Anxiety Psychiatrists in Lake Forest, IL

Photo of Kathryn Schoenbrod, MD, Psychiatrist
Kathryn Schoenbrod
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)
I have been in private practice since 1985. I am a general adult psychiatrist and see those age 13 and older. I am one of the "dinosaurs" who still do psychotherapy as well as medication. I see individuals, couples, and families. Although the majority of my patients see me for mood disorders and anxiety, I have had a special interest in eating disorders since training. My practice has solely been outpatient for many years, thus inpatient care would have to be transferred temporarily to another physician. (note: I am an out-of-network provider; fees range from $140-320, depending on service, see below.)
(847) 807-1781 View (847) 807-1781
Photo of Krista Bedells, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krista Bedells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
She treats anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Krista Bedells is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Krista takes an empathic and compassionate approach to patient care. She strives to support patients so they can have a good quality of life and reach their fullest potential. Clients can expect her to work with them and listen to their concerns fully before developing a treatment plan. Krista makes a point to spend quality time with the patient to explore their situation and to fully understand their current symptoms.
She treats anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Krista Bedells is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Krista takes an empathic and compassionate approach to patient care. She strives to support patients so they can have a good quality of life and reach their fullest potential. Clients can expect her to work with them and listen to their concerns fully before developing a treatment plan. Krista makes a point to spend quality time with the patient to explore their situation and to fully understand their current symptoms.
(646) 759-2638 View (646) 759-2638
Photo of Zachary Harris, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I help emerging adults, young professionals, and high functioning adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma connect with their emotions, navigate life transitions, and feel more fulfilled. I offer a holistic approach to medication management as well as a specialized approach to treatment that may involve weekly or biweekly psychodynamic psychotherapy with the thoughtful consideration of medication treatment. My hope is that our work together can help you move forward in alignment with your evolving sense of who and how you hope to be in the world.
(847) 320-9489 View (847) 320-9489
Photo of Eitan D Schwarz, MD, FAACAP, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist
Eitan D Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
A respected and well-credentialed therapist psychiatrist, I am privileged to have worked for so long in so many places with so many diverse folks: depression, anxiety, ADHD.
A therapist psychiatrist blends intelligent psychotherapy and appropriate medication care. We’ll first meet for a thorough consultation to understand you and to map out your treatment plan, based on your strengths, always sensitive to your needs and preferences. I’ll serve you personally in your unique journey as your highly trained guide (Cornell, Johns Hopkins, U of Chicago) with 50+ years of continuous experience as a leading therapist and clinician of adults and children. I am also accomplished as a pioneer PTSD researcher, teacher, and forensic expert. (For videos, copy this into your browser: youtube.com/user/mydigitalfamily).
A respected and well-credentialed therapist psychiatrist, I am privileged to have worked for so long in so many places with so many diverse folks: depression, anxiety, ADHD.
A therapist psychiatrist blends intelligent psychotherapy and appropriate medication care. We’ll first meet for a thorough consultation to understand you and to map out your treatment plan, based on your strengths, always sensitive to your needs and preferences. I’ll serve you personally in your unique journey as your highly trained guide (Cornell, Johns Hopkins, U of Chicago) with 50+ years of continuous experience as a leading therapist and clinician of adults and children. I am also accomplished as a pioneer PTSD researcher, teacher, and forensic expert. (For videos, copy this into your browser: youtube.com/user/mydigitalfamily).
(847) 423-8030 View (847) 423-8030
Photo of Dr. Amber May, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amber May
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Our areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), & PTSD.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center, where we redefine truly comprehensive whole brain and body health. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple, integrating medicine and mental health in one clinic. You may schedule a visit with our Psychiatric Medical Director, Dr. Amber May, Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist or a combined visit with her physician partner. Our vision has been to offer an all-encompassing approach to wellness, both mental and medical healthcare. Our philosophy is to assess and treat the intrinsic mind body connection and true health encompasses all aspects of care.
Our areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), & PTSD.
Welcome to the Northshore Wellness Center, where we redefine truly comprehensive whole brain and body health. We are a collaborative medical-psychiatric practice led by a physician couple, integrating medicine and mental health in one clinic. You may schedule a visit with our Psychiatric Medical Director, Dr. Amber May, Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist or a combined visit with her physician partner. Our vision has been to offer an all-encompassing approach to wellness, both mental and medical healthcare. Our philosophy is to assess and treat the intrinsic mind body connection and true health encompasses all aspects of care.
