Photo of Future Ready Minds- The Dolphin Way in Vancouver, BC
Future Ready Minds- The Dolphin Way
MD, FRCPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
We offer assessment and treatment services to children and teens for a range of life difficulties, including but not limited to: mood disorders, anxiety, bullying and addictions (gaming).
At Future-ready Minds our team is passionate about preparing children for their future. We offer a wide range of clinical and counselling services for children, teens, and families at a number of offices located throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. We also offer online (virtual) therapy services throughout BC – a convenient option that allows families to prioritize their mental health and wellness. All clinicians work under the treatment plan supervision and oversight of Psychiatrist Dr. Shimi Kang (MD, FRCPC).
We offer assessment and treatment services to children and teens for a range of life difficulties, including but not limited to: mood disorders, anxiety, bullying and addictions (gaming).
At Future-ready Minds our team is passionate about preparing children for their future. We offer a wide range of clinical and counselling services for children, teens, and families at a number of offices located throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. We also offer online (virtual) therapy services throughout BC – a convenient option that allows families to prioritize their mental health and wellness. All clinicians work under the treatment plan supervision and oversight of Psychiatrist Dr. Shimi Kang (MD, FRCPC).
(705) 990-1406 View (705) 990-1406
Photo of Skylark Counselling , Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Skylark Counselling
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Hi there, I'm Karina! I am a registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC. I did my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Ramapo College of New Jersey and completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology at Adler University in Vancouver, BC. I specialize in relieving depression and anxiety, coping with stress and trauma, and coping with Mood Affect Disorders. As someone who has had personal experiences with mental health, felt unheard and sat in the client chair, I strive to be someone who can listen to peoples unheard voices.
Hi there, I'm Karina! I am a registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC. I did my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Ramapo College of New Jersey and completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology at Adler University in Vancouver, BC. I specialize in relieving depression and anxiety, coping with stress and trauma, and coping with Mood Affect Disorders. As someone who has had personal experiences with mental health, felt unheard and sat in the client chair, I strive to be someone who can listen to peoples unheard voices.
(506) 497-2338 View (506) 497-2338
Photo of Debra Winter, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Debra Winter
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5N
Welcome to my practice. I am based in Vancouver and work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. In collaboration with clients, I aim to foster an increasing awareness of what has happened till now to bring you to this point; to normalize feelings and experiences, especially those relating to trauma; and to facilitate a connection to your inner knowing. I believe that in the uncomfortable parts of life, the challenges and the chaos, we can learn to maintain healthy connections within ourselves and with our loved ones and community.
Welcome to my practice. I am based in Vancouver and work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. In collaboration with clients, I aim to foster an increasing awareness of what has happened till now to bring you to this point; to normalize feelings and experiences, especially those relating to trauma; and to facilitate a connection to your inner knowing. I believe that in the uncomfortable parts of life, the challenges and the chaos, we can learn to maintain healthy connections within ourselves and with our loved ones and community.
(289) 768-9215 View (289) 768-9215
Photo of Stephanie Ng - Heartspace Counselling And Art Therapy, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Stephanie Ng - Heartspace Counselling And Art Therapy
Counsellor, MCP-AT, RCC, CCC, PROF-AT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Currently accepting new clients for online/in-person sessions in Gastown, Downtown Vancouver in a therapeutic space known as Heartspace! If you are feeling blocked from joy or authenticity whether by stress, anxiety, negative cycles or Inner Critic, I warmly welcome you to work with me to reconnect with yourself in meaningful and creative ways. I work with children (aged 3+) and adults with anxiety, stress/burnout, trauma, and interpersonal/family issues; and empower BIPOC, women, university students and working individuals in their 20s to 30s explore personal growth, self-esteem, perfectionism, inner critic and imposter syndrome.
Currently accepting new clients for online/in-person sessions in Gastown, Downtown Vancouver in a therapeutic space known as Heartspace! If you are feeling blocked from joy or authenticity whether by stress, anxiety, negative cycles or Inner Critic, I warmly welcome you to work with me to reconnect with yourself in meaningful and creative ways. I work with children (aged 3+) and adults with anxiety, stress/burnout, trauma, and interpersonal/family issues; and empower BIPOC, women, university students and working individuals in their 20s to 30s explore personal growth, self-esteem, perfectionism, inner critic and imposter syndrome.
