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 Sheryl Eva Adams, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheryl Eva Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
(253) 292-5017 View (253) 292-5017
Photo of Lani Kish, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lani Kish
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Navigating unexpected situations or traumas, dealing with anxiety/depression can overwhelm our sense of being present in the moment and we may feel trapped inside our feelings. Sometimes difficulties have been present since childhood, left unattended or pushed down repeatedly over the years. Some clients come to counseling seeking ways to deal with a specific trauma, domestic violence, grief, loss, anger, or other distressing emotions, leaving someone feeling isolated, stuck, and without resources. Taking the next step, asking for help inside of counseling, brings you closer to the destination of recovery.
Navigating unexpected situations or traumas, dealing with anxiety/depression can overwhelm our sense of being present in the moment and we may feel trapped inside our feelings. Sometimes difficulties have been present since childhood, left unattended or pushed down repeatedly over the years. Some clients come to counseling seeking ways to deal with a specific trauma, domestic violence, grief, loss, anger, or other distressing emotions, leaving someone feeling isolated, stuck, and without resources. Taking the next step, asking for help inside of counseling, brings you closer to the destination of recovery.
(253) 262-0852 View (253) 262-0852
Photo of Wendy Becker, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
(253) 265-4959 View (253) 265-4959
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
Photo of Aimee Tesdahl, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, Counselor
Aimee Tesdahl
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I love to work with adults of any age with various concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues and grief.
Are you looking for someone that you connect with, provides compassion and support, and helps you process through your concerns? It can be hard to find the right therapist for you. My hope is that you would feel safe, understood and accepted in counseling. I work collaboratively with clients to help them manage concerns in their life. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, putting your needs first and providing you the tools you need to find healing.
I love to work with adults of any age with various concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues and grief.
Are you looking for someone that you connect with, provides compassion and support, and helps you process through your concerns? It can be hard to find the right therapist for you. My hope is that you would feel safe, understood and accepted in counseling. I work collaboratively with clients to help them manage concerns in their life. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, putting your needs first and providing you the tools you need to find healing.
(253) 528-8074 View (253) 528-8074
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 Ian Chittle, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Ian Chittle
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
(360) 869-0329 View (360) 869-0329
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 Elizabeth M Humes, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Elizabeth M Humes
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
(253) 214-3668 View (253) 214-3668
Photo of Andrew Reyes-Cady - Reyes-Cady Wellness | Andrew Reyes-Cady, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reyes-Cady Wellness | Andrew Reyes-Cady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Ready to start your journey? I am here to assist you on your way to better well-being. Whether you or your child is navigating difficulties with Anxiety and depressive disorders, healing from trauma, or are adjusting to everyday life, I am here to help you build the skills and learn your strengths to become unstuck and move on with your life!
Ready to start your journey? I am here to assist you on your way to better well-being. Whether you or your child is navigating difficulties with Anxiety and depressive disorders, healing from trauma, or are adjusting to everyday life, I am here to help you build the skills and learn your strengths to become unstuck and move on with your life!
(360) 288-7954 View (360) 288-7954
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 Sarah Atchison, MA, LMFT, CMHS, CGE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Atchison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS, CGE
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
(253) 236-0733 View (253) 236-0733
Photo of Jill Kinney, BSHon, MS, PhD, Psychologist
Jill Kinney
Psychologist, BSHon, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
I have no ideal client. The best part of this job is getting to know such a wide range of people with so many types of issues. I have 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in community as well as out-patient and in-patient settings . Geographically, I've worked with families and trained workers in Seattle, New York, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've done in-home work in the Bronx, and helped develop policy all over the country. I am now in private practice and address issues that can affect us all, such as, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and most mental health issues.
I have no ideal client. The best part of this job is getting to know such a wide range of people with so many types of issues. I have 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in community as well as out-patient and in-patient settings . Geographically, I've worked with families and trained workers in Seattle, New York, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've done in-home work in the Bronx, and helped develop policy all over the country. I am now in private practice and address issues that can affect us all, such as, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and most mental health issues.
