Photo of Shannon Amy Freud - Shannon Freud Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Freud Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I provide counselling and support to people coping with a variety of mental health challenges (with or without a diagnosis). These may include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, emotion management, eating disorder and addiction issues. I also have a special interest in parent and caregiver support. My counselling style is client-centred and strengths-focused. I aim to provide a safe place for an individual to express their thoughts and feelings. Using this safe space, we can collaborate on identifying the client's goals, and steps to accomplishing them.
I provide counselling and support to people coping with a variety of mental health challenges (with or without a diagnosis). These may include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, emotion management, eating disorder and addiction issues. I also have a special interest in parent and caregiver support. My counselling style is client-centred and strengths-focused. I aim to provide a safe place for an individual to express their thoughts and feelings. Using this safe space, we can collaborate on identifying the client's goals, and steps to accomplishing them.
(855) 809-7067 View (855) 809-7067
Photo of Claire Lewis, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I work with individuals 18+ with a special focus on supporting trauma survivors and those living with complex PTSD, young adults, individuals experiencing anxiety, and the LGBTQI2S+ community.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Asking for support is a vulnerable and courageous act. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed or out of touch with yourself. Or perhaps, you are struggling in your relationships or being held back by issues from the past. Whatever your reason for reaching out, therapy can help you move from feeling stuck to feeling more clear, connected, confident and courageous in your life. Our work together will help you to discover your healing path and offer you a therapeutic relationship that you can rely on to support, inspire and guide you.
I work with individuals 18+ with a special focus on supporting trauma survivors and those living with complex PTSD, young adults, individuals experiencing anxiety, and the LGBTQI2S+ community.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Asking for support is a vulnerable and courageous act. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed or out of touch with yourself. Or perhaps, you are struggling in your relationships or being held back by issues from the past. Whatever your reason for reaching out, therapy can help you move from feeling stuck to feeling more clear, connected, confident and courageous in your life. Our work together will help you to discover your healing path and offer you a therapeutic relationship that you can rely on to support, inspire and guide you.
(437) 747-7343 View (437) 747-7343
Photo of Becca Southcott, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Becca Southcott
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Whether you're looking to improve your relationships with others, work through difficult interpersonal situations, or cope through periods of anxiety or depression, my main goal is to help you get to a place where you feel you can face anything on your own.
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to manage your emotions, I'm here for you. Whether you're feeling impacted by your career, relationships, or internal conflicts, it's important to know that you do not have to go through this alone. The world is a difficult place to navigate. It can feel as though there is little room for genuine reflection and growth, but that is what I will provide for you. If you want a safe space to process, reflect, challenge, and grow past your struggles, therapy is for you!
Whether you're looking to improve your relationships with others, work through difficult interpersonal situations, or cope through periods of anxiety or depression, my main goal is to help you get to a place where you feel you can face anything on your own.
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to manage your emotions, I'm here for you. Whether you're feeling impacted by your career, relationships, or internal conflicts, it's important to know that you do not have to go through this alone. The world is a difficult place to navigate. It can feel as though there is little room for genuine reflection and growth, but that is what I will provide for you. If you want a safe space to process, reflect, challenge, and grow past your struggles, therapy is for you!
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Photo of Shahnaz Ahmed, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shahnaz Ahmed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, anger-management, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, Partner Assault Response, coping with medical diagnoses, parenting skills education, and working with children & youth.
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
I specialize in anxiety, anger-management, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, Partner Assault Response, coping with medical diagnoses, parenting skills education, and working with children & youth.
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
(844) 402-2059 View (844) 402-2059
Photo of Juliana Bruyn, SSW
Juliana Bruyn
SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Often in life we can move on ‘auto pilot’ and be surprised when we feel hijacked by things such as anxiety, anger, substance abuse, depression, etc. I will aid you in processing your reactions and learn how to better identify and communicate your emotions. We are all carrying so much on our backs. Be it childhood experiences, trauma, anxiety, work or school stress, insecurities, self doubt and so much more. I will support you in finding the skills to tease apart, challenge, and cope with these issues.
Often in life we can move on ‘auto pilot’ and be surprised when we feel hijacked by things such as anxiety, anger, substance abuse, depression, etc. I will aid you in processing your reactions and learn how to better identify and communicate your emotions. We are all carrying so much on our backs. Be it childhood experiences, trauma, anxiety, work or school stress, insecurities, self doubt and so much more. I will support you in finding the skills to tease apart, challenge, and cope with these issues.
