Anxiety Counselling in Bristol

Photo of Shaun Featherstone, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Shaun Featherstone
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Areas we can work with - anxiety, depression, trauma, sadness, stress, PTSD.
I am registered with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) as a psychotherapist in training; I am a graduate of the Karuna Institute, working towards accreditation. I offer Mindfulness Based Core Process Psychotherapy; this approach is holistic and embodied psycho-spiritual psychotherapy underpinned by Mindfulness. Together, we explore the parts of your life you wish to bring in a warm, confidential, safe, supportive space. As we progress deeper, awareness and understanding of how things are for you will be revealed as we move towards building a more accepting and loving relationship with ourselves.
Areas we can work with - anxiety, depression, trauma, sadness, stress, PTSD.
I am registered with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) as a psychotherapist in training; I am a graduate of the Karuna Institute, working towards accreditation. I offer Mindfulness Based Core Process Psychotherapy; this approach is holistic and embodied psycho-spiritual psychotherapy underpinned by Mindfulness. Together, we explore the parts of your life you wish to bring in a warm, confidential, safe, supportive space. As we progress deeper, awareness and understanding of how things are for you will be revealed as we move towards building a more accepting and loving relationship with ourselves.
0117 463 4602 View 0117 463 4602
Photo of Rebecca Claire Doyle - Room To Grow Counselling and Psychotherapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Room To Grow Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
I offer short-term and long-term counselling and psychotherapy, working with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low mood, loss and bereavement, self-esteem, motivation, body image, self- defeating behaviour, relationship issues, social anxiety, loneliness, life transitions and many more.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor and a member of the National Counselling Society. I use an integrative approach drawing on such therapeutic models as Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis (TA) and Gestalt. I believe there is no single approach that works for every client in all situations. Integrative counselling provides a unique, flexible and personalised approach that is suited to the individual needs of the client. I offer a safe, calm, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore what has brought you to counselling at your own pace.
I offer short-term and long-term counselling and psychotherapy, working with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low mood, loss and bereavement, self-esteem, motivation, body image, self- defeating behaviour, relationship issues, social anxiety, loneliness, life transitions and many more.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor and a member of the National Counselling Society. I use an integrative approach drawing on such therapeutic models as Person Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis (TA) and Gestalt. I believe there is no single approach that works for every client in all situations. Integrative counselling provides a unique, flexible and personalised approach that is suited to the individual needs of the client. I offer a safe, calm, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore what has brought you to counselling at your own pace.
0117 463 7331 View 0117 463 7331
Photo of Tom Noble, BACP, Counsellor
Tom Noble
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
My experience has given me the opportunity to have had a specific and extensive participation working with autism and the symptoms of this diagnosis such as overwhelm, social anxiety, sensory overload and anxiety.
Why counselling - There are times where the pressures of life can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For many of us how we feel within ourselves is crucial in day to day life. Wherever we may find ourselves the process of counselling can give us the ability to sculpt and create a vision of belonging that is both true to ourselves and allows us to flourish. What I provide is a non-judgemental, warm and genuine approach focused on person centred therapy. This approach ensures that the client is held throughout the process and feels comfortable exploring experiences both past and present in a safe environment.
My experience has given me the opportunity to have had a specific and extensive participation working with autism and the symptoms of this diagnosis such as overwhelm, social anxiety, sensory overload and anxiety.
Why counselling - There are times where the pressures of life can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For many of us how we feel within ourselves is crucial in day to day life. Wherever we may find ourselves the process of counselling can give us the ability to sculpt and create a vision of belonging that is both true to ourselves and allows us to flourish. What I provide is a non-judgemental, warm and genuine approach focused on person centred therapy. This approach ensures that the client is held throughout the process and feels comfortable exploring experiences both past and present in a safe environment.
01275 402961 View 01275 402961
Photo of Polly Haselton, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Polly Haselton
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS3  (Online Only)
The most common problems I see include: Panic Attacks, Agora phobia, Health Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Phobias.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults to overcome mental health problems. CBT is an ideal treatment for those who are looking to change, whether that be to make some changes in the way in which you think about things, or some changes in the way in which you do things day to day. CBT can also help clients come to an understanding of 'why', E.G. what is it about you, your experiences & vulnerabilities which perhaps help explain why you struggle. This is often validating & helpful rather than self blaming. Together we will equip you with the skills and understanding you need in order to move forward with confidence.
