Therapists in South Bend, WA
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Washington below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Jeffrey Krepps, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ece6d5d-e478-4d91-b33f-d28f9362318d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Krepps
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you navigating life changes, anxiety, depression, grief, or other challenges? I'm Jeffrey Krepps, a Washington-licensed associate mental health counselor (LMHCA). I'm here to help you achieve a more fulfilling life. Through telehealth, I provide a safe space to align your thoughts, actions, and belief systems. Together, we'll explore your core self-concepts and set clear goals, creating a personalized framework for growth. I work with adults of all ages, and accept private and health insurance payments. Let's work together to address your needs and promote your higher self!
Are you navigating life changes, anxiety, depression, grief, or other challenges? I'm Jeffrey Krepps, a Washington-licensed associate mental health counselor (LMHCA). I'm here to help you achieve a more fulfilling life. Through telehealth, I provide a safe space to align your thoughts, actions, and belief systems. Together, we'll explore your core self-concepts and set clear goals, creating a personalized framework for growth. I work with adults of all ages, and accept private and health insurance payments. Let's work together to address your needs and promote your higher self!
![Photo of Chelsea Clark, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d487091-3400-4182-9681-b841f84954b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I approach therapy with compassion, humor and curiosity. I enjoy working with clients with obsessional fears and urges, and compulsive behaviors that get in the way of their lives. I'm certified by the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is a cognitive behavioral therapy approach specific to treating OCD. I use ERP in tandem with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is a transdiagnostic approach that is also effective in treating OCD and related disorders.
I approach therapy with compassion, humor and curiosity. I enjoy working with clients with obsessional fears and urges, and compulsive behaviors that get in the way of their lives. I'm certified by the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is a cognitive behavioral therapy approach specific to treating OCD. I use ERP in tandem with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is a transdiagnostic approach that is also effective in treating OCD and related disorders.
![Photo of Mark D. Best, MSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13e620d7-4007-4f35-a2e5-fbf697a131e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark D. Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When life feels presents us with stress, whether it be from anxiety, depression, or trauma, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and a sense that our lives have become unmanageable. My greatest satisfaction comes with assisting individuals in recognizing their power to grow and thrive. I assist my clients, who include adolescents and adults, in finding ways to change their relationship to thoughts and emotions and develop a stronger sense of self, establishing core values, and creating an action plan linked to goals based on those values.
When life feels presents us with stress, whether it be from anxiety, depression, or trauma, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and a sense that our lives have become unmanageable. My greatest satisfaction comes with assisting individuals in recognizing their power to grow and thrive. I assist my clients, who include adolescents and adults, in finding ways to change their relationship to thoughts and emotions and develop a stronger sense of self, establishing core values, and creating an action plan linked to goals based on those values.
![Photo of Sarah Fletcher, LMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/676815e9-564b-4de9-9b89-5ab06ab20524/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Fletcher
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144
My particular areas of focus are Anxiety, Depression, Disability Support, Life Transitions, Neurodivergence, Pain Management, Parenting Support, Performance Anxiety, Trauma & PTSD.
Therapy is a journey to deeply seeing YOU: recognizing your strengths, challenges, traumas, & joys. When life feels overwhelming, my goal is to provide you with support that offers guidance, validation, & safety so you can live your fullest life. At Somatic Strength Wellness, I feature Somatic Psychotherapy blended with movement, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, sound healing & traditional talk therapy. This approach encourages clients to share their experiences while noticing the links between physical sensations & emotions, allowing for deep personal insight, integrative reframing, & emotional healing.
My particular areas of focus are Anxiety, Depression, Disability Support, Life Transitions, Neurodivergence, Pain Management, Parenting Support, Performance Anxiety, Trauma & PTSD.
Therapy is a journey to deeply seeing YOU: recognizing your strengths, challenges, traumas, & joys. When life feels overwhelming, my goal is to provide you with support that offers guidance, validation, & safety so you can live your fullest life. At Somatic Strength Wellness, I feature Somatic Psychotherapy blended with movement, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, sound healing & traditional talk therapy. This approach encourages clients to share their experiences while noticing the links between physical sensations & emotions, allowing for deep personal insight, integrative reframing, & emotional healing.
![Photo of Daniel Kuzmycz, PhD, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c4946c-4613-46e9-a703-2a7edf33a4a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm experienced working with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationships, grief & loss, life & career transitions.
I’m a licensed counselor and certified executive coach with a PhD in Psychology. I'm here to help you to achieve your goals and overcome the obstacles that are keeping you from living your best life. Guided by positive psychology and solution-focused strategies, I focus on developing your strength, resilience, & resourcefulness with pragmatic tools to effect real change.
I'm experienced working with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationships, grief & loss, life & career transitions.
