Anxiety Counselling in Cumbria

Photo of Terril Guy, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Terril Guy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penrith CA11
Confidence & Self Esteem low? Not feeling good enough? Worry & Anxiety? Stressed or Depressed? or Struggling to manage ADHD symptoms? As an Accredited CBT therapist & Coach I have extensive training and experience to help my clients navigate the complexities of their emotional, psychological & behavioural challenges. Through active listening and empathetic communication, I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. My goal is to equip clients with the skills and tools they need to manage their thoughts and emotions independently, fostering long-term emotional well-being
Confidence & Self Esteem low? Not feeling good enough? Worry & Anxiety? Stressed or Depressed? or Struggling to manage ADHD symptoms? As an Accredited CBT therapist & Coach I have extensive training and experience to help my clients navigate the complexities of their emotional, psychological & behavioural challenges. Through active listening and empathetic communication, I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. My goal is to equip clients with the skills and tools they need to manage their thoughts and emotions independently, fostering long-term emotional well-being
01228 586836 View 01228 586836
Photo of Alicia Walton, Art Therapist in Cumbria, England
Alicia Walton
Art Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
I have worked in the NHS for 4 years, and have experience working with clients with a variety of difficulties including personality disorders, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety.
Art Therapy is an effective way to address personal challenges and develop self understanding, confidence and compassion. It is suitable for all ages and abilities and no art skills are needed to engage with the process. I encourage clients to make use of the materials provided during sessions which can help to externalise and visualise emotions which can be difficult or impossible to express in words. This can enable clients to reflect and process things which they may not even be aware are holding them back.
I have worked in the NHS for 4 years, and have experience working with clients with a variety of difficulties including personality disorders, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety.
Art Therapy is an effective way to address personal challenges and develop self understanding, confidence and compassion. It is suitable for all ages and abilities and no art skills are needed to engage with the process. I encourage clients to make use of the materials provided during sessions which can help to externalise and visualise emotions which can be difficult or impossible to express in words. This can enable clients to reflect and process things which they may not even be aware are holding them back.
0117 463 0898 View 0117 463 0898
Photo of Christopher Edwards in Cumbria, England
Christopher Edwards
Verified Verified
Penrith CA11
Are you struggling with anxiety which is impacting your daily life/ occupations? Do you often feel triggered by certain situations? Do memories of a past negative event still bother you? Or perhaps leave you feeling less confident and worried in some way? Do you battle with periods of low self-esteem or worry about being judged or rejected by others? Are you a parent worried about your child's mood, behaviour and performance at home and school? If so and you are looking for a client-centred therapist who can support you to develop the tools, skills & coping strategies, then I would love to hear from you.
Are you struggling with anxiety which is impacting your daily life/ occupations? Do you often feel triggered by certain situations? Do memories of a past negative event still bother you? Or perhaps leave you feeling less confident and worried in some way? Do you battle with periods of low self-esteem or worry about being judged or rejected by others? Are you a parent worried about your child's mood, behaviour and performance at home and school? If so and you are looking for a client-centred therapist who can support you to develop the tools, skills & coping strategies, then I would love to hear from you.
01768 807502 View 01768 807502
Photo of Mindwell Matters, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Mindwell Matters
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
With a person-centred background, I work pluralistically, employing several approaches based on what is right for you. I regularly work with individuals experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Suicidal ideation, Loss - bereavement, divorce, retirement and redundancy, Trauma, Childhood Abuse - sexual, physical, emotional and bullying, Self-harm, Eating disorders, Low self-worth, and Loss of focus/purpose. This is not an exhaustive list, but it should give you an idea of the range of issues where I can help. I also work with Couples on relationship issues. I love what I do and am committed to sharing your journey. Regards, Angela
With a person-centred background, I work pluralistically, employing several approaches based on what is right for you. I regularly work with individuals experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Suicidal ideation, Loss - bereavement, divorce, retirement and redundancy, Trauma, Childhood Abuse - sexual, physical, emotional and bullying, Self-harm, Eating disorders, Low self-worth, and Loss of focus/purpose. This is not an exhaustive list, but it should give you an idea of the range of issues where I can help. I also work with Couples on relationship issues. I love what I do and am committed to sharing your journey. Regards, Angela
07403 934401 View 07403 934401
Photo of Laura Reside-Robb, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Laura Reside-Robb
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, self-harm, relationship problems and significant trauma.
