Anxiety Therapists in Atlantic, IA

Photo of Jessica Richter, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jessica Richter
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlantic, IA 50022
My specialty area is working with teenagers who are going through tough trials and tribulations as well as working with individuals who suffer with anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, life changes and day to day struggles.
Hi ! I’m Jessica and I’m a nationally certified and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Iowa. I have an endless passion for helping people become the best version of themselves they aspire to be. I am someone who sparks change in people's lives and relationships and would love to help get you there each step of the way.
My specialty area is working with teenagers who are going through tough trials and tribulations as well as working with individuals who suffer with anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, life changes and day to day struggles.
Hi ! I’m Jessica and I’m a nationally certified and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Iowa. I have an endless passion for helping people become the best version of themselves they aspire to be. I am someone who sparks change in people's lives and relationships and would love to help get you there each step of the way.
View
Photo of Carly Nielsen, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor
Carly Nielsen
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Atlantic, IA 50022
I have four years of experience working in a therapeutic setting with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, grief/loss, as well as many other mental health challenges. I'm not only interested in individual work but also I have an interest in couples counseling to support people in achieving higher relationship satisfaction. I'm open to working with clients ranging in age from early adolescents to older adults (12 to 99).
I have four years of experience working in a therapeutic setting with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, grief/loss, as well as many other mental health challenges. I'm not only interested in individual work but also I have an interest in couples counseling to support people in achieving higher relationship satisfaction. I'm open to working with clients ranging in age from early adolescents to older adults (12 to 99).
(712) 227-5401 View (712) 227-5401
Photo of Lois Potthoff, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Lois Potthoff
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Atlantic, IA 50022
I strive to help others heal and become empowered while rediscovering their true sense of self and reconnect with their life purpose. Relationship is the foundation to healing and I use a client centered and attuned approach while integrating an individualized treatment plan to meet your goals. My goal is to meet you or your child where they are and be your guide to healing. I have over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental illness and developmental disorders.
I strive to help others heal and become empowered while rediscovering their true sense of self and reconnect with their life purpose. Relationship is the foundation to healing and I use a client centered and attuned approach while integrating an individualized treatment plan to meet your goals. My goal is to meet you or your child where they are and be your guide to healing. I have over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental illness and developmental disorders.
(712) 350-9905 View (712) 350-9905
Photo of Karen Rodriguez, PhD, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlantic, IA 50022  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Iowa and Nebraska and am the CEO of Healthy Homes Family Services Inc. I have bachelor's degrees in Social Work and Criminal Justice, a Master's degree in Social Work and am in the dissertation phase of my PhD in Social Work. I have over twenty years' experience working with families, couples and children including a background in child welfare services and extensive experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment with teens and families. I specialize in working with relationship issues, blended families, marriage, divorce and remarriage issues and military life issues.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Iowa and Nebraska and am the CEO of Healthy Homes Family Services Inc. I have bachelor's degrees in Social Work and Criminal Justice, a Master's degree in Social Work and am in the dissertation phase of my PhD in Social Work. I have over twenty years' experience working with families, couples and children including a background in child welfare services and extensive experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment with teens and families. I specialize in working with relationship issues, blended families, marriage, divorce and remarriage issues and military life issues.
(712) 454-7650 View (712) 454-7650

