Photo of Conor Troy Geraghty, LMHCA, Counselor
Conor Troy Geraghty
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed, trying your best to stay afloat but nothing seems to work? You might struggle to connect with others, wearing a mask to hide your struggles. You may fear failure, striving for perfection, and feeling haunted by past pain. Avoiding reminders of past hurt might lead you to withdraw from what you value most. You might feel the need to control everything, causing resentment and strained relationships. Anxiety about the future distracts you from what matters most. You might feel broken or in need of fixing, but you are not. Your trauma and past pain are preventing you from experiencing life's beauty.
Are you feeling lost and overwhelmed, trying your best to stay afloat but nothing seems to work? You might struggle to connect with others, wearing a mask to hide your struggles. You may fear failure, striving for perfection, and feeling haunted by past pain. Avoiding reminders of past hurt might lead you to withdraw from what you value most. You might feel the need to control everything, causing resentment and strained relationships. Anxiety about the future distracts you from what matters most. You might feel broken or in need of fixing, but you are not. Your trauma and past pain are preventing you from experiencing life's beauty.
(253) 683-8289 View (253) 683-8289
Photo of Rachel Rainbolt, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Rainbolt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
If anxiety is getting in your way, we can change that.
Do you struggle to show up as the parent you want to be? If you begin your day with a whole-hearted intention for peace that seems to dissolve with each day’s anxieties and triggers, I can help. I have immediate openings for parents (and teens) who are tired of the struggle and ready for peace, freedom, connection, and joy within themselves, their relationships, and their lives.
If anxiety is getting in your way, we can change that.
Do you struggle to show up as the parent you want to be? If you begin your day with a whole-hearted intention for peace that seems to dissolve with each day’s anxieties and triggers, I can help. I have immediate openings for parents (and teens) who are tired of the struggle and ready for peace, freedom, connection, and joy within themselves, their relationships, and their lives.
(253) 766-5473 View (253) 766-5473
Photo of Lindsey Nickell, MA, LMHC, CHT, YTT200, Counselor
Lindsey Nickell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, YTT200
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(253) 243-8791 View (253) 243-8791
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Photo of Nathan P Lee - Nathan P. Lee Counseling, PLLC, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Nathan P. Lee Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
As we adapt to the ‘new normal,’ many of us are experiencing increased feelings of anxiety, grief, and loneliness. You're not alone if the details of recent events (e.g., climate change, COVID, and socio-political unrest) have you feeling lost and overwhelmed. You're also not alone if it's more challenging to invest energy towards your self care and personal growth - or if it has become more difficult to focus and complete tasks at school and/or work as a result. Restoring a sense of balance in your life and reconnecting with your best self is within reach - and you'll soon learn to navigate our 'new normal' with a renewed purpose.
As we adapt to the ‘new normal,’ many of us are experiencing increased feelings of anxiety, grief, and loneliness. You're not alone if the details of recent events (e.g., climate change, COVID, and socio-political unrest) have you feeling lost and overwhelmed. You're also not alone if it's more challenging to invest energy towards your self care and personal growth - or if it has become more difficult to focus and complete tasks at school and/or work as a result. Restoring a sense of balance in your life and reconnecting with your best self is within reach - and you'll soon learn to navigate our 'new normal' with a renewed purpose.
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Photo of Nathalie Harris-Eckel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nathalie Harris-Eckel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck and struggling to move ahead. We have learned to cope and move through our lives using tools and coping mechanisms that have worked in some ways, but have not allowed us to feel grounded, comfortable, or fully happy with our lives as we progress through them. My job is to work collaboratively with you to create safety and trust through which we can help you develop skills and gain insights, allowing you to reclaim happiness and comfort in your life. I am most passionate about supporting people dealing with Anxiety, Grief, and Life Transition issues.
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck and struggling to move ahead. We have learned to cope and move through our lives using tools and coping mechanisms that have worked in some ways, but have not allowed us to feel grounded, comfortable, or fully happy with our lives as we progress through them. My job is to work collaboratively with you to create safety and trust through which we can help you develop skills and gain insights, allowing you to reclaim happiness and comfort in your life. I am most passionate about supporting people dealing with Anxiety, Grief, and Life Transition issues.
(253) 478-8279 View (253) 478-8279
Photo of Annaliese Jacobsson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annaliese Jacobsson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
If you’re frequently anxious or overwhelmed, if there are difficult events from your life continuing to invade your life in memories or nightmares, if you’re experiencing chronic pain, if you’re feeling depressed, irritable, stuck, or alone, I can help. You may have tried everything you can think of to start feeling better and nothing seems to fully address your struggles. I’m so glad you’re here. There is hope. If you don’t believe that yet, that’s ok, I am holding it for you until you can.
If you’re frequently anxious or overwhelmed, if there are difficult events from your life continuing to invade your life in memories or nightmares, if you’re experiencing chronic pain, if you’re feeling depressed, irritable, stuck, or alone, I can help. You may have tried everything you can think of to start feeling better and nothing seems to fully address your struggles. I’m so glad you’re here. There is hope. If you don’t believe that yet, that’s ok, I am holding it for you until you can.
(253) 243-0128 View (253) 243-0128
Photo of Phylly Bland, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Phylly Bland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
(253) 400-3073 View (253) 400-3073
Photo of Diana Miller, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I work with adults who live with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, perfectionism, stress and more.
Accepting NEW Clients - - - Are you living your best life? Are you feeling stuck? I provide evidence based treatments to help you experience a life with meaning and purpose and to feel better quickly. During our sessions, my goal is for you to feel unconditional acceptance and compassion in our relationship. My style is friendly, light-hearted and I use humor quite a bit. I will work with your strengths and unique needs to cultivate an environment where you can learn the skills to boost the quality of your life.
