Anxiety Therapists in Saint Ann, MO

Photo of Michael Mason, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Mason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Ann, MO 63074  (Online Only)
My approach empowers you to transform negative past experiences and anxiety into resilience and self-awareness, equipping you with the tools for lasting personal growth and emotional well-being.
You feel overwhelmed by the weight of past experiences, struggling with self-worth and a relentless inner critic. You experience anxiety and self-doubt, making it hard to prioritize your needs and find balance. You might feel like you’re constantly battling negative self-talk, unable to see your own strengths and potential. Your goal is to heal, grow, and build a life where you feel valued and confident. You want to break free from these chains and embrace your true worth. At Safe Harbor Counseling, I support you with compassionate, informed care, helping you navigate your journey towards self-compassion, resilience and fulfillment.
My approach empowers you to transform negative past experiences and anxiety into resilience and self-awareness, equipping you with the tools for lasting personal growth and emotional well-being.
You feel overwhelmed by the weight of past experiences, struggling with self-worth and a relentless inner critic. You experience anxiety and self-doubt, making it hard to prioritize your needs and find balance. You might feel like you’re constantly battling negative self-talk, unable to see your own strengths and potential. Your goal is to heal, grow, and build a life where you feel valued and confident. You want to break free from these chains and embrace your true worth. At Safe Harbor Counseling, I support you with compassionate, informed care, helping you navigate your journey towards self-compassion, resilience and fulfillment.
(314) 742-9462 View (314) 742-9462
Photo of Ada Williams, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ada Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Ada’s areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, childhood behavior issues, depression, gender identity, grief, post-partum depression/ anxiety, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, sleep disorders/insomnia, and women’s issues.
Ada Williams, LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Missouri, Ada offers therapy services to clients of all ages, from children to seniors, across diverse populations. Ada specializes in trauma-informed care, drawing from over 8 years of experience in community-based and school-based settings. Her extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy equips her to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Ada’s areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, childhood behavior issues, depression, gender identity, grief, post-partum depression/ anxiety, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, sleep disorders/insomnia, and women’s issues.
Ada Williams, LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Missouri, Ada offers therapy services to clients of all ages, from children to seniors, across diverse populations. Ada specializes in trauma-informed care, drawing from over 8 years of experience in community-based and school-based settings. Her extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy equips her to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues.
(314) 970-4785 View (314) 970-4785
Photo of Virginia Eldridge, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Eldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Virginia Eldridge is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2017. Virginia's therapeutic approach is focused on stress management, working through grief, depression, and anxiety with the use of interventions and techniques that help you to gain a new perspective on life. Outside of work, Virginia enjoys listening to music, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
Virginia Eldridge is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2017. Virginia's therapeutic approach is focused on stress management, working through grief, depression, and anxiety with the use of interventions and techniques that help you to gain a new perspective on life. Outside of work, Virginia enjoys listening to music, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
(314) 897-7476 View (314) 897-7476
Photo of Darcel Tyson, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darcel Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Her extensive experience in trauma therapy helps clients navigate their past experiences and find healing, while her focus on anxiety and depression provides them with the tools to manage these common mental health challenges effectively.
Darcel Tyson, LPC, is dedicated to encouraging, motivating, and challenging clients towards meaningful and lasting change. Serving the state of Missouri through LifeStance Health, Darcel offers a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment to support the therapeutic process. Believing that therapy is a collaborative effort, she works with clients to identify internal conflicts and barriers that may hinder personal growth. Together, they set goals and apply the necessary skills to improve the quality of life. Darcel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Her extensive experience in trauma therapy helps clients navigate their past experiences and find healing, while her focus on anxiety and depression provides them with the tools to manage these common mental health challenges effectively.
Darcel Tyson, LPC, is dedicated to encouraging, motivating, and challenging clients towards meaningful and lasting change. Serving the state of Missouri through LifeStance Health, Darcel offers a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment to support the therapeutic process. Believing that therapy is a collaborative effort, she works with clients to identify internal conflicts and barriers that may hinder personal growth. Together, they set goals and apply the necessary skills to improve the quality of life. Darcel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
(877) 703-3831 View (877) 703-3831
Photo of Linda Peterson, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Are you stressed and tired of doing the same thing and getting the same result? Life gets hard and we need to change our quest in life to meet the changes that occur. I am a Individual, marriage and family Psychotherapist. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, marriage concerns,parenting issues and multicultural issues. Asking for help is hard and can be really difficult for most. Change will not happen without action. I provide a safe space for confidential and stressful issues to be discussed. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed School Guidance Counselor.