The most common problems I see include: Panic Attacks, Agora phobia, Health Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Phobias.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults to overcome mental health problems. CBT is an ideal treatment for those who are looking to change, whether that be to make some changes in the way in which you think about things, or some changes in the way in which you do things day to day. CBT can also help clients come to an understanding of 'why', E.G. what is it about you, your experiences & vulnerabilities which perhaps help explain why you struggle. This is often validating & helpful rather than self blaming. Together we will equip you with the skills and understanding you need in order to move forward with confidence.
0117 325 4597 View 0117 325 4597
Photo of Tanya Ratcliff - Tanya Ratcliff Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Tanya Ratcliff Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS15
If you're considering counselling, you're probably experiencing some emotional challenges. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck or your struggling with loss, relationships and uncertainty. Battling feelings of depression, worthlessness, anxiety, or stress. Maybe using now unhelpful coping strategies like food, drugs and alcohol to manage. I offer confidential private 1-1 counselling with adults of all ages (+18) on a variety of issues and have specialist knowledge and experience in both mental health and substance misuse.
If you're considering counselling, you're probably experiencing some emotional challenges. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck or your struggling with loss, relationships and uncertainty. Battling feelings of depression, worthlessness, anxiety, or stress. Maybe using now unhelpful coping strategies like food, drugs and alcohol to manage. I offer confidential private 1-1 counselling with adults of all ages (+18) on a variety of issues and have specialist knowledge and experience in both mental health and substance misuse.
0117 463 2423 View 0117 463 2423
Photo of Deborah Jayne Gardner - Inner World Therapies, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Inner World Therapies
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ptsd, and relationship issues.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ptsd, and relationship issues.
0117 456 2072 View 0117 456 2072
Photo of Ian John Hughes, MBACP, Counsellor
Ian John Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS9
A warm welcome to you; thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. I’m a qualified therapist involving Humanistic and integrative counselling. I have professional and personal experience working in and through Anxiety, Stress, Low Self-Esteem, Depression, intimacy, various addictions, and issues around bullying. I am ENM and Kink friendly, having experience working with those in non-traditional relationships and various alternative Subcultures or communities. I also offer concessionary rates ranging from £40-£60.
A warm welcome to you; thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. I’m a qualified therapist involving Humanistic and integrative counselling. I have professional and personal experience working in and through Anxiety, Stress, Low Self-Esteem, Depression, intimacy, various addictions, and issues around bullying. I am ENM and Kink friendly, having experience working with those in non-traditional relationships and various alternative Subcultures or communities. I also offer concessionary rates ranging from £40-£60.
0117 456 2161 View 0117 456 2161
Photo of Ginny Bates, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Ginny Bates
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
Together we can explore how you which to develop, to heal from anxiety, depression, or trauma to achieve your dreams.
I am an integrative humanistic counselor with over twenty-five years of counseling experience; 12 years counseling in the NHS; 9 years in private practice, My approach is relational, underpinned by person-centered principles, integrating skills from a variety of modalities. Trauma-informed practice. I am experienced working with people from diverse walks of life intersectionally. I will work to form a warm relationship with you to identify what you wish to change, and how to get there. I will discuss your preferences for how we work and decide together how to proceed. Whatever your issue, I am interested in you as an individual.
Together we can explore how you which to develop, to heal from anxiety, depression, or trauma to achieve your dreams.
I am an integrative humanistic counselor with over twenty-five years of counseling experience; 12 years counseling in the NHS; 9 years in private practice, My approach is relational, underpinned by person-centered principles, integrating skills from a variety of modalities. Trauma-informed practice. I am experienced working with people from diverse walks of life intersectionally. I will work to form a warm relationship with you to identify what you wish to change, and how to get there. I will discuss your preferences for how we work and decide together how to proceed. Whatever your issue, I am interested in you as an individual.
0117 463 7256 View 0117 463 7256
Photo of Hyunho Khang, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Hyunho Khang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
0117 325 2122 View 0117 325 2122
Photo of Aurelia Sleigh, BACP, Counsellor
Aurelia Sleigh
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS49  (Online Only)
Reaching out and being able to speak to someone to help reduce the anxiety, or those overwhelming feelings that you may feel can help to rationalise what is going on.
