Anxiety Therapists in 60302

Photo of Susan Schiff, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Schiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and depression respond well to cognitive behavioral therapy, education, and relaxation techniques(and exposure/response prevention for OCD).
There are many pathways to a happier and more fulfilling life. Deciding to change, taking the risk to meet a new therapist, isn't easy. In 50 plus years as a psychotherapist, I have found that with work and skilled support, clients can reach goals, change, improve and develop their solutions to their issues. Although you may feel blocked, our work together will help you find the path to a happier life that is right for you. The most difficult decision is to take the risk and try therapy.
Anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and depression respond well to cognitive behavioral therapy, education, and relaxation techniques(and exposure/response prevention for OCD).
There are many pathways to a happier and more fulfilling life. Deciding to change, taking the risk to meet a new therapist, isn't easy. In 50 plus years as a psychotherapist, I have found that with work and skilled support, clients can reach goals, change, improve and develop their solutions to their issues. Although you may feel blocked, our work together will help you find the path to a happier life that is right for you. The most difficult decision is to take the risk and try therapy.
(708) 695-8585 View (708) 695-8585
Photo of Orson Morrison, PsyD, Psychologist
Orson Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Some of my specialty areas include: Adult, Couples and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Trauma, Abuse, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Parenting, and Cultural Issues.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
Some of my specialty areas include: Adult, Couples and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Trauma, Abuse, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Parenting, and Cultural Issues.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
(708) 325-8554 View (708) 325-8554
Photo of Ken Aaron Burnstein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Aaron Burnstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
(708) 406-6651 View (708) 406-6651
Photo of Phyllis Laughlin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Phyllis Laughlin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Waitlist for new clients
Individuals coping with relationship stressors and changes in life circumstances (such as break-up, divorce, children leaving home, health, parents needing caregiving), anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
Individuals coping with relationship stressors and changes in life circumstances (such as break-up, divorce, children leaving home, health, parents needing caregiving), anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
(773) 980-6971 View (773) 980-6971
Photo of Lindsay Janowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Janowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Through my work as a therapist, I have seen first-hand how the therapy experience has positively influenced peoples' lives. My specialities include working with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, and/or are experiencing challenging life transisitions or relationship difficulties.
Through my work as a therapist, I have seen first-hand how the therapy experience has positively influenced peoples' lives. My specialities include working with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, and/or are experiencing challenging life transisitions or relationship difficulties.
(630) 359-5697 View (630) 359-5697
Photo of Amanda Jenkins, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
(708) 887-2960 View (708) 887-2960
Photo of Sara Moskowitz, MA, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Moskowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Would you like to feel ease throughout your day? Perhaps you are looking to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, stress or trauma. I am currently accepting new clients for the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a short-term therapy that trains your nervous system to bring calm and connection into your everyday experience. SSP is helpful for folks with anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, sensory integration issues, and more.
Would you like to feel ease throughout your day? Perhaps you are looking to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, stress or trauma. I am currently accepting new clients for the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a short-term therapy that trains your nervous system to bring calm and connection into your everyday experience. SSP is helpful for folks with anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, sensory integration issues, and more.
(708) 498-3519 View (708) 498-3519
Photo of Tamar Levinson, PsyD, Psychologist
Tamar Levinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, suicidality, body image issues, abuse, trauma, self-mutilation, addiction, ADHD, grief/loss, gender/sexual identity, parenting, intimacy issues, spirituality, and cultural/religious identity.
Hello! For over 30 years, I have worked with clients as a clinical psychologist providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adolescents, adults, and couples of all genders and sexualities. My counseling focuses on embracing tools for self-empowerment, self-worth, self-compassion, self-care, and assertiveness through reclaiming parts of oneself to feel whole. Reaching out for therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to make this experience as comfortable, safe and welcoming as possible!
I have worked extensively with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, suicidality, body image issues, abuse, trauma, self-mutilation, addiction, ADHD, grief/loss, gender/sexual identity, parenting, intimacy issues, spirituality, and cultural/religious identity.
Hello! For over 30 years, I have worked with clients as a clinical psychologist providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adolescents, adults, and couples of all genders and sexualities. My counseling focuses on embracing tools for self-empowerment, self-worth, self-compassion, self-care, and assertiveness through reclaiming parts of oneself to feel whole. Reaching out for therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to make this experience as comfortable, safe and welcoming as possible!
(773) 900-4586 View (773) 900-4586
Photo of Kay Burk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay Burk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Kay and I specialize in Women and Families. I specifically have experience with individuals healing from Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Narcissistic Abuse and Domestic Violence. I have over 15 years of therapy experience and 20 years of healthcare experience. I work with clients from adolescence into adulthood through many life cycles. My secondary interests include eating disorders in adolescents and young adults, and women's mental health related to menopause, parenting, significant others, work stress, etc.