(847) 796-8967 View (847) 796-8967
Photo of Michael Ficaro, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Ficaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for eight years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for eight years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(847) 423-6645 View (847) 423-6645
Photo of Dina Froustis, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dina Froustis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
With personalized care plans, Dina works with her patients to treat some of the more common conditions including, but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Bipolar, Depression, PTSD and OCD.
Dina is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with over 8 years of clinical experience including psychiatric, neurology and critical care inpatient and outpatient. She attended Lake Forest College for her BA, Chamberlain College of Nursing for her BSN and North Park University for her MSN.
With personalized care plans, Dina works with her patients to treat some of the more common conditions including, but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Bipolar, Depression, PTSD and OCD.
Dina is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with over 8 years of clinical experience including psychiatric, neurology and critical care inpatient and outpatient. She attended Lake Forest College for her BA, Chamberlain College of Nursing for her BSN and North Park University for her MSN.
(224) 304-2798 View (224) 304-2798
Photo of undefined - Silver Lining Behavioral Health, LCSW, NP, CADC, LCPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Silver Lining Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, NP, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.
Silver Lining Behavioral Health clinicians are skilled in treating various issues ranging from the physiological manifestation of depression and anxiety to life-stage issues. Everyone is unique, so our treatment planning considers the client’s age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and physical health. With proper permission, Silver Lining therapists collaborate with healthcare providers and other multidisciplinary healthcare professionals when necessary. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the healthcare system and numerous resources.
(708) 729-8882 View (708) 729-8882
Photo of Gabriel Heiber, MD, Psychiatrist
Gabriel Heiber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I provide treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, while also having an interest in medically complex patients.
My approach is centered on meeting patients where they are at, valuing collaboration that fosters an alliance grounded in trust, empathy and dignity. I take pride in seeing the person in the patient, and taking the time to do so. Together we can explore and pursue options in medications and psychotherapy to find your emotional and physical balance.
I provide treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, while also having an interest in medically complex patients.
My approach is centered on meeting patients where they are at, valuing collaboration that fosters an alliance grounded in trust, empathy and dignity. I take pride in seeing the person in the patient, and taking the time to do so. Together we can explore and pursue options in medications and psychotherapy to find your emotional and physical balance.
(847) 416-8663 View (847) 416-8663
Photo of Dr. Anna Kurapey, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anna Kurapey
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
Dr. Kurapey guides you to harness your intuitive wisdom to bring you closer to the life you imagine. She provides comprehensive integrative psychiatric care to help you identify the root cause of your symptoms. Her approach explores the whole person, including your mind, body, lifestyle, spirituality, culture, and external environment. Dr. Kurapey believes in tailoring treatments to your unique needs.
Dr. Kurapey guides you to harness your intuitive wisdom to bring you closer to the life you imagine. She provides comprehensive integrative psychiatric care to help you identify the root cause of your symptoms. Her approach explores the whole person, including your mind, body, lifestyle, spirituality, culture, and external environment. Dr. Kurapey believes in tailoring treatments to your unique needs.
(630) 934-2169 View (630) 934-2169
Photo of Melissa Stefanowicz, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Stefanowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
(847) 986-9954 View (847) 986-9954
Photo of Rachel Amodu, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Amodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I believe we function at our highest capacity when there is balance in mental, psychological, physical, social as well as in spiritual health. Our initial appointment entails listening to your detailed history, talking about your current stressors, and working on your goals of treatment. Our follow up appointments will be aimed at reviewing progress and making needed adjustments until we find the best balance for you. I believe for best outcomes, application of both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy are all it takes. Let's start a better mental health journey together.
I believe we function at our highest capacity when there is balance in mental, psychological, physical, social as well as in spiritual health. Our initial appointment entails listening to your detailed history, talking about your current stressors, and working on your goals of treatment. Our follow up appointments will be aimed at reviewing progress and making needed adjustments until we find the best balance for you. I believe for best outcomes, application of both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy are all it takes. Let's start a better mental health journey together.
(224) 507-5970 View (224) 507-5970

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Annie Zambrano, PA, Physician Assistant
Annie Zambrano
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Annie Zambrano, MPAS, PA-C, is a passionate, supportive healthcare provider. Her primary purpose is to provide high-quality medical services to serve the human spirit and improve the overall well-being of her patients. Annie treats children, adolescents, and adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Alzheimer's dementia, and more. She knows that each case is unique, and she customizes care to meet patient needs. Annie completed her professional degree at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA. She has over a decade of experience working in outpatient behavioral health and nursing facilities.