(672) 906-0531 View (672) 906-0531
Photo of Marwan Noueihed, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Marwan Noueihed
Counsellor, MCP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
Not good enough. Not lovable enough. Helpless. Hopeless. Do you feel bullied by thoughts like these day in and day out? The sad fact is negative thoughts can stay with you long after abuse and neglect have passed. And they can be even more powerful when they gang up on you with your body, so you feel depressed and anxious. This can leave you struggling with an altered sense of yourself and the world.
Not good enough. Not lovable enough. Helpless. Hopeless. Do you feel bullied by thoughts like these day in and day out? The sad fact is negative thoughts can stay with you long after abuse and neglect have passed. And they can be even more powerful when they gang up on you with your body, so you feel depressed and anxious. This can leave you struggling with an altered sense of yourself and the world.
(450) 499-1388 View (450) 499-1388
Photo of Kerry Moller, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Kerry Moller
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Do you want to feel less anxious and overwhelmed? Is your inner critic constantly running you down? We all have an inner critic, and when it gets too strong, it can cause us a tremendous amount of suffering. In therapy with me, you will learn how to reduce the power of this critic, and experience greater self esteem and more confidence in all areas of your life, including: work, family, relationship and friends. I help adults of all ages and stages of life to overcome anxiety and depression, work through trauma and grief, and improve their relationships.
Do you want to feel less anxious and overwhelmed? Is your inner critic constantly running you down? We all have an inner critic, and when it gets too strong, it can cause us a tremendous amount of suffering. In therapy with me, you will learn how to reduce the power of this critic, and experience greater self esteem and more confidence in all areas of your life, including: work, family, relationship and friends. I help adults of all ages and stages of life to overcome anxiety and depression, work through trauma and grief, and improve their relationships.
(604) 265-9891 View (604) 265-9891
Photo of Anna Nabuco Bell, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Anna Nabuco Bell
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you and everyone navigating the complexities of trauma, life-transitions, cultural adaptation, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Ola! Seja muito bem-vindo aqui! Eu sou a Anna Nabuco Bell, psicologa no Brasil e Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) aqui no Canada. Ha 21 anos comecei minha jornada como psicoterapeuta, e hoje, atuando em BC, tenho a satisfacao de oferecer suporte a nossa comunidade Brasileira. Sou mestra, doutoranda e pesquisadora sobre imigracao e psicoterapia multicultural. Ofereco sessoes em ingles e em portugues, entao deixa eu explicar um pouquinho em ingles para os nao-brazucas tb ;) As a proud Brazilian and Canadian, my practice has been notably successful in working with people from diverse backgrounds, which is my doctoral teses theme.
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you and everyone navigating the complexities of trauma, life-transitions, cultural adaptation, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Ola! Seja muito bem-vindo aqui! Eu sou a Anna Nabuco Bell, psicologa no Brasil e Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) aqui no Canada. Ha 21 anos comecei minha jornada como psicoterapeuta, e hoje, atuando em BC, tenho a satisfacao de oferecer suporte a nossa comunidade Brasileira. Sou mestra, doutoranda e pesquisadora sobre imigracao e psicoterapia multicultural. Ofereco sessoes em ingles e em portugues, entao deixa eu explicar um pouquinho em ingles para os nao-brazucas tb ;) As a proud Brazilian and Canadian, my practice has been notably successful in working with people from diverse backgrounds, which is my doctoral teses theme.
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Photo of Amy Kobelt, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Amy Kobelt
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J  (Online Only)
We will work together to help you understand how the past contributes to present-day feelings of anxiety, sadness, or other unhealthy coping patterns.
If you are feeling stuck in your past, old ways of coping, or are replaying painful memories I want you to know that there is hope for your future. I work with many people, who, like you, each have unique stories, and have done their best to push forward and to leave their hurts behind. You may be surrounded by people, and yet feel a longing in your life for deeper connection and relationships. You might even feel disconnected from yourself, your body, and others. Perhaps you have tried to cope with the distress by turning to substances, food, self-harm, shopping, work, or other ways of feeling in control.
We will work together to help you understand how the past contributes to present-day feelings of anxiety, sadness, or other unhealthy coping patterns.
