View (415) 322-1606
Photo of Stephany Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephany Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Anxiety, addiction, trauma, and relationships are my areas of expertise. I am a heady-yet-mindful person who works well with clients struggling with over-thinking, people-pleasing, and perfectionism. Many of my clients are creative, sensitive, and driven individuals who came from dysfunctional families and want to feel calmer and more free. I see entrepreneurs, co-founders, parents, couples, and individuals struggling in their relationships. I have a private practice in Marin County (Bay Area), CA, where I offer virtual and face-to-face therapy, consultation, and coaching for individuals and relationships.
Anxiety, addiction, trauma, and relationships are my areas of expertise. I am a heady-yet-mindful person who works well with clients struggling with over-thinking, people-pleasing, and perfectionism. Many of my clients are creative, sensitive, and driven individuals who came from dysfunctional families and want to feel calmer and more free. I see entrepreneurs, co-founders, parents, couples, and individuals struggling in their relationships. I have a private practice in Marin County (Bay Area), CA, where I offer virtual and face-to-face therapy, consultation, and coaching for individuals and relationships.
(628) 261-6144 View (628) 261-6144
Photo of Dr. Myra Gueco Bernecker, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Myra Gueco Bernecker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
Furthermore, incorporating my therapy dog into sessions, if desired, can help reduce stress and anxiety, enhance mood, boost self-esteem, lessen fears, and build trusting relationships.
Depth-orientation Jungian therapy for adults offers more than relief from symptoms. It provides an understanding of symptoms as symbols that potentially point the way to greater development and wholeness; allowing for the emergence of your true self. In therapy, we build a trusting, deeply connected relationship that holds and contains deep emotional experiences. Ultimately accessing these deep and disowned parts of psyche lays the groundwork for healing and wholeness, a process also known as individuation.
Furthermore, incorporating my therapy dog into sessions, if desired, can help reduce stress and anxiety, enhance mood, boost self-esteem, lessen fears, and build trusting relationships.
Depth-orientation Jungian therapy for adults offers more than relief from symptoms. It provides an understanding of symptoms as symbols that potentially point the way to greater development and wholeness; allowing for the emergence of your true self. In therapy, we build a trusting, deeply connected relationship that holds and contains deep emotional experiences. Ultimately accessing these deep and disowned parts of psyche lays the groundwork for healing and wholeness, a process also known as individuation.
(415) 354-4241 View (415) 354-4241
Photo of Robin Keating, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Keating
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
As we explore your feelings, fears, and obstacles, I'll integrate observations and dynamic interventions from a full range of modalities and theoretical approaches.
Hello, I'd like to talk with you about how we can work together. I know it takes strength to reveal yourself to another person. It's possible to calm your storms, navigate challenges & achieve lasting results. It's about commitment, and exploration guided by a therapist you trust. I'll bring to our sessions my professional experience - anchored in multiple modalities and a deep understanding of people and relationships - to help you better understand your thoughts and emotions. I'll also bring my extensive work-world experience with people and organizations beyond the therapy setting.
As we explore your feelings, fears, and obstacles, I'll integrate observations and dynamic interventions from a full range of modalities and theoretical approaches.
Hello, I'd like to talk with you about how we can work together. I know it takes strength to reveal yourself to another person. It's possible to calm your storms, navigate challenges & achieve lasting results. It's about commitment, and exploration guided by a therapist you trust. I'll bring to our sessions my professional experience - anchored in multiple modalities and a deep understanding of people and relationships - to help you better understand your thoughts and emotions. I'll also bring my extensive work-world experience with people and organizations beyond the therapy setting.
(415) 942-9164 View (415) 942-9164
Photo of Robert P. Reiser, PhD, Psychologist
Robert P. Reiser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
I take a compassionate recovery-oriented approach that emphasizes the value of returning to meaningful activities in your life even if you are feeling quite depressed, anxious, or confused.
I provide compassionate and caring evidence based treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I treat problems including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, panic, PTSD and OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I work primarily with adults, older adults, adolescents (ages 16+) and their families. Cognitive therapy is active, directive, and structured- each session focuses on a specific set of problems. I am especially interested in helping young adults who are experiencing more complex and serious mental illnesses (such as bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders) and their families.
I take a compassionate recovery-oriented approach that emphasizes the value of returning to meaningful activities in your life even if you are feeling quite depressed, anxious, or confused.
I provide compassionate and caring evidence based treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I treat problems including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, panic, PTSD and OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I work primarily with adults, older adults, adolescents (ages 16+) and their families. Cognitive therapy is active, directive, and structured- each session focuses on a specific set of problems. I am especially interested in helping young adults who are experiencing more complex and serious mental illnesses (such as bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders) and their families.
