Anxiety Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Heather DaVault, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather DaVault
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Hi there, I'm Heather! One of the bravest things you can do is ask for help. Imagine traveling on a path and not knowing where you are headed. I imagine you might feel lost, afraid, alone, and unsure of which way to go. Perhaps you have suffered from uncontrollable worry, depression, or loss. Know that you are not alone. Discovering your inherent gifts, strengths/weaknesses, and setbacks can lead to healing for now, for tomorrow, and for the rest of your life. What if you had a travel partner to help support and navigate life's road map? I want to join you on this journey of self-discovery.
Hi there, I'm Heather! One of the bravest things you can do is ask for help. Imagine traveling on a path and not knowing where you are headed. I imagine you might feel lost, afraid, alone, and unsure of which way to go. Perhaps you have suffered from uncontrollable worry, depression, or loss. Know that you are not alone. Discovering your inherent gifts, strengths/weaknesses, and setbacks can lead to healing for now, for tomorrow, and for the rest of your life. What if you had a travel partner to help support and navigate life's road map? I want to join you on this journey of self-discovery.
(415) 329-7834 View (415) 329-7834
Photo of Brett Penfil, MFT, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brett Penfil
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Feeling stressed, angry, sad, lost, or worried can be confusing and painful.
Deciding to seek therapy can feel scary. Choosing a therapist during an already difficult time can feel overwhelming. How do you sort through all of us? It can be helpful to talk to a few therapists. Then go with your instinct. Who do you feel comfortable talking to? Who seems to understand you? Who seems like they might be able to help? It may be hard to trust yourself right now, but you’ll recognize the right match. And match is important. Research shows that the relationship between you and your therapist is the most healing part of therapy. That is my experience too.
Feeling stressed, angry, sad, lost, or worried can be confusing and painful.
Deciding to seek therapy can feel scary. Choosing a therapist during an already difficult time can feel overwhelming. How do you sort through all of us? It can be helpful to talk to a few therapists. Then go with your instinct. Who do you feel comfortable talking to? Who seems to understand you? Who seems like they might be able to help? It may be hard to trust yourself right now, but you’ll recognize the right match. And match is important. Research shows that the relationship between you and your therapist is the most healing part of therapy. That is my experience too.
(628) 265-3471 View (628) 265-3471
Photo of Regina Haugabook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Haugabook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
In the context of anxiety and stress management, I specialize in helping individuals cope with anxiety and stress by providing practical tools and techniques to reduce symptoms and enhance resilience.
Welcome to a place of self-discovery and healing, where you can find the support and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges and uncover your true potential. My name is Regina Haugabook, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a deep belief in your innate capacity for growth and change. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I’m dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
In the context of anxiety and stress management, I specialize in helping individuals cope with anxiety and stress by providing practical tools and techniques to reduce symptoms and enhance resilience.
Welcome to a place of self-discovery and healing, where you can find the support and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges and uncover your true potential. My name is Regina Haugabook, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a deep belief in your innate capacity for growth and change. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I’m dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
(415) 870-2132 View (415) 870-2132
Photo of Patricia E Lund, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia E Lund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
Have you recently received a medical diagnosis that has thrown you "off your path?" Do you have an upcoming surgical procedure that has you frightened, and you want to be as prepared as possible? Are you scheduling an elective procedure that will make your life better, but that has inherent risks? Or perhaps you need help in healing from a disturbing medical procedure? One of my specialties as a psychotherapist is to help you manage and heal from such events. I have spent 30 years helping people diagnosed with breast cancer, other forms of cancer, and medical crises as well as life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief.
Have you recently received a medical diagnosis that has thrown you "off your path?" Do you have an upcoming surgical procedure that has you frightened, and you want to be as prepared as possible? Are you scheduling an elective procedure that will make your life better, but that has inherent risks? Or perhaps you need help in healing from a disturbing medical procedure? One of my specialties as a psychotherapist is to help you manage and heal from such events. I have spent 30 years helping people diagnosed with breast cancer, other forms of cancer, and medical crises as well as life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief.
