Photo of Caleb Gunning, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Caleb Gunning
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
I believe that choosing to tell and own our story is the bravest thing we will ever do. My commitment is to create a safe, non-judgemental, and warm place where you can feel seen and heard. In my clinical practice, it is a privilege and pleasure to work with youth (16 yrs+), adult individuals, and couples. I support people as they work through various mental health difficulties, relational issues, sexuality, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming experiences, and identity. I have a special interest and research focus on emotion regulation issues (uncontrolled/overcontrolled emotion), intimacy, shame, and anxiety disorders.
I believe that choosing to tell and own our story is the bravest thing we will ever do. My commitment is to create a safe, non-judgemental, and warm place where you can feel seen and heard. In my clinical practice, it is a privilege and pleasure to work with youth (16 yrs+), adult individuals, and couples. I support people as they work through various mental health difficulties, relational issues, sexuality, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming experiences, and identity. I have a special interest and research focus on emotion regulation issues (uncontrolled/overcontrolled emotion), intimacy, shame, and anxiety disorders.
(613) 777-5645 View (613) 777-5645
Photo of Natalina Salmaso, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Natalina Salmaso
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, CRC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
Too often one of the most difficult first steps in working through life challenges, whether large or small, is to acknowledge the need for support and to seek out the help that you need. My work with adolescents, adults and couples has been to accompany them on a journey that involves building a toolset designed to navigate their particular challenges. I see clients struggling to cope with a range of issues related to depression and mood, anxiety, gender and sexuality, fertility and adoption, different types of relationships and sexual problems (e.g., arousal, desire, orgasm, pain), and stress associated with everyday life matters.
Too often one of the most difficult first steps in working through life challenges, whether large or small, is to acknowledge the need for support and to seek out the help that you need. My work with adolescents, adults and couples has been to accompany them on a journey that involves building a toolset designed to navigate their particular challenges. I see clients struggling to cope with a range of issues related to depression and mood, anxiety, gender and sexuality, fertility and adoption, different types of relationships and sexual problems (e.g., arousal, desire, orgasm, pain), and stress associated with everyday life matters.
(819) 412-6505 View (819) 412-6505
Photo of Jennifer Williams, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jennifer Williams
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing a difficult life transition, a mental health struggle such as anxiety or depression or who want to heal from past trauma. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals for personal growth, and to help individuals live a more authentic life. Evidence-based individual therapy can increase self-awareness, resiliency and overall happiness. I work with couples experiencing turbulence in their relationship, to recover from infidelity, to recreate that spark or improve communication. I also specialize in family therapy and work with children and youth.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing a difficult life transition, a mental health struggle such as anxiety or depression or who want to heal from past trauma. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to develop treatment goals for personal growth, and to help individuals live a more authentic life. Evidence-based individual therapy can increase self-awareness, resiliency and overall happiness. I work with couples experiencing turbulence in their relationship, to recover from infidelity, to recreate that spark or improve communication. I also specialize in family therapy and work with children and youth.
(343) 312-7422 View (343) 312-7422
Photo of Jessica Jackson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Jackson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
NEW! Thrive Psychotherapy Services is now accepting new clients. Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety and depression? Wondering how to strengthen self-esteem, build confidence, and find direction? Book your free consultation today!
NEW! Thrive Psychotherapy Services is now accepting new clients. Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety and depression? Wondering how to strengthen self-esteem, build confidence, and find direction? Book your free consultation today!
(343) 453-0884 View (343) 453-0884
Photo of 2Beinflow Neurofeedback Services - Chris Peacock in Ottawa, ON
2Beinflow Neurofeedback Services - Chris Peacock
MHA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z
I am passionate about working with clients who are seeking to improve their sleep, energy, focus and attention and/or who would like to experience less reactivity, racing thoughts, or panic attacks. People who deal with anxiety, high stress levels, PTSD, are recovering from concussion, or children or adults who have ADHD, autism or learning disabilities are the clients I see the most. Following a series of sessions, it is very rewarding to see the frequency, intensity or duration of symptoms subside and clients more able to access and use tools such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga in order to manage day to day stresses.
I am passionate about working with clients who are seeking to improve their sleep, energy, focus and attention and/or who would like to experience less reactivity, racing thoughts, or panic attacks. People who deal with anxiety, high stress levels, PTSD, are recovering from concussion, or children or adults who have ADHD, autism or learning disabilities are the clients I see the most. Following a series of sessions, it is very rewarding to see the frequency, intensity or duration of symptoms subside and clients more able to access and use tools such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga in order to manage day to day stresses.
