Photo of Rhonda Suzanne Karg, PhD, Psychologist
Rhonda Suzanne Karg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Dr. Rhonda Karg is an internationally renowned expert in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. She is a co-author of the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-5, which is considered worldwide to be the gold standard of psychiatric assessments. Dr. Karg is an active research scientist with Columbia University, and a clinical psychologist specializing in solution-focused psychotherapy where you'll not just talk about problems — she actually teaches you new skills so that you feel better as quickly as possible. Dr. Karg provides evidence-based treatment and consultation.
Dr. Rhonda Karg is an internationally renowned expert in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. She is a co-author of the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-5, which is considered worldwide to be the gold standard of psychiatric assessments. Dr. Karg is an active research scientist with Columbia University, and a clinical psychologist specializing in solution-focused psychotherapy where you'll not just talk about problems — she actually teaches you new skills so that you feel better as quickly as possible. Dr. Karg provides evidence-based treatment and consultation.
(828) 358-0378 View (828) 358-0378
Photo of Shannon South, LCMHC, ThD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on helping you embody more peace, love and joy. Trauma and pain disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for rapid healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, codependency, self-esteem issues and those wanting more from life.. Bringing health back around areas that have become imbalanced (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of loving your life and yourself.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on helping you embody more peace, love and joy. Trauma and pain disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for rapid healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, codependency, self-esteem issues and those wanting more from life.. Bringing health back around areas that have become imbalanced (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of loving your life and yourself.
(828) 351-9963 View (828) 351-9963
Photo of John Richard, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We're each gifted... We're each wounded... Nobody escapes the extraordinary challenges of being human. Seeking out a compassionate ally skilled in the process of healing is an important and courageous act, one that can lead to greater fulfillment, resiliency, self-esteem, and well-being. I work with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief, depression, LGBTQ, relationship issues, men's issue's, and spiritual and existential crises. I have extensive experience with young adults navigating the challenges of moving into greater self-knowledge, empowerment, and a life of their own.
We're each gifted... We're each wounded... Nobody escapes the extraordinary challenges of being human. Seeking out a compassionate ally skilled in the process of healing is an important and courageous act, one that can lead to greater fulfillment, resiliency, self-esteem, and well-being. I work with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief, depression, LGBTQ, relationship issues, men's issue's, and spiritual and existential crises. I have extensive experience with young adults navigating the challenges of moving into greater self-knowledge, empowerment, and a life of their own.
(336) 361-1316 View (336) 361-1316
Photo of Tommy Cook, LCMHCA, LCAS
Tommy Cook
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Are you seeking to connect deeper with your intuitive self? I dream of a world where humanity tunes into intuitive sense for guidance. As a culture we have ventured far away from the infinite intelligence of “the still small voice within” and formulated an over reliance on the analytical mind. My ideal client is individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, impulsivity, and/or codependency who want to connect with the intuitive wisdom that has been blocked by fear and shame. The goal in facing these blocks will be to increase feelings of self love, presence, and serenity.
Are you seeking to connect deeper with your intuitive self? I dream of a world where humanity tunes into intuitive sense for guidance. As a culture we have ventured far away from the infinite intelligence of “the still small voice within” and formulated an over reliance on the analytical mind. My ideal client is individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, impulsivity, and/or codependency who want to connect with the intuitive wisdom that has been blocked by fear and shame. The goal in facing these blocks will be to increase feelings of self love, presence, and serenity.
(828) 532-3967 View (828) 532-3967
Photo of Catherine Fulop, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Fulop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Cay Fulop LCSW, LCAS is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW# C011690 and is a Nationally Certified Substance Abuse Specialist (LCAS 1336) in the state of North Carolina. She has 31 years of clinical counseling experience including Substance Abuse and early recovery issues, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, codependency, family of origin issues, grief process and family/relationship issues.
Cay Fulop LCSW, LCAS is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW# C011690 and is a Nationally Certified Substance Abuse Specialist (LCAS 1336) in the state of North Carolina. She has 31 years of clinical counseling experience including Substance Abuse and early recovery issues, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, codependency, family of origin issues, grief process and family/relationship issues.