I’m a licensed counselor and certified executive coach with a PhD in Psychology. I'm here to help you to achieve your goals and overcome the obstacles that are keeping you from living your best life. Guided by positive psychology and solution-focused strategies, I focus on developing your strength, resilience, & resourcefulness with pragmatic tools to effect real change.
![Photo of Kelsey Gordon, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a47121d-bf06-40bc-9907-1bfa0d57db98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focuses on youth & young adults ages 12-35. I'm especially passionate about working with BIPOC individuals. As a member of the BIPOC community, ensuring a safe, supportive space & practices that are culturally competent is a priority for me. I have several years of experience working with individuals who’ve struggled with acute & complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD & ASD, and gender/sexuality exploration. My clinical skills are rooted in trauma-informed practices utilizing evidence-based principles from CBT, CPT, PE, Motivational Interviewing & Collaborative Problem Solving.
My practice focuses on youth & young adults ages 12-35. I'm especially passionate about working with BIPOC individuals. As a member of the BIPOC community, ensuring a safe, supportive space & practices that are culturally competent is a priority for me. I have several years of experience working with individuals who’ve struggled with acute & complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD & ASD, and gender/sexuality exploration. My clinical skills are rooted in trauma-informed practices utilizing evidence-based principles from CBT, CPT, PE, Motivational Interviewing & Collaborative Problem Solving.
![Photo of Kelly Mulligan, MA, LMHC, MIT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2b468a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, or struggling in relationships or in a life transition? Seeking therapy is a courageous first step towards creating change in one’s life. With over 25 years of experience, my life’s work has been focused on helping individuals of all ages, and families, build resilience, increase self awareness of behavior and thinking patterns, while strengthening connection. Therapy can lead to a significant reduction in feelings of distress, improve coping skills as well as help you learn to live in the present.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, or struggling in relationships or in a life transition? Seeking therapy is a courageous first step towards creating change in one’s life. With over 25 years of experience, my life’s work has been focused on helping individuals of all ages, and families, build resilience, increase self awareness of behavior and thinking patterns, while strengthening connection. Therapy can lead to a significant reduction in feelings of distress, improve coping skills as well as help you learn to live in the present.
![Photo of Michelle Voetberg, MA, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05fedf5-a136-4f20-8079-d2e034747a29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Voetberg
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities within community health care environments in various roles over the past 10 years which has led me to become the therapist that I am today. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seattle University and my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Washington State University. Based upon my professional and personal experiences, I specialize in learning/developmental disabilities, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, grief, and co-occurring diagnoses. Above all else, I want you to feel safe and trusting of me as your therapist.
I have worked with clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities within community health care environments in various roles over the past 10 years which has led me to become the therapist that I am today. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seattle University and my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Washington State University. Based upon my professional and personal experiences, I specialize in learning/developmental disabilities, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, grief, and co-occurring diagnoses. Above all else, I want you to feel safe and trusting of me as your therapist.
![Photo of Kate Chrisinger, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24245b8e-287a-4566-a202-09e4d004d232/2/320x400.jpeg)
I love working with kids, teens and young adults on issues related to social skills, social anxiety, self-esteem, emotional understanding and self-regulation, coping skills, relationship issues, school success, ASD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD and phobias.
Welcome! Are you a young adult needing support? Or a parent needing additional parenting strategies, or guidance to better understand/support your child? Are you worried about your child/teen’s emotional well-being or social skills? I enjoy working collaboratively with children and parents alike to improve child and family well-being, often finding that working with both provides the best outcomes for everyone. I have special interests in working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) clients and homeschool/online school clients. Lastly I absolutely love working with teens and young adults - they make up a large part of my caseload!
I love working with kids, teens and young adults on issues related to social skills, social anxiety, self-esteem, emotional understanding and self-regulation, coping skills, relationship issues, school success, ASD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD and phobias.
Welcome! Are you a young adult needing support? Or a parent needing additional parenting strategies, or guidance to better understand/support your child? Are you worried about your child/teen’s emotional well-being or social skills? I enjoy working collaboratively with children and parents alike to improve child and family well-being, often finding that working with both provides the best outcomes for everyone. I have special interests in working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) clients and homeschool/online school clients. Lastly I absolutely love working with teens and young adults - they make up a large part of my caseload!
![Photo of Jessica Morrissey, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fa74a6b-2581-40b9-b139-036e38911d79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healing happens when we are able to connect and feel truly seen by another human being. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a mechanism for healing. It is my aim to co-create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can reflect, grow, gain insight, challenge ideas, and come to know who you are in a deep and meaningful way. I work with individuals navigating relationships, life transitions, anxiety, self-doubt, identity development and purpose. I work with anyone looking for support while struggling with being human in this sometimes scary, exhausting and overwhelming world.