Annie Zambrano, MPAS, PA-C, is a passionate, supportive healthcare provider. Her primary purpose is to provide high-quality medical services to serve the human spirit and improve the overall well-being of her patients. Annie treats children, adolescents, and adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Alzheimer's dementia, and more. She knows that each case is unique, and she customizes care to meet patient needs. Annie completed her professional degree at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA. She has over a decade of experience working in outpatient behavioral health and nursing facilities.
(224) 505-8480 View (224) 505-8480
Photo of undefined - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
I treat conditions including, but not limited to, the following: autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD (offer computerized testing), substance use disorder, and schizophrenia.
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
I treat conditions including, but not limited to, the following: autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, ADHD (offer computerized testing), substance use disorder, and schizophrenia.
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
(224) 298-8260 View (224) 298-8260
Photo of Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa Wrobel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(847) 565-2453 View (847) 565-2453
Photo of Robin J Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Robin J Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
(773) 669-5942 View (773) 669-5942
Photo of undefined - Hone ur Health & Wellness, APN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hone ur Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I currently manage and treat adolescents and adults virtually with Anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders and ADHD.
My name is Joan Ajide, owner of Hone ur Health & Wellness. I hold a dual board certification with American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I earned both a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post graduate certificate from Lewis University. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from University of Illinois in Chicago and a Master of Science in Clinical Nurse Leadership from Saint Xavier University. I have over 15 years of nursing experience in both acute and primary care treating various age groups.
I currently manage and treat adolescents and adults virtually with Anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders and ADHD.
My name is Joan Ajide, owner of Hone ur Health & Wellness. I hold a dual board certification with American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I earned both a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner post graduate certificate from Lewis University. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from University of Illinois in Chicago and a Master of Science in Clinical Nurse Leadership from Saint Xavier University. I have over 15 years of nursing experience in both acute and primary care treating various age groups.
(773) 389-1455 View (773) 389-1455
Photo of undefined - Embrace Behavioral Health, PMHNP, AGNP, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Embrace Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Welcome! At Embrace Behavioral Health we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, we specialize in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, dementia, and much more. We offer personalized treatment plans integrating pharmacotherapy with therapy and lifestyle adjustments for holistic healing.
Welcome! At Embrace Behavioral Health we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, we specialize in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, dementia, and much more. We offer personalized treatment plans integrating pharmacotherapy with therapy and lifestyle adjustments for holistic healing.
(224) 332-3594 View (224) 332-3594
Photo of Medinat Balogun, DNP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Medinat Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069  (Online Only)
She specializes in evidence-based psychiatric medication management of adults, with a focus on treatment of depression, and anxiety without the use of controlled substances.
Hi there, I’m Medina, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I help adult patients just like you or your loved one: individuals that have it within them to thrive, but just need some support getting there. Let’s focus on your strengths together! I am passionate about the psychiatry field and aim to provide patients with empathetic and holistic care. I also hope to continue to learn new evidence-based treatments and grow personally to better help my patients.
She specializes in evidence-based psychiatric medication management of adults, with a focus on treatment of depression, and anxiety without the use of controlled substances.
Hi there, I’m Medina, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois. I help adult patients just like you or your loved one: individuals that have it within them to thrive, but just need some support getting there. Let’s focus on your strengths together! I am passionate about the psychiatry field and aim to provide patients with empathetic and holistic care. I also hope to continue to learn new evidence-based treatments and grow personally to better help my patients.
(708) 295-3522 View (708) 295-3522
Photo of Thomas Mullenix, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Mullenix
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Dr. Mullenix is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who strives to form strong therapeutic and collaborative environments with patients and values patient empowerment. Dr. Mullenix received his medical degree from the Chicago Medical School and then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. His interests and expertise are in helping patients struggling with depression, anxiety including social/obsessive compulsive and generalized anxiety disorders and ADHD. He provides psychiatric medication management along with supportive, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other modalities.
Dr. Mullenix is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who strives to form strong therapeutic and collaborative environments with patients and values patient empowerment. Dr. Mullenix received his medical degree from the Chicago Medical School and then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. His interests and expertise are in helping patients struggling with depression, anxiety including social/obsessive compulsive and generalized anxiety disorders and ADHD. He provides psychiatric medication management along with supportive, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other modalities.
(224) 786-1998 View (224) 786-1998

See more therapy options for Lake Forest

Anxiety Psychiatrists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular 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 Behavioral 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.