(437) 747-8506 View (437) 747-8506
Photo of Sharmeen Khan - Private Practice, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Private Practice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
I am a psychoanalyst and have been a psychotherapist for the past 14 years. My practice is trauma-informed, collaborative, anti-oppressive, multicultural, multiracial, multiethnic, and spans sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status and religious affiliation. My perspective is psychoanalytic but we are all different so I don't limit my approach. I am also trained in CBT and EFT. I am warm, empathetic, nonjudgemental and hope to work with you to create movement in your life. My areas of expertise include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction, trauma.
I am a psychoanalyst and have been a psychotherapist for the past 14 years. My practice is trauma-informed, collaborative, anti-oppressive, multicultural, multiracial, multiethnic, and spans sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status and religious affiliation. My perspective is psychoanalytic but we are all different so I don't limit my approach. I am also trained in CBT and EFT. I am warm, empathetic, nonjudgemental and hope to work with you to create movement in your life. My areas of expertise include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction, trauma.
(844) 904-6981 View (844) 904-6981
Photo of Alora Martin Downie, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alora Martin Downie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
I support individuals with challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, connection, belonging, loss, grief, and stressful life changes. Through providing warm, experiential and compassionate support I aim to create a space that is accepting, empowering and has lots of room for exploration. I emphasize a holistic approach and the importance of exploring the mind body connection in healing. My practice welcomes individuals of diverse gender identities, sexualities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, ages, abilities, and lifestyles.
I support individuals with challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, connection, belonging, loss, grief, and stressful life changes. Through providing warm, experiential and compassionate support I aim to create a space that is accepting, empowering and has lots of room for exploration. I emphasize a holistic approach and the importance of exploring the mind body connection in healing. My practice welcomes individuals of diverse gender identities, sexualities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, ages, abilities, and lifestyles.
(437) 747-2892 View (437) 747-2892
Photo of Dr. Michael Grossman, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Michael Grossman
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for youth and adults facing a range of mental health challenges, such as low mood, anxiety, emotion regulation, anger management, life transitions, interpersonal difficulties, and psychosis. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is fundamental to effective change. My approach is collaborative, focusing on setting goals that are not only achievable but also personally relevant and meaningful to each individual.
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in providing comprehensive assessment and treatment for youth and adults facing a range of mental health challenges, such as low mood, anxiety, emotion regulation, anger management, life transitions, interpersonal difficulties, and psychosis. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is fundamental to effective change. My approach is collaborative, focusing on setting goals that are not only achievable but also personally relevant and meaningful to each individual.
(647) 277-4796 View (647) 277-4796
Photo of Patrick Davis, Registered Psychotherapist
Patrick Davis
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
Areas of specialization include: men's issues, shame, anxiety, identity, artistic voice, spiritual awakening and psychedelic integration.
Depth-oriented psychotherapy for soul searchers, spiritual seekers, consciousness explorers, writers and artists. My intention is to create the right conditions for you to encounter yourself at a deep level, to meet new parts of yourself, to access your own inner wisdom, and to discover who you are underneath your fears, limiting beliefs, insecurities, self-defeating patterns, and family and cultural programs. As a result of this inner journey, I hope that you will experience increased authenticity, freedom, individuality, self-acceptance, and meaning. These are also my core personal values.
Areas of specialization include: men's issues, shame, anxiety, identity, artistic voice, spiritual awakening and psychedelic integration.
Depth-oriented psychotherapy for soul searchers, spiritual seekers, consciousness explorers, writers and artists. My intention is to create the right conditions for you to encounter yourself at a deep level, to meet new parts of yourself, to access your own inner wisdom, and to discover who you are underneath your fears, limiting beliefs, insecurities, self-defeating patterns, and family and cultural programs. As a result of this inner journey, I hope that you will experience increased authenticity, freedom, individuality, self-acceptance, and meaning. These are also my core personal values.
(437) 747-0965 View (437) 747-0965
Photo of Aubrey Gibson, MA, Psychological Associate
Aubrey Gibson
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
If you are looking for support reducing distress, improving mood and working on emotion regulation, and/or finding more meaning in your life, I am here to support you on your journey. If you are suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma, workplace or relationship issues, life transitions, or interested in self-exploration, you deserve a warm and supportive environment to grow. We would work collaboratively to assess current concerns, identify your unique goals for therapy, and tailor an individualized approach to help you reach your goals through either short- or long-term support.
If you are looking for support reducing distress, improving mood and working on emotion regulation, and/or finding more meaning in your life, I am here to support you on your journey. If you are suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma, workplace or relationship issues, life transitions, or interested in self-exploration, you deserve a warm and supportive environment to grow. We would work collaboratively to assess current concerns, identify your unique goals for therapy, and tailor an individualized approach to help you reach your goals through either short- or long-term support.