Healing happens when we are able to connect and feel truly seen by another human being. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a mechanism for healing. It is my aim to co-create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can reflect, grow, gain insight, challenge ideas, and come to know who you are in a deep and meaningful way. I work with individuals navigating relationships, life transitions, anxiety, self-doubt, identity development and purpose. I work with anyone looking for support while struggling with being human in this sometimes scary, exhausting and overwhelming world.
![Photo of Katie Ferrell, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eda58069-ea6f-4ac3-bfe6-52ecb06eab26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Living with Balance looks like: Self-confidence, trust in yourself, peace of mind, freedom from anxiety and depression, follow through from start to finish, improved relationships, empowerment, increased motivation, increased productivity, consistent and stable energy, mood stability, hope and possibility.
Counseling for the neurodiverse who are ready to take control of their day-to-day and start living a more fulfilled and joyful life. I get it, your brain works so fast it’s impossible to get your thoughts organized. All the distractions and the inability to communicate clearly makes every day feel like an overwhelming rollercoaster ride of chaos. The nagging feeling of always letting everyone down, including yourself, has real consequences. Let’s rewrite your perception of your story to take back your power.
Living with Balance looks like: Self-confidence, trust in yourself, peace of mind, freedom from anxiety and depression, follow through from start to finish, improved relationships, empowerment, increased motivation, increased productivity, consistent and stable energy, mood stability, hope and possibility.
Counseling for the neurodiverse who are ready to take control of their day-to-day and start living a more fulfilled and joyful life. I get it, your brain works so fast it’s impossible to get your thoughts organized. All the distractions and the inability to communicate clearly makes every day feel like an overwhelming rollercoaster ride of chaos. The nagging feeling of always letting everyone down, including yourself, has real consequences. Let’s rewrite your perception of your story to take back your power.
![Photo of Vanessa Davis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a72c159-8c74-40df-bf1b-d3dfe757025f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for taking the time to put you and your family first in finding a therapist that will best meet your needs in navigating through your present concerns, or life challenges you and your family are presently experiencing. For the past six years I have provided a wide range of psychotherapy services to children, families, individuals, and couples who have experienced depression, perinatal/postpartum difficulties, anxiety, grief, trauma, adverse stress, relationship conflicts, behavioral and developmental related concerns. My approach to therapy is always strength based, warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
Thank you for taking the time to put you and your family first in finding a therapist that will best meet your needs in navigating through your present concerns, or life challenges you and your family are presently experiencing. For the past six years I have provided a wide range of psychotherapy services to children, families, individuals, and couples who have experienced depression, perinatal/postpartum difficulties, anxiety, grief, trauma, adverse stress, relationship conflicts, behavioral and developmental related concerns. My approach to therapy is always strength based, warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
![Photo of Olivia Bravo, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38c99eda-bf4f-4787-b135-5e9a51be118d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I warmly welcome individuals of all ages—children, teens, and adults—who are interested in addressing issues related to anxiety, shame, self-esteem, and stress. It can be overwhelming to create change while navigating life all on your own. Through compassion, exploration, and perseverance, we can collaboratively forge a path toward the mental balance that I adamantly believe you deserve. In addition to supporting those dealing with anxiety and self-esteem challenges, I also specialize in helping individuals navigate major life transitions and education/learning concerns.
I warmly welcome individuals of all ages—children, teens, and adults—who are interested in addressing issues related to anxiety, shame, self-esteem, and stress. It can be overwhelming to create change while navigating life all on your own. Through compassion, exploration, and perseverance, we can collaboratively forge a path toward the mental balance that I adamantly believe you deserve. In addition to supporting those dealing with anxiety and self-esteem challenges, I also specialize in helping individuals navigate major life transitions and education/learning concerns.
![Photo of Alexandra (Ally) Hurley, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff322f81-08b8-4f24-a49b-615e91b7a70c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work primarily with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and challenging life transitions, seeking a safe space to explore their story. They need empathetic support, validation, and tools for self-discovery. Their goals include understanding their emotions, building resilience, and creating meaningful life changes. They want to regain a sense of control and fulfillment because they recognize the importance of mental well-being in achieving a balanced, purposeful life. Through narrative and person-centered therapy, I guide them to rewrite their stories and empower their journey toward healing and growth.
I work primarily with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and challenging life transitions, seeking a safe space to explore their story. They need empathetic support, validation, and tools for self-discovery. Their goals include understanding their emotions, building resilience, and creating meaningful life changes. They want to regain a sense of control and fulfillment because they recognize the importance of mental well-being in achieving a balanced, purposeful life. Through narrative and person-centered therapy, I guide them to rewrite their stories and empower their journey toward healing and growth.