Online Therapists

Photo of Denise Kelley Edwards, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Kelley Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
Clients at my practice are often dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, life transitions or end of life issues.
The relationship between therapist and client is central to a positive therapeutic experience, therefore, it is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. My role as therapist is to help each client improve the quality of their lives as they learn to navigate difficult issues and situations or learn to manage a mental illness. In addition, each client and each issue presented require an individualized approach. To achieve appropriate treatment plans I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, psychoeducation and psychotherapy. I work mainly with women. I work with adult women in all stages of life.
Clients at my practice are often dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, life transitions or end of life issues.
The relationship between therapist and client is central to a positive therapeutic experience, therefore, it is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. My role as therapist is to help each client improve the quality of their lives as they learn to navigate difficult issues and situations or learn to manage a mental illness. In addition, each client and each issue presented require an individualized approach. To achieve appropriate treatment plans I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, psychoeducation and psychotherapy. I work mainly with women. I work with adult women in all stages of life.
(515) 329-7951 View (515) 329-7951
Photo of Molly B, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly B
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Accepting new clients! I work with clients ages 12 through adulthood, whom may be struggling with a transition, depression and anxiety, or possibly a traumatizing event(s), as well as many other symptoms.
Accepting new clients! I work with clients ages 12 through adulthood, whom may be struggling with a transition, depression and anxiety, or possibly a traumatizing event(s), as well as many other symptoms.
(515) 373-7834 x224 View (515) 373-7834 x224
Photo of Flor Soto Contreras, MS, tLMHC, Counselor
Flor Soto Contreras
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I feel uniquely qualified to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties related to migration, first-generation related experiences or anxiety.
Thank you for taking the first step towards healing! I have current availability for clients who are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety or stressful life experiences. I am a bilingual English/Spanish therapist, so I welcome clients who may prefer a native Spanish speaker in this journey. While I welcome anyone to my practice, I also want to highlight the fact that I have over 10+ years of experience in the community working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds. These experiences have offered me a unique lens and ability to remain compassionate around issues of acculturation and adaptation.
I feel uniquely qualified to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties related to migration, first-generation related experiences or anxiety.
Thank you for taking the first step towards healing! I have current availability for clients who are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety or stressful life experiences. I am a bilingual English/Spanish therapist, so I welcome clients who may prefer a native Spanish speaker in this journey. While I welcome anyone to my practice, I also want to highlight the fact that I have over 10+ years of experience in the community working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds. These experiences have offered me a unique lens and ability to remain compassionate around issues of acculturation and adaptation.
(515) 902-5082 View (515) 902-5082
Photo of Morgan Fielder, MS, NCC, tLMHC, Counselor
Morgan Fielder
Counselor, MS, NCC, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Dave Cunitz, MS, LMHC, CADC, Counselor
Dave Cunitz
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I have experience assisting clients with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and substance use.
My approach as a therapist is to walk alongside clients as they discover their path forward. In every client interaction, my intention is to extend empathy, act genuinely, and offer an accepting environment where clients can feel comfortable and safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. Through the process of therapy, I seek to help clients gain clarity about their current situation, understand what their desired state looks like, and identify the steps they can take to bring about the change they desire.
I have experience assisting clients with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and substance use.
My approach as a therapist is to walk alongside clients as they discover their path forward. In every client interaction, my intention is to extend empathy, act genuinely, and offer an accepting environment where clients can feel comfortable and safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. Through the process of therapy, I seek to help clients gain clarity about their current situation, understand what their desired state looks like, and identify the steps they can take to bring about the change they desire.
(515) 481-5274 View (515) 481-5274
Photo of Charlie Saunders, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlie Saunders
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults and especially enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustments, identity exploration, and self-worth.
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults and especially enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustments, identity exploration, and self-worth.
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
(515) 709-4784 View (515) 709-4784
Photo of Holly Conlee, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Holly Conlee
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
(515) 882-7435 View (515) 882-7435
Photo of Courtney Lynn Groat, t-LMHC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Courtney Lynn Groat
Counselor, t-LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
(515) 627-6862 View (515) 627-6862
Photo of Greg Allen Fuqua, MA, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor
Greg Allen Fuqua
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I am Divergent Counseling, Coaching and Consulting, Greg Fuqua, MA, LMHC, (in West Des Moines). I am not currently have a very long waitlist. I work with clients 16 yrs old and up. I am an Autistic Clinical Specialist (Level 1 Adults) and a Neurodiverse Couples Therapist level 2. I love working with individuals, couples and families, trans and LGBTQ+, neurodivergence, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, DID and more. I often use SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
I am Divergent Counseling, Coaching and Consulting, Greg Fuqua, MA, LMHC, (in West Des Moines). I am not currently have a very long waitlist. I work with clients 16 yrs old and up. I am an Autistic Clinical Specialist (Level 1 Adults) and a Neurodiverse Couples Therapist level 2. I love working with individuals, couples and families, trans and LGBTQ+, neurodivergence, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, DID and more. I often use SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
(515) 316-2460 View (515) 316-2460
Photo of Krista Long, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize in supporting Women's Issues. Relationships (marriage, divorce, dating, family), stage of life adjustments, anxiety, depression, parenting, workplace issues and grief are challenges I commonly help with. I also see men, especially when seeking to improve relationships with the women in their lives. I have 25 years experience helping good people with difficult problems find a pathway forward, think more clearly, take steps to make their lives and relationships better, and increase overall calm and contentment.
