Anxiety Therapists in Portland, ME

Photo of Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
(941) 220-5027 View (941) 220-5027
Photo of Stephanie Worth, LMSW-cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, body image & food, aging, relationships, and major life transitions.
Hi, I’m Steph (she/her). My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the inner wisdom to heal, change, and grow through life’s challenges, and sometimes that requires help. I am passionate about working with clients to acknowledge the circumstances that lead them to seek care, collaborating to build new and stronger relationships with themselves, and exploring how those relationships hold the power to achieve their dreams and goals.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, body image & food, aging, relationships, and major life transitions.
Hi, I’m Steph (she/her). My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the inner wisdom to heal, change, and grow through life’s challenges, and sometimes that requires help. I am passionate about working with clients to acknowledge the circumstances that lead them to seek care, collaborating to build new and stronger relationships with themselves, and exploring how those relationships hold the power to achieve their dreams and goals.
(207) 716-5473 View (207) 716-5473
Photo of Mollie Volinsky (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mollie Volinsky (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I work with clients who have experienced various forms of trauma and struggle with disruptive symptoms such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and PTSD.
I am a warm and empathetic clinician who is passionate about combining the groundbreaking treatments of EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)! My goal is to use my specialized trainings to support you on your healing journey. I am based in Maine where I see clients In-Person and/or virtually. I, also, work with clients in New York and Massachusetts virtually. EMDR and KAP have adapted to the times and are just as effective virtually as they are in-person!
I work with clients who have experienced various forms of trauma and struggle with disruptive symptoms such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and PTSD.
I am a warm and empathetic clinician who is passionate about combining the groundbreaking treatments of EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)! My goal is to use my specialized trainings to support you on your healing journey. I am based in Maine where I see clients In-Person and/or virtually. I, also, work with clients in New York and Massachusetts virtually. EMDR and KAP have adapted to the times and are just as effective virtually as they are in-person!
(917) 905-9806 View (917) 905-9806
Photo of Ian Whitmore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ian Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Current Pro Bono openings for individuals open to working with a student. Countless young people have reported feeling like their trauma is their fault, that they feel guilty or shameful of having been victimized. If you're experiencing anger, shame, fear, guilt, anxiety, or depression related to an experience out of your control, we can work together to put you back in control of your life. Familial conflict or transitions interfering with your relationship with your teen? Lets work together to figure out how to meet everyone's needs and meet balance.
Current Pro Bono openings for individuals open to working with a student. Countless young people have reported feeling like their trauma is their fault, that they feel guilty or shameful of having been victimized. If you're experiencing anger, shame, fear, guilt, anxiety, or depression related to an experience out of your control, we can work together to put you back in control of your life. Familial conflict or transitions interfering with your relationship with your teen? Lets work together to figure out how to meet everyone's needs and meet balance.
(207) 640-2262 View (207) 640-2262
Photo of Dave Norman, LMSW-CC, MALS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC, MALS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
My clients often seek relief from anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance misuse, grief, or struggles adapting to major life changes. The therapeutic space we create together becomes a safe—if not always comfortable—place to explore what's worked before, what you'd like to change, and what that change can look like or mean for you. Through the Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates agency, I am honored to work with you, and learn about your personal journey and goals. I have experience with a wide range of clients including military veterans and first responders, creative professionals, students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
My clients often seek relief from anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance misuse, grief, or struggles adapting to major life changes. The therapeutic space we create together becomes a safe—if not always comfortable—place to explore what's worked before, what you'd like to change, and what that change can look like or mean for you. Through the Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates agency, I am honored to work with you, and learn about your personal journey and goals. I have experience with a wide range of clients including military veterans and first responders, creative professionals, students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
(207) 489-4130 View (207) 489-4130
Photo of Elianna Ricciardi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elianna Ricciardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Welcome! Are you hoping to decrease daily stressors and concerns, gain confidence and have support in setting appropriate boundaries? Through a thoughtful process we can address these concerns and improve your overall quality of life. I am specialized in treating adolescents and adults. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a wide range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
Welcome! Are you hoping to decrease daily stressors and concerns, gain confidence and have support in setting appropriate boundaries? Through a thoughtful process we can address these concerns and improve your overall quality of life. I am specialized in treating adolescents and adults. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a wide range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
(207) 994-8371 View (207) 994-8371
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Bourgoin, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Bourgoin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
Clients who tend to be a great fit are seeking help for: anxiety, depressed mood, feeling "stuck", adjusting to college, relationship concerns, improving communication, navigating dating and marriage, coping with stress, job dissatisfaction, grief from loss, chronic illness, health goals, substance use concerns, sleep issues, EMDR for past/recent traumas.
