Anxiety Therapists in Oswego, IL

Photo of Laura Donavon, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Donavon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
(331) 253-5726 View (331) 253-5726
Photo of Mindy M Burkhamer, LCSW, CADC, CODP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy M Burkhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Without addressing these issues, children and teens can experience school avoidance, aggressive behaviors, lower grades, self-injury, anxiety, depression, substance use and possible suicidal thoughts.
Welcoming new clients. Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why it is there? Current chaotic environmental and societal events continuously have a negative impact on all of us. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with feeling unsafe and unsure both physically and emotionally in your day to day living, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
Without addressing these issues, children and teens can experience school avoidance, aggressive behaviors, lower grades, self-injury, anxiety, depression, substance use and possible suicidal thoughts.
Welcoming new clients. Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why it is there? Current chaotic environmental and societal events continuously have a negative impact on all of us. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with feeling unsafe and unsure both physically and emotionally in your day to day living, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
(331) 226-1794 View (331) 226-1794
Photo of Heather A Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I utilize evidence-based therapy, including gold-standard ERP for OCD and other anxiety disorders, along with CBT and ACT.
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
I utilize evidence-based therapy, including gold-standard ERP for OCD and other anxiety disorders, along with CBT and ACT.
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
(630) 313-2696 View (630) 313-2696
Photo of Courtney M DeCarlo, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Courtney M DeCarlo
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and am particularly interested in treating OCD and related anxiety disorders.
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, and am particularly interested in treating OCD and related anxiety disorders.
At Oswego/Plainfield Wellness we understand that psychological struggles can feel so isolating, yet are experienced by everyone at various points in our lives. We want to partner with you to create a treatment plan that encompasses the very idea of wellness--in all of the facets of your life that matter most to you. The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce your suffering, so that you can live your most meaningful and fulfilling life. We are happy to answer any of your questions to help decide if our practice could be beneficial to you.
(773) 313-3212 View (773) 313-3212
Photo of Lisa Bertellotti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Bertellotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I have24 years experience as Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with adult, teens, and children and hold advanced training and certificates in Holistic Health and Wellness, Mindful Based Stress Reduction, Somatic Healing, Anxiety Disorders, and work as a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
I believe that every individual is on their own unique journey. At times we may get caught up in life’s challenges, transitions, or struggles and need assistance in getting back to a state of optimal health and well-being. With a blend of traditional and holistic approaches, I empower clients with the tools and skills needed to continue on their current path or help them find the strength and courage to create a new one. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Medicine Provider, I also can perform comprehensive well being assessments and health plans at the client's request.
I have24 years experience as Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with adult, teens, and children and hold advanced training and certificates in Holistic Health and Wellness, Mindful Based Stress Reduction, Somatic Healing, Anxiety Disorders, and work as a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
I believe that every individual is on their own unique journey. At times we may get caught up in life’s challenges, transitions, or struggles and need assistance in getting back to a state of optimal health and well-being. With a blend of traditional and holistic approaches, I empower clients with the tools and skills needed to continue on their current path or help them find the strength and courage to create a new one. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Medicine Provider, I also can perform comprehensive well being assessments and health plans at the client's request.
(331) 241-6822 View (331) 241-6822
Photo of Danielle Zimmerman- Perinatal And Trauma Therapist, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Danielle Zimmerman- Perinatal And Trauma Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Areas of specialty include treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders; working with mothers and fathers who are struggling with adjustment to parenthood, infertility, perinatal loss, birth trauma, NICU experiences, medical complications related to pregnancy and child birth. In addition, working with college students and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, difficult life transitions, LGBTQ, Understanding Identity Struggles, Social Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Self-Worth/Self Esteem, and Building Healthier Relationships. Also offering individual coaching, consultation and supervision for other providers.
Areas of specialty include treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders; working with mothers and fathers who are struggling with adjustment to parenthood, infertility, perinatal loss, birth trauma, NICU experiences, medical complications related to pregnancy and child birth. In addition, working with college students and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, difficult life transitions, LGBTQ, Understanding Identity Struggles, Social Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Self-Worth/Self Esteem, and Building Healthier Relationships. Also offering individual coaching, consultation and supervision for other providers.
(331) 231-2682 View (331) 231-2682
Photo of Kyle Fiore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Fiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
(331) 235-9007 View (331) 235-9007
Photo of Stephanie Samudio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Samudio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I help people make lasting changes, and look at things in a new way so that anxiety is no longer in control, you are! I take time to get to know you, utilize humor, and have a casual but effective style.