(613) 701-9681 View (613) 701-9681
Photo of May-Lissa Marsha Affricot, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
May-Lissa Marsha Affricot
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1C
With strengths-based, client-centered, cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches, I'll help you navigate the challenges of everyday life, and address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. Healing is a journey. As your therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Let's build resilience together, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater peace and fulfillment in life. I'm committed to providing a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapy is not just about fixing problems, it's about fostering personal growth and self-discovery. Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or simply seeking greater insight. Together, we can work towards greater emotional health and wellbeing.
With strengths-based, client-centered, cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches, I'll help you navigate the challenges of everyday life, and address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. Healing is a journey. As your therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Let's build resilience together, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater peace and fulfillment in life. I'm committed to providing a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapy is not just about fixing problems, it's about fostering personal growth and self-discovery. Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or simply seeking greater insight. Together, we can work towards greater emotional health and wellbeing.
(343) 307-8846 View (343) 307-8846
Photo of Sandra E LeBlanc, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Sandra E LeBlanc
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2M
I have extensive training in areas such as anxiety, depression, attachment issues, foster care, adoption, trauma, including treatment of child sexual abuse, sexualized behaviours, bullying issues, grief and loss, separation, divorce issues, and LGBTQ2s+.
I am a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience providing therapy with, children, adolescents, adults and families. I am very passionate about my work and feel blessed to have walked alongside my clients over the years and share in their journey of growth and healing. My life experiences and role as a parent have also helped me become the clinician I am today.
I have extensive training in areas such as anxiety, depression, attachment issues, foster care, adoption, trauma, including treatment of child sexual abuse, sexualized behaviours, bullying issues, grief and loss, separation, divorce issues, and LGBTQ2s+.
I am a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience providing therapy with, children, adolescents, adults and families. I am very passionate about my work and feel blessed to have walked alongside my clients over the years and share in their journey of growth and healing. My life experiences and role as a parent have also helped me become the clinician I am today.
(343) 313-0344 View (343) 313-0344
Photo of Margie Lauzon, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Margie Lauzon
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
We all face challenges at different phases in our lives. Perhaps you are feeling stuck and having difficulty finding direction or making a life decision. You may have experienced a loss and need some help to work through the grief. Or you may be struggling with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression. Sometimes the struggle is related to relationship issues or parenting difficulties.
We all face challenges at different phases in our lives. Perhaps you are feeling stuck and having difficulty finding direction or making a life decision. You may have experienced a loss and need some help to work through the grief. Or you may be struggling with symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression. Sometimes the struggle is related to relationship issues or parenting difficulties.
(343) 430-0374 View (343) 430-0374
Photo of Allison Heffern - Holistic Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Allison Heffern - Holistic Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who facilitates healing through modern and holistic psychotherapy practices. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families, providing support in the following areas: Mental and Emotional Wellness Optimization, Self-Development and Spirituality, Childhood and Developmental Trauma Recovery, Anxiety, Depression and other mood difficulties, Eating Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Addictions, AD(H)D, Stress and Emotional Management, Couples Therapy, and Parenting/Family Therapy.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who facilitates healing through modern and holistic psychotherapy practices. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families, providing support in the following areas: Mental and Emotional Wellness Optimization, Self-Development and Spirituality, Childhood and Developmental Trauma Recovery, Anxiety, Depression and other mood difficulties, Eating Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Addictions, AD(H)D, Stress and Emotional Management, Couples Therapy, and Parenting/Family Therapy.
(343) 429-6191 View (343) 429-6191
Photo of Attached Kids - Allyson Kreps, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Attached Kids - Allyson Kreps
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am seeing all clients virtually through secure video counselling and I am currently accepting new clients. Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face.
I am seeing all clients virtually through secure video counselling and I am currently accepting new clients. Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face.
(343) 307-0547 View (343) 307-0547
Photo of Pamela Green, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Pamela Green
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified clinical trauma professional, I provide counselling to individuals with varying mental health concerns including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, personal and interpersonal relational issues, stress management, self-esteem, confidence, acute or chronic illness, and transitionary changes such as career, education or familial changes.
Welcome! Making the choice to engage in therapy requires courage, however it can be an empowering and positive experience towards a more fulfilling life. Over the past 14 years I have integrated my training and work in clinical and agency settings to offer counselling to clients looking to improve their mental wellness and overall functioning. Some clients report feeling ready when they cannot eliminate feelings like they are "facing an uphill battle" or that they are "overwhelmed" by daily life stressors and need support.
As a certified clinical trauma professional, I provide counselling to individuals with varying mental health concerns including grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, personal and interpersonal relational issues, stress management, self-esteem, confidence, acute or chronic illness, and transitionary changes such as career, education or familial changes.
Welcome! Making the choice to engage in therapy requires courage, however it can be an empowering and positive experience towards a more fulfilling life. Over the past 14 years I have integrated my training and work in clinical and agency settings to offer counselling to clients looking to improve their mental wellness and overall functioning. Some clients report feeling ready when they cannot eliminate feelings like they are "facing an uphill battle" or that they are "overwhelmed" by daily life stressors and need support.