Are you stressed and tired of doing the same thing and getting the same result? Life gets hard and we need to change our quest in life to meet the changes that occur. I am a Individual, marriage and family Psychotherapist. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, marriage concerns,parenting issues and multicultural issues. Asking for help is hard and can be really difficult for most. Change will not happen without action. I provide a safe space for confidential and stressful issues to be discussed. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed School Guidance Counselor.
(314) 266-5153 View (314) 266-5153
Photo of Marquetta Letae Johnson, LPCC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Marquetta Letae Johnson
Counselor, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074  (Online Only)
Those areas can be mentally exhausting, emotional challenging, anxious, depressing, and at times, causing mood instability.
I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in two states, Kentucky and Missouri ,owner of Yahir Counseling and Consulting LLC. I provide mental health counseling and consulting services. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, as well as National Certified Counselor. I obtained my Master's Degree from Murray State University. I have over 10 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress, anxiety, addictions, motivation, self esteem building, trauma and depression.
Those areas can be mentally exhausting, emotional challenging, anxious, depressing, and at times, causing mood instability.
I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in two states, Kentucky and Missouri ,owner of Yahir Counseling and Consulting LLC. I provide mental health counseling and consulting services. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, as well as National Certified Counselor. I obtained my Master's Degree from Murray State University. I have over 10 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress, anxiety, addictions, motivation, self esteem building, trauma and depression.
(816) 744-6410 View (816) 744-6410
Photo of Erica L Blanks, MS, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica L Blanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Waitlist for new clients
As a Therapist, I understand the value of working towards having balance in all of the areas - physically, socially, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, sexually and financially. But sometimes it can get rough! Tough seasons are bound to come whether we'd like them to or not, but the focus can't solely be on the effects of the storm. Recognizing one's inner strength is crucial. This is something I have grown to better understand in my field of work as well as in my own personal journey. My therapeutic approach will be to aid you in realizing what you also truly possess inside.
As a Therapist, I understand the value of working towards having balance in all of the areas - physically, socially, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, sexually and financially. But sometimes it can get rough! Tough seasons are bound to come whether we'd like them to or not, but the focus can't solely be on the effects of the storm. Recognizing one's inner strength is crucial. This is something I have grown to better understand in my field of work as well as in my own personal journey. My therapeutic approach will be to aid you in realizing what you also truly possess inside.
(314) 501-5274 View (314) 501-5274
Photo of Gerald Bentley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gerald Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Gerald Bentley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. He received his Master's degree in School and Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. Gerald works to build a safe and caring therapeutic relationship through a client centered approach. He strives to facilitate growth, self-awareness, and healing. He is a culturally competent therapist and a LGBTQIA ally that understands the importance of bringing cultural differences into the therapeutic process. Gerald is committed to learning and uses he knowledge to work with clients of a variety of backgrounds.
Gerald Bentley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. He received his Master's degree in School and Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. Gerald works to build a safe and caring therapeutic relationship through a client centered approach. He strives to facilitate growth, self-awareness, and healing. He is a culturally competent therapist and a LGBTQIA ally that understands the importance of bringing cultural differences into the therapeutic process. Gerald is committed to learning and uses he knowledge to work with clients of a variety of backgrounds.
(314) 949-5075 View (314) 949-5075
Photo of Michael Woosley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Woosley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
M. Brett Woosley, LCSW M. Brett Woosley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 1992. He has an M.S. in Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and Certification from the Menninger Marriage and Family institute.
M. Brett Woosley, LCSW M. Brett Woosley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 1992. He has an M.S. in Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and Certification from the Menninger Marriage and Family institute.
(314) 582-8953 View (314) 582-8953
Photo of Nancy Lubowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Lubowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Ann, MO 63074
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
(314) 804-7640 View (314) 804-7640

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Latonia Coates-Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latonia Coates-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Offering care to individuals, couples and families in resolving interpersonal conflict, life crisis, anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma (PTSD).
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
Offering care to individuals, couples and families in resolving interpersonal conflict, life crisis, anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma (PTSD).
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
(636) 238-5944 View (636) 238-5944
Photo of Allison White, ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Overland, MO 63114
Do you have long periods of low mood, sadness or anxiety that makes it difficult to face life challenges? Do you have trouble getting motivated? Do you have a history of adverse life experiences or trauma that makes it difficult to cope? There are reasons why you feel the way you do and together, we can discover what is keeping you feeling "stuck." I use a mind-body approach to help resolve issues so you can increase the quality of your life.