Hello and Welcome! Psychotherapy is a collaborative, goal-oriented process of talking and experiencing emotions in a welcoming and affirming space. Thoughtfully chosen to meet your individual needs, I integrate an insight-oriented approach with evidence-based skills and behavior-focused therapies (e.g. CBT or DBT). Our sessions will address your current concerns, symptoms, and personal goals as well as explore vulnerabilities from your past to develop a deeper self-awareness. Mindfulness and/or EMDR may be suggested to clients who might benefit from an emotion-focused, body-based treatment.
Clients who tend to be a great fit are seeking help for: anxiety, depressed mood, feeling "stuck", adjusting to college, relationship concerns, improving communication, navigating dating and marriage, coping with stress, job dissatisfaction, grief from loss, chronic illness, health goals, substance use concerns, sleep issues, EMDR for past/recent traumas.
Hello and Welcome! Psychotherapy is a collaborative, goal-oriented process of talking and experiencing emotions in a welcoming and affirming space. Thoughtfully chosen to meet your individual needs, I integrate an insight-oriented approach with evidence-based skills and behavior-focused therapies (e.g. CBT or DBT). Our sessions will address your current concerns, symptoms, and personal goals as well as explore vulnerabilities from your past to develop a deeper self-awareness. Mindfulness and/or EMDR may be suggested to clients who might benefit from an emotion-focused, body-based treatment.
(207) 802-0721 View (207) 802-0721
Photo of Margaret Evans, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Margaret Evans
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Common themes include; complex trauma, PTSD, postpartum support, anxiety, depression, transitions, grief, relationships, work stress, parenting skills/support for children and adolescents with complex needs, family issues.
Life is a maze of ups and downs, we are taught to push away the downs and "keep moving" without acknowledging our true feelings and needs. Before you know it, fear, anxiety, trauma, depression, self doubt begin to take over and guide our decision making process. Your truth, who you are, and what you want starts to get lost, life becomes exhausting, unsatisfying and lonely. How might it feel to safely explore and validate your emotions and needs? Deepen your understanding of who you are and how you function through exposure to thoughts, feelings and behaviors that take over and create dysfunction in your life.
Common themes include; complex trauma, PTSD, postpartum support, anxiety, depression, transitions, grief, relationships, work stress, parenting skills/support for children and adolescents with complex needs, family issues.
Life is a maze of ups and downs, we are taught to push away the downs and "keep moving" without acknowledging our true feelings and needs. Before you know it, fear, anxiety, trauma, depression, self doubt begin to take over and guide our decision making process. Your truth, who you are, and what you want starts to get lost, life becomes exhausting, unsatisfying and lonely. How might it feel to safely explore and validate your emotions and needs? Deepen your understanding of who you are and how you function through exposure to thoughts, feelings and behaviors that take over and create dysfunction in your life.
(207) 613-2538 View (207) 613-2538
Photo of Jaime Devins, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Devins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my practice, I am excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with the following: isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, work, or family issues. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate and validating space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
Welcome to my practice, I am excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with the following: isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, work, or family issues. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate and validating space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
(207) 203-9293 View (207) 203-9293
Photo of Rebecca Kenny, MA, LCPC-c, Counselor
Rebecca Kenny
Counselor, MA, LCPC-c
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with life changes, anxiety, irritability, guilt, trauma, self-doubt, or other emotions, please reach out. Sometimes life gets messy, and things get in the way of living the way we desire. My approach helps you discover your inner resources and strengths to empower you toward the life you desire. I use EMDR therapy, solution-focused, narrative, ACT, mindfulness, and CBT.