(437) 747-4849 View (437) 747-4849
Photo of Myles Chisholm, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(365) 645-9181 View (365) 645-9181
Photo of Ken Walton, RP, MEd, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Ken Walton
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
As a holistic psychotherapist I help individuals and couples achieve inner transformation through healing the core psychological issues. With over 10 years experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, addictions, self-esteem, obsessive thought patterns, and personal growth work. There are lots of psychoeducational videos of my approach at www.kenwalton.org We will use a tailored evidence based therapeutic approach. In a safe non-judgmental environment, we address the difficulties in your thought-belief systems, emotional complexes, and behavioural-patterns. www.kenwalton.org
As a holistic psychotherapist I help individuals and couples achieve inner transformation through healing the core psychological issues. With over 10 years experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, addictions, self-esteem, obsessive thought patterns, and personal growth work. There are lots of psychoeducational videos of my approach at www.kenwalton.org We will use a tailored evidence based therapeutic approach. In a safe non-judgmental environment, we address the difficulties in your thought-belief systems, emotional complexes, and behavioural-patterns. www.kenwalton.org
(416) 659-1617 View (416) 659-1617
Photo of David Rockman, BA psy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
David Rockman
Registered Social Worker, BA psy, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
I have provided professional psychotherapy in Toronto for 27 years as a Master of Social Work Practice & successfully treat relationship and family problems, trauma, grief, self esteem, anxiety, depression, crisis, addiction, past child abuse.
In uncertain times you may feel overwhelmed by difficulties & feeling stuck. Many problems we experience are not our fault. I can help you effectively & quickly resolve relationship problems, sexual abuse trauma, feelings of betrayal, abandonment, social anxiety, self blame, self esteem, motivation & unsettling shame issues. Many times we lose our purpose in life & do not understand why we are plagued by unhelpful thoughts & feelings. By seeing me you will be understood even when your values may differ from your loved ones and others in your life. Contact me for a .5 hr initial consult & you will be relieved you did so.
I have provided professional psychotherapy in Toronto for 27 years as a Master of Social Work Practice & successfully treat relationship and family problems, trauma, grief, self esteem, anxiety, depression, crisis, addiction, past child abuse.
In uncertain times you may feel overwhelmed by difficulties & feeling stuck. Many problems we experience are not our fault. I can help you effectively & quickly resolve relationship problems, sexual abuse trauma, feelings of betrayal, abandonment, social anxiety, self blame, self esteem, motivation & unsettling shame issues. Many times we lose our purpose in life & do not understand why we are plagued by unhelpful thoughts & feelings. By seeing me you will be understood even when your values may differ from your loved ones and others in your life. Contact me for a .5 hr initial consult & you will be relieved you did so.
(647) 977-5974 View (647) 977-5974
Photo of Nicole Penak, PhD, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nicole Penak
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi I’m Nicole, Ive been a psychotherapist for over 15 years. It’s an honour to wade with people into the love & fear, pain & beauty, messy & magic of life. As a therapist with extensive experience within diverse communities & practice settings, I’ve supported folks like you, through life’s incredible joys & hardships. From self discovery, grief & loss, trauma, relationships, family conflict, social inequities, gender & sexuality, life transitions, depression, anxiety, illness. As well as supporting other therapists & community workers to care for themselves & others through their own therapy, or clinical supervision & consultation.
Hi I’m Nicole, Ive been a psychotherapist for over 15 years. It’s an honour to wade with people into the love & fear, pain & beauty, messy & magic of life. As a therapist with extensive experience within diverse communities & practice settings, I’ve supported folks like you, through life’s incredible joys & hardships. From self discovery, grief & loss, trauma, relationships, family conflict, social inequities, gender & sexuality, life transitions, depression, anxiety, illness. As well as supporting other therapists & community workers to care for themselves & others through their own therapy, or clinical supervision & consultation.