Do you have long periods of low mood, sadness or anxiety that makes it difficult to face life challenges? Do you have trouble getting motivated? Do you have a history of adverse life experiences or trauma that makes it difficult to cope? There are reasons why you feel the way you do and together, we can discover what is keeping you feeling "stuck." I use a mind-body approach to help resolve issues so you can increase the quality of your life.
(314) 329-4705 View (314) 329-4705
Photo of Sharon Kramer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63044  (Online Only)
I want you to know that healing is possible- and we can do it together! Be free from the sadness, anxiety, and familial conflicts that now seem so overwhelming.
Hi, I'm Sharon and I am so glad you're here! Have you been struggling emotionally? Are you tired of the emotional/behavioral cycles you keep finding yourself in? Perhaps you want to stride boldly through 2024 with a goal of moving past the emotional hurts and pains that may have been with you for years. Let's talk about how we can work together courageously to achieve a more fulfilling, satisfying and peaceful lifestyle you are seeking!
I want you to know that healing is possible- and we can do it together! Be free from the sadness, anxiety, and familial conflicts that now seem so overwhelming.
Hi, I'm Sharon and I am so glad you're here! Have you been struggling emotionally? Are you tired of the emotional/behavioral cycles you keep finding yourself in? Perhaps you want to stride boldly through 2024 with a goal of moving past the emotional hurts and pains that may have been with you for years. Let's talk about how we can work together courageously to achieve a more fulfilling, satisfying and peaceful lifestyle you are seeking!
(520) 485-5710 View (520) 485-5710
Photo of Cecilia D Carter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecilia D Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63044
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, mother daughter relationships, and relationship conflict.
Confronting life’s problems is a painful process which most folks want to avoid. Unfortunately, avoiding the problems just results in more pain. I believe that learning to radically accept life as it happens helps us to manage and embrace the temporary distress that comes from life’s disappointments. When we learn to tolerate distress, we improve the quality of our lives. Improving our lives means that we exact peace and power during times of celebration and disappointment. It is my goal to validate my client's experiences while providing them the skills needed to fully embrace the peaks and tolerate the valleys of life.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, mother daughter relationships, and relationship conflict.
Confronting life’s problems is a painful process which most folks want to avoid. Unfortunately, avoiding the problems just results in more pain. I believe that learning to radically accept life as it happens helps us to manage and embrace the temporary distress that comes from life’s disappointments. When we learn to tolerate distress, we improve the quality of our lives. Improving our lives means that we exact peace and power during times of celebration and disappointment. It is my goal to validate my client's experiences while providing them the skills needed to fully embrace the peaks and tolerate the valleys of life.
(314) 293-4633 View (314) 293-4633
Photo of Precious Grimes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Precious Grimes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63044  (Online Only)
I am Precious, I work specifically with women who grapple with the aftermath of past traumas, battling symptoms of depression and anxiety. I understand the struggles of forging and sustaining connections as a result of trauma, navigating the complexities of motherhood, and coping with unhealthy attachments in relationships, often relying on societal constructs to shape one's identity. I am an EMDR and yoga trained psychotherapist specializing in guiding women through the challenges of anxiety and depression stemming from trauma, motherhood, relationships, and codependency.
I am Precious, I work specifically with women who grapple with the aftermath of past traumas, battling symptoms of depression and anxiety. I understand the struggles of forging and sustaining connections as a result of trauma, navigating the complexities of motherhood, and coping with unhealthy attachments in relationships, often relying on societal constructs to shape one's identity. I am an EMDR and yoga trained psychotherapist specializing in guiding women through the challenges of anxiety and depression stemming from trauma, motherhood, relationships, and codependency.
(833) 456-9001 View (833) 456-9001
Photo of Victoria Schleeper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Schleeper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043  (Online Only)
I can assist you in dealing with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, codependency, low self-esteem, life transitions, and more.
Life can be hard sometimes! Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or simply feeling stuck and frustrated, we can work on solutions. My focus is to help you move forward in your life with a better ability to navigate the difficult situations. As we move through the process together the goal is to assist you in finding meaning and growth, as well as symptom relief to improve your overall well-being.
I can assist you in dealing with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, codependency, low self-esteem, life transitions, and more.