Welcome, it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with life changes, anxiety, irritability, guilt, trauma, self-doubt, or other emotions, please reach out. Sometimes life gets messy, and things get in the way of living the way we desire. My approach helps you discover your inner resources and strengths to empower you toward the life you desire. I use EMDR therapy, solution-focused, narrative, ACT, mindfulness, and CBT.
(207) 407-9176 View (207) 407-9176
Photo of Zeus Markos, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zeus Markos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I have diverse training opportunities in outpatient and residential psychotherapy centers working with people of all ages in providing Individual, Group, and Family Therapy for those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, stress, and interpersonal conflict.
My conceptual skills and strengths from clinical practice are well-suited for highly motivated individuals; open to learning how to advance and stabilize their emotional health, based on sound principles for psychological and philosophic conflict-resolution. My approach reflects the understanding that growth requires critical self-reflection and ample time to actualize meaningful change. My experiences in academic studies, clinical services, and social justice affords me a broad range of insights; relevant to developing timely orientations for supporting composed ways, of handling internal and external, past and present conflicts.
I have diverse training opportunities in outpatient and residential psychotherapy centers working with people of all ages in providing Individual, Group, and Family Therapy for those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, stress, and interpersonal conflict.
My conceptual skills and strengths from clinical practice are well-suited for highly motivated individuals; open to learning how to advance and stabilize their emotional health, based on sound principles for psychological and philosophic conflict-resolution. My approach reflects the understanding that growth requires critical self-reflection and ample time to actualize meaningful change. My experiences in academic studies, clinical services, and social justice affords me a broad range of insights; relevant to developing timely orientations for supporting composed ways, of handling internal and external, past and present conflicts.
(207) 290-8235 View (207) 290-8235
Photo of Simone Rollins, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Simone Rollins
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
I have special interest and training in play therapy, developmental trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis), anxiety disorders, and life transitions.
I believe wholeheartedly that all people possess the innate ability to grow and heal. I see myself as an ally and guide on your personal journey of self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and uncertain. I offer a place for clients to experience respite from the demands of everyday life, and focus inward. I work with children and adults. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. In my work, I draw on Existential Therapy, Depth Psychology, Buddhist Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I have special interest and training in play therapy, developmental trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis), anxiety disorders, and life transitions.
I believe wholeheartedly that all people possess the innate ability to grow and heal. I see myself as an ally and guide on your personal journey of self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and uncertain. I offer a place for clients to experience respite from the demands of everyday life, and focus inward. I work with children and adults. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. In my work, I draw on Existential Therapy, Depth Psychology, Buddhist Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
(207) 506-3027 View (207) 506-3027
Photo of Nicole DeRobertis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole DeRobertis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both the state of CT and ME. I specialize in supporting professionals who are dealing with anxiety by facilitating a process of self-compassionate curiosity to increase awareness and insight around the origin of their anxiety and how it may be impacting them in their lives. I help clients identify and implement coping skills that work for them and their unique needs so that they may feel more connected with and confident in their authentic self.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both the state of CT and ME. I specialize in supporting professionals who are dealing with anxiety by facilitating a process of self-compassionate curiosity to increase awareness and insight around the origin of their anxiety and how it may be impacting them in their lives. I help clients identify and implement coping skills that work for them and their unique needs so that they may feel more connected with and confident in their authentic self.
(207) 223-7592 View (207) 223-7592
Photo of Maite U Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maite U Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, Hola, my name is Maite. Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress in your life? I would like to help by assisting you in learning skills to reach awareness and healing. Counseling is a safe place to share your concerns, dreams and to implement coping skills to deal with stress, anxiety, depression and/or trauma. I specialize in helping clients through challenging life transitions.
Hello, Hola, my name is Maite. Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress in your life? I would like to help by assisting you in learning skills to reach awareness and healing. Counseling is a safe place to share your concerns, dreams and to implement coping skills to deal with stress, anxiety, depression and/or trauma. I specialize in helping clients through challenging life transitions.