(415) 967-5270 View (415) 967-5270
Photo of Bert Faerstein, PhD, Psychologist
Bert Faerstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Many of the children I see exhibit problems paying attention and controlling their impulses, which interfere with making friends and with doing well in school while others struggle with anxiety and depression.
I treat adults as well as adolescents and children, most frequently through individual therapy. I also work with couples. I work with people with a wide range of problems and especially enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety in relationships or at work . I also enjoy working with people who are unhappy and don't know why, and people who are repeating self-defeating patterns they feel unable to change. Meeting with a well-trained and experienced therapist can be a powerful and effective way of strengthening one's confidence and developing a personal sense of control over one's life.
Many of the children I see exhibit problems paying attention and controlling their impulses, which interfere with making friends and with doing well in school while others struggle with anxiety and depression.
I treat adults as well as adolescents and children, most frequently through individual therapy. I also work with couples. I work with people with a wide range of problems and especially enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety in relationships or at work . I also enjoy working with people who are unhappy and don't know why, and people who are repeating self-defeating patterns they feel unable to change. Meeting with a well-trained and experienced therapist can be a powerful and effective way of strengthening one's confidence and developing a personal sense of control over one's life.
(415) 787-4616 View (415) 787-4616
Photo of Arianna Sifuentes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arianna Sifuentes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
Are you LGBTQIA+ and seeking support? Maybe you're tired of therapy that is just "LGBTQIA+ friendly" and not whole-heartedly LGBTQIA+ and trans-affirming. Or maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist who understands and validates your unique experiences. Regardless of where you are in your journey, I welcome you here. As a queer therapist, my practice is dedicated to providing affirming and celebratory therapy for individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, complex trauma, boundaries, attachment, communication, and relationships.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and seeking support? Maybe you're tired of therapy that is just "LGBTQIA+ friendly" and not whole-heartedly LGBTQIA+ and trans-affirming. Or maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist who understands and validates your unique experiences. Regardless of where you are in your journey, I welcome you here. As a queer therapist, my practice is dedicated to providing affirming and celebratory therapy for individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, complex trauma, boundaries, attachment, communication, and relationships.
(415) 943-1185 View (415) 943-1185
Photo of Alyssa Steiger, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyssa Steiger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
I work with women of all ages on issues such as life transitions, relationships, work-life balance, finding meaning, anxiety, depression, infertility, perinatal issues, family stress, hormonal changes, health/weight management, grief and loss, and bipolar disorder.
Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns that you don't know how to break? Or struggling with something and thinking you might need extra support? Whether we tackle long-standing issues or address an immediate problem, you will find this integrative therapy useful and be grateful you took up this endeavor. I have a very modern, honest and direct style of communicating that allows us to focus on your goals in a collaborative and constructive way, but more importantly, in a way that makes sense to you.
I work with women of all ages on issues such as life transitions, relationships, work-life balance, finding meaning, anxiety, depression, infertility, perinatal issues, family stress, hormonal changes, health/weight management, grief and loss, and bipolar disorder.
Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns that you don't know how to break? Or struggling with something and thinking you might need extra support? Whether we tackle long-standing issues or address an immediate problem, you will find this integrative therapy useful and be grateful you took up this endeavor. I have a very modern, honest and direct style of communicating that allows us to focus on your goals in a collaborative and constructive way, but more importantly, in a way that makes sense to you.
(628) 227-6278 View (628) 227-6278
Photo of Paige Pires De Almeida, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Pires De Almeida
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
In addition to providing psychodynamic treatment and effective cognitive behavioral approaches for anxiety and depression symptoms, I have specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an empirically validated method for trauma.
Welcome to my practice. Trained at the The Wright Institute in Berkeley, my approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based treatment. Good psychotherapy encourages perspective on life's challenges, and can open up new possibilities.
In addition to providing psychodynamic treatment and effective cognitive behavioral approaches for anxiety and depression symptoms, I have specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an empirically validated method for trauma.
Welcome to my practice. Trained at the The Wright Institute in Berkeley, my approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based treatment. Good psychotherapy encourages perspective on life's challenges, and can open up new possibilities.
