Photo of Donatella Tamborrini Psychological Therapies, Psychotherapist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Donatella Tamborrini Psychological Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
If you experience a mood, worry, trauma or eating disorder linked to thoughts, feelings, behaviours, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy is the best option.
Hello, my name is Donatella Tamborrini. I am a psychotherapist with over 1 9 years experience in mental health care based in Scotland. I am professionally qualified to use talking therapies to help make sense of mental health and emotional difficulties in young people, adults and families. I deliver research based psychological therapies, designed to improve mental health difficulties. I work with a focus, which is entirely based on the individuals’ needs, so that psychological therapies can be delivered with flexibility, within a safe and nurturing therapeutic relationship, at a sustainable pace that fosters change.
If you experience a mood, worry, trauma or eating disorder linked to thoughts, feelings, behaviours, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy is the best option.
Hello, my name is Donatella Tamborrini. I am a psychotherapist with over 1 9 years experience in mental health care based in Scotland. I am professionally qualified to use talking therapies to help make sense of mental health and emotional difficulties in young people, adults and families. I deliver research based psychological therapies, designed to improve mental health difficulties. I work with a focus, which is entirely based on the individuals’ needs, so that psychological therapies can be delivered with flexibility, within a safe and nurturing therapeutic relationship, at a sustainable pace that fosters change.
0131 381 8157 View 0131 381 8157
Photo of Dr Katie Davis, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Katie Davis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
With a background as a Principal Clinical Psychologist at the NHS trauma specialist service, I work with those impacted by trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and for those who are looking to make changes in their life, but aren’t sure where to start.
What if. Two words that send your mind down a well-worn path. Words and images that pop into your head at any moment and no matter how hard you try to push it away you find yourself stuck; thinking, feeling and doing the same thing over and over. Maybe it’s reliving the past, maybe it’s worrying about the future, or feeling you need to do something right now or something bad will happen. “What if” is hard to live with. But when your mind is stuck in the “what if’s” your brain is telling you there is something you need to figure out, something you need to rebalance.
With a background as a Principal Clinical Psychologist at the NHS trauma specialist service, I work with those impacted by trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and for those who are looking to make changes in their life, but aren’t sure where to start.
What if. Two words that send your mind down a well-worn path. Words and images that pop into your head at any moment and no matter how hard you try to push it away you find yourself stuck; thinking, feeling and doing the same thing over and over. Maybe it’s reliving the past, maybe it’s worrying about the future, or feeling you need to do something right now or something bad will happen. “What if” is hard to live with. But when your mind is stuck in the “what if’s” your brain is telling you there is something you need to figure out, something you need to rebalance.
0131 381 8063 View 0131 381 8063
Photo of Cameron Counselling, Psychotherapist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Cameron Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
If we do not make time to find help, our everyday lives can be affected, making us unhappy or anxious and stop us functioning.
I am an experienced, well-qualified counsellor with a diploma in counselling and psychotherapy with an additional qualification for young people. I work in a warm and gentle way, offering a safe place for you to talk about the things that are troubling you. I see people struggling with a broad range of problems, e.g. anxiety, depression, low self esteem and other experiences that overwhelm them. I can help you through loss and grieving, cope with issues relating to abortion, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and so on. I work with people with eating disorders and body image issues. I am trained to work with people who are suicidal. ©
If we do not make time to find help, our everyday lives can be affected, making us unhappy or anxious and stop us functioning.
I am an experienced, well-qualified counsellor with a diploma in counselling and psychotherapy with an additional qualification for young people. I work in a warm and gentle way, offering a safe place for you to talk about the things that are troubling you. I see people struggling with a broad range of problems, e.g. anxiety, depression, low self esteem and other experiences that overwhelm them. I can help you through loss and grieving, cope with issues relating to abortion, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and so on. I work with people with eating disorders and body image issues. I am trained to work with people who are suicidal. ©
0131 357 6341 View 0131 357 6341
Photo of Dr Alan Grieve (Consultant Clinical Psychologist), Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Alan Grieve (Consultant Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have a special interest in helping people with different issues including PTSD and complex trauma. I also help people with many other difficulties including anxiety, phobias, anger, depression, low self-esteem and OCD. I qualified in 2010, but have been working in the area of mental health since 2003. I work with adults and children and adolescents of 12 years and over. Please call me and we can discuss if I am the right person to help you with your difficulties.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have a special interest in helping people with different issues including PTSD and complex trauma. I also help people with many other difficulties including anxiety, phobias, anger, depression, low self-esteem and OCD. I qualified in 2010, but have been working in the area of mental health since 2003. I work with adults and children and adolescents of 12 years and over. Please call me and we can discuss if I am the right person to help you with your difficulties.