I specialize in supporting Women's Issues. Relationships (marriage, divorce, dating, family), stage of life adjustments, anxiety, depression, parenting, workplace issues and grief are challenges I commonly help with. I also see men, especially when seeking to improve relationships with the women in their lives. I have 25 years experience helping good people with difficult problems find a pathway forward, think more clearly, take steps to make their lives and relationships better, and increase overall calm and contentment.
(515) 705-0696 View (515) 705-0696
Photo of Nesha Benton, MSEd, tLMHC, Counselor
Nesha Benton
Counselor, MSEd, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes, or any other mental health issues that are interfering with your wellbeing, I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes, or any other mental health issues that are interfering with your wellbeing, I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Rebecca O'Connell, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca O'Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I work with issues including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Esteem, Co-Dependency, Couple's Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Relationship Issues, Christian Counseling & Spiritual Issues, Grief, Women's Issues,.
Immediate and Early Evening Appointments Available. I view therapy as a journey. The path on this journey of life is twisting and winding with many detours, and it can be difficult to navigate on our own. The therapy hour is time carved out just for the client; a safe place with no shame, where people can give voice to their stories. It is my privilege to come alongside people on this journey to wholeness.
I work with issues including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Esteem, Co-Dependency, Couple's Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Relationship Issues, Christian Counseling & Spiritual Issues, Grief, Women's Issues,.
Immediate and Early Evening Appointments Available. I view therapy as a journey. The path on this journey of life is twisting and winding with many detours, and it can be difficult to navigate on our own. The therapy hour is time carved out just for the client; a safe place with no shame, where people can give voice to their stories. It is my privilege to come alongside people on this journey to wholeness.
(515) 212-7667 View (515) 212-7667
Photo of Joe Nixon, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Nixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout my career, I have helped individuals and families with concerns such as gender identity, sexual orientation, LGBT+ related stress, LGBT+ relationships (extra), mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, trauma/PTSD, and attachment disorders.
Are you struggling with LGBT+ related concerns? Are you struggling to come terms with your LGBT+ identity and/or struggling to find a way to move forward as an LGBT+ person? As a member of the LGBT+ community I am passionate about serving the LGBT+ community. Is a loved one of yours an LGBT+ member and you are struggling to move forward? accept? and/or want to reconcile with your LGBT+ loved one? Being LGBT+ can be hard in our society and it can help to talk about these experiences. Being fearful of our LGBT+ loved one's safety and well being can be stressful as well. If you feel like I can be of service I would be happy to help.
Throughout my career, I have helped individuals and families with concerns such as gender identity, sexual orientation, LGBT+ related stress, LGBT+ relationships (extra), mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, trauma/PTSD, and attachment disorders.
Are you struggling with LGBT+ related concerns? Are you struggling to come terms with your LGBT+ identity and/or struggling to find a way to move forward as an LGBT+ person? As a member of the LGBT+ community I am passionate about serving the LGBT+ community. Is a loved one of yours an LGBT+ member and you are struggling to move forward? accept? and/or want to reconcile with your LGBT+ loved one? Being LGBT+ can be hard in our society and it can help to talk about these experiences. Being fearful of our LGBT+ loved one's safety and well being can be stressful as well. If you feel like I can be of service I would be happy to help.
(515) 608-8874 View (515) 608-8874
Photo of William F Walker, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William F Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
(515) 599-3170 View (515) 599-3170
Photo of Tanner Jay Whipple, LMHC, Counselor
Tanner Jay Whipple
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Tanner strongly feels that everyone has the ability to make positive change through personal growth. He finds fulfillment in seeing healthy changes in attitudes and behaviors among his clients. He feels blessed that his clients are open to allowing him into their lives and walk with them through their personal life journey while assisting with challenges as they arise. Tanner has a background in working with individuals with ADHD, ODD, DMDD, anxiety and depression disorders, as well as individuals on the autism spectrum or with past traumas. Tanner has over ten years of experience working in the mental health field.
Tanner strongly feels that everyone has the ability to make positive change through personal growth. He finds fulfillment in seeing healthy changes in attitudes and behaviors among his clients. He feels blessed that his clients are open to allowing him into their lives and walk with them through their personal life journey while assisting with challenges as they arise. Tanner has a background in working with individuals with ADHD, ODD, DMDD, anxiety and depression disorders, as well as individuals on the autism spectrum or with past traumas. Tanner has over ten years of experience working in the mental health field.
(515) 203-8314 View (515) 203-8314
Photo of Danielle Cooper, tLMHC, Counselor
Danielle Cooper
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My clinical focus includes, but is not limited to: anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, trauma, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, communication issues, life transitions, stress management, co-dependency, and relationship issues.
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my goal is to help you feel seen and heard in wherever you are in your journey. I believe each individual's story is both powerful and unique. I strive to provide a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to process any of life's struggles. I’m an active therapist that offers tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs, but am also happy just listening and providing support. I have years of experience in multiple clinical settings, and use various evidence-based approaches to support you.
My clinical focus includes, but is not limited to: anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, trauma, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, communication issues, life transitions, stress management, co-dependency, and relationship issues.
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my goal is to help you feel seen and heard in wherever you are in your journey. I believe each individual's story is both powerful and unique. I strive to provide a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to process any of life's struggles. I’m an active therapist that offers tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs, but am also happy just listening and providing support. I have years of experience in multiple clinical settings, and use various evidence-based approaches to support you.
(515) 717-6127 View (515) 717-6127

See more therapy options for Atlantic

Nearby Anxiety Therapists Searches for Atlantic

See More Anxiety Therapists
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.