We are currently living in a really unprecedented, uncertain and confusing time. Anxiety can rise, health anxiety feels very real, we can feel confused and lonely wondering how can we reach out and feel less alone, along with feeling listened to and supported. At the moment, every day there are new messages from the media, social media, and even the Government, which can feel overwhelming. Being able to sit with the unknown, the uncertainty of what will and is happening can feel really challenging.
Reaching out and being able to speak to someone to help reduce the anxiety, or those overwhelming feelings that you may feel can help to rationalise what is going on.
We are currently living in a really unprecedented, uncertain and confusing time. Anxiety can rise, health anxiety feels very real, we can feel confused and lonely wondering how can we reach out and feel less alone, along with feeling listened to and supported. At the moment, every day there are new messages from the media, social media, and even the Government, which can feel overwhelming. Being able to sit with the unknown, the uncertainty of what will and is happening can feel really challenging.
07411 113466 View 07411 113466
Photo of Alex Ogando - Alex Ogando | Talk and Creative Therapy, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Alex Ogando | Talk and Creative Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS37
Are you, or someone you love, struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Has avoidance, self-harm, or self-sabotaging behaviours become the only way of coping with what feels like a storm of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings? If so, then I also imagine that you, or a loved one, are struggling with self-esteem and maintaining healthy relationships with people, places, and activities, that used to feel meaningful. I work with teens and adults who feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed, and want to work with a professional to help them safely explore, and move through, their mental health challenges, and/or distressing lived experiences.
Are you, or someone you love, struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Has avoidance, self-harm, or self-sabotaging behaviours become the only way of coping with what feels like a storm of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings? If so, then I also imagine that you, or a loved one, are struggling with self-esteem and maintaining healthy relationships with people, places, and activities, that used to feel meaningful. I work with teens and adults who feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed, and want to work with a professional to help them safely explore, and move through, their mental health challenges, and/or distressing lived experiences.
07824 667512 View 07824 667512
Photo of Ounkar Kaur - Kaur Therapy Services, MSc, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Kaur Therapy Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
If you are feeling anxious, depressed or confused about your current situation, we will work collaboratively to gain further insight on how you are affected by this. In time you will have a better understanding of how to manage these concerns and arrive at a satisfactory resolution. Having worked in mental health for 23 years, I have gained specialist knowledge and experience of working with an extensive range of presenting issues. I trained as a humanistic/person-centred counsellor, then went on to train as a psychodynamic psychotherapist, added to that I work interculturally, providing a safe non-judgmental therapeutic space.
If you are feeling anxious, depressed or confused about your current situation, we will work collaboratively to gain further insight on how you are affected by this. In time you will have a better understanding of how to manage these concerns and arrive at a satisfactory resolution. Having worked in mental health for 23 years, I have gained specialist knowledge and experience of working with an extensive range of presenting issues. I trained as a humanistic/person-centred counsellor, then went on to train as a psychodynamic psychotherapist, added to that I work interculturally, providing a safe non-judgmental therapeutic space.
0117 463 4153 View 0117 463 4153
Photo of Dr Claudia Schmidt, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Claudia Schmidt
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9
Waitlist for new clients
I work with the following issues on a daily basis: Anxiety and panic attacks.
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
I work with the following issues on a daily basis: Anxiety and panic attacks.
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
0117 463 3058 View 0117 463 3058
Photo of Kelly Paterson, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Kelly Paterson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I work with a full range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, loss and infidelity.
Change is hard. Whether you are an individual or a couple, I offer a warm, empathic and creative counselling relationship where we can work on the the process of understanding, acceptance and change. Together, we will illuminate your inner world, understand repeating patterns, and find new ways to relate to yourself and others. The relationship we develop will support you to explore and understand difficult issues; increase self awareness; and improve connection. Alongside acceptance, compassion and authenticity, I'll bring humour and curiosity to our work.
I work with a full range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, loss and infidelity.