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Photo of Michelle L. Guy - Acorn & Anchor Therapy Centre , RSW/MSW, CYCP, Registered Social Worker
Acorn & Anchor Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker, RSW/MSW, CYCP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
Our team of registered therapists provide in-person & online services to children, youth, adults, couples & families. Our clients identify with struggles with anxiety, depression, existential intensity, high sensitivity, emotional/self-regulation and feeling misunderstood. We use a relationship first approach and recognize how genetics, experiences, social systems, & environment shape each unique individual. We support clients in the moment, & help them to support themselves in the long-term. We are a safe space for those identifying as LGBTQIA+
Our team of registered therapists provide in-person & online services to children, youth, adults, couples & families. Our clients identify with struggles with anxiety, depression, existential intensity, high sensitivity, emotional/self-regulation and feeling misunderstood. We use a relationship first approach and recognize how genetics, experiences, social systems, & environment shape each unique individual. We support clients in the moment, & help them to support themselves in the long-term. We are a safe space for those identifying as LGBTQIA+
(647) 694-7485 View (647) 694-7485
Photo of Diviya Lewis, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Diviya Lewis
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives that we cannot get a handle on the challenges in our life. Sometimes our genetics play a role, i.e. intergenerational traumas, and other times, life, and all its stressors gets overwhelming. For some, systemic barriers exist that impede a capacity for wellness. During these times, it is helpful to work with a trained therapist to support you as you find your way back to your healing, happiness and inner peace. Therapy is a process of growth, unlearning, and self-discovery. In my therapy sessions, I promote behavioral transformation and inner peace by encouraging curiosity, compassion and acceptance.
There are times in our lives that we cannot get a handle on the challenges in our life. Sometimes our genetics play a role, i.e. intergenerational traumas, and other times, life, and all its stressors gets overwhelming. For some, systemic barriers exist that impede a capacity for wellness. During these times, it is helpful to work with a trained therapist to support you as you find your way back to your healing, happiness and inner peace. Therapy is a process of growth, unlearning, and self-discovery. In my therapy sessions, I promote behavioral transformation and inner peace by encouraging curiosity, compassion and acceptance.
(647) 691-3515 View (647) 691-3515
Photo of Jill Marie Gilbert - Jill Gilbert Couples and Relational Therapy, PhD, dipTIRP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jill Gilbert Couples and Relational Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, dipTIRP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
I see individuals and couples in my practice. In both cases, the therapeutic relationship is a place in which you (or you and your partner) can feel understood and heard, and where you can know again that you matter. Therapy is at once simple - it provides you a space to talk about all the things you've been feeling and thinking; and yet it is also more - it is an experience of trust and of growth out of which transformation is indeed possible. Even in times when change seems impossible or out of reach, there is hope through the therapeutic connection.
I see individuals and couples in my practice. In both cases, the therapeutic relationship is a place in which you (or you and your partner) can feel understood and heard, and where you can know again that you matter. Therapy is at once simple - it provides you a space to talk about all the things you've been feeling and thinking; and yet it is also more - it is an experience of trust and of growth out of which transformation is indeed possible. Even in times when change seems impossible or out of reach, there is hope through the therapeutic connection.
(647) 492-4132 View (647) 492-4132
Photo of Nassim Ghani, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Nassim Ghani
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. When it comes to embarking on a therapeutic journey, finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is key. Therefore, together we can work collaboratively to create a safe and trustworthy environment and develop personalized goals and strategies that are informed by evidence-based practices. My approach centers on gaining more insight into the obstacles you are encountering right and providing you with tools and support to overcome challenges. My aim is to help you tap into your inherent strength and resilience, allowing you to create new possibilities.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. When it comes to embarking on a therapeutic journey, finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is key. Therefore, together we can work collaboratively to create a safe and trustworthy environment and develop personalized goals and strategies that are informed by evidence-based practices. My approach centers on gaining more insight into the obstacles you are encountering right and providing you with tools and support to overcome challenges. My aim is to help you tap into your inherent strength and resilience, allowing you to create new possibilities.
(587) 850-5507 View (587) 850-5507
Photo of Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters), HonsBA, CYC, CYW
Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters)
HonsBA, CYC, CYW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
(855) 249-5362 View (855) 249-5362
Photo of Fred Walter, MPsych, Psychologist
Fred Walter
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping hard-working professionals, who are struggling with not feeling good enough in their work and relationships, and want to understand and spend time working on the underlying causes, and - in turn - to feel seen, heard, and understood. My approach is in-depth therapy and it involves us understanding you holistically as a unique individual. In your therapy, we aim to go beyond psychological symptoms and to pay close attention to the specific internal and external factors that drive your symptoms (or areas of personal concern).
I specialize in helping hard-working professionals, who are struggling with not feeling good enough in their work and relationships, and want to understand and spend time working on the underlying causes, and - in turn - to feel seen, heard, and understood. My approach is in-depth therapy and it involves us understanding you holistically as a unique individual. In your therapy, we aim to go beyond psychological symptoms and to pay close attention to the specific internal and external factors that drive your symptoms (or areas of personal concern).
(437) 747-6315 View (437) 747-6315
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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.