Hi, my name is Kay and I specialize in Women and Families. I specifically have experience with individuals healing from Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Narcissistic Abuse and Domestic Violence. I have over 15 years of therapy experience and 20 years of healthcare experience. I work with clients from adolescence into adulthood through many life cycles. My secondary interests include eating disorders in adolescents and young adults, and women's mental health related to menopause, parenting, significant others, work stress, etc.
(312) 565-6732 View (312) 565-6732
Photo of Lana Standard, LCSW, EMDR, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lana Standard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Waitlist for new clients
Many spend their lives worried something is wrong with them, often unaware this stems from unresolved negative experiences. Experiences can shape our thoughts, actions, self-perception, emotions and even influence the health of our bodies and how we feel in our bodies. Patterns often form to avoid/are used to get by with the undesirable feelings leaving us stuck and anxious. Through collaborative mind/body-focused methods, we confront past traumas and stressors along with unhealthy patterns of coping, fostering healing that integrates psychological and physiological aspects. Cultivating a deeper understanding of self & well-being.
Many spend their lives worried something is wrong with them, often unaware this stems from unresolved negative experiences. Experiences can shape our thoughts, actions, self-perception, emotions and even influence the health of our bodies and how we feel in our bodies. Patterns often form to avoid/are used to get by with the undesirable feelings leaving us stuck and anxious. Through collaborative mind/body-focused methods, we confront past traumas and stressors along with unhealthy patterns of coping, fostering healing that integrates psychological and physiological aspects. Cultivating a deeper understanding of self & well-being.
(708) 694-7913 View (708) 694-7913
Photo of Crystal Ward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Through the pandemic, I have supported frontline workers struggling with anxiety, grief, vicarious trauma and burnout.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
Through the pandemic, I have supported frontline workers struggling with anxiety, grief, vicarious trauma and burnout.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
(708) 434-0084 View (708) 434-0084
Photo of undefined - Jenvey Psychotherapy & Coaching , LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenvey Psychotherapy & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Breaking unhealthy habits, getting "unstuck", or working through life’s challenges requires creativity. But when we are feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, our brains tend to follow rigid patterns of thinking, feeling, and reacting. And that makes creativity difficult to access. As a therapist, my goal is to develop a fully creative process with each client and provide a comfortable space to explore and discuss different perspectives and self-care strategies.
Breaking unhealthy habits, getting "unstuck", or working through life’s challenges requires creativity. But when we are feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, our brains tend to follow rigid patterns of thinking, feeling, and reacting. And that makes creativity difficult to access. As a therapist, my goal is to develop a fully creative process with each client and provide a comfortable space to explore and discuss different perspectives and self-care strategies.
(773) 341-2296 View (773) 341-2296
Photo of Lauren Farina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Farina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with two decades of experience, specializing in stress management, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, career coaching and professional burnout.  My mission is to partner with my clients in their personal and professional growth using an approach that attends to the mind, body and spirit. My focus is on serving those who seek balance and meaning in the diverse roles they play throughout the lifespan, from parenthood to professional life and everywhere in between.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with two decades of experience, specializing in stress management, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, career coaching and professional burnout.  My mission is to partner with my clients in their personal and professional growth using an approach that attends to the mind, body and spirit. My focus is on serving those who seek balance and meaning in the diverse roles they play throughout the lifespan, from parenthood to professional life and everywhere in between.
(815) 427-4443 View (815) 427-4443
Photo of Kelsey Di Pirro, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Di Pirro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
This work can help relieve pain and anxiety and restores the capacity for embodiment, presence, well-being, and curiosity for life to support sustained emotional resilience.
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
This work can help relieve pain and anxiety and restores the capacity for embodiment, presence, well-being, and curiosity for life to support sustained emotional resilience.
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
(312) 605-5945 View (312) 605-5945
Photo of Lindsey Lemmen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Lemmen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from Aurora University. With over a decade of experience including inpatient and outpatient hospitals, chemical dependency, and non-profit organizations, I have a passion for working with adults of all ages. My areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, couples therapy, life transitions, and caregiver burnout. I'm trained in both Gottman Level 1 and Level 2. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and tailored to your unique needs and pace.
I'm an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from Aurora University. With over a decade of experience including inpatient and outpatient hospitals, chemical dependency, and non-profit organizations, I have a passion for working with adults of all ages. My areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, couples therapy, life transitions, and caregiver burnout. I'm trained in both Gottman Level 1 and Level 2. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and tailored to your unique needs and pace.
(708) 367-6019 View (708) 367-6019
Photo of Amanda R Hensley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda R Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I specialize in coping with anxiety, navigating life changes and relationships, ADHD and building executive functioning skills, emerging adulthood challenges, and helping people create a more compassionate internal dialogue and building resilience.