I work with adults who live with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, perfectionism, stress and more.
Accepting NEW Clients - - - Are you living your best life? Are you feeling stuck? I provide evidence based treatments to help you experience a life with meaning and purpose and to feel better quickly. During our sessions, my goal is for you to feel unconditional acceptance and compassion in our relationship. My style is friendly, light-hearted and I use humor quite a bit. I will work with your strengths and unique needs to cultivate an environment where you can learn the skills to boost the quality of your life.
(206) 752-2680 View (206) 752-2680
Photo of Valerie St. John, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Valerie St. John
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
(360) 529-3401 View (360) 529-3401
Photo of Dr. Colleen Rustad, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Colleen Rustad
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
(253) 201-2154 View (253) 201-2154
Photo of Sheila Keenan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Keenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child difficulties, work/life balance, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
We all encounter situations that feel overwhelming and test our coping abilities. I see therapy as a collaborative process that will help you navigate the challenges and transitions that life presents. I offer a safe, supportive environment to talk about issues that can be difficult to discuss elsewhere. Together we will explore how certain thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences might be contributing to your difficulties. We will identify your strengths and figure out effective coping strategies to create positive changes in your life. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child difficulties, work/life balance, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
We all encounter situations that feel overwhelming and test our coping abilities. I see therapy as a collaborative process that will help you navigate the challenges and transitions that life presents. I offer a safe, supportive environment to talk about issues that can be difficult to discuss elsewhere. Together we will explore how certain thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences might be contributing to your difficulties. We will identify your strengths and figure out effective coping strategies to create positive changes in your life. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
(206) 538-2898 View (206) 538-2898
Photo of Sadie Bingham, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadie Bingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
(253) 649-2790 View (253) 649-2790
Photo of Christine Thurston, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
(360) 443-5452 View (360) 443-5452
Photo of Dr. Victoria Tierney, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Victoria Tierney
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Hello! I am welcoming new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. We can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
Hello! I am welcoming new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. We can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
(360) 523-7363 View (360) 523-7363
Photo of Robin Powell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
(253) 600-2804 View (253) 600-2804
Photo of Seaward Hayes, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Seaward Hayes
Counselor, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
As well as, anxiety, depression, burnout/stress management, and trauma.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Like something's off that you can't quite put your finger on? Maybe a recent stressor has left you spiraling or something from your past won't stay buried and you are looking for relief from the weight of your emotions. Therapy can be a refuge where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, fully seen, and heard. Beginning counseling is a courageous step towards growth and healing. A journey that you don't have to go on alone. Together we will co-create a safe space to explore what is holding you back and what you need to move forward with greater confidence and purpose.
As well as, anxiety, depression, burnout/stress management, and trauma.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Like something's off that you can't quite put your finger on? Maybe a recent stressor has left you spiraling or something from your past won't stay buried and you are looking for relief from the weight of your emotions. Therapy can be a refuge where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, fully seen, and heard. Beginning counseling is a courageous step towards growth and healing. A journey that you don't have to go on alone. Together we will co-create a safe space to explore what is holding you back and what you need to move forward with greater confidence and purpose.
(360) 516-2187 View (360) 516-2187
Photo of David Reyes, MSW, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialization: - Individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, gender-based violence, and other challenges who may seek to (re)build trust with friends, family and romantic relationships; decrease negative effects of compulsive activities; and identify and work towards goals in a safe space.
David decided to become a therapist after living and working in low-income communities throughout his life and witnessing the startling lack of mental health services for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities. David engages adult clients using warmth, humor, collaboration, and non-judgement to get to know each person as an individual and grow a strong therapeutic relationship. David supports clients as they gain insight, process trauma, and work to build healthier patterns, self- worth, communication, and relationships in their lives.
Areas of Specialization: - Individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, gender-based violence, and other challenges who may seek to (re)build trust with friends, family and romantic relationships; decrease negative effects of compulsive activities; and identify and work towards goals in a safe space.
David decided to become a therapist after living and working in low-income communities throughout his life and witnessing the startling lack of mental health services for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities. David engages adult clients using warmth, humor, collaboration, and non-judgement to get to know each person as an individual and grow a strong therapeutic relationship. David supports clients as they gain insight, process trauma, and work to build healthier patterns, self- worth, communication, and relationships in their lives.
(360) 502-7461 View (360) 502-7461
Photo of Aunastasia Zsidiewicz, LICSW, MSW, CADC I, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aunastasia Zsidiewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CADC I, EMDR
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing the lasting impacts of traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and negative beliefs about yourself? Have you heard of EMDR therapy and wondered how it may benefit you? Would you like to rediscover a sense of peace and empowerment as you journey towards healing from the aftermath of trauma? You are in the right place if you have said "yes" to any of these questions! I offer online therapy to clients in Washington and Oregon, and if you are ready to set down the heavy weight of past experiences, enjoy the present, and feel excited about the future - email me today!
Are you experiencing the lasting impacts of traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and negative beliefs about yourself? Have you heard of EMDR therapy and wondered how it may benefit you? Would you like to rediscover a sense of peace and empowerment as you journey towards healing from the aftermath of trauma? You are in the right place if you have said "yes" to any of these questions! I offer online therapy to clients in Washington and Oregon, and if you are ready to set down the heavy weight of past experiences, enjoy the present, and feel excited about the future - email me today!
(206) 785-2739 View (206) 785-2739
Photo of Bonny L Snyder, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Bonny L Snyder
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
(253) 264-0859 View (253) 264-0859
1
Anxiety Therapists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.