I specialize in treating stress, anxiety and OCD. If you find yourself strugging - I'd love to help!
I help people make lasting changes, and look at things in a new way so that anxiety is no longer in control, you are! I take time to get to know you, utilize humor, and have a casual but effective style.
I specialize in treating stress, anxiety and OCD. If you find yourself strugging - I'd love to help!
(331) 246-0740 View (331) 246-0740
Photo of Araceli Ascencio, MSEd,  LCPC, Counselor
Araceli Ascencio
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Araceli Ascencio, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Illinois navigate the complexities of life with empathy and expertise. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, Araceli is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing. Specializing in individual and group therapy, she serves a diverse population, including teens, adults, and seniors, with a focus on cultural effectiveness and inclusion. Her collaborative and clientcentered approach ensures that therapy is tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs.
Araceli Ascencio, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Illinois navigate the complexities of life with empathy and expertise. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, Araceli is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing. Specializing in individual and group therapy, she serves a diverse population, including teens, adults, and seniors, with a focus on cultural effectiveness and inclusion. Her collaborative and clientcentered approach ensures that therapy is tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Fio Millon, MA, LCPC
Fio Millon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
(630) 474-6828 View (630) 474-6828
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(331) 444-7455 View (331) 444-7455
Photo of Theodora Insaidoo, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theodora Insaidoo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Theodora works with children, adolescents, teens, young adults, and their families dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, borderline disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideations, conduct disorder, ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” by Maya Angelou. This is one of the bases for my work in mental health. Feelings are often ignored and discarded yet they guide our growth. Emotions not well regulated pose a stumbling block for healthy growth. Allow me to come alongside you as we unravel/untangle the knots of emotions accumulated through life’s experiences.
Theodora works with children, adolescents, teens, young adults, and their families dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, borderline disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideations, conduct disorder, ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” by Maya Angelou. This is one of the bases for my work in mental health. Feelings are often ignored and discarded yet they guide our growth. Emotions not well regulated pose a stumbling block for healthy growth. Allow me to come alongside you as we unravel/untangle the knots of emotions accumulated through life’s experiences.
(331) 314-7662 View (331) 314-7662
Photo of Dr. Julia Malone, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Julia Malone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) It is important for me to make you feel welcomed and safe. Life has many challenges whether they are past or present that can feel overwhelming to deal with. I use a direct and client-centered approach with clients, I believe in challenge and working towards change. Each person is unique and deserves to be valued.
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) It is important for me to make you feel welcomed and safe. Life has many challenges whether they are past or present that can feel overwhelming to deal with. I use a direct and client-centered approach with clients, I believe in challenge and working towards change. Each person is unique and deserves to be valued.
(331) 207-9338 View (331) 207-9338
Photo of Gita Mahanti, MA, LCSW, CYT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gita Mahanti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CYT, SEP
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I have experience providing services to those who have struggles with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and stress management.
Therapy involves empathy, a nonjudgmental attitude and the creation of a safe space where you learn to break free of old ideas and patterns that are restricting your happiness. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the foundation for therapeutic change. I value the impact of one’s culture and life circumstances all the while recognizing the importance of one’s relationships and sense of belonging. I know the importance of needing to be acknowledged during life’s most difficult times. I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth to foster unconditional regard and a deeper understanding of life’s problems.
I have experience providing services to those who have struggles with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and stress management.
Therapy involves empathy, a nonjudgmental attitude and the creation of a safe space where you learn to break free of old ideas and patterns that are restricting your happiness. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the foundation for therapeutic change. I value the impact of one’s culture and life circumstances all the while recognizing the importance of one’s relationships and sense of belonging. I know the importance of needing to be acknowledged during life’s most difficult times. I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth to foster unconditional regard and a deeper understanding of life’s problems.
(331) 271-1154 View (331) 271-1154
Photo of Amanda Hutera, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Hutera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief/loss, trauma, caregiver burnout, self-esteem issues, illness, and more.
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to reach out to speak with someone about your inner most thoughts, feelings, and struggles. I will listen to you, help you learn tools to improve the way you feel, and provide a warm, supportive, non-judgmental environment for you to share. I look forward to building a therapeutic partnership with you to help you reach your goals, learn healthy coping skills, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Please take the first step to finding the help that you need and deserve.
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief/loss, trauma, caregiver burnout, self-esteem issues, illness, and more.