Hello, and thanks for visiting. I'm Laura and I'm trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist. I'm a firm believer that each person is uniquely individual, and any therapeutic help they receive should be tailored to them, and their needs.​ Being Integrative means I'm not set on one school of thought, and work with you to find what approach fits best for you. You're in control of the sessions, you can bring whatever issues you'd like to discuss, , we go at a pace you're comfortable with. We'll look at working together to set realistic goals, based on what you'd like to achieve.
I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, self-harm, relationship problems and significant trauma.
Hello, and thanks for visiting. I'm Laura and I'm trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist. I'm a firm believer that each person is uniquely individual, and any therapeutic help they receive should be tailored to them, and their needs.​ Being Integrative means I'm not set on one school of thought, and work with you to find what approach fits best for you. You're in control of the sessions, you can bring whatever issues you'd like to discuss, , we go at a pace you're comfortable with. We'll look at working together to set realistic goals, based on what you'd like to achieve.
View
Photo of Genevieve Drury, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Genevieve Drury
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck in life, we'll collaborate to develop personalised strategies for your growth and well-being.
Hello, great to meet you. Taking the first step towards counselling is a brave and positive decision, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), you can trust that you'll receive professional and ethical care in a safe and confidential environment. In our sessions, I'll provide a warm and non-judgmental space for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Together, we'll explore your unique experiences and work towards finding solutions that resonate with you.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck in life, we'll collaborate to develop personalised strategies for your growth and well-being.
Hello, great to meet you. Taking the first step towards counselling is a brave and positive decision, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), you can trust that you'll receive professional and ethical care in a safe and confidential environment. In our sessions, I'll provide a warm and non-judgmental space for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Together, we'll explore your unique experiences and work towards finding solutions that resonate with you.
View
Photo of New Beginnings Counselling service, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
New Beginnings Counselling service
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Carlisle CA2  (Online Only)
It can very difficult to take the first steps to get help, my aim is to provide you with a trusting caring , and non-judgemental environment. I have many years experience as working as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and specialise in treating addiction, and am fully qualified to work with sexual addiction. I am trauma informed practioner. I have a BA degree in Person Centred Therapy , and a Diploma in Sexual Addiction. I work with the following issues ; Clinical depression, Generalised anxiety disorders, , Suicidal Ideation, depression , Stress, panic attacks, Low self esteem, Bereavement , relationship problems and Gender issues.
It can very difficult to take the first steps to get help, my aim is to provide you with a trusting caring , and non-judgemental environment. I have many years experience as working as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and specialise in treating addiction, and am fully qualified to work with sexual addiction. I am trauma informed practioner. I have a BA degree in Person Centred Therapy , and a Diploma in Sexual Addiction. I work with the following issues ; Clinical depression, Generalised anxiety disorders, , Suicidal Ideation, depression , Stress, panic attacks, Low self esteem, Bereavement , relationship problems and Gender issues.
01228 585242 View 01228 585242
Photo of Gavin John Greig, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Gavin John Greig
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Gavin Greig Dip.Couns MBACP Registered Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Supervisor. I am very aware that considering starting with a Counsellor is a daunting prospect. Please do not worry, I will be there to listen and support you through whatever it is you are going through. I will provide a safe confidential, non-judgemental space where you can talk through the issues which are causing you trouble. I would like you to be as comfortable as possible. I am offering face to face at my Silloth address. Along on line hours via zoom, and of course standard telephone counselling if preferred.