(415) 592-6893 View (415) 592-6893
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(415) 877-9581 View (415) 877-9581
Photo of Michael Halyard, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Halyard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Whether you’re stuck in your life, or having trouble coping with problem relationships, addictions, anxiety, or depression, now is the perfect time to start therapy. Therapy can help you to improve your quality of life and learn to reconnect with yourself and the world. For more than 12 years I have been helping clients transcend their problems, gain insight, develop new coping strategies, and change unhealthy behavior patterns through empathy, warmth, and understanding. My many years of experience mean I can quickly help you zero in on the underlying causes of your unhappiness, while supporting you throughout the process.
Whether you’re stuck in your life, or having trouble coping with problem relationships, addictions, anxiety, or depression, now is the perfect time to start therapy. Therapy can help you to improve your quality of life and learn to reconnect with yourself and the world. For more than 12 years I have been helping clients transcend their problems, gain insight, develop new coping strategies, and change unhealthy behavior patterns through empathy, warmth, and understanding. My many years of experience mean I can quickly help you zero in on the underlying causes of your unhappiness, while supporting you throughout the process.
(415) 800-1688 View (415) 800-1688
Photo of Scott W. Menasco, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott W. Menasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Do you criticize yourself constantly? Do you feel worried that you aren't good enough? Do you struggle to express your emotions during conflicts in your relationships? What if these areas of your life could improve significantly? These issues are so common, yet they are difficult to address on our own. Self-love is the foundation of a fulfilling life. We need it in order to experience true well-being. Therapy can help you develop a deep acceptance of yourself you may have not known was possible. This will lead to more satisfaction in your relationships, more confidence in yourself, and a greater sense of ease in life.
Do you criticize yourself constantly? Do you feel worried that you aren't good enough? Do you struggle to express your emotions during conflicts in your relationships? What if these areas of your life could improve significantly? These issues are so common, yet they are difficult to address on our own. Self-love is the foundation of a fulfilling life. We need it in order to experience true well-being. Therapy can help you develop a deep acceptance of yourself you may have not known was possible. This will lead to more satisfaction in your relationships, more confidence in yourself, and a greater sense of ease in life.
(628) 232-6967 View (628) 232-6967
Photo of Jenn Torres Duran, LPCC
Jenn Torres Duran
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Change is terrifying, but it can also be beautiful. It can be difficult to navigate cultural, societal, familial, & even personal expectations to give life to your true authentic self. From navigating anxiety, working to understand your sexual/gender identity, navigating what aspects of your cultural make sense for you, depression, or even just trying to get the world to acknowledge you as the person you are - I'm so glad you haven't given up. The change you're working towards will be worth it and oh-so spectacular. I know you have the power, skills, & desire to Transform Your Story. I'm honored to help you any way I can.
Change is terrifying, but it can also be beautiful. It can be difficult to navigate cultural, societal, familial, & even personal expectations to give life to your true authentic self. From navigating anxiety, working to understand your sexual/gender identity, navigating what aspects of your cultural make sense for you, depression, or even just trying to get the world to acknowledge you as the person you are - I'm so glad you haven't given up. The change you're working towards will be worth it and oh-so spectacular. I know you have the power, skills, & desire to Transform Your Story. I'm honored to help you any way I can.
(628) 265-6707 View (628) 265-6707
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology--San Francisco location, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology--San Francisco location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(415) 942-0331 View (415) 942-0331
Photo of James Lacroce, PhD, Psychologist
James Lacroce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
My role as a psychologist is to help you navigate through a complex and stressful world. I'm most skilled at addressing issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy helping people manage social and behavioral problems prevent healthy interactions with family, friends, and co-workers. I am experienced in addressing the challenges of both adults and children by drawing upon a few different theoretical perspectives to aid in helping individuals understand themselves, the origin of their problems, and how they can make changes in current life to feel happier.