(828) 232-8188 View (828) 232-8188
Photo of Brittany Briceño, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Brittany Briceño
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
You’re capable of overcoming those anxious thought spirals and emotional meltdowns.
Does it feel like you keep hitting the same wall of anxiety, doubt, and self-criticism? Maybe you’re generally satisfied with where you’re at in life but can’t seem to stop that nagging feeling that you “should” be doing more. Despite being adaptive, intelligent, and insightful, you still never quite feel "good enough". I want to support you in freeing yourself from the traps of family pressure, cultural expectations, and societal demands while stepping into your inherent worth and self-trust. As your counselor, I'll help you sort through your conflicting feelings, make peace with your past, and embrace your truth.
You’re capable of overcoming those anxious thought spirals and emotional meltdowns.
Does it feel like you keep hitting the same wall of anxiety, doubt, and self-criticism? Maybe you’re generally satisfied with where you’re at in life but can’t seem to stop that nagging feeling that you “should” be doing more. Despite being adaptive, intelligent, and insightful, you still never quite feel "good enough". I want to support you in freeing yourself from the traps of family pressure, cultural expectations, and societal demands while stepping into your inherent worth and self-trust. As your counselor, I'll help you sort through your conflicting feelings, make peace with your past, and embrace your truth.
(828) 373-8717 View (828) 373-8717
Photo of Reuben Brody, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reuben Brody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Ferris Bueller said: “Life is pretty short. If you don’t stop to look around, you may miss it.” Of course, life’s brevity may evoke anxiety. Or maybe you’re repeating thoughts and behaviors that make it hard to enjoy life or connect with people. Depression. Anxiety. Shame. Insomnia. You deserve contentment now. I help folks (mostly men) regulate their emotions so they grow beyond life’s transitions, be it relationships, work or grief, which isn't just the loss of a loved one; grief can also be the loss of a life you expected.
Ferris Bueller said: “Life is pretty short. If you don’t stop to look around, you may miss it.” Of course, life’s brevity may evoke anxiety. Or maybe you’re repeating thoughts and behaviors that make it hard to enjoy life or connect with people. Depression. Anxiety. Shame. Insomnia. You deserve contentment now. I help folks (mostly men) regulate their emotions so they grow beyond life’s transitions, be it relationships, work or grief, which isn't just the loss of a loved one; grief can also be the loss of a life you expected.
(828) 520-0742 View (828) 520-0742
Photo of Matthew Popielarczyk, MS, LCMHC
Matthew Popielarczyk
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with adults & adolescents with concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, mood & personality disorders, confidence/self-esteem, trauma, grief/loss, & substance/alcohol abuse.
Compassion is a basic human need that often goes unfulfilled. When we don’t get it from others, it’s no wonder we are our own toughest critic. We refer to ourselves in harsh terms we would likely not use with friends and family. We feel stuck, alone, hopeless. Reaching out for help is hard, but continuing the emotional suffering is even harder. My clients have described me as approachable, compassionate, & non-judgmental. My goal is to help you explore & process unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior while learning new healthy ways to regulate your emotions, communicate with others, & to stand firm in your decision-making.
I have experience working with adults & adolescents with concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, mood & personality disorders, confidence/self-esteem, trauma, grief/loss, & substance/alcohol abuse.
Compassion is a basic human need that often goes unfulfilled. When we don’t get it from others, it’s no wonder we are our own toughest critic. We refer to ourselves in harsh terms we would likely not use with friends and family. We feel stuck, alone, hopeless. Reaching out for help is hard, but continuing the emotional suffering is even harder. My clients have described me as approachable, compassionate, & non-judgmental. My goal is to help you explore & process unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior while learning new healthy ways to regulate your emotions, communicate with others, & to stand firm in your decision-making.