(888) 369-0670 View (888) 369-0670
Photo of Betsy Russell, MS, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Betsy Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
My objective is to listen, be present, connect, provide feedback and reflect on what may help your life become more rewarding, less stressed, anxious or stuck, more empowered, or even reinvented! Every person is unique and together we will explore your strengths and the best options that will enhance your well-being. I am non-judgmental and create a friendly environment that provides an opportunity for us to talk about your difficulties and expectations. While doing so, I will be sure to assess that my way of working is appropriate for you and that you feel comfortable working with me.
My objective is to listen, be present, connect, provide feedback and reflect on what may help your life become more rewarding, less stressed, anxious or stuck, more empowered, or even reinvented! Every person is unique and together we will explore your strengths and the best options that will enhance your well-being. I am non-judgmental and create a friendly environment that provides an opportunity for us to talk about your difficulties and expectations. While doing so, I will be sure to assess that my way of working is appropriate for you and that you feel comfortable working with me.
(415) 991-4896 View (415) 991-4896
Photo of Lori Sparrow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Sparrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
(415) 712-2208 View (415) 712-2208
Photo of Stirling Somers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stirling Somers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I specialize in anxiety and depression, PTSD, parent-child attachment , ADHD, and developmental transitions.
I start with where you are. My approach is pragmatic, dynamic, and solution oriented based on client-centered goals. I truly enjoy working with elementary age children, older teens/young adults and older adults.
I specialize in anxiety and depression, PTSD, parent-child attachment , ADHD, and developmental transitions.
I start with where you are. My approach is pragmatic, dynamic, and solution oriented based on client-centered goals. I truly enjoy working with elementary age children, older teens/young adults and older adults.
(415) 548-7313 View (415) 548-7313
Photo of Jill Boeri, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Boeri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Are stress and worry getting you down? Well, take a deep breath and look no further. With the help of therapy, we can work together to find the life balance that has always been meant for you. As with all things that are challenging, the first step takes courage and vulnerability, but here you are, you did it! Now what? In our work together we will examine top stressors, identify coping strategies, reflect deeply on early experiences, and implement change. Over time, and with compassion, my aim is to support personal growth and self-discovery for years to come. My work is grounded in allowing space for my clients to be the experts.
Are stress and worry getting you down? Well, take a deep breath and look no further. With the help of therapy, we can work together to find the life balance that has always been meant for you. As with all things that are challenging, the first step takes courage and vulnerability, but here you are, you did it! Now what? In our work together we will examine top stressors, identify coping strategies, reflect deeply on early experiences, and implement change. Over time, and with compassion, my aim is to support personal growth and self-discovery for years to come. My work is grounded in allowing space for my clients to be the experts.
(415) 949-0485 View (415) 949-0485
Photo of Carly Clifford Bloom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carly Clifford Bloom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
Emotions are adaptive responses to life, yet many of us struggle with identifying and expressing them. Early on we are taught which emotions are acceptable and which to avoid (e.g., “Be happy!”, “Don’t cry!”, or “Don’t you dare be angry with me.”). We quickly learn which emotions are safe to feel and which cause problem, leading us to use various mental tricks to bypass the troublesome ones. The issue is that emotional energy doesn’t just disappear. It gets bottled up and stored in the body, and the mind uses anxiety, shame, guilt, and distraction/numbing behaviors to keep the energy suppressed and out of conscious awareness.
Emotions are adaptive responses to life, yet many of us struggle with identifying and expressing them. Early on we are taught which emotions are acceptable and which to avoid (e.g., “Be happy!”, “Don’t cry!”, or “Don’t you dare be angry with me.”). We quickly learn which emotions are safe to feel and which cause problem, leading us to use various mental tricks to bypass the troublesome ones. The issue is that emotional energy doesn’t just disappear. It gets bottled up and stored in the body, and the mind uses anxiety, shame, guilt, and distraction/numbing behaviors to keep the energy suppressed and out of conscious awareness.
(415) 449-7005 View (415) 449-7005
Photo of Dan Davies, PhD, LEP, Psychologist
Dan Davies
Psychologist, PhD, LEP
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I can assist you and your child with the following: executive function deficits, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (in children and adults), Autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, behavior problems, social issues, emotional issues such as anger management, homework struggles, and test anxiety.
Children and adolescents struggle in school for many different reasons. If your child is struggling academically, a detailed assessment is the best way to understand the true causes of these struggles. I have tested and helped hundreds of clients with a wide spectrum of struggles. In addition to assessment, I offer treatments including individual counseling, family counseling, consultation, and parenting advice. I have counseled many clients in all stages of life to help them overcome many difficulties.
I can assist you and your child with the following: executive function deficits, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (in children and adults), Autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, behavior problems, social issues, emotional issues such as anger management, homework struggles, and test anxiety.
