Photo of Delphine Amer (Non-Insured Health Benefits Provider), Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Delphine Amer (Non-Insured Health Benefits Provider)
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
You might be down or anxious, or perhaps, as a parent, you are worried about a child or teenager. Maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. ​ Perhaps you are burdened by fear, guilt, feel unmotivated, or feel hopeless. Perhaps something traumatic has overwhelmed you. Perhaps you are afraid or socially anxious or lack motivation. Maybe you are struggling at work, and you are not sure how to change things. Perhaps you don't know how to set goals or achieve them. Perhaps you feel sad, or feel overwhelmed by grief or loss. Perhaps you are angry.
You might be down or anxious, or perhaps, as a parent, you are worried about a child or teenager. Maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. ​ Perhaps you are burdened by fear, guilt, feel unmotivated, or feel hopeless. Perhaps something traumatic has overwhelmed you. Perhaps you are afraid or socially anxious or lack motivation. Maybe you are struggling at work, and you are not sure how to change things. Perhaps you don't know how to set goals or achieve them. Perhaps you feel sad, or feel overwhelmed by grief or loss. Perhaps you are angry.
(343) 321-2636 View (343) 321-2636
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 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 Mindy Sirois, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Mindy Sirois
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RDT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have extensive experience in leading individual and group trauma-informed therapy to a broad range of clients with multicultural backgrounds, behavioral issues and psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to: ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, attachment difficulties, complex trauma, PTSD, and autism.
As a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) with an extensive background working with children and youths in Canada and the United States, I help my clients identify, explore and process their emotions through verbal and non-verbal means. Drama therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that incorporates creative expression into the therapeutic process. Clients of all ages can benefit from this creative arts therapy modality. No acting experience needed! In addition, I use other treatment approaches such as trauma-centered psychotherapy, creative arts therapies, play therapy and sandtray therapy.
I have extensive experience in leading individual and group trauma-informed therapy to a broad range of clients with multicultural backgrounds, behavioral issues and psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to: ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, attachment difficulties, complex trauma, PTSD, and autism.
As a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) with an extensive background working with children and youths in Canada and the United States, I help my clients identify, explore and process their emotions through verbal and non-verbal means. Drama therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that incorporates creative expression into the therapeutic process. Clients of all ages can benefit from this creative arts therapy modality. No acting experience needed! In addition, I use other treatment approaches such as trauma-centered psychotherapy, creative arts therapies, play therapy and sandtray therapy.
(613) 226-6767 View (613) 226-6767
Photo of Kerri Stone, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Kerri Stone
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
Do you find it hard to discover and honour your strengths in the midst of obstacles? I possess particular knowledge and experience in infant, child, and adolescent mental health and development. I am passionate about enhancing mental wellness by providing children, youth, parents, and families with support and strategies to maintain optimal family functioning and parent-child relationships. I have gained extensive experience treating anxiety and related disorders, emotion regulation challenges, depression, OCD, self-esteem concerns, ADHD, relationship difficulties, self-harming behaviour and traumatic stress.
Do you find it hard to discover and honour your strengths in the midst of obstacles? I possess particular knowledge and experience in infant, child, and adolescent mental health and development. I am passionate about enhancing mental wellness by providing children, youth, parents, and families with support and strategies to maintain optimal family functioning and parent-child relationships. I have gained extensive experience treating anxiety and related disorders, emotion regulation challenges, depression, OCD, self-esteem concerns, ADHD, relationship difficulties, self-harming behaviour and traumatic stress.
(343) 313-0782 View (343) 313-0782
Photo of Intersections Therapy Collective, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Intersections Therapy Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
We address various clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, social and behavioral challenges, offering professional support tailored to our clients' needs.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
We address various clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, social and behavioral challenges, offering professional support tailored to our clients' needs.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
(343) 342-2410 View (343) 342-2410
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 Kristina Scully, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Kristina Scully
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2M
Currently welcoming new clients of all ages! For both virtual and in person sessions with daytime and evening availability. Hi there! My name is Kristina Scully and I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has over 10 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use, relationship issues, disordered eating and trauma. I have worked extensively with adolescents, youth and adults and I am also an experienced Parent-Child Therapist supporting families in the community.
Currently welcoming new clients of all ages! For both virtual and in person sessions with daytime and evening availability. Hi there! My name is Kristina Scully and I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has over 10 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use, relationship issues, disordered eating and trauma. I have worked extensively with adolescents, youth and adults and I am also an experienced Parent-Child Therapist supporting families in the community.
(343) 304-6216 View (343) 304-6216
Photo of Dr. Nicolás F. Narvaez Linares, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Nicolás F. Narvaez Linares
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Waitlist for new clients
In terms of therapy, I work with youth aged 12 to 19 who struggle with anxiety and mood disorders, are gifted/twice-exceptional, have mild executive functioning challenges, require ADHD management, face LGBTQIA issues, and need support with stress management and interpersonal challenges.
I am booked for psychotherapy until June 2024 and for assessments until September 2024. I specialize in working with children and adolescents (ages 3 to 19). I provide assessments (i.e., neuropsychological and psychoeducational) in French and English and therapy in French, English, and Spanish. My expertise lies in diagnosing intellectual developmental disorders, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders (e.g., non-verbal), and giftedness. I also provide assessments for individuals with medical conditions (i.e., alcohol exposure, auditory processing disorder, epilepsy and traumatic brain injury)
In terms of therapy, I work with youth aged 12 to 19 who struggle with anxiety and mood disorders, are gifted/twice-exceptional, have mild executive functioning challenges, require ADHD management, face LGBTQIA issues, and need support with stress management and interpersonal challenges.