(207) 808-9756 View (207) 808-9756
Photo of Sasha Perkins, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sasha Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Sasha Perkins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2017. Sasha works from a collaborative strengths-based approach, assisting and supporting clients with anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and family issues. Outside of work, Sasha enjoys snowboarding, paddleboarding, traveling, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Sasha Perkins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2017. Sasha works from a collaborative strengths-based approach, assisting and supporting clients with anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and family issues. Outside of work, Sasha enjoys snowboarding, paddleboarding, traveling, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
(207) 536-5733 View (207) 536-5733
Photo of Andrew Berglund, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Berglund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) that are proven to help depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Thank you for your interest in my therapy/counseling practice. It is often a very difficult decision to finally decide to go to therapy. What can be even more daunting is to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. My approach is easy going and interactive which I have found most clients appreciate. I specialize in working with adults, couples, families and teens. I am co founder of Greater Portland DBT which is a consortium of DBT therapists offering Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to adults and teens.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) that are proven to help depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Thank you for your interest in my therapy/counseling practice. It is often a very difficult decision to finally decide to go to therapy. What can be even more daunting is to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. My approach is easy going and interactive which I have found most clients appreciate. I specialize in working with adults, couples, families and teens. I am co founder of Greater Portland DBT which is a consortium of DBT therapists offering Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to adults and teens.
(207) 358-4594 View (207) 358-4594
Photo of Max Bowen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Max Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
(409) 263-4666 View (409) 263-4666
Photo of Malene Schultz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malene Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
For the past 30+ years, my goal has been to help people of all ages feel listened to and understood, identify concerns with helpful solutions, and feel supported and valued. Anxiety, low self-esteem, change/transitions, school stress, relationships, family dynamics, parenting, and women's issues are strong practice areas for me, in addition to other areas of concern. I have an extensive work history with children, teenagers, college age, and parents, as well as adults of all ages. I provide a safe, non-judging, therapeutic interaction where you can feel accepted, comfortable, and free to truly be yourself.
For the past 30+ years, my goal has been to help people of all ages feel listened to and understood, identify concerns with helpful solutions, and feel supported and valued. Anxiety, low self-esteem, change/transitions, school stress, relationships, family dynamics, parenting, and women's issues are strong practice areas for me, in addition to other areas of concern. I have an extensive work history with children, teenagers, college age, and parents, as well as adults of all ages. I provide a safe, non-judging, therapeutic interaction where you can feel accepted, comfortable, and free to truly be yourself.
(844) 731-3494 View (844) 731-3494
Photo of Margery I Goldberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margery I Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My expertise covers a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, chronic illness, chronic pain, adoption, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples. My approach is an eclectic and heart-centered approach, which is based on creating a safe environment for people to explore whatever issues interfere with their ability to live the life they want to live. My approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential, Solution Focused, Relational, Interpersonal, Humanistic and Complementary orientations to psychotherapy. I am also trained in Biofeedback and Hypnosis.
My expertise covers a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, chronic illness, chronic pain, adoption, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples. My approach is an eclectic and heart-centered approach, which is based on creating a safe environment for people to explore whatever issues interfere with their ability to live the life they want to live. My approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential, Solution Focused, Relational, Interpersonal, Humanistic and Complementary orientations to psychotherapy. I am also trained in Biofeedback and Hypnosis.
(207) 773-7993 x42 View (207) 773-7993 x42
Photo of Bobby Taylor, LCSW, LADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobby Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in autonomy and a client-centered approach. I am here to primarily remind you, or tell you for the first time, that you are not alone. There are tools to relieve those feelings of restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Finding that solution begins with making a personal decision to address what is holding you back and taking steps to evolve into the best version of yourself. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?
As a therapist, I believe in autonomy and a client-centered approach. I am here to primarily remind you, or tell you for the first time, that you are not alone. There are tools to relieve those feelings of restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Finding that solution begins with making a personal decision to address what is holding you back and taking steps to evolve into the best version of yourself. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?
(207) 614-7710 View (207) 614-7710
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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.