(415) 938-5245 View (415) 938-5245
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(341) 895-5594 View (341) 895-5594
Photo of Erica Antoinette Nocera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Antoinette Nocera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Erica, a warm, empathetic, and open Marriage and Family Therapist that helps clients find their purpose, heal, and thrive! I'd love to be your guide to holistic healing and transformation. With expertise in trauma- rooted anxiety and depression, recovery counseling with addictions, and women’s issues including body image, low self esteem, and eating disorders, I'll help teach you evidence-based tools to reframe thoughts and regulate emotions, as well as explore root causes for symptom management. Let's empower you to achieve resilience and personal growth, leading to a healthier and happier future:)
Hi! I'm Erica, a warm, empathetic, and open Marriage and Family Therapist that helps clients find their purpose, heal, and thrive! I'd love to be your guide to holistic healing and transformation. With expertise in trauma- rooted anxiety and depression, recovery counseling with addictions, and women’s issues including body image, low self esteem, and eating disorders, I'll help teach you evidence-based tools to reframe thoughts and regulate emotions, as well as explore root causes for symptom management. Let's empower you to achieve resilience and personal growth, leading to a healthier and happier future:)
(949) 704-6606 View (949) 704-6606
Photo of Evan Wassarman, PsyD, Psychologist
Evan Wassarman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
(415) 997-0929 View (415) 997-0929
Photo of Sveta Alshvang, PsyD, MBA, MA, Psychologist
Sveta Alshvang
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Do you feel haunted by feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, or shame? Are there moments where memories from the past overwhelm you in the present? Perhaps you’re also dealing with a strong fear of failure and self-criticism, despite achieving outward success. Maybe you’re someone who always strives to excel and manage everything top notch. Carrying the weight of perfection and constantly supporting others while neglecting your own needs can be draining. I’m here to help you find relief. Among my clients are educators, engineers, managers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists, all seeking to make meaningful changes in their lives.
Do you feel haunted by feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, or shame? Are there moments where memories from the past overwhelm you in the present? Perhaps you’re also dealing with a strong fear of failure and self-criticism, despite achieving outward success. Maybe you’re someone who always strives to excel and manage everything top notch. Carrying the weight of perfection and constantly supporting others while neglecting your own needs can be draining. I’m here to help you find relief. Among my clients are educators, engineers, managers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists, all seeking to make meaningful changes in their lives.
(650) 215-6194 View (650) 215-6194
Photo of Daniela A Tempesta, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniela A Tempesta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Common concerns I treat are anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, feeling unfulfilled, feeling hopeless and lost, lacking clarity on your personal values or purpose, relationship issues, transition issues, and career confusion.
I specialize in treating adults in their 20's and 30's. Most of my clients have the things that they believe constitute a good life (secure jobs, close friend groups, active social lives, etc) yet they continue to feel anxious, lost, sad, unfulfilled, burned out, and perplexed by what their purpose on this earth really is. Additionally, many of them experience significant distress caused by an endless drive towards achievement rather than fulfillment and a self-defeating pattern of comparing themselves to others.
Common concerns I treat are anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, feeling unfulfilled, feeling hopeless and lost, lacking clarity on your personal values or purpose, relationship issues, transition issues, and career confusion.
I specialize in treating adults in their 20's and 30's. Most of my clients have the things that they believe constitute a good life (secure jobs, close friend groups, active social lives, etc) yet they continue to feel anxious, lost, sad, unfulfilled, burned out, and perplexed by what their purpose on this earth really is. Additionally, many of them experience significant distress caused by an endless drive towards achievement rather than fulfillment and a self-defeating pattern of comparing themselves to others.
(415) 689-8627 View (415) 689-8627
Photo of Penn Barbosa, PhD, Psychologist
Penn Barbosa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I specialize in anxiety and depression.