(613) 900-0462 View (613) 900-0462
Photo of Phaedra Gryz, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Phaedra Gryz
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Accepting new clients. We all struggle at one time or another, facing challenges that make us wonder where to turn. Seeking therapy can be an extremely rewarding experience as you learn to navigate these challenges and uncover your strengths while taking strides towards your ideal self. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, with a specialization in life transitions and perinatal mental health. My approach is empathic, and non-judgemental with a strong client focus. I utilize techniques from positive psychology, narrative therapy, CBT, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Accepting new clients. We all struggle at one time or another, facing challenges that make us wonder where to turn. Seeking therapy can be an extremely rewarding experience as you learn to navigate these challenges and uncover your strengths while taking strides towards your ideal self. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, with a specialization in life transitions and perinatal mental health. My approach is empathic, and non-judgemental with a strong client focus. I utilize techniques from positive psychology, narrative therapy, CBT, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
View
Photo of Dr. Tammie Ricci, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Tammie Ricci
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C
We specialize in disability, psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments and treatment of workplace injuries, trauma, anxiety, anger management, depression, phobias, personality disorders and adjustment to injury/disability.
I own and operate a group private practice, Ricci & Associates. Our psychologists, neuropsychologists and psychotherapists offer assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health issues. We offer psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments to help you better understand the nature of your difficulties and how best to manage them. We are dedicated to providing you with an accessible, inclusive and personalized environment where you can feel safe to explore the challenges you face. We offer client centered, evidence-based treatments for individuals, couples and families.
We specialize in disability, psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments and treatment of workplace injuries, trauma, anxiety, anger management, depression, phobias, personality disorders and adjustment to injury/disability.
I own and operate a group private practice, Ricci & Associates. Our psychologists, neuropsychologists and psychotherapists offer assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health issues. We offer psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments to help you better understand the nature of your difficulties and how best to manage them. We are dedicated to providing you with an accessible, inclusive and personalized environment where you can feel safe to explore the challenges you face. We offer client centered, evidence-based treatments for individuals, couples and families.
(343) 342-1220 x102 View (343) 342-1220 x102
Photo of Sara Coyle, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Sara Coyle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP, DDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
I support youth and adults with processing and healing from trauma, stressors, and challenging life experiences. These stressors show up in our bodies in several ways which may include anxiety, chronic pain, health difficulties, sleep disturbance, etc. or just not feeling yourself. The folks I support may have experienced childhood trauma or attachment difficulties, or they may be experiencing increased anxiety and stress due to work, relationships, school or more recent challenging life experiences. I strongly believe in the youth’s caregiver(s) involvement in therapy process to better support their youth outside therapy sessions.
I support youth and adults with processing and healing from trauma, stressors, and challenging life experiences. These stressors show up in our bodies in several ways which may include anxiety, chronic pain, health difficulties, sleep disturbance, etc. or just not feeling yourself. The folks I support may have experienced childhood trauma or attachment difficulties, or they may be experiencing increased anxiety and stress due to work, relationships, school or more recent challenging life experiences. I strongly believe in the youth’s caregiver(s) involvement in therapy process to better support their youth outside therapy sessions.
(289) 212-6294 View (289) 212-6294
Photo of Attached Kids, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Attached Kids
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M
Waitlist for new clients
2-3 month waitlist for new clients. Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? Our counsellors at Attached Kids support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face. We also work directly with parents/caregivers to develop new strategies to support their children's challenging behaviours and emotional development.
2-3 month waitlist for new clients. Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? Our counsellors at Attached Kids support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face. We also work directly with parents/caregivers to develop new strategies to support their children's challenging behaviours and emotional development.
(343) 304-5688 View (343) 304-5688
Photo of Alicia Valenzuela-Pérez, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Alicia Valenzuela-Pérez
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 25 years of experience working with adults, children and families experiencing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, self-esteem issues, depression, trauma, post-traumatic disorders, migration, adjustment issues and life transitions amongst others.
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 25 years of experience working with adults, children and families experiencing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, self-esteem issues, depression, trauma, post-traumatic disorders, migration, adjustment issues and life transitions amongst others.
(343) 308-8409 View (343) 308-8409
Photo of Lorrain Tyrany • LT Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Lorrain Tyrany • LT Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), M(Ed), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1T
My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum support, premarital and marital support, parenting, women’s issues, interpersonal relationships, cultural identity conflicts, and time and stress management.