Children and adolescents struggle in school for many different reasons. If your child is struggling academically, a detailed assessment is the best way to understand the true causes of these struggles. I have tested and helped hundreds of clients with a wide spectrum of struggles. In addition to assessment, I offer treatments including individual counseling, family counseling, consultation, and parenting advice. I have counseled many clients in all stages of life to help them overcome many difficulties.
(916) 710-8592 View (916) 710-8592
Photo of Julie A Wolfert, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie A Wolfert
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
I work collaboratively with patients in individual therapy and while conducting neuropsychological, psychodiagnostic, and psychoeducational assessments. I provide information regarding patients' limitations, capabilities, cognitive functioning and diagnostic considerations. My interests and experience have contributed to my specializing in diagnosing and treating neuropsychological and educational disabilities (including ADHD/ADD) as well as working with individuals experiencing mood, adjustment and anxiety disorders. I assist people in the development of academic, professional and personal skills and the building of confidence in order to support reaching their highest potential. I provide behavioral pain management and work with patients who are adjusting to various disabilities.
I work collaboratively with patients in individual therapy and while conducting neuropsychological, psychodiagnostic, and psychoeducational assessments. I provide information regarding patients' limitations, capabilities, cognitive functioning and diagnostic considerations. My interests and experience have contributed to my specializing in diagnosing and treating neuropsychological and educational disabilities (including ADHD/ADD) as well as working with individuals experiencing mood, adjustment and anxiety disorders. I assist people in the development of academic, professional and personal skills and the building of confidence in order to support reaching their highest potential. I provide behavioral pain management and work with patients who are adjusting to various disabilities.
(415) 935-4901 View (415) 935-4901
Photo of Jennifer Parlette, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Parlette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
I offer psychotherapy for Depression and Anxiety, Mood Instability, Relationship Problems, Chemical Dependency, Behavioral Addictions, Trauma/PTSD, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and Codependency.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
I offer psychotherapy for Depression and Anxiety, Mood Instability, Relationship Problems, Chemical Dependency, Behavioral Addictions, Trauma/PTSD, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and Codependency.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
(415) 843-6603 View (415) 843-6603
Photo of Michael W Vurek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael W Vurek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94914
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in a wide range of cognitive-behavioral therapies for mood and anxiety disorders, including some of the newest approaches that emphasize mindfulness and acceptance strategies.
Despite huge advances in modern technologies to extend life expectancy and increase physical comfort we have made only modest progress in relieving human psychological suffering that manifests as mood disorders and anxiety. It appears that many of our attempts to "fix" ourselves frequently backfire. My approach is highly collaborative and uses the most up to date discoveries in the field of behavioral science to help you "have a mind without your mind having you". Together we can help you gain flexibility that reduces suffering and learn skills that increase values-based living.
I am trained in a wide range of cognitive-behavioral therapies for mood and anxiety disorders, including some of the newest approaches that emphasize mindfulness and acceptance strategies.
Despite huge advances in modern technologies to extend life expectancy and increase physical comfort we have made only modest progress in relieving human psychological suffering that manifests as mood disorders and anxiety. It appears that many of our attempts to "fix" ourselves frequently backfire. My approach is highly collaborative and uses the most up to date discoveries in the field of behavioral science to help you "have a mind without your mind having you". Together we can help you gain flexibility that reduces suffering and learn skills that increase values-based living.
(628) 227-5650 View (628) 227-5650
Photo of Lee Townsend, LMFT, MA, he/him, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Townsend
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, he/him
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
I provide culturally sensitive, empirically validated psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families, ranging from adolescents to seniors. I am committed to the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey and consider it a great privilege to be entrusted with my clients' most deeply-held thoughts and feelings. I am actively engaged with those who are grappling with issues of anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship problems, life transitions, trauma, interpersonal difficulties and creative blocks, addressing my client's concerns in a humanistic and holistic manner that transcends preoccupation with pathology to work toward a life of deep meaning, creativity and interpersonal fulfillment.
I provide culturally sensitive, empirically validated psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families, ranging from adolescents to seniors. I am committed to the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey and consider it a great privilege to be entrusted with my clients' most deeply-held thoughts and feelings. I am actively engaged with those who are grappling with issues of anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship problems, life transitions, trauma, interpersonal difficulties and creative blocks, addressing my client's concerns in a humanistic and holistic manner that transcends preoccupation with pathology to work toward a life of deep meaning, creativity and interpersonal fulfillment.
(510) 684-9930 View (510) 684-9930
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.