Gavin Greig Dip.Couns MBACP Registered Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Supervisor. I am very aware that considering starting with a Counsellor is a daunting prospect. Please do not worry, I will be there to listen and support you through whatever it is you are going through. I will provide a safe confidential, non-judgemental space where you can talk through the issues which are causing you trouble. I would like you to be as comfortable as possible. I am offering face to face at my Silloth address. Along on line hours via zoom, and of course standard telephone counselling if preferred.
01234 982543 View 01234 982543
Photo of Mary Kathleen Fletcher, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Mary Kathleen Fletcher
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
I have experience of working with people who are struggling with a wide range of issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, change and transition, as well as family/relationship difficulties.
Hello, I'm Mary. Thank you for reaching out. You might be seeking counselling for many different reasons. Maybe you are in crisis right now, and are feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you would like to think or behave differently, feel happier, identify the inner resources available to you, explore your choices in life, build your confidence, or feel as though you are fulfilling your potential. You can talk about anything in counselling. I will not judge you. My aim is to create a trusting relationship, giving you time to be fully heard, and a space where hopefully you feel safe and comfortable enough to explore what’s troubling you.
I have experience of working with people who are struggling with a wide range of issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, change and transition, as well as family/relationship difficulties.
Hello, I'm Mary. Thank you for reaching out. You might be seeking counselling for many different reasons. Maybe you are in crisis right now, and are feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you would like to think or behave differently, feel happier, identify the inner resources available to you, explore your choices in life, build your confidence, or feel as though you are fulfilling your potential. You can talk about anything in counselling. I will not judge you. My aim is to create a trusting relationship, giving you time to be fully heard, and a space where hopefully you feel safe and comfortable enough to explore what’s troubling you.
01229 317454 View 01229 317454
Photo of Stella Jean Compton Dickinson, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Stella Jean Compton Dickinson
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is GP recommended for relationship challenges. I have effectively treated people of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, bereavement, eating disorders, self-harm and relationship problems. I specialise in mentoring young people towards achieving their goals. I work with performing artists, professionals in sport, law, science, finance, healthcare and high-stress media occupations. I am an ACAT accredited, UKCP, BACP psychotherapist registered with the professional standards authority, providing CAT, CBT integrative and longer-term counselling from two lovely clinic venues and online.
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is GP recommended for relationship challenges. I have effectively treated people of all ages suffering with anxiety, depression, bereavement, eating disorders, self-harm and relationship problems. I specialise in mentoring young people towards achieving their goals. I work with performing artists, professionals in sport, law, science, finance, healthcare and high-stress media occupations. I am an ACAT accredited, UKCP, BACP psychotherapist registered with the professional standards authority, providing CAT, CBT integrative and longer-term counselling from two lovely clinic venues and online.
020 3962 1809 View 020 3962 1809
Photo of Ben Davis, Psychologist in Cumbria, England
Ben Davis
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penrith CA10  (Online Only)
Hello. I'm Dr Ben Davis, an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist. I have experience in working with people with a range of psychological issues including depression, different kinds of anxiety (e.g health, OCD, PTSD/trauma, phobias), bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, occupational difficulties (e.g burnout), supporting neurodiversity (e.g. autism/Asperger's) and neuropsychological difficulties (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis & stroke) . I have worked with people who are living with physical health conditions (including life limiting diagnoses) for several years and currently support NHS staff as part of a new NHS initiative.
Hello. I'm Dr Ben Davis, an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist. I have experience in working with people with a range of psychological issues including depression, different kinds of anxiety (e.g health, OCD, PTSD/trauma, phobias), bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, occupational difficulties (e.g burnout), supporting neurodiversity (e.g. autism/Asperger's) and neuropsychological difficulties (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis & stroke) . I have worked with people who are living with physical health conditions (including life limiting diagnoses) for several years and currently support NHS staff as part of a new NHS initiative.
01228 276896 View 01228 276896
Photo of Kaye Barney, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Kaye Barney
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sedbergh LA10  (Online Only)
I help people with issues which affect everyday life - eg, low mood or self esteem, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, relationship issues, communication, conflict resolution.