01592 407456 View 01592 407456
Photo of Dr Iona Naismith, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Iona Naismith
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10  (Online Only)
I work with people who want to take time to understand themselves and build skills that will support them for a lifetime. In therapy sessions, we’ll work together to understand current problems and how they came about, and find useful tools you can use long-term to solve them. I specialize in anxiety/worry, low mood, self-esteem, relationship issues, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and recovering from trauma. I love helping clients discover how their emotions work and build confidence in themselves and their relationships, to create more fulfilling and balanced lives.
I work with people who want to take time to understand themselves and build skills that will support them for a lifetime. In therapy sessions, we’ll work together to understand current problems and how they came about, and find useful tools you can use long-term to solve them. I specialize in anxiety/worry, low mood, self-esteem, relationship issues, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and recovering from trauma. I love helping clients discover how their emotions work and build confidence in themselves and their relationships, to create more fulfilling and balanced lives.
0131 381 1496 View 0131 381 1496
Photo of Margaret Rose Gibson, Counsellor in Edinburgh, Scotland
Margaret Rose Gibson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH4
I have developed a catalogue of self regulation skills for young people to use to help manage their anxiety.
I am an experienced Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, BWRT practitioner and Advanced Clinical Supervisor including Online and Telephone Counselling. I have worked across all age groups in a variety of settings. My counselling, Hypnotherapy and BWRT practice is built on expereince and an extensive understanding of child development, special educational needs, adult mental health practice and perinatal care .
I have developed a catalogue of self regulation skills for young people to use to help manage their anxiety.
I am an experienced Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, BWRT practitioner and Advanced Clinical Supervisor including Online and Telephone Counselling. I have worked across all age groups in a variety of settings. My counselling, Hypnotherapy and BWRT practice is built on expereince and an extensive understanding of child development, special educational needs, adult mental health practice and perinatal care .
01506 243421 View 01506 243421
Photo of Evolve CBT, Psychotherapist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Evolve CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH11
Do you feel stressed or have problems coping? Are your thoughts making you feel anxious or bringing your mood down? Sometimes we need help to make sense of why we think, feel, and behave the way we do. My name is Helen-Marie and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Associate Certified Coach (ACC). CBT is a problem-focused therapy that shows how your thinking can affect your feelings and behaviours. You will learn new skills and positive coping strategies which can help you achieve your goals and make long-term changes in your life. It is important that we work together at your pace to achieve your goals.
Do you feel stressed or have problems coping? Are your thoughts making you feel anxious or bringing your mood down? Sometimes we need help to make sense of why we think, feel, and behave the way we do. My name is Helen-Marie and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Associate Certified Coach (ACC). CBT is a problem-focused therapy that shows how your thinking can affect your feelings and behaviours. You will learn new skills and positive coping strategies which can help you achieve your goals and make long-term changes in your life. It is important that we work together at your pace to achieve your goals.
0131 510 2783 View 0131 510 2783
Photo of Dr Michelle Kitson, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Michelle Kitson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH3  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who can provide high quality evidence based psychological assessment and treatment for a range of mental health difficulties. I have over a decade of clinical experience and continue to hold senior positions within NHS mental health services. I have specialised in supporting individuals affected by trauma and adverse events across their lives. I also have extensive experience in working with people affected by anxiety disorders such as OCD; generalised anxiety; panic attacks and phobias; social anxiety and fears around health.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who can provide high quality evidence based psychological assessment and treatment for a range of mental health difficulties. I have over a decade of clinical experience and continue to hold senior positions within NHS mental health services. I have specialised in supporting individuals affected by trauma and adverse events across their lives. I also have extensive experience in working with people affected by anxiety disorders such as OCD; generalised anxiety; panic attacks and phobias; social anxiety and fears around health.