Change is hard. Whether you are an individual or a couple, I offer a warm, empathic and creative counselling relationship where we can work on the the process of understanding, acceptance and change. Together, we will illuminate your inner world, understand repeating patterns, and find new ways to relate to yourself and others. The relationship we develop will support you to explore and understand difficult issues; increase self awareness; and improve connection. Alongside acceptance, compassion and authenticity, I'll bring humour and curiosity to our work.
0117 456 2964 View 0117 456 2964
Photo of Dr Kirstie Fleetwood Meade, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kirstie Fleetwood Meade
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
I am a holistic psychologist: Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Systemic Practitioner and Executive Coach. I am passionate about facilitating greater mind-body connection in pursuit of authentic, meaningful living. I am currently offering short and medium term therapy or coaching. My areas of specialism are anxiety, improving relationships, ADHD, and processing trauma. Alongside this is my coaching work for professional women: tackling imposter syndrome, accelerating your career, returning to work or moving past limiting blocks or beliefs. I am currently available for short-term work (until the end of September) for individuals.
I am a holistic psychologist: Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Systemic Practitioner and Executive Coach. I am passionate about facilitating greater mind-body connection in pursuit of authentic, meaningful living. I am currently offering short and medium term therapy or coaching. My areas of specialism are anxiety, improving relationships, ADHD, and processing trauma. Alongside this is my coaching work for professional women: tackling imposter syndrome, accelerating your career, returning to work or moving past limiting blocks or beliefs. I am currently available for short-term work (until the end of September) for individuals.
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Photo of Fayola Edmunds, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Fayola Edmunds
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS7
I know choosing a therapist can be daunting, and anxiety provoking for some, for this reason, I like to offer a free 20 minute introductory call, to make an appointment phone or email me for my availability, I look forward to hearing from you.
Hi, I am Fayola, a friendly, approachable, open and empathetic counsellor, based in north Bristol, offering in-person and online sessions. Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed in life? Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, anxiety, relationship or family issues, feeling lonely or unsure of what's troubling you, I can help you gain new insight and find healing tools that work best for you, offering a deeper understanding of yourself, and your experiences. I have a passion for supporting people, and our relationship will give you the opportunity to express yourself, be heard, build confidence, esteem and make your own decisions.
I know choosing a therapist can be daunting, and anxiety provoking for some, for this reason, I like to offer a free 20 minute introductory call, to make an appointment phone or email me for my availability, I look forward to hearing from you.
Hi, I am Fayola, a friendly, approachable, open and empathetic counsellor, based in north Bristol, offering in-person and online sessions. Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed in life? Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, anxiety, relationship or family issues, feeling lonely or unsure of what's troubling you, I can help you gain new insight and find healing tools that work best for you, offering a deeper understanding of yourself, and your experiences. I have a passion for supporting people, and our relationship will give you the opportunity to express yourself, be heard, build confidence, esteem and make your own decisions.
0117 463 2392 View 0117 463 2392
Photo of Freya Bowes, MBACP, Counsellor
Freya Bowes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm an integrative, Person Centered counsellor, and I've worked with a range of people and their lived experiences. These include anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, loss and navigating life with neurodivergence or gender non-conformity, to name a few. I build my counselling relationships on warmth, kindness, authenticity and mutual trust. What's important to me, is that you feel welcome to bring your whole self to our sessions -and feel confident you can do so without fear of judgement.
Hello there, I'm an integrative, Person Centered counsellor, and I've worked with a range of people and their lived experiences. These include anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, loss and navigating life with neurodivergence or gender non-conformity, to name a few. I build my counselling relationships on warmth, kindness, authenticity and mutual trust. What's important to me, is that you feel welcome to bring your whole self to our sessions -and feel confident you can do so without fear of judgement.
0117 463 2774 View 0117 463 2774
Photo of Ashlyn Firkins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Ashlyn Firkins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16  (Online Only)
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with almost a decade of experience as an NHS Psychologist. I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient, resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. I work with a broad range of difficulties, which include anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with almost a decade of experience as an NHS Psychologist. I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient, resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. I work with a broad range of difficulties, which include anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
0117 463 7124 View 0117 463 7124
Photo of Iulian Chear, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I have experience in working with a wide range of life issues, including anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
I have experience in working with a wide range of life issues, including anxiety, depression, loss and bereavement, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Belén Plaza Higueras - EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
0117 374 7699 View 0117 374 7699
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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.