Do you feel like you're going round and round with a problem - maybe with a relationship or how you see yourself? Maybe you don't know how you want things to be, or you know what you want but can't work out how to do it, or don't have the courage to follow through? Are you constantly thinking about a particular person and wishing the situation, or one of you, could be different? Are you worried friends/family are tired of hearing about your problems? Are you feeling anxious, angry, rejected, or unimportant? Whatever your issues, I can help you talk about and process them, find solutions, and feel more at ease with yourself.
I help people with issues which affect everyday life - eg, low mood or self esteem, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, relationship issues, communication, conflict resolution.
Do you feel like you're going round and round with a problem - maybe with a relationship or how you see yourself? Maybe you don't know how you want things to be, or you know what you want but can't work out how to do it, or don't have the courage to follow through? Are you constantly thinking about a particular person and wishing the situation, or one of you, could be different? Are you worried friends/family are tired of hearing about your problems? Are you feeling anxious, angry, rejected, or unimportant? Whatever your issues, I can help you talk about and process them, find solutions, and feel more at ease with yourself.
01757 607016 View 01757 607016
Photo of Deborah Pennington, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Deborah Pennington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I’m an experienced and qualified Person-Centred Counsellor / Psychotherapist. As your counsellor I offer a safe, respectful space for you, where you can explore personal issues and emotions, within a gentle and warm approach. It may be that you are feeling anxious or stressed and would like to explore these in order to move towards a feeling of emotional well being. Perhaps you might want to talk about difficulties at work, with family, personal relationships or sexual difficulties. Counselling can support you to find the resilience to work through these with courage and to find coping methods.
I’m an experienced and qualified Person-Centred Counsellor / Psychotherapist. As your counsellor I offer a safe, respectful space for you, where you can explore personal issues and emotions, within a gentle and warm approach. It may be that you are feeling anxious or stressed and would like to explore these in order to move towards a feeling of emotional well being. Perhaps you might want to talk about difficulties at work, with family, personal relationships or sexual difficulties. Counselling can support you to find the resilience to work through these with courage and to find coping methods.
01743 298038 View 01743 298038
Photo of Mariette van Lieshout in Cumbria, England
Mariette van Lieshout
MA
Verified Verified
Carlisle CA1  (Online Only)
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
013873 40698 View 013873 40698
Photo of Thomas Sidebottom, Psychologist in Cumbria, England
Thomas Sidebottom
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Kendal LA8  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress, and I specialise in recovery and rehabilitation following accidents, injury or illness.
I am an experienced and registered Counselling Psychologist in private practice offering a range of psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR. Although I am based in Lancaster I work entirely remotely and offer online appointments to clients from anywhere in the UK.
I offer therapy for a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress, and I specialise in recovery and rehabilitation following accidents, injury or illness.
I am an experienced and registered Counselling Psychologist in private practice offering a range of psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and EMDR. Although I am based in Lancaster I work entirely remotely and offer online appointments to clients from anywhere in the UK.
07954 601962 View 07954 601962
Photo of Paul Owen Phillips, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Paul Owen Phillips
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I am an experienced, accredited and qualified counsellor (and counselling supervisor). I will work with you to overcome your challenges in life in a supportive and effective way by providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you will feel comfortable and at ease to speak openly and we can work constructively and collaboratively, to help you reach your goals by understanding your life experience. In addition to my strong Person-Centred approach to therapy I use several other therapeutic models to support my work, including CBT and Psychodynamic approaches to help clients in multiple ways like anger and anxiety.
I am an experienced, accredited and qualified counsellor (and counselling supervisor). I will work with you to overcome your challenges in life in a supportive and effective way by providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you will feel comfortable and at ease to speak openly and we can work constructively and collaboratively, to help you reach your goals by understanding your life experience. In addition to my strong Person-Centred approach to therapy I use several other therapeutic models to support my work, including CBT and Psychodynamic approaches to help clients in multiple ways like anger and anxiety.