If you are feeling stuck in your past, old ways of coping, or are replaying painful memories I want you to know that there is hope for your future. I work with many people, who, like you, each have unique stories, and have done their best to push forward and to leave their hurts behind. You may be surrounded by people, and yet feel a longing in your life for deeper connection and relationships. You might even feel disconnected from yourself, your body, and others. Perhaps you have tried to cope with the distress by turning to substances, food, self-harm, shopping, work, or other ways of feeling in control.
(778) 949-8007 View (778) 949-8007
Photo of Heather Webster, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Heather Webster
Counsellor, MEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6T
Welcome! Within a non-judgemental and trauma informed framework I strive to provide a safe, welcoming and compassionate space for clients. Whether you are looking to explore and heal the impact of the past, manage the present or envision the future therapy may be the next step on your journey. I am an RCC with a Masters in Counselling Psychology from UBC. I work with adults, youth, children, couples and families experiencing a range of challenges including recent or past trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, struggles in personal or work relationships, parenting and family relationships, and co-parenting after separation.
Welcome! Within a non-judgemental and trauma informed framework I strive to provide a safe, welcoming and compassionate space for clients. Whether you are looking to explore and heal the impact of the past, manage the present or envision the future therapy may be the next step on your journey. I am an RCC with a Masters in Counselling Psychology from UBC. I work with adults, youth, children, couples and families experiencing a range of challenges including recent or past trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, struggles in personal or work relationships, parenting and family relationships, and co-parenting after separation.
(778) 718-8428 View (778) 718-8428
Photo of Vancouver Psychology Centre, Psychologist in Vancouver, BC
Vancouver Psychology Centre
Psychologist, PsyDs, PhDs, RCCs, BCATR, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Y
We provide assessment and treatment across the lifespan and we have a dynamic team with diverse training and experience: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Teen & Anxiety Treatment, Pain Mgmt ,Psychoeducational Assessment.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
We provide assessment and treatment across the lifespan and we have a dynamic team with diverse training and experience: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Teen & Anxiety Treatment, Pain Mgmt ,Psychoeducational Assessment.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
(866) 588-2710 View (866) 588-2710
Photo of Shima Derakhshanfar, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Shima Derakhshanfar
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
I am a certified clinical counsellor working with individuals, couples, children and families. My practice encourages a holistic approach where I help clients to heal by providing tools for awareness and recognizing their entire human and life experience in an integrative approach to healing the mind. The therapeutic modalities used in session will depend on the client’s needs. However, I have a specialized focus on complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression, abuse, stress, emotional overwhelm and work/life balance. The work I do is a person centred approach, following the needs of the client to where they want to go.
I am a certified clinical counsellor working with individuals, couples, children and families. My practice encourages a holistic approach where I help clients to heal by providing tools for awareness and recognizing their entire human and life experience in an integrative approach to healing the mind. The therapeutic modalities used in session will depend on the client’s needs. However, I have a specialized focus on complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression, abuse, stress, emotional overwhelm and work/life balance. The work I do is a person centred approach, following the needs of the client to where they want to go.
(226) 782-3152 View (226) 782-3152
Photo of Gabrielle Stannus, Registered Psychotherapist in Vancouver, BC
Gabrielle Stannus
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BEd, OCT, RP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5R
Phone or online video support for Frontline Healthcare Workers for Covid-19 Pandemic. Stress, anxiety, burnout, PTSD. You want change and are open to looking at yourself in a new way. I offer a space to explore ways to incorporate feelings into your existence and integrate them with your thinking mind, so that you can make more informed choices about how to live. I believe you have the inner knowledge to grow and live more in harmony with who you really are. By listening well, being present and responding genuinely, I will help you tap into your own resources.
Phone or online video support for Frontline Healthcare Workers for Covid-19 Pandemic. Stress, anxiety, burnout, PTSD. You want change and are open to looking at yourself in a new way. I offer a space to explore ways to incorporate feelings into your existence and integrate them with your thinking mind, so that you can make more informed choices about how to live. I believe you have the inner knowledge to grow and live more in harmony with who you really are. By listening well, being present and responding genuinely, I will help you tap into your own resources.
