Photo of Dr. Shelby Kittinger, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Shelby Kittinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Dr. Shelby is passionate about entering into the depths of religious and relational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism & burn-out, body image, existential dread, grief, and chronic suffering. She prioritizes balancing compassion and challenge in therapy to unlock patterns of how we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. Her approach is typically a good fit for those interested in developing a longer term treatment with an interest in depth work, value a direct approach, and for those wanting "more." She addresses wants and needs, personal values, and increasing agency, compassion, and radical acceptance.
Dr. Shelby is passionate about entering into the depths of religious and relational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism & burn-out, body image, existential dread, grief, and chronic suffering. She prioritizes balancing compassion and challenge in therapy to unlock patterns of how we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. Her approach is typically a good fit for those interested in developing a longer term treatment with an interest in depth work, value a direct approach, and for those wanting "more." She addresses wants and needs, personal values, and increasing agency, compassion, and radical acceptance.
(503) 683-8027 View (503) 683-8027
Photo of Melinda Arnold, MA, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(503) 406-8848 View (503) 406-8848
Photo of Johanny Pena, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johanny Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Bilingual (English and Spanish) psychotherapist with experience and interests in treatment of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Together we will work towards your wellbeing. I am here to help you gain insight and assist you with overcoming unhealthy patterns that leave you feeling stuck and depleted. Using a holistic and eclectic approach, I will focus on your strengths, and the gifts you already hold within. As we collaborate together, we implement effective skills, and tools to help you feel connected, empowered and in control of your life, environment and your relationships. I enjoy working with diverse populations and backgrounds.
Bilingual (English and Spanish) psychotherapist with experience and interests in treatment of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Together we will work towards your wellbeing. I am here to help you gain insight and assist you with overcoming unhealthy patterns that leave you feeling stuck and depleted. Using a holistic and eclectic approach, I will focus on your strengths, and the gifts you already hold within. As we collaborate together, we implement effective skills, and tools to help you feel connected, empowered and in control of your life, environment and your relationships. I enjoy working with diverse populations and backgrounds.
(914) 867-3902 View (914) 867-3902
Photo of Paul Nkemontoh, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paul Nkemontoh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Sometimes life doesn’t seem to make any sense. The things we thought defined us don’t quite fit the same way they used to. The goals, dreams, and aspirations that used to motivate us just aren’t moving us like before. Even though on the surface things may seem “fine” to most other people, we know that in reality, we’re struggling to get by and long to feel truly connected to the lives we have. We get tired of feeling empty, we get tired of feeling overwhelmed, and sometimes we get tired of feeling altogether.
Sometimes life doesn’t seem to make any sense. The things we thought defined us don’t quite fit the same way they used to. The goals, dreams, and aspirations that used to motivate us just aren’t moving us like before. Even though on the surface things may seem “fine” to most other people, we know that in reality, we’re struggling to get by and long to feel truly connected to the lives we have. We get tired of feeling empty, we get tired of feeling overwhelmed, and sometimes we get tired of feeling altogether.
(503) 966-3186 View (503) 966-3186
Photo of Kelly Prothero - Kelly Prothero, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Prothero, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
It's time to focus on you. When you put yourself last on the list, and stop responding to your own needs, feelings of unhappiness and disconnection often follow. You don't have to struggle with these feelings alone. When working with me, clients describe having a new therapeutic experience - one in which they see genuine and positive change manifest in themselves and their lives.
It's time to focus on you. When you put yourself last on the list, and stop responding to your own needs, feelings of unhappiness and disconnection often follow. You don't have to struggle with these feelings alone. When working with me, clients describe having a new therapeutic experience - one in which they see genuine and positive change manifest in themselves and their lives.
(628) 600-1741 View (628) 600-1741
Photo of Kelli Crane, LMHCA, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelli Crane
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you a woman or teen girl experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency, or who has experienced one or multiple traumas? Do you need to heal past wounds and resentments? Would you love to gain self-compassion and experience hope again? If you feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, I’m the kind of therapist who can help you manage current symptoms, find the root cause of your issues, work toward healing, and build a life you love! I provide online therapy for female-identifying and nonbinary adults and teens living in Oregon and Washington state and am trained in EMDR.