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to reach out to speak with someone about your inner most thoughts, feelings, and struggles. I will listen to you, help you learn tools to improve the way you feel, and provide a warm, supportive, non-judgmental environment for you to share. I look forward to building a therapeutic partnership with you to help you reach your goals, learn healthy coping skills, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Please take the first step to finding the help that you need and deserve.
(331) 267-4932 View (331) 267-4932
Photo of Michelle Locke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Locke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Hello, My name is Michelle Locke. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been actively practicing as a social worker since 1996 and as an LCSW since 2015. My skill set and professional experience lend themselves to supporting various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), and Spirituality. I enjoy keeping people in therapy through Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Strength-Based, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that treatment helps people find true hope and healing for the pain we experience at times in life.
Hello, My name is Michelle Locke. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been actively practicing as a social worker since 1996 and as an LCSW since 2015. My skill set and professional experience lend themselves to supporting various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), and Spirituality. I enjoy keeping people in therapy through Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Strength-Based, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that treatment helps people find true hope and healing for the pain we experience at times in life.
(618) 268-5043 View (618) 268-5043
Photo of Christine Caputo, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Christine Caputo
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
(815) 709-0306 View (815) 709-0306
Photo of Dominik Kannenwischer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominik Kannenwischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
My ideal client would be an individual (from children to adults) who comes to sessions with an open mind for change. The client might come in with past traumas, anxiety, relationship struggles, and other issues that might bother them in their daily lives. He/She/They might need help working on or correcting their own negative self talk and thinking patterns, low self-esteem, and self-care related issues. The client's goal might be finding their own voice, learning to set healthy boundaries, gaining self insight about how their past influences them and how to become free from their trauma responses today.
My ideal client would be an individual (from children to adults) who comes to sessions with an open mind for change. The client might come in with past traumas, anxiety, relationship struggles, and other issues that might bother them in their daily lives. He/She/They might need help working on or correcting their own negative self talk and thinking patterns, low self-esteem, and self-care related issues. The client's goal might be finding their own voice, learning to set healthy boundaries, gaining self insight about how their past influences them and how to become free from their trauma responses today.
(779) 345-2335 View (779) 345-2335
Photo of Dr. Kasey Huff, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kasey Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and who may have a history of traumatic experiences.
Hello! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your innermost self including your passion, motivation, historical challenges and emotional pain. We will create therapy goals and identify any barriers to achieving them. Together we will monitor progress and identify ways to overcome obstacles in your life path to realize your potential. My goal is to create a safe space to explore any difficulties you may be facing. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, somatic healing, body-based psychotherapy, mindfulness-based therapy and/or psychodynamic therapy.
I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and who may have a history of traumatic experiences.
Hello! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your innermost self including your passion, motivation, historical challenges and emotional pain. We will create therapy goals and identify any barriers to achieving them. Together we will monitor progress and identify ways to overcome obstacles in your life path to realize your potential. My goal is to create a safe space to explore any difficulties you may be facing. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, somatic healing, body-based psychotherapy, mindfulness-based therapy and/or psychodynamic therapy.
(331) 259-8950 View (331) 259-8950
Photo of Mary Anne (Molly) McHugh-Chaljub, LCPC, Counselor
Mary Anne (Molly) McHugh-Chaljub
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Sometimes these times are more difficult if one has struggled in the past with anxiety, depression, mood disorders or trauma.
Are you an adult, in any stage of life, who would like to 'just hit the pause button’ and have an emotionally safe space to be seen and heard? A dedicated supportive place to ’check-in with yourself’ in a non-judgmental way about your challenges, behaviors, reactions and relationships? A place to learn how to become unstuck from choices that are no longer helping you? If so, let me validate your courage and willingness to begin the therapeutic process that will be uniquely yours. We will begin your therapy journey exploring what is and is not working for you in your life; and together we will identify reasonable goals.
Sometimes these times are more difficult if one has struggled in the past with anxiety, depression, mood disorders or trauma.
Are you an adult, in any stage of life, who would like to 'just hit the pause button’ and have an emotionally safe space to be seen and heard? A dedicated supportive place to ’check-in with yourself’ in a non-judgmental way about your challenges, behaviors, reactions and relationships? A place to learn how to become unstuck from choices that are no longer helping you? If so, let me validate your courage and willingness to begin the therapeutic process that will be uniquely yours. We will begin your therapy journey exploring what is and is not working for you in your life; and together we will identify reasonable goals.
(630) 898-5322 View (630) 898-5322
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.