(855) 780-0236 View (855) 780-0236
Photo of McCready Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
McCready Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5T  (Online Only)
The most important element in any counselling relationship is the development of a trusting, therapeutic alliance. Together, we can pinpoint the obstacles that prevent you from thriving and develop strategies to remove them. Healing can be complex, and everyone's experience is different. I don't apply a "cookie cutter" approach to my practice. My core belief is that we all have strengths of which we are sometimes unaware. Whether your healing journey relates to trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, low self-esteem or addiction, I will be a committed partner in it. You are not alone.
The most important element in any counselling relationship is the development of a trusting, therapeutic alliance. Together, we can pinpoint the obstacles that prevent you from thriving and develop strategies to remove them. Healing can be complex, and everyone's experience is different. I don't apply a "cookie cutter" approach to my practice. My core belief is that we all have strengths of which we are sometimes unaware. Whether your healing journey relates to trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, low self-esteem or addiction, I will be a committed partner in it. You are not alone.
(306) 992-2915 View (306) 992-2915
Photo of Gabriela Gutierrez, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Gabriela Gutierrez
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Gabriela and I’m so happy you are looking for support. I specialize in addressing issues of trauma, anxiety, and parenting challenges and have specific training in these areas to support you to lighten the heavy loads you no longer want to hold on to. If you have suffered a traumatic experience, gone through a series of challenging situations, struggled with managing your own thoughts, or are just feeling overwhelmed, you don't need to go through this alone. By searching for a counsellor, you are already taking an important step in improving your mental health and I can support you in continuing that journey.
Hi, I’m Gabriela and I’m so happy you are looking for support. I specialize in addressing issues of trauma, anxiety, and parenting challenges and have specific training in these areas to support you to lighten the heavy loads you no longer want to hold on to. If you have suffered a traumatic experience, gone through a series of challenging situations, struggled with managing your own thoughts, or are just feeling overwhelmed, you don't need to go through this alone. By searching for a counsellor, you are already taking an important step in improving your mental health and I can support you in continuing that journey.
(431) 341-2872 View (431) 341-2872
Photo of Cristina Lima, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Cristina Lima
Counsellor, MSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor who loves working with children, teenagers, adults and parents toward a fulfilling life that is envisioned by them. I believe that seeking counselling is one of the most important decisions that people can make for themselves and their loved ones. Embarking on a journey of self growth and healing can be difficult; yet, I know firsthand that the results are worthwhile. Most clients work with me to better manage stress, anxiety, depression, marital challenges, family conflicts, phobias and ADHD.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor who loves working with children, teenagers, adults and parents toward a fulfilling life that is envisioned by them. I believe that seeking counselling is one of the most important decisions that people can make for themselves and their loved ones. Embarking on a journey of self growth and healing can be difficult; yet, I know firsthand that the results are worthwhile. Most clients work with me to better manage stress, anxiety, depression, marital challenges, family conflicts, phobias and ADHD.
(604) 265-9450 View (604) 265-9450
Photo of David Tong, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
David Tong
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CPF
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K
Do you feel that life gets you going in circles, leaving you distressed, stuck, or barely holding on? You may be asking yourself: How can I deal with my constant worrying, fears or need for perfection? What can I do to better manage my kids, relate to them, or give them the guidance they need? Or how can I stop my negative thoughts, feelings, nightmares or flashbacks? If you're finding yourself grasping for answers, I'm here to say there's hope! I believe our mental health is an ongoing journey, with its ebbs and flows along life's path. As a fellow companion walking alongside you, we can work together to navigate a way forward.
Do you feel that life gets you going in circles, leaving you distressed, stuck, or barely holding on? You may be asking yourself: How can I deal with my constant worrying, fears or need for perfection? What can I do to better manage my kids, relate to them, or give them the guidance they need? Or how can I stop my negative thoughts, feelings, nightmares or flashbacks? If you're finding yourself grasping for answers, I'm here to say there's hope! I believe our mental health is an ongoing journey, with its ebbs and flows along life's path. As a fellow companion walking alongside you, we can work together to navigate a way forward.
(587) 816-2328 View (587) 816-2328
Photo of Three Sisters Clinical Counselling, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Three Sisters Clinical Counselling
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BPEH, RT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6K
Our counsellors have subspecialties in treating anxiety, self-harm and depression, trauma, behaviourl issues, phobias, grief+ loss, self-esteems issues + more!.