I truly believe that the key to a prosperous community lies in the well-being of each and every member of that community. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a comfortable and empathetic environment, built on trust and transparency. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach, and I work with you to develop an action plan; integrating evidence-based practices that suit your needs. I have several years of experience in mentoring youth and young adults, and I have experience providing therapy to teenagers and adults from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum support, premarital and marital support, parenting, women’s issues, interpersonal relationships, cultural identity conflicts, and time and stress management.
I truly believe that the key to a prosperous community lies in the well-being of each and every member of that community. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a comfortable and empathetic environment, built on trust and transparency. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach, and I work with you to develop an action plan; integrating evidence-based practices that suit your needs. I have several years of experience in mentoring youth and young adults, and I have experience providing therapy to teenagers and adults from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
(343) 453-1863 View (343) 453-1863
Photo of Allison Grey Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Allison Grey Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, CYW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2M
I specialize in ADHD, adoption, anxiety, attachment, depression, emotional regulation, parenting and trauma with children, youth and families.
I began my journey working with children and youth over 20 years ago in the field of Child and Youth work. My experience and passion are in helping people build and strengthen healthy attachments and connections not only with others, but with themselves. I believe that connection within the therapeutic relationship is so important and I will work with you in order to create safety as you trust me to support you in this part of your journey. I will focus on your story in a respectful and non-judgmental way so that together we can create the foundation for what you need in order to heal, grow and change in the ways you want.
I specialize in ADHD, adoption, anxiety, attachment, depression, emotional regulation, parenting and trauma with children, youth and families.
I began my journey working with children and youth over 20 years ago in the field of Child and Youth work. My experience and passion are in helping people build and strengthen healthy attachments and connections not only with others, but with themselves. I believe that connection within the therapeutic relationship is so important and I will work with you in order to create safety as you trust me to support you in this part of your journey. I will focus on your story in a respectful and non-judgmental way so that together we can create the foundation for what you need in order to heal, grow and change in the ways you want.
(343) 304-5659 View (343) 304-5659
Photo of Lorie Carson, Occupational Therapist in Ottawa, ON
Lorie Carson
Occupational Therapist, BA, BSc(OT), Reg, (ON), Therapy
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Extensive experience working with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and the myriad transitions that life brings.
Not accepting new clients. I bring acceptance, humour and deep intuitive listening to my work with clients. For over 30 years I have been passionate about body-centred psychotherapy, using a unique integrative approach which recognizes that the body, mind, emotions and spirit are inseparable. My work is informed by trainings in several approaches including Somatic Experiencing, the Rubenfeld Synergy Method, Mindfulness, the Hendricks Institute, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I am a registered Occupational Therapist and also offer Neuroptimal Neurofeedback (www.zengar.com). I have built a bright and spacious studio office.
Extensive experience working with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and the myriad transitions that life brings.
Not accepting new clients. I bring acceptance, humour and deep intuitive listening to my work with clients. For over 30 years I have been passionate about body-centred psychotherapy, using a unique integrative approach which recognizes that the body, mind, emotions and spirit are inseparable. My work is informed by trainings in several approaches including Somatic Experiencing, the Rubenfeld Synergy Method, Mindfulness, the Hendricks Institute, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I am a registered Occupational Therapist and also offer Neuroptimal Neurofeedback (www.zengar.com). I have built a bright and spacious studio office.
(613) 704-2645 View (613) 704-2645
Photo of RISE Anxiety & Depression Clinic in Ottawa, ON
RISE Anxiety & Depression Clinic
MA, CCC, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B
We address a wide range of issues, from daily stress, anxiety, and low mood to clinical depression, anxiety disorders, and various mental health challenges.
We offer same-day or next-day appointments. Our services cater to adults, parents, teenagers, children, couples, and families, emphasizing empowerment, emotional support, collaboration, and a non-judgmental approach. We specialize in assisting individuals who have experienced acute trauma, such as sexual violence and victims of crime, as well as those dealing with complex PTSD. Our practice is LGBTQ+-inclusive and friendly to individuals with diverse sexual orientations, kinks, non-monogamous, and polyamorous lifestyles. We offer flexible appointment scheduling, allowing you to choose between male and female clinicians.
We address a wide range of issues, from daily stress, anxiety, and low mood to clinical depression, anxiety disorders, and various mental health challenges.
We offer same-day or next-day appointments. Our services cater to adults, parents, teenagers, children, couples, and families, emphasizing empowerment, emotional support, collaboration, and a non-judgmental approach. We specialize in assisting individuals who have experienced acute trauma, such as sexual violence and victims of crime, as well as those dealing with complex PTSD. Our practice is LGBTQ+-inclusive and friendly to individuals with diverse sexual orientations, kinks, non-monogamous, and polyamorous lifestyles. We offer flexible appointment scheduling, allowing you to choose between male and female clinicians.
(438) 230-0252 View (438) 230-0252

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.