Are you a woman or teen girl experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency, or who has experienced one or multiple traumas? Do you need to heal past wounds and resentments? Would you love to gain self-compassion and experience hope again? If you feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, I’m the kind of therapist who can help you manage current symptoms, find the root cause of your issues, work toward healing, and build a life you love! I provide online therapy for female-identifying and nonbinary adults and teens living in Oregon and Washington state and am trained in EMDR.
(971) 715-2574 View (971) 715-2574
Photo of Dena Wellington - Embodied Wellness Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embodied Wellness Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Not accepting new clients
My focus for the last 13 years has been in medical social work with an emphasis on serving older adults and their caregivers; The last 7 of which have been dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer. I am deeply committed to understanding how one’s story, through attachment, attunement and life experience informs one’s ability to cope with unforeseen changes and variables. I believe that how one "shows up" in relationship to self and others is usually related to one's limbic response to stress, typically imparted during one's formative years. I work with clients who feel "uprooted" by their life circumstance.
My focus for the last 13 years has been in medical social work with an emphasis on serving older adults and their caregivers; The last 7 of which have been dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer. I am deeply committed to understanding how one’s story, through attachment, attunement and life experience informs one’s ability to cope with unforeseen changes and variables. I believe that how one "shows up" in relationship to self and others is usually related to one's limbic response to stress, typically imparted during one's formative years. I work with clients who feel "uprooted" by their life circumstance.
(503) 461-8181 View (503) 461-8181

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Katie Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Solomon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain/illness, attachment/relational concerns, and other mental health concerns.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain/illness, attachment/relational concerns, and other mental health concerns.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
(971) 328-4181 View (971) 328-4181
Photo of Kelli Crane, LMHCA, LPCA, Counselor
Kelli Crane
Counselor, LMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Are you a woman or teen girl experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency, or who has experienced one or multiple traumas? Do you need to heal past wounds and resentments? Would you love to gain self-compassion and experience hope again? If you feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, I’m the kind of therapist who can help you manage current symptoms, find the root cause of your issues, work toward healing, and build a life you love! I provide online therapy for female-identifying and nonbinary adults and teens living in Oregon and Washington state and am trained in EMDR.
Are you a woman or teen girl experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency, or who has experienced one or multiple traumas? Do you need to heal past wounds and resentments? Would you love to gain self-compassion and experience hope again? If you feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, I’m the kind of therapist who can help you manage current symptoms, find the root cause of your issues, work toward healing, and build a life you love! I provide online therapy for female-identifying and nonbinary adults and teens living in Oregon and Washington state and am trained in EMDR.
(206) 759-8852 View (206) 759-8852
Photo of Christine Teresa Yoshida - Christine Yoshida Counseling, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, NBPT, Counselor
Christine Yoshida Counseling
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, NBPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
As a former school counselor with over a decade of experience, I have helped many adolescents and families with a range of issues, including social skills, goal setting, anxiety, emotion regulation, depression, and divorce/family transitions.
Hi! I am so glad you found my page and are taking the time to explore what you may be needing in your life. I value the safety and trust created in the relationship between a therapist and client. I believe we are all humans and are wired for healing, growth and change. I would love to be part of your journey. I specialize in eating disorders and work with clients wanting to heal their relationship with food, fitness and body image. In addition, I help individuals come back or rediscover their core authentic selves, relationship dynamics, sex and navigate non-monogamy/polyamory.
As a former school counselor with over a decade of experience, I have helped many adolescents and families with a range of issues, including social skills, goal setting, anxiety, emotion regulation, depression, and divorce/family transitions.
Hi! I am so glad you found my page and are taking the time to explore what you may be needing in your life. I value the safety and trust created in the relationship between a therapist and client. I believe we are all humans and are wired for healing, growth and change. I would love to be part of your journey. I specialize in eating disorders and work with clients wanting to heal their relationship with food, fitness and body image. In addition, I help individuals come back or rediscover their core authentic selves, relationship dynamics, sex and navigate non-monogamy/polyamory.