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Photo of HB Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, Psychotherapist in Edinburgh, Scotland
HB Psychotherapy and Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH1
Specialist areas: Trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, domestic abuse, childhood issues, health, life transitions, loss and change.
Is everything okay?....... This can be a difficult question to answer. Our default response is often "yes", but deep down, for a lot of us, that's simply not true. Often we struggle to verbalise it, can be exceptionally good at denying it even exists or spend copious amounts of emotional energy keeping it at bay. Perhaps you know why you don't feel okay and perhaps you don't. Either way, I can help. I offer a safe, confidential space to allow you to explore any issues you may be experiencing. "Above all things, to thine own self be true"- William Shakespeare.
Specialist areas: Trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, domestic abuse, childhood issues, health, life transitions, loss and change.
Is everything okay?....... This can be a difficult question to answer. Our default response is often "yes", but deep down, for a lot of us, that's simply not true. Often we struggle to verbalise it, can be exceptionally good at denying it even exists or spend copious amounts of emotional energy keeping it at bay. Perhaps you know why you don't feel okay and perhaps you don't. Either way, I can help. I offer a safe, confidential space to allow you to explore any issues you may be experiencing. "Above all things, to thine own self be true"- William Shakespeare.
01875 632038 View 01875 632038
Photo of Kathy Stewart, Psychotherapist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Kathy Stewart
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH9
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety & stress, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism), low self-esteem, relationship and commitment issues, family dynamics, addictions, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, bereavement & loss, trauma & PTSD, women's health (PMDD, menopause).
Sometimes our thoughts and emotions can feel too much for us to deal with. We may feel vulnerable, lost, torn or stuck, and find ourselves in need of help. Let me offer you an open, safe and judgment free space, that encourages you to explore whatever's on your mind. I am a qualified and highly experienced UKCP Accredited Counselling Psychotherapist working with adults, couples and groups. I believe that therapy should be an empowering process for each client, therefore taking a collaborative, client-focused approach which respects diversity and difference is essential for an effective therapeutic process.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety & stress, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism), low self-esteem, relationship and commitment issues, family dynamics, addictions, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, bereavement & loss, trauma & PTSD, women's health (PMDD, menopause).
Sometimes our thoughts and emotions can feel too much for us to deal with. We may feel vulnerable, lost, torn or stuck, and find ourselves in need of help. Let me offer you an open, safe and judgment free space, that encourages you to explore whatever's on your mind. I am a qualified and highly experienced UKCP Accredited Counselling Psychotherapist working with adults, couples and groups. I believe that therapy should be an empowering process for each client, therefore taking a collaborative, client-focused approach which respects diversity and difference is essential for an effective therapeutic process.
020 4538 9139 View 020 4538 9139
Photo of Corina Valdano, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Corina Valdano
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
If you're going through tough times like anxiety, stress, depression, difficult relationships, grief, trauma, self-esteem, or body image issues, it's important to have a safe and understanding space where you can freely express yourself and work towards finding solutions. I have the expertise and skills to provide professional support and help alleviate your emotional suffering, leading to positive changes in your life. Feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, challenging relationships, or being stuck in life can be really hard. Taking the brave step of seeking help shows your commitment to improving your situation.
If you're going through tough times like anxiety, stress, depression, difficult relationships, grief, trauma, self-esteem, or body image issues, it's important to have a safe and understanding space where you can freely express yourself and work towards finding solutions. I have the expertise and skills to provide professional support and help alleviate your emotional suffering, leading to positive changes in your life. Feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, challenging relationships, or being stuck in life can be really hard. Taking the brave step of seeking help shows your commitment to improving your situation.
01934 316983 View 01934 316983
Photo of Frances Brown, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Frances Brown
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
I'm Frances, a Clinical Psychologist working part time in private practice. I work primarily with children and young people who are experiencing emotional difficulties and families who feel they are in unhelpful patterns of interactions. I also work with adults who have a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, low mood, OCD, phobias, and trauma. I work in a collaborative way, supporting you to find alternative ways to manage stressful events and emotions, in order to achieve your goals and improve relationships.