Hello! I’m Amanda and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In my life I’ve been driven by strong curiosity of people and what makes us develop into who we are and how we become better. I sought a Master’s degree in Social Work and upon graduating in 2012 it has been my pleasure to work with people of all ages and stages of life to help them find their voice, their sense of balance, and most importantly, their compassion for themselves.
I specialize in coping with anxiety, navigating life changes and relationships, ADHD and building executive functioning skills, emerging adulthood challenges, and helping people create a more compassionate internal dialogue and building resilience.
Hello! I’m Amanda and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In my life I’ve been driven by strong curiosity of people and what makes us develop into who we are and how we become better. I sought a Master’s degree in Social Work and upon graduating in 2012 it has been my pleasure to work with people of all ages and stages of life to help them find their voice, their sense of balance, and most importantly, their compassion for themselves.
(708) 740-5371 View (708) 740-5371
Photo of Mark Radel, PsyD, Psychologist
Mark Radel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In therapy, I work to create an empathic, open, and collaborative atmosphere to treat issues such as trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Identity development, grief and loss, relationship problems, and domestic violence and abuse are other concerns that I help people address through therapy. I practice primarily from a psychodynamic approach and also use cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and interpersonal therapy to enrich the therapeutic process.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In therapy, I work to create an empathic, open, and collaborative atmosphere to treat issues such as trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Identity development, grief and loss, relationship problems, and domestic violence and abuse are other concerns that I help people address through therapy. I practice primarily from a psychodynamic approach and also use cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and interpersonal therapy to enrich the therapeutic process.
(708) 401-6511 View (708) 401-6511
Photo of Kendra A Vargas, LCPC, PMH-C
Kendra A Vargas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
While I possess extensive experience in various domains, my primary areas of expertise include Infertility, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Parenting, and navigating life transitions.
I am truly grateful when a client allows me the opportunity to play a role in the journey of their lives. I believe therapy requires a combination of compassion, humor, honesty, and stability. I recognize the importance of providing a space to safely process through life struggles and work towards change. Sometimes at the start of therapy, the goals are unclear, or there is limited awareness and understanding into the areas that may need additional support. I will work alongside with you on your journey to help you get there. This will be done through a collaborative, warm, and supportive approach.
While I possess extensive experience in various domains, my primary areas of expertise include Infertility, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Parenting, and navigating life transitions.
I am truly grateful when a client allows me the opportunity to play a role in the journey of their lives. I believe therapy requires a combination of compassion, humor, honesty, and stability. I recognize the importance of providing a space to safely process through life struggles and work towards change. Sometimes at the start of therapy, the goals are unclear, or there is limited awareness and understanding into the areas that may need additional support. I will work alongside with you on your journey to help you get there. This will be done through a collaborative, warm, and supportive approach.
(224) 479-0116 View (224) 479-0116
Photo of Alaina Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist
Alaina Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
The current state of affairs has led many of us to feel a little lost, overwhelmed, frustrated, or worried. As a mother, clinician, entrepreneur and wife I understand balancing the many roles we hold can be especially daunting in the current climate and provide traditional therapy services for IL residents. In addition to traditional therapy, I also provide coaching services, and enjoy working with female identifying entrepreneurs and content creators. Many of my clients are managing high functioning anxiety or ADHD while navigating a super busy life, trying to fit all the pieces together while also engaging in self care.
The current state of affairs has led many of us to feel a little lost, overwhelmed, frustrated, or worried. As a mother, clinician, entrepreneur and wife I understand balancing the many roles we hold can be especially daunting in the current climate and provide traditional therapy services for IL residents. In addition to traditional therapy, I also provide coaching services, and enjoy working with female identifying entrepreneurs and content creators. Many of my clients are managing high functioning anxiety or ADHD while navigating a super busy life, trying to fit all the pieces together while also engaging in self care.
(708) 787-8754 View (708) 787-8754
Photo of undefined - Chicago Center for Psychotherapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chicago Center for Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Ever feel like you're walking a tightrope, trying to balance who you are with what the world expects? It's rough out there for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk — navigating anxiety, depression, tricky relationships, or just the relentless pressure to conform in a world that doesn't always embrace diversity. If you're exhausted from wearing a mask and need a place to let down your guard and breathe, know that you're not alone in this. The journey to authentic self-expression is filled with challenges, but it's also where you find the deepest connections and truest joys.
Ever feel like you're walking a tightrope, trying to balance who you are with what the world expects? It's rough out there for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk — navigating anxiety, depression, tricky relationships, or just the relentless pressure to conform in a world that doesn't always embrace diversity. If you're exhausted from wearing a mask and need a place to let down your guard and breathe, know that you're not alone in this. The journey to authentic self-expression is filled with challenges, but it's also where you find the deepest connections and truest joys.
(708) 232-0610 View (708) 232-0610
Anxiety Therapists

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.