(360) 979-1150 View (360) 979-1150
Photo of Wendy Forrester, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
(971) 251-1173 View (971) 251-1173
Photo of Cameron Kemper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cameron Kemper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I ground my work in respect and compassion which contributes to the foundation of trust, self-acceptance and courage necessary for you to successfully overcome your challenges and create the life you want to live. Through the cultivation of mindful awareness and the implementation of stress management and emotion regulation skills, I will teach you how to calm anxiety, transform distressing feelings, access inner wisdom and review your behaviors and beliefs so that you can learn to commit to those which align with your values. This work will help you realize your personal, professional and relationship goals.
I ground my work in respect and compassion which contributes to the foundation of trust, self-acceptance and courage necessary for you to successfully overcome your challenges and create the life you want to live. Through the cultivation of mindful awareness and the implementation of stress management and emotion regulation skills, I will teach you how to calm anxiety, transform distressing feelings, access inner wisdom and review your behaviors and beliefs so that you can learn to commit to those which align with your values. This work will help you realize your personal, professional and relationship goals.
(503) 743-8833 View (503) 743-8833
Photo of Ben Bjorgaard, PhDc, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Bjorgaard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDc, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
By addressing troubling thoughts and feelings, self-sabotaging behaviors, and traumas, life can be made more manageable, productive, and fulfilling. Feelings such as grief, shame, anxiety, sadness, and anger often signal that something needs to change. Listening to and working with these feelings—some that consume us and others that gently nudge us—can move us forward. Through this, we sometimes discover that our everyday dilemmas are part of larger patterns waiting to be resolved as a whole.
By addressing troubling thoughts and feelings, self-sabotaging behaviors, and traumas, life can be made more manageable, productive, and fulfilling. Feelings such as grief, shame, anxiety, sadness, and anger often signal that something needs to change. Listening to and working with these feelings—some that consume us and others that gently nudge us—can move us forward. Through this, we sometimes discover that our everyday dilemmas are part of larger patterns waiting to be resolved as a whole.
(503) 987-3714 View (503) 987-3714
Photo of David S Corse - David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy., LPC, CADCIII, CGACII, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, CGACII
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma - I use EMDR, ACT, Integral Theory and Contemplative Psychotherapies.
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma - I use EMDR, ACT, Integral Theory and Contemplative Psychotherapies.
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
(503) 451-6603 View (503) 451-6603
Photo of Kathleen Converse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Converse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hi! I’m Kathleen Converse, LCSW (she/her). Are you struggling with anxiety or healing from past trauma? Do you feel like there are problems from your past affecting your current relationships? If so, I'd love to connect and see if we could be a good fit. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues.
Hi! I’m Kathleen Converse, LCSW (she/her). Are you struggling with anxiety or healing from past trauma? Do you feel like there are problems from your past affecting your current relationships? If so, I'd love to connect and see if we could be a good fit. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues.
(503) 946-9147 View (503) 946-9147
Photo of Daniel Maher, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Maher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, complicated grief, & the impact of physical illness and addictions.
Many people come to therapy seeking relief from painful symptoms, relationship issues and self-defeating patterns. They may feel alone and isolated in their suffering. I work to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment that alleviates aloneness and facilitates connection, healing and positive change. My style is relational, warm and forthright. My clients achieve more than just symptom relief -- they also grow in their capacity to feel safe and connected with others, and they experience improved self-esteem and identity.
I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, complicated grief, & the impact of physical illness and addictions.
Many people come to therapy seeking relief from painful symptoms, relationship issues and self-defeating patterns. They may feel alone and isolated in their suffering. I work to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment that alleviates aloneness and facilitates connection, healing and positive change. My style is relational, warm and forthright. My clients achieve more than just symptom relief -- they also grow in their capacity to feel safe and connected with others, and they experience improved self-esteem and identity.
(503) 382-8626 View (503) 382-8626
Photo of Colleen Quigley, LCSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing a range of sexual health and relationship issues, including: communication & intimacy, desire discrepancies, sexual dysfunction, sexual confidence & self-esteem, sex anxiety, sexual orientation affirmation, gender identity expression, couples & relationship dynamics, kink & BDSM exploration, polyamory & open relationships.