01446 509150 View 01446 509150
Photo of Pam Marion Susan Fitzpatrick, Psychotherapist in Cumbria, England
Pam Marion Susan Fitzpatrick
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Emotional turmoil can come out in many different ways such as anxiety or depression which can be exceptional difficult to cope with in addition to chronic health issues You don't have to do it alone, I am here to support you.
I am a Specialist Health Psychotherapist/CBT Therapist who works with clients managing and suffering with Chronic Health Issues and I work and support clients with many different Disabilities. I trained in the NHS Chronic Pain and Fatigue Service and I have worked privately for almost 10 years. I can help you with any issues you would like to work on and I provide a safe, warm and well understood space to work through anything you feel would be helpful. I also support family members impacted by disability. I live with disability which I feel is a helpful foundation to understanding how difficult life can be with such conditions .
Emotional turmoil can come out in many different ways such as anxiety or depression which can be exceptional difficult to cope with in addition to chronic health issues You don't have to do it alone, I am here to support you.
I am a Specialist Health Psychotherapist/CBT Therapist who works with clients managing and suffering with Chronic Health Issues and I work and support clients with many different Disabilities. I trained in the NHS Chronic Pain and Fatigue Service and I have worked privately for almost 10 years. I can help you with any issues you would like to work on and I provide a safe, warm and well understood space to work through anything you feel would be helpful. I also support family members impacted by disability. I live with disability which I feel is a helpful foundation to understanding how difficult life can be with such conditions .
01446 501531 View 01446 501531
Photo of Dr Anna Ridding, Psychologist in Cumbria, England
Dr Anna Ridding
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I offer psychological therapy for a wide range of difficulties including low mood, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem and body image difficulties.
Hello, I’m Anna and I’m here to support you in the next steps of your well-being journey. If you’ve ever felt lost or overwhelmed by your thoughts or feelings, I can provide support within a warm and safe environment to help build resilience and empower you to be the best version of yourself. The road ahead may seem long and challenging, and I am here to give you encouragement and support along the way. Whether you are struggling with low mood, anxiety, the aftermath of a traumatic experience, a physical health condition or relationship struggles, I promise to provide my expertise to enable you to meet your needs and goals.
I offer psychological therapy for a wide range of difficulties including low mood, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem and body image difficulties.
Hello, I’m Anna and I’m here to support you in the next steps of your well-being journey. If you’ve ever felt lost or overwhelmed by your thoughts or feelings, I can provide support within a warm and safe environment to help build resilience and empower you to be the best version of yourself. The road ahead may seem long and challenging, and I am here to give you encouragement and support along the way. Whether you are struggling with low mood, anxiety, the aftermath of a traumatic experience, a physical health condition or relationship struggles, I promise to provide my expertise to enable you to meet your needs and goals.
01995 918856 View 01995 918856
Photo of Natalie Morton, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Natalie Morton
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Carlisle CA1  (Online Only)
This combined approach helps to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
Hello, I am Natalie, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist. Outside my private practice, I lead a Counselling Service in Northumberland for the ageing population. My private practice is an online and digital counselling service. I provide a completely remote counselling service, in which I facilitate telephone and online counselling. I specialise in support for those living with chronic illness. grief specialism, stress, anxiety, depression. I also provide specialist support in dealing with work place issues. We will look at what you want to achieve from therapy and how I can support you through this.
This combined approach helps to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
Hello, I am Natalie, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist. Outside my private practice, I lead a Counselling Service in Northumberland for the ageing population. My private practice is an online and digital counselling service. I provide a completely remote counselling service, in which I facilitate telephone and online counselling. I specialise in support for those living with chronic illness. grief specialism, stress, anxiety, depression. I also provide specialist support in dealing with work place issues. We will look at what you want to achieve from therapy and how I can support you through this.
01434 307697 View 01434 307697
Photo of Sara Koczwara, Counsellor in Cumbria, England
Sara Koczwara
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
020 4538 2975 View 020 4538 2975

See more therapy options for Cumbria

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.