(206) 673-3735 View (206) 673-3735
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
Photo of Regan Rodriguez - Regan Rodriguez Therapy, PLLC, MA, LMFTA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Regan Rodriguez Therapy, PLLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
I speak angsty/anxious teen fluently! I enjoy working with artsy/creative clients, high-performance athletes, and anyone else who often struggles with taking on too much due to feelings of perfectionism/people-pleasing.
Hello and welcome! It's my intention to create a supportive, safe & collaborative environment where we can work together to help you reach your goals. I encourage change by using a client-centered, strengths-based approach where I help clients identify their strengths & resilience, and offer alternate perspectives. I help my clients establish and maintain healthy boundaries, and overcome anxiety, stress and burnout. I strive to foster respect for each of my clients and their unique beliefs and values systems. I believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives & my role as the therapist is a gentle guide.
I speak angsty/anxious teen fluently! I enjoy working with artsy/creative clients, high-performance athletes, and anyone else who often struggles with taking on too much due to feelings of perfectionism/people-pleasing.
Hello and welcome! It's my intention to create a supportive, safe & collaborative environment where we can work together to help you reach your goals. I encourage change by using a client-centered, strengths-based approach where I help clients identify their strengths & resilience, and offer alternate perspectives. I help my clients establish and maintain healthy boundaries, and overcome anxiety, stress and burnout. I strive to foster respect for each of my clients and their unique beliefs and values systems. I believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives & my role as the therapist is a gentle guide.
(253) 900-2228 View (253) 900-2228
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 Michelle Middleton, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
(360) 641-7724 View (360) 641-7724
Photo of Donia Fdhila, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Donia Fdhila
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Working with a therapist can be both relieving and anxiety inducing.
I listen deeply and without assumptions or judgment, seeking to fully understand your concerns, feelings and life experiences. My first goal is for you to feel accurately seen and heard, so that you feel safe, understood and valued. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, ADHD, and relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative so that we can work together to reach the goals that are most important to you.
Working with a therapist can be both relieving and anxiety inducing.
I listen deeply and without assumptions or judgment, seeking to fully understand your concerns, feelings and life experiences. My first goal is for you to feel accurately seen and heard, so that you feel safe, understood and valued. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, ADHD, and relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative so that we can work together to reach the goals that are most important to you.
(253) 785-8152 View (253) 785-8152
Photo of Michelle Johnson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
I also have ample experience working with depression, anxiety, recovering from narcissistic abuse, codependency, boundaries and coping skill building, self-esteem, managing difficult life transitions, grief and loss and issues of faith and spirituality.
Currently Accepting new patients summer 2024! I provide individual counseling to men and women ages 18 and over. I provide a straightforward and engaging counseling atmosphere where patients are given direction, feedback, education and resources while also being provided an empathetic and listening ear as we process and resolve issues as a team. I am a great fit for patients who are looking for a counselor who is active in the session challenges them to grow, make healthy changes and develop new skills. I provide a faith-based approach for patients who desire to integrate their faith into counseling sessions and goals.
I also have ample experience working with depression, anxiety, recovering from narcissistic abuse, codependency, boundaries and coping skill building, self-esteem, managing difficult life transitions, grief and loss and issues of faith and spirituality.
Currently Accepting new patients summer 2024! I provide individual counseling to men and women ages 18 and over. I provide a straightforward and engaging counseling atmosphere where patients are given direction, feedback, education and resources while also being provided an empathetic and listening ear as we process and resolve issues as a team. I am a great fit for patients who are looking for a counselor who is active in the session challenges them to grow, make healthy changes and develop new skills. I provide a faith-based approach for patients who desire to integrate their faith into counseling sessions and goals.
(844) 937-2984 View (844) 937-2984
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.