(828) 392-7987 View (828) 392-7987
Photo of Elaine Roche, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Roche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
When you or your adolescent have an eating disorder it impacts almost every moment. Hopelessness, insecurity, frustration, anxiety, and grief become a part of every day. I work with people in various stages of eating disorder recovery- from the newbies to those wanting to maintain their progress. As one of only two clinicians in Asheville trained in best practices for adolescents, I am able to help clients and families using the latest research and make impacts that have lasting change. My adult clients are motivated. They've had enough of their life ruined by this condition and are done with suffering, they just need a path out.
When you or your adolescent have an eating disorder it impacts almost every moment. Hopelessness, insecurity, frustration, anxiety, and grief become a part of every day. I work with people in various stages of eating disorder recovery- from the newbies to those wanting to maintain their progress. As one of only two clinicians in Asheville trained in best practices for adolescents, I am able to help clients and families using the latest research and make impacts that have lasting change. My adult clients are motivated. They've had enough of their life ruined by this condition and are done with suffering, they just need a path out.
(828) 457-7188 View (828) 457-7188
Photo of Adam Hallock, MEd, EdS, LCMHC
Adam Hallock
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed therapist in both North Carolina and New York. I find great fulfillment in working with individuals needing assistance in better managing their mood stability, emotions, anxiety, relationships, codependency, and life adjustment stressors. Individuals seeking supportive feedback, non-judgmental listening, and constructive, positive counseling services would likely benefit from working with me.
Hello! I am a licensed therapist in both North Carolina and New York. I find great fulfillment in working with individuals needing assistance in better managing their mood stability, emotions, anxiety, relationships, codependency, and life adjustment stressors. Individuals seeking supportive feedback, non-judgmental listening, and constructive, positive counseling services would likely benefit from working with me.
(828) 672-3022 View (828) 672-3022
Photo of Kayla Cypher Holistic Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Cypher Holistic Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
If you are struggling with a difficult life transition, depression, anxiety, or trauma, I am here to help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed at home or work? If you are at a loss of ways to help yourself or your family overcome such barriers, then speaking with a counselor can provide you with the answers and support that you are seeking. I know it can be scary to ask for help but, my primary goal is to meet you where you are without posing any judgment. This allows freedom for discovery, hope, and fulfillment by establishing healthy thinking, healthy feeling, and healthy behaving.
If you are struggling with a difficult life transition, depression, anxiety, or trauma, I am here to help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed at home or work? If you are at a loss of ways to help yourself or your family overcome such barriers, then speaking with a counselor can provide you with the answers and support that you are seeking. I know it can be scary to ask for help but, my primary goal is to meet you where you are without posing any judgment. This allows freedom for discovery, hope, and fulfillment by establishing healthy thinking, healthy feeling, and healthy behaving.
(828) 415-5414 View (828) 415-5414
Photo of Kelsey Reep, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Reep
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I support clients through depression, anxiety, and trauma, while also specializing in women’s experiences—navigating PMDD, PMS, and abortion-affirming/pro-choice advocacy.
Sometimes the toughest moments in life aren’t the ones we expect. Sure, no one’s surprised when a divorce, death, or natural disaster is life-changing. But we’re often caught off guard by what brings us to therapy—guilt after an abortion you know you wanted, depression after a short relationship, or feeling stuck in draining, one-sided friendships, relationships, or jobs. It’s hard being a deep-feeling person, and even harder to be a woman balancing this oddly specific trajectory society has for us. I know what it’s like to feel trapped in someone else’s movie—and the effort, heartache, and ultimate joy of rewriting your own script.
I support clients through depression, anxiety, and trauma, while also specializing in women’s experiences—navigating PMDD, PMS, and abortion-affirming/pro-choice advocacy.
Sometimes the toughest moments in life aren’t the ones we expect. Sure, no one’s surprised when a divorce, death, or natural disaster is life-changing. But we’re often caught off guard by what brings us to therapy—guilt after an abortion you know you wanted, depression after a short relationship, or feeling stuck in draining, one-sided friendships, relationships, or jobs. It’s hard being a deep-feeling person, and even harder to be a woman balancing this oddly specific trajectory society has for us. I know what it’s like to feel trapped in someone else’s movie—and the effort, heartache, and ultimate joy of rewriting your own script.