I'm Frances, a Clinical Psychologist working part time in private practice. I work primarily with children and young people who are experiencing emotional difficulties and families who feel they are in unhelpful patterns of interactions. I also work with adults who have a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, low mood, OCD, phobias, and trauma. I work in a collaborative way, supporting you to find alternative ways to manage stressful events and emotions, in order to achieve your goals and improve relationships.
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Photo of Laila Rashid, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Laila Rashid
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
As a psychotherapist, over the past two decade, I had direct contact with dozens of clients suffering from eating disorders, Obsessions, OCD, Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, Loss, Post-traumatic stress, Trauma, Personal development, Disability, Cultural issues, Self esteem, Sexuality, Infertility, Relationships, Stress.
I worked with Mental Heath, Psychotherapy and Supervision for the past 20 years (first abroad, then in the past few years, in the UK). I worked as a volunteer, in the private sector, and as a private practitioner. My background is in Clinical psychology and, in particular, psychotherapy. I have trained as a C. Psychologist and as Psychoanalytical Psychotherapist. I am familiar with a variety of different modalities and therapeutic approaches. I have worked with a variety of people from all age groups with different background and beliefs. https://www.lailarashid.com/home
As a psychotherapist, over the past two decade, I had direct contact with dozens of clients suffering from eating disorders, Obsessions, OCD, Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, Loss, Post-traumatic stress, Trauma, Personal development, Disability, Cultural issues, Self esteem, Sexuality, Infertility, Relationships, Stress.
I worked with Mental Heath, Psychotherapy and Supervision for the past 20 years (first abroad, then in the past few years, in the UK). I worked as a volunteer, in the private sector, and as a private practitioner. My background is in Clinical psychology and, in particular, psychotherapy. I have trained as a C. Psychologist and as Psychoanalytical Psychotherapist. I am familiar with a variety of different modalities and therapeutic approaches. I have worked with a variety of people from all age groups with different background and beliefs. https://www.lailarashid.com/home
0131 357 3839 View 0131 357 3839
Photo of Kath Muirhead, Counsellor in Edinburgh, Scotland
Kath Muirhead
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH9
My professional experience has been working with people affected by mental health issues such as depression, suicidal thoughts and feelings, anxiety and panic, grief and loss among other issues. I also specialise in working with trauma particularly childhood sexual abuse and the debilitating impact of many life areas. I work with what people bring and go at their pace; my approach being person centred and bespoke to the individual.
My professional experience has been working with people affected by mental health issues such as depression, suicidal thoughts and feelings, anxiety and panic, grief and loss among other issues. I also specialise in working with trauma particularly childhood sexual abuse and the debilitating impact of many life areas. I work with what people bring and go at their pace; my approach being person centred and bespoke to the individual.
01368 653223 View 01368 653223
Photo of Dr Dorothy Tait, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Dorothy Tait
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH1  (Online Only)
Dr Dorothy Tait (also known as Dr Dot) has over 12 years of experience in the NHS delivering psychological interventions to adults struggling with their mental health. She is experienced in assessing, understanding and treating a breadth of diagnoses and psychological difficulties, ranging from mild to complex, in various NHS mental health settings around the UK. Dr Dot regularly works with people who struggle with Complex Trauma, PTSD, Addictions (drug and alcohol use, eating disorders, etc), Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-esteem and Self-confidence, Shyness, Social anxiety, Burnout and Grief / Bereavement and Self-harm.
Dr Dorothy Tait (also known as Dr Dot) has over 12 years of experience in the NHS delivering psychological interventions to adults struggling with their mental health. She is experienced in assessing, understanding and treating a breadth of diagnoses and psychological difficulties, ranging from mild to complex, in various NHS mental health settings around the UK. Dr Dot regularly works with people who struggle with Complex Trauma, PTSD, Addictions (drug and alcohol use, eating disorders, etc), Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-esteem and Self-confidence, Shyness, Social anxiety, Burnout and Grief / Bereavement and Self-harm.