Life can be hard sometimes! Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or simply feeling stuck and frustrated, we can work on solutions. My focus is to help you move forward in your life with a better ability to navigate the difficult situations. As we move through the process together the goal is to assist you in finding meaning and growth, as well as symptom relief to improve your overall well-being.
(314) 200-0336 View (314) 200-0336
Photo of Yasmira Emofor, LPC, CCDP-D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yasmira Emofor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Overland, MO 63114
I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in anxiety and trauma treatments.
Have you felt like you are missing out on life? Have you felt like you are in a slump that you can’t dig yourself out off? Like you have been struggling for so long without a break from the stress of it all? Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, phobias, substance abuse or trauma, I am here to offer a safe space for you. What you want to feel is empowered, capable and resilient to handle the challenge; or ready to face down any fear. I've helped countless individuals! Let me help you reclaim resiliency today!
I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in anxiety and trauma treatments.
Have you felt like you are missing out on life? Have you felt like you are in a slump that you can’t dig yourself out off? Like you have been struggling for so long without a break from the stress of it all? Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, phobias, substance abuse or trauma, I am here to offer a safe space for you. What you want to feel is empowered, capable and resilient to handle the challenge; or ready to face down any fear. I've helped countless individuals! Let me help you reclaim resiliency today!
(314) 742-8208 View (314) 742-8208
Photo of Kathy V Guerra, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy V Guerra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Being solution-focused and having extensive experience with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma,family issues,and an additional specialty of families challenged by developmental disorders, we are a practice with a mission to serve.
"Life is difficult." That's a Scott Peck quote. Healing begins just by embracing this quote. Three simple words, but on a bad day, very true, right? Sunny days seem inaccessible. You've already taken the first step, which is realizing that the listening ear of a therapist just might be helpful. After graduating from Boston U, my emphasis became adolescents, family relationships, and women's issues. This is my practice emphasis, but my door is open to all who are interested in growth and self-reflection.
Being solution-focused and having extensive experience with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma,family issues,and an additional specialty of families challenged by developmental disorders, we are a practice with a mission to serve.
"Life is difficult." That's a Scott Peck quote. Healing begins just by embracing this quote. Three simple words, but on a bad day, very true, right? Sunny days seem inaccessible. You've already taken the first step, which is realizing that the listening ear of a therapist just might be helpful. After graduating from Boston U, my emphasis became adolescents, family relationships, and women's issues. This is my practice emphasis, but my door is open to all who are interested in growth and self-reflection.
(314) 200-0843 View (314) 200-0843
Photo of Lisa Michele Creath - Creath Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creath Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Overland, MO 63114  (Online Only)
I can assist you in decreasing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, repetitive worried thoughts, feelings of inadequacy, and advocating for yourself to improve your quality of life, and create a life worth living that is in line with your values and the unique person that you are.
Hello! Seeking help and support during difficult times or in crisis situations can feel scary, and as if no one understands your unique experience at this time in your life. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, feeling worthless, down in the dumps, and are wondering if you can ever enjoy life and experience happiness again, I am here to help. If you would like to talk to someone in hopes of getting support, guidance and a commitment to improving your quality of life, I understand and I can help.
I can assist you in decreasing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, repetitive worried thoughts, feelings of inadequacy, and advocating for yourself to improve your quality of life, and create a life worth living that is in line with your values and the unique person that you are.
Hello! Seeking help and support during difficult times or in crisis situations can feel scary, and as if no one understands your unique experience at this time in your life. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, feeling worthless, down in the dumps, and are wondering if you can ever enjoy life and experience happiness again, I am here to help. If you would like to talk to someone in hopes of getting support, guidance and a commitment to improving your quality of life, I understand and I can help.
(314) 916-9605 View (314) 916-9605
Photo of Ryan Wilderman, MA, LPC, Counselor
Ryan Wilderman
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63134  (Online Only)
I specialize in using affirming, evidence-based practices to address concerns related to OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, thought disorders such as psychosis and mood issues.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
I specialize in using affirming, evidence-based practices to address concerns related to OCD, anxiety, perfectionism, thought disorders such as psychosis and mood issues.
People who choose to work with me often struggle with various anxieties, fears and incredibly high standards. These issues can often manifest as OCD, anxiety, depressiveness and perfectionism. Many times, these difficulties spread into other areas of life and can impact school, work, family and even just engaging in activities that were once enjoyable. I help people and support systems navigate and learn strategies to manage these issues in order to better function and to be happier overall.
(314) 208-3477 View (314) 208-3477

See more therapy options for Saint Ann

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.