The goal of therapy is for you be happy in your love and work. At the heart of it, therapy is about increasing your capacity to alleviate your suffering; feel more connected with yourself and others; expand and enrich yourself; recognize what you want; and recognize the internal and external forces that keep you from getting what you want. These are powerful antidotes to anxiety and depression.
I specialize in anxiety and depression.
The goal of therapy is for you be happy in your love and work. At the heart of it, therapy is about increasing your capacity to alleviate your suffering; feel more connected with yourself and others; expand and enrich yourself; recognize what you want; and recognize the internal and external forces that keep you from getting what you want. These are powerful antidotes to anxiety and depression.
(415) 992-6047 View (415) 992-6047
Photo of Diamond McMillian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diamond McMillian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
Hello, my name is Diamond McMillian. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and Trauma, using a holistic, integrated, evidence-based approach to current life challenges. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for teens, young adults, and aging adults who may be dealing with the challenges of trauma, social pressures, and life transitions. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Diamond McMillian. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and Trauma, using a holistic, integrated, evidence-based approach to current life challenges. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for teens, young adults, and aging adults who may be dealing with the challenges of trauma, social pressures, and life transitions. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues.
(510) 592-6279 View (510) 592-6279
Photo of Dr. Katiah Llerena, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Katiah Llerena
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing scientifically-based individual psychotherapy for adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and other painful challenges. I can help you understand and navigate life stressors that affect your emotional health and impact your behaviors. Together, we can also work on increasing your motivation and resilience to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Although I work with all adults, I have extensive experience working with young professionals and high-performing individuals. I also specialize in dating coaching.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing scientifically-based individual psychotherapy for adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and other painful challenges. I can help you understand and navigate life stressors that affect your emotional health and impact your behaviors. Together, we can also work on increasing your motivation and resilience to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Although I work with all adults, I have extensive experience working with young professionals and high-performing individuals. I also specialize in dating coaching.
(628) 345-7310 View (628) 345-7310
Photo of Robyn L Stukalin, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn L Stukalin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I view psychotherapy as a joint venture in which we work collaboratively to reach your goals. My style is direct, transparent and positive, warm, interactive and nonjudgemental. I create the safety needed to allow us to explore the issues that underlie depression, anxiety, loneliness, lack of fulfillment and other concerns. As a therapist I follow your lead. With over two decades of experience I work diligently to understand each individual, employing elements of psychoanalytic, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral theories to create an approach that best suits the unique individuals and relationships with whom I am working.
I view psychotherapy as a joint venture in which we work collaboratively to reach your goals. My style is direct, transparent and positive, warm, interactive and nonjudgemental. I create the safety needed to allow us to explore the issues that underlie depression, anxiety, loneliness, lack of fulfillment and other concerns. As a therapist I follow your lead. With over two decades of experience I work diligently to understand each individual, employing elements of psychoanalytic, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral theories to create an approach that best suits the unique individuals and relationships with whom I am working.
(415) 360-2471 View (415) 360-2471
Photo of Laura DeSantis, LPCC, Counselor
Laura DeSantis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
My specialties include Complex PTSD, dissociation, and anxiety, but I work with my clients on a variety of challenges.
As a therapist, my goal is to foster a space for you to explore what you want for yourself and your life through introspection, healing, and acceptance of self. I offer an interactive style that is engaged, compassionate, attuned to your strengths, and informed by modern neuroscience so we're getting to the root of things. This space is yours, a place where you can be heard without judgment, where vulnerability meets understanding, and where healing can truly happen.
My specialties include Complex PTSD, dissociation, and anxiety, but I work with my clients on a variety of challenges.
As a therapist, my goal is to foster a space for you to explore what you want for yourself and your life through introspection, healing, and acceptance of self. I offer an interactive style that is engaged, compassionate, attuned to your strengths, and informed by modern neuroscience so we're getting to the root of things. This space is yours, a place where you can be heard without judgment, where vulnerability meets understanding, and where healing can truly happen.
(628) 241-7672 View (628) 241-7672
1
...

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.