0141 673 0403 View 0141 673 0403
Photo of Dr George Reid, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr George Reid
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH2
Having the right fit (“therapeutic alliance”) with your psychologist is viewed as the most crucial factor in the healing process. I would encourage you to choose a practitioner with a broad life experience as well as a clinical training in a range of evidence-based psychological therapies. A former lawyer, I practised human rights & social justice law for years in the courts in the UK. This led to my interest in psychology & trauma & therapies to overcome psychological difficulties. I’ve lived in Canada, France, Italy & Scotland and have travelled all over the world, so I hope to have a background which may help you.
Having the right fit (“therapeutic alliance”) with your psychologist is viewed as the most crucial factor in the healing process. I would encourage you to choose a practitioner with a broad life experience as well as a clinical training in a range of evidence-based psychological therapies. A former lawyer, I practised human rights & social justice law for years in the courts in the UK. This led to my interest in psychology & trauma & therapies to overcome psychological difficulties. I’ve lived in Canada, France, Italy & Scotland and have travelled all over the world, so I hope to have a background which may help you.
0131 381 0397 View 0131 381 0397
Photo of Harper Clinical Psychology, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Harper Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH8
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
01764 915830 View 01764 915830
Photo of Rebecca Shannon, Counsellor in Edinburgh, Scotland
Rebecca Shannon
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH4
Counselling is a process that is different for everyone, and I am happy to work with you over the long term or short term, depending on your needs. I like to work collaboratively, exploring together the challenges you face. We can work together find ways to address the past, present and move forward into the future in a positive and healthy way. Being able to untangle some of the problems that trouble us can help lead to better relationships with others and ourselves, and ultimately a healthier, happier outlook. These problems and issues can sometimes feel unmanageable on your own, and this is where counselling can help.
Counselling is a process that is different for everyone, and I am happy to work with you over the long term or short term, depending on your needs. I like to work collaboratively, exploring together the challenges you face. We can work together find ways to address the past, present and move forward into the future in a positive and healthy way. Being able to untangle some of the problems that trouble us can help lead to better relationships with others and ourselves, and ultimately a healthier, happier outlook. These problems and issues can sometimes feel unmanageable on your own, and this is where counselling can help.
01244 987368 View 01244 987368
Photo of Emma Rhodes, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Emma Rhodes
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
Are you struggling to know how to support your child? Are you concerned about your teenager's emotional wellbeing? Are you looking for your own support to allow you to be the parent you want to be? It is normal for your child to experience ups and downs as they grow, but sometimes they need some extra help to get them back on track. As a parent, it can sometimes be difficult to know how best to help. You may be seeking some advice or support for your own mental health. I provide a calm, nurturing and compassionate space to allow us together to explore, understand and manage the difficulties you or your child are facing.
Are you struggling to know how to support your child? Are you concerned about your teenager's emotional wellbeing? Are you looking for your own support to allow you to be the parent you want to be? It is normal for your child to experience ups and downs as they grow, but sometimes they need some extra help to get them back on track. As a parent, it can sometimes be difficult to know how best to help. You may be seeking some advice or support for your own mental health. I provide a calm, nurturing and compassionate space to allow us together to explore, understand and manage the difficulties you or your child are facing.
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Photo of Dr Mari Bruce, Psychologist in Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Mari Bruce
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
Hello, I’m an experienced Counselling Psychologist & CBT Therapist, just outside Dunfermline, with over 15 years of psychology experience both within the NHS and private sector. I aim to come alongside you to help make sense of distress and find the best way to move forward to improve wellbeing. Part of therapy is about noticing unhelpful life patterns that keep us stuck. This involves developing more awareness of our emotions, thoughts and actions. Difficult emotions can be challenging and In times of distress we often push our thoughts and feelings away.
Hello, I’m an experienced Counselling Psychologist & CBT Therapist, just outside Dunfermline, with over 15 years of psychology experience both within the NHS and private sector. I aim to come alongside you to help make sense of distress and find the best way to move forward to improve wellbeing. Part of therapy is about noticing unhelpful life patterns that keep us stuck. This involves developing more awareness of our emotions, thoughts and actions. Difficult emotions can be challenging and In times of distress we often push our thoughts and feelings away.
01383 663862 View 01383 663862

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

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.