![Photo of Sheree Price - Agate Therapy Group, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56899511-ec6a-4770-a332-a7b1cda831de/1/320x400.jpeg)
It can be a daunting task to start looking for a therapist. Our team specializes in sitting with minors ages 6-17, adults, couples, and families who want to work on a multitude of issues, from stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational issues. Whether you have been wanting to process big life events for ages or you’ve found yourself in an uncharacteristically difficult time, we’re here to listen without judgment or criticism. You have our attention.
It can be a daunting task to start looking for a therapist. Our team specializes in sitting with minors ages 6-17, adults, couples, and families who want to work on a multitude of issues, from stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational issues. Whether you have been wanting to process big life events for ages or you’ve found yourself in an uncharacteristically difficult time, we’re here to listen without judgment or criticism. You have our attention.
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.
![Photo of Brenda Huffstutler, LMSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459aced1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Huffstutler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
In our time together, you can share your hopes, fears, dreams, goals, and life stories.
Aloha and thank you for taking the time to visit my page! We are all on this journey of life with the only constant in each of our experiences being change. Finding serenity in the midst of all of that change and chaos can be challenging. Let me offer you a safe and compassionate space. Our conversations take place in a trauma-informed environment that is free from worry or judgement. With me as your counselor, we will foster an environment of trust where we can safely explore those topics or issues you feel are holding you back from living in freedom and the full enjoyment of life.
In our time together, you can share your hopes, fears, dreams, goals, and life stories.
Aloha and thank you for taking the time to visit my page! We are all on this journey of life with the only constant in each of our experiences being change. Finding serenity in the midst of all of that change and chaos can be challenging. Let me offer you a safe and compassionate space. Our conversations take place in a trauma-informed environment that is free from worry or judgement. With me as your counselor, we will foster an environment of trust where we can safely explore those topics or issues you feel are holding you back from living in freedom and the full enjoyment of life.
![Photo of Dr. Andrew Pereira, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a924ac1f-3c64-4403-ba73-0e8b974c0a7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to begin making significant changes in your life? A trained professional can help stand by and guide you; you're not alone. I typically treat depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, adjustment, and relationship issues, but I was educated to work with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. During my training, I received specialized clinical experiences for working with survivors of traumatic events, have felt marginalized by society or their family systems due to their identities, career issues, relationship problems (e.g., loneliness, insecurity, preoccupation, attachment, etc.), and issues with body image and eating.
Are you ready to begin making significant changes in your life? A trained professional can help stand by and guide you; you're not alone. I typically treat depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, adjustment, and relationship issues, but I was educated to work with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. During my training, I received specialized clinical experiences for working with survivors of traumatic events, have felt marginalized by society or their family systems due to their identities, career issues, relationship problems (e.g., loneliness, insecurity, preoccupation, attachment, etc.), and issues with body image and eating.
![Photo of Julie Anton, LMHCA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f28aa274-7d32-4099-987c-98ab9c0ba9ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
After struggling through my formative years with no therapeutic support, I became the person I wish that I had at that age: someone who would see and accept me as I am while supporting me to make the things that I wanted to be better. I work with neurodivergent adults, am LGBTQIA+ affirming, and work well with neurodiverse folx aged 13-35 addressing depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, goal-setting, and life transition issues. If you have something in your life that you would like to improve, I'm here to help you do it. I will love and accept you for who you are while supporting you to make the changes you would like.
After struggling through my formative years with no therapeutic support, I became the person I wish that I had at that age: someone who would see and accept me as I am while supporting me to make the things that I wanted to be better. I work with neurodivergent adults, am LGBTQIA+ affirming, and work well with neurodiverse folx aged 13-35 addressing depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, goal-setting, and life transition issues. If you have something in your life that you would like to improve, I'm here to help you do it. I will love and accept you for who you are while supporting you to make the changes you would like.
![Photo of Lisa Defaria, MSW, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460c62fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Defaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is always individualized, specializing in mood, anxiety and phase of life adjustments for adults.
Providing quality, compassionate and confidential psychotherapeutic services for over 20 years. With a specialty in young children with developmental, emotional & behavior challenges, I also have extensive experience working with parents, individuals & families. You may be a parent concerned about your child, a family/couple with relationship challenges, or an individual in transition. We partner together in a process of exploration, discovery & solutions that support personal growth. I strive to provide the highest standards of professional practice - personable, respectful, non-judgmental & strength-based.
Therapy is always individualized, specializing in mood, anxiety and phase of life adjustments for adults.
Providing quality, compassionate and confidential psychotherapeutic services for over 20 years. With a specialty in young children with developmental, emotional & behavior challenges, I also have extensive experience working with parents, individuals & families. You may be a parent concerned about your child, a family/couple with relationship challenges, or an individual in transition. We partner together in a process of exploration, discovery & solutions that support personal growth. I strive to provide the highest standards of professional practice - personable, respectful, non-judgmental & strength-based.
Nearby Anxiety Therapists Searches for South Bend
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See More TherapistsAnxiety 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.