Are you experiencing difficulties in achieving sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Do you feel there's a gap between your sexual desires and how they align with your identity? Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your sexual needs and preferences with your partner(s)? Are you exploring new facets of your sexuality and seeking guidance in doing so in a supportive, affirming environment? Has googling these questions left you more confused and frustrated? My mission as a sex therapist is to guide you through this journey of self-discovery and provide you with the sexual & relational skills that you are looking for.
I specialize in addressing a range of sexual health and relationship issues, including: communication & intimacy, desire discrepancies, sexual dysfunction, sexual confidence & self-esteem, sex anxiety, sexual orientation affirmation, gender identity expression, couples & relationship dynamics, kink & BDSM exploration, polyamory & open relationships.
Are you experiencing difficulties in achieving sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Do you feel there's a gap between your sexual desires and how they align with your identity? Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your sexual needs and preferences with your partner(s)? Are you exploring new facets of your sexuality and seeking guidance in doing so in a supportive, affirming environment? Has googling these questions left you more confused and frustrated? My mission as a sex therapist is to guide you through this journey of self-discovery and provide you with the sexual & relational skills that you are looking for.
(347) 429-7998 View (347) 429-7998
Photo of Jona Behrer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jona Behrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Life is both beauty and pain. You don't have to bear it alone. Therapy can help! I help my clients move from survival to growth. We'll work together to process and release emotions, increase self awareness, and gain insight for change. Through this process you'll build empowerment and resilience which will help you to cope with life's challenges and strive toward a happier and healthier life. I specialize in trauma, women's issues, & grief. I help clients as they navigate difficulties with anxiety, attachment, depression, loss, low self esteem, the patriarchy, pregnancy, postpartum, relationships and trauma.
Life is both beauty and pain. You don't have to bear it alone. Therapy can help! I help my clients move from survival to growth. We'll work together to process and release emotions, increase self awareness, and gain insight for change. Through this process you'll build empowerment and resilience which will help you to cope with life's challenges and strive toward a happier and healthier life. I specialize in trauma, women's issues, & grief. I help clients as they navigate difficulties with anxiety, attachment, depression, loss, low self esteem, the patriarchy, pregnancy, postpartum, relationships and trauma.
(971) 599-2826 View (971) 599-2826
Photo of Hayden Collier, MS, LPC, CADC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hayden Collier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Currently taking on new Clients. I believe every person is capable of healthy change. I specialize in relational trauma through the model of AEDP. The individuals who typically seek me out are treatment resistant, and have a complex history of trauma presenting as anxiety, depression and feeling alone in the universe. I accept BCBS in Alabama and Oregon, I accept Molina in Washington. I accept OHP, Providence, BCBS and Moda in Oregon. I do not accept insurance in California at this time. In addition, I am a CADC in Oregon as well as a supervisor of associates. I would love to help you find your truth!
Currently taking on new Clients. I believe every person is capable of healthy change. I specialize in relational trauma through the model of AEDP. The individuals who typically seek me out are treatment resistant, and have a complex history of trauma presenting as anxiety, depression and feeling alone in the universe. I accept BCBS in Alabama and Oregon, I accept Molina in Washington. I accept OHP, Providence, BCBS and Moda in Oregon. I do not accept insurance in California at this time. In addition, I am a CADC in Oregon as well as a supervisor of associates. I would love to help you find your truth!
(503) 558-2816 View (503) 558-2816
Photo of Candice Jones, MA
Candice Jones
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Maybe you are grappling with anxiety, navigating transitions in your life, need a boost in self-confidence, or seeking support with relationships. I work alongside many women and teens, helping to work on various issues woman face, parenting challenges, and the unique experiences of adolescents. Whether you're a parent wanting help in navigating the complexities of raising children, a teen struggling to find your voice, or someone wanting to grow and heal from your past experiences, I am committed to providing tailored support that honors your unique needs and experiences.
Maybe you are grappling with anxiety, navigating transitions in your life, need a boost in self-confidence, or seeking support with relationships. I work alongside many women and teens, helping to work on various issues woman face, parenting challenges, and the unique experiences of adolescents. Whether you're a parent wanting help in navigating the complexities of raising children, a teen struggling to find your voice, or someone wanting to grow and heal from your past experiences, I am committed to providing tailored support that honors your unique needs and experiences.
(503) 470-2629 View (503) 470-2629

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.