I am booked for psychotherapy until June 2024 and for assessments until September 2024. I specialize in working with children and adolescents (ages 3 to 19). I provide assessments (i.e., neuropsychological and psychoeducational) in French and English and therapy in French, English, and Spanish. My expertise lies in diagnosing intellectual developmental disorders, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders (e.g., non-verbal), and giftedness. I also provide assessments for individuals with medical conditions (i.e., alcohol exposure, auditory processing disorder, epilepsy and traumatic brain injury)
(343) 313-0304 View (343) 313-0304
Photo of Sherwood Psychology- Kyana Dyaji, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sherwood Psychology- Kyana Dyaji
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, worry excessively, overly stressed/tired, easily irritated, struggle with emotional regulation, experience relationship difficulties, struggle with ADHD symptoms, always feeling on edge, feel lost, have a hard time making meaningful connections, difficulty adjusting to situations, struggling with a significant loss, or poor self image? And want to release your fears & anxieties, develop effective coping skills, be able to feel like your past experiences don't feel as painful, experience a less stressful life, rediscover yourself, have a much happier life and improve your overall wellbeing.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, worry excessively, overly stressed/tired, easily irritated, struggle with emotional regulation, experience relationship difficulties, struggle with ADHD symptoms, always feeling on edge, feel lost, have a hard time making meaningful connections, difficulty adjusting to situations, struggling with a significant loss, or poor self image? And want to release your fears & anxieties, develop effective coping skills, be able to feel like your past experiences don't feel as painful, experience a less stressful life, rediscover yourself, have a much happier life and improve your overall wellbeing.
(343) 321-0110 View (343) 321-0110
Photo of Melissa Veerasammy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Melissa Veerasammy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I'm here to support you on your journey towards a healthier and happier life. I specialize in helping individuals navigate various challenges, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, racial trauma, grief and loss, and building healthier relationships. If you've been struggling with any of these issues, please know that you're not alone, and seeking help is a courageous step toward positive change. Together, we can work towards improving your well-being, building resilience, and fostering healthier connections in your life. Let's embark on this journey together, so you can achieve the peace and fulfillment you deserve.
I'm here to support you on your journey towards a healthier and happier life. I specialize in helping individuals navigate various challenges, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, racial trauma, grief and loss, and building healthier relationships. If you've been struggling with any of these issues, please know that you're not alone, and seeking help is a courageous step toward positive change. Together, we can work towards improving your well-being, building resilience, and fostering healthier connections in your life. Let's embark on this journey together, so you can achieve the peace and fulfillment you deserve.
(343) 321-0471 View (343) 321-0471
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 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 Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy , Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RECE, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
(343) 453-0134 View (343) 453-0134
Photo of Julie Lavigne in Ottawa, ON
Julie Lavigne
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1J
Currently accepting new clients up to the age 29. If you are unsatisfied with your life, struggling with your relationships, experiencing anxiety or feel hopeless, please reach out. I'm here for you. My ideal client would be open to discussing both what they enjoy in their life as well as being able to address their struggles and difficulties. They would be willing to learn how to be honest with themselves, with me, and would want to learn how to grow and change in positive ways. In short, my ideal client is anyone who is willing to try to help themselves. I will gladly help anyone.
Currently accepting new clients up to the age 29. If you are unsatisfied with your life, struggling with your relationships, experiencing anxiety or feel hopeless, please reach out. I'm here for you. My ideal client would be open to discussing both what they enjoy in their life as well as being able to address their struggles and difficulties. They would be willing to learn how to be honest with themselves, with me, and would want to learn how to grow and change in positive ways. In short, my ideal client is anyone who is willing to try to help themselves. I will gladly help anyone.
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Photo of Mélanie Lacombe, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Mélanie Lacombe
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Is your child or teenager experiencing frequent worries, symptoms of depression, social anxiety, struggles with emotional regulation or self-confidence? Are you hoping they will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I seek to provide a safe place for children and teens (Ages 6 to 20) to explore feelings of discomfort and improve their overall mental well-being. I am passionate about working with youth presenting with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bullying, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, agression/anger, as well as other common concerns children face.
Is your child or teenager experiencing frequent worries, symptoms of depression, social anxiety, struggles with emotional regulation or self-confidence? Are you hoping they will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I seek to provide a safe place for children and teens (Ages 6 to 20) to explore feelings of discomfort and improve their overall mental well-being. I am passionate about working with youth presenting with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bullying, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, agression/anger, as well as other common concerns children face.
(343) 321-0634 View (343) 321-0634
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 Veronica Valladares, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Veronica Valladares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
My practice specializations include working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, and emotion regulation issues.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
My practice specializations include working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, and emotion regulation issues.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
(343) 338-5166 View (343) 338-5166
Photo of Joanna St Louis, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Joanna St Louis
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Waitlist for new clients
Despite our best efforts to live healthy, fulfilling lives, life can get messy...I understand. Whether you are facing stressful life events, relationship difficulties, or distressing inner struggles, I believe therapy can be an excellent way to restore mental, emotional and relational health. Space is available for individuals, couples, and children. I have experience with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. I can help with school/workplace bullying, anger, and emotional regulation. I also have experience with issues of trauma and domestic violence. Together we can work on communication and relationship building, adjustments to major life transitions, and family issues.
Despite our best efforts to live healthy, fulfilling lives, life can get messy...I understand. Whether you are facing stressful life events, relationship difficulties, or distressing inner struggles, I believe therapy can be an excellent way to restore mental, emotional and relational health. Space is available for individuals, couples, and children. I have experience with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. I can help with school/workplace bullying, anger, and emotional regulation. I also have experience with issues of trauma and domestic violence. Together we can work on communication and relationship building, adjustments to major life transitions, and family issues.
(613) 707-4650 View (613) 707-4650
Photo of Leigh Karos, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Leigh Karos
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
(613) 402-2484 View (613) 402-2484

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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.