We believe the client + counsellor must fit, so we have multiple practitioners with two locations so you can choose a therapist with whom you connect. Each of us endeavour to understand you and your experiences. We have a deep interest in how emotional regulation, identity and family dynamics can be factors that contribute to and protect people in the development of physical and mental health disorders. Our counselling styles can be described as empathic & solution-focused. We provide an environment free from judgement and believe honesty and acceptance are fundamental to personal growth and change.
Our counsellors have subspecialties in treating anxiety, self-harm and depression, trauma, behaviourl issues, phobias, grief+ loss, self-esteems issues + more!.
We believe the client + counsellor must fit, so we have multiple practitioners with two locations so you can choose a therapist with whom you connect. Each of us endeavour to understand you and your experiences. We have a deep interest in how emotional regulation, identity and family dynamics can be factors that contribute to and protect people in the development of physical and mental health disorders. Our counselling styles can be described as empathic & solution-focused. We provide an environment free from judgement and believe honesty and acceptance are fundamental to personal growth and change.
(778) 719-6029 View (778) 719-6029
Photo of Jamila Nazerali Hilborn, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Jamila Nazerali Hilborn
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5M
I work primarily with children (ages 5 +), youth, and their families. A strong focus of mine is working with trauma, abuse, issues surrounding belonging, abandonment, divorce/separation, addiction, eating disorders, impacts of cultural genocide/colonization, anxiety, gender transitioning/identity, and depression. I strive to walk with clients to further support them in building the necessary tools to navigate challenging life events, and to experience more beauty and growth. I understand that reaching out is never easy and I aim to provide a safe, trusting, compassionate space to explore or process issues. Please Inquire for fees.
I work primarily with children (ages 5 +), youth, and their families. A strong focus of mine is working with trauma, abuse, issues surrounding belonging, abandonment, divorce/separation, addiction, eating disorders, impacts of cultural genocide/colonization, anxiety, gender transitioning/identity, and depression. I strive to walk with clients to further support them in building the necessary tools to navigate challenging life events, and to experience more beauty and growth. I understand that reaching out is never easy and I aim to provide a safe, trusting, compassionate space to explore or process issues. Please Inquire for fees.
(778) 901-2280 View (778) 901-2280
Photo of Chelsie Pilon, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Chelsie Pilon
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H
Are you tired of repeating the same limiting patterns in your life? Does anxiety, overwhelm, and/or depression feel like a constant battle for you? Maybe you feel stuck, confused, or alone. I have a warm and genuine approach to counselling, and I will meet you right where you are. I believe that the pain you are experiencing is valid. I also know that you absolutely deserve the opportunity to feel understood, and to find healing.
Are you tired of repeating the same limiting patterns in your life? Does anxiety, overwhelm, and/or depression feel like a constant battle for you? Maybe you feel stuck, confused, or alone. I have a warm and genuine approach to counselling, and I will meet you right where you are. I believe that the pain you are experiencing is valid. I also know that you absolutely deserve the opportunity to feel understood, and to find healing.
(587) 874-5757 View (587) 874-5757
Photo of Kira Celeste, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Kira Celeste
Counsellor, MA, RCC, PhD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K
Waitlist for new clients
Hi—I’m Kira Celeste, a therapist with a PhD in Depth Psychology who is passionate about helping individuals who long for a deeper, fuller experience of life navigate through their history, current circumstances, and societal influences to find transformation, healing, and empowerment. If you are struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, hopelessness or stress, please reach out. Together we can work together to help you find your sense of calm, joy, ease, meaning, satisfaction and fulfillment in life. Let’s work together to have you feeling like the most well You possible. I will be right there with you through the journey.
Hi—I’m Kira Celeste, a therapist with a PhD in Depth Psychology who is passionate about helping individuals who long for a deeper, fuller experience of life navigate through their history, current circumstances, and societal influences to find transformation, healing, and empowerment. If you are struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, hopelessness or stress, please reach out. Together we can work together to help you find your sense of calm, joy, ease, meaning, satisfaction and fulfillment in life. Let’s work together to have you feeling like the most well You possible. I will be right there with you through the journey.
(289) 799-7267 View (289) 799-7267

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Anxiety Counsellors

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other 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 Behavioural 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.