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Photo of Kat Oliveira, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kat Oliveira
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Are you going through transitions in your life? Or perhaps you are stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you struggling with uncertainties, doubts, and perhaps some anxiety? If so, let's talk! I love to help clients who are going through major life transitions (such as endings or changes in current relationships), gender or sexuality questioning (LGBTQQ+), divorce, grief, career changes, and other challenging circumstances.
Are you going through transitions in your life? Or perhaps you are stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you struggling with uncertainties, doubts, and perhaps some anxiety? If so, let's talk! I love to help clients who are going through major life transitions (such as endings or changes in current relationships), gender or sexuality questioning (LGBTQQ+), divorce, grief, career changes, and other challenging circumstances.
(828) 585-5328 View (828) 585-5328
Photo of Sadi Schuldt - Creating Space, Sadi Schuldt LPC, LCMHC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creating Space, Sadi Schuldt LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I work with people who may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
I believe in the importance of creating a space where you can process the challenges in your life. When life feels too overwhelming and you can't seem to keep up, or you have lost your motivation, I will help you find your inner strength and confidence to manage and move forward. We will work together to identify the burdens you are confronted with and explore what it takes to truly own your journey.
I work with people who may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
I believe in the importance of creating a space where you can process the challenges in your life. When life feels too overwhelming and you can't seem to keep up, or you have lost your motivation, I will help you find your inner strength and confidence to manage and move forward. We will work together to identify the burdens you are confronted with and explore what it takes to truly own your journey.
(828) 970-1546 View (828) 970-1546
Photo of Lindsay Minnema, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Lindsay Minnema
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I am an LCMHCA with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Irvine. My clinical foundation is based in a person-centered approach utilizing evidence-based therapeutic techniques. This means that through a non-judgmental, authentic relationship we will work together to develop new skills and work toward your unique goals. I am open to working with a range of ages and concerns with a particular interest in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, family of origin difficulties, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, and life transitions. I am currently training in and able to practice EMDR therapy.
I am an LCMHCA with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Irvine. My clinical foundation is based in a person-centered approach utilizing evidence-based therapeutic techniques. This means that through a non-judgmental, authentic relationship we will work together to develop new skills and work toward your unique goals. I am open to working with a range of ages and concerns with a particular interest in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, family of origin difficulties, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, and life transitions. I am currently training in and able to practice EMDR therapy.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Rachael James, PhD, Psychologist
Rachael James
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I have experience helping adult clients navigate a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and attachment issues, and perinatal concerns.
We all need support sometimes to cope with life’s challenges. I am here to help. My top priority is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to feel connected and understood. Together we will explore what you hope to get out of therapy, identify strengths and barriers, and actively develop solutions. I will help you to take manageable risks to live authentically, process painful thoughts and feelings, and achieve your goals for a healthy and fulfilling life. I take an integrative approach, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and contemporary psychodynamic and attachment based approaches.
I have experience helping adult clients navigate a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and attachment issues, and perinatal concerns.
We all need support sometimes to cope with life’s challenges. I am here to help. My top priority is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to feel connected and understood. Together we will explore what you hope to get out of therapy, identify strengths and barriers, and actively develop solutions. I will help you to take manageable risks to live authentically, process painful thoughts and feelings, and achieve your goals for a healthy and fulfilling life. I take an integrative approach, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and contemporary psychodynamic and attachment based approaches.
(828) 528-7887 View (828) 528-7887
Photo of Jeffie Cilano, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jeffie Cilano
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Parents, teens, preteens, and Co-Parenting counseling are my focus. I work with teens and preteens needing support with anxiety, depression, divorce, low self-esteem and who struggle with learning challenges. I work to create a therapeutic environment where you and your teen feel safe to share, feel seen and heard, and can set goals, learn new life skills; to help create space between emotions, and reactions. Creating an overall happier relationship with life. And where you as parents can receive support, and also as co-parents develop healthy communication skills, and learn to create the parenting relationship you desire.
Parents, teens, preteens, and Co-Parenting counseling are my focus. I work with teens and preteens needing support with anxiety, depression, divorce, low self-esteem and who struggle with learning challenges. I work to create a therapeutic environment where you and your teen feel safe to share, feel seen and heard, and can set goals, learn new life skills; to help create space between emotions, and reactions. Creating an overall happier relationship with life. And where you as parents can receive support, and also as co-parents develop healthy communication skills, and learn to create the parenting relationship you desire.
(828) 383-8377 View (828) 383-8377
Photo of Chandler Ray, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Chandler Ray
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with children, adolescents, teens, and adults in various settings including summer camps, therapeutic boarding schools, and residential rehabilitation. This has allowed a wide breadth of experience in areas from supporting children and adolescents as they embark through developmental stages, as well as teens and adults as they learn, grow, heal and empower themselves through life’s many challenges. I have experience in supporting clients through various areas including: depression, suicidal ideation/self-harm, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, trauma, attachment, substance use and process addictions, and supporting LGBTQ+
I have worked with children, adolescents, teens, and adults in various settings including summer camps, therapeutic boarding schools, and residential rehabilitation. This has allowed a wide breadth of experience in areas from supporting children and adolescents as they embark through developmental stages, as well as teens and adults as they learn, grow, heal and empower themselves through life’s many challenges. I have experience in supporting clients through various areas including: depression, suicidal ideation/self-harm, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, trauma, attachment, substance use and process addictions, and supporting LGBTQ+
(828) 554-7746 View (828) 554-7746
Photo of Emily M Nelson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily M Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Stress and suffering are both undeniable aspects of the human experience. Many humans choose to deny, avoid, and repress emotion as a survival tactic. "I can't handle this. I'm overreacting." (Nice try, brain, but invalidation and avoidance actually tend to make things worse for us in the long run- the emotions we try to run from grow). I am passionate about empowering others to live authentically and wholeheartedly- in alignment with their goals and values. My approach is very direct, while also being warm, validating, and compassionate. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders in adolescents (13+) and young adults.
Stress and suffering are both undeniable aspects of the human experience. Many humans choose to deny, avoid, and repress emotion as a survival tactic. "I can't handle this. I'm overreacting." (Nice try, brain, but invalidation and avoidance actually tend to make things worse for us in the long run- the emotions we try to run from grow). I am passionate about empowering others to live authentically and wholeheartedly- in alignment with their goals and values. My approach is very direct, while also being warm, validating, and compassionate. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders in adolescents (13+) and young adults.
(828) 949-1042 View (828) 949-1042
Photo of Healing Solutions Counseling At Jfs - Healing Solutions Counseling at JFS, LCSW, LCMHC, PhD, Counselor
Healing Solutions Counseling at JFS
Counselor, LCSW, LCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We are experienced in providing treatment and/or support for depression, anxiety, parenting challenges, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship problems, LGBT issues, stress management, and healthy aging.
Healing Solutions Counseling at JFS provides unique and coordinated services that will engage you in identifying your needs, strengths, and goals. Regardless of your situation, we will help empower you to attain a better quality of life. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, parenting challenges, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship problems, stress management, healthy aging, and LGBT support. Our approach is strengths-based and tailored to each unique individual we serve. Our therapy sessions are safe, private, and confidential. We will always meet you where you are.
We are experienced in providing treatment and/or support for depression, anxiety, parenting challenges, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship problems, LGBT issues, stress management, and healthy aging.
Healing Solutions Counseling at JFS provides unique and coordinated services that will engage you in identifying your needs, strengths, and goals. Regardless of your situation, we will help empower you to attain a better quality of life. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, parenting challenges, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship problems, stress management, healthy aging, and LGBT support. Our approach is strengths-based and tailored to each unique individual we serve. Our therapy sessions are safe, private, and confidential. We will always meet you where you are.
(828) 253-2900 View (828) 253-2900
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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.