Anxiety Therapists in 04103

Photo of Abby Pinkston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Abby Pinkston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I have experience supporting people struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and much more.
Offering telehealth and in-person sessions. I value the importance of building rapport with clients and support clients in finding a therapist that is a good fit for you and your treatment goals. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, supportive, & nonjudgmental space in the therapeutic relationship. I utilize a strengths-based & client-centered approach that supports your treatment needs and empowers clients through their journeys. You are the expert in your own life, I'm just here to hold space for you as you navigate the stages of change.
I have experience supporting people struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and much more.
Offering telehealth and in-person sessions. I value the importance of building rapport with clients and support clients in finding a therapist that is a good fit for you and your treatment goals. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, supportive, & nonjudgmental space in the therapeutic relationship. I utilize a strengths-based & client-centered approach that supports your treatment needs and empowers clients through their journeys. You are the expert in your own life, I'm just here to hold space for you as you navigate the stages of change.
(207) 994-8345 View (207) 994-8345
Photo of Annmarie Mica, Psychologist in 04103, ME
Annmarie Mica
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
Feel not only less sad or anxious, but better.
Do you experience the outdoors as a place of healing and comfort? Can you imagine meeting with your therapist outside for support? To learn skills to improve your life and overall well-being? I love the outdoors and am excited to offer the option of meeting in person outside for therapy in the Portland and Scarborough areas, with telehealth as a backup when the weather does not cooperate. Indoors or outside, throughout the year, you can expect a supportive and comfortable atmosphere in which to heal and grow when you and/or your partner, or your child or teen meet with me for therapy.
Feel not only less sad or anxious, but better.
Do you experience the outdoors as a place of healing and comfort? Can you imagine meeting with your therapist outside for support? To learn skills to improve your life and overall well-being? I love the outdoors and am excited to offer the option of meeting in person outside for therapy in the Portland and Scarborough areas, with telehealth as a backup when the weather does not cooperate. Indoors or outside, throughout the year, you can expect a supportive and comfortable atmosphere in which to heal and grow when you and/or your partner, or your child or teen meet with me for therapy.
(207) 808-0428 View (207) 808-0428
Photo of Margaret Evans, Counselor in 04103, ME
Margaret Evans
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Life is a maze of ups and downs, we are taught to push away the downs and "keep moving" without acknowledging our true feelings and needs. Before you know it, fear, anxiety, trauma, depression, self doubt begin to take over and guide our decision making process. Your truth, who you are, and what you want starts to get lost, life becomes exhausting, unsatisfying and lonely. How might it feel to safely explore and validate your emotions and needs? Deepen your understanding of who you are and how you function through exposure to thoughts, feelings and behaviors that take over and create dysfunction in your life.
Life is a maze of ups and downs, we are taught to push away the downs and "keep moving" without acknowledging our true feelings and needs. Before you know it, fear, anxiety, trauma, depression, self doubt begin to take over and guide our decision making process. Your truth, who you are, and what you want starts to get lost, life becomes exhausting, unsatisfying and lonely. How might it feel to safely explore and validate your emotions and needs? Deepen your understanding of who you are and how you function through exposure to thoughts, feelings and behaviors that take over and create dysfunction in your life.
(207) 613-2538 View (207) 613-2538
Photo of Sara Ann Therrien in 04103, ME
Sara Ann Therrien
MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
(207) 835-3352 View (207) 835-3352
Photo of Elianna Ricciardi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Elianna Ricciardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Welcome! Are you hoping to decrease daily stressors and concerns, gain confidence and have support in setting appropriate boundaries? Through a thoughtful process we can address these concerns and improve your overall quality of life. I am specialized in treating adolescents and adults. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a wide range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
Welcome! Are you hoping to decrease daily stressors and concerns, gain confidence and have support in setting appropriate boundaries? Through a thoughtful process we can address these concerns and improve your overall quality of life. I am specialized in treating adolescents and adults. I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a wide range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
(207) 994-8371 View (207) 994-8371
Photo of Linda E. Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Linda E. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My practice is designed to work with people who feel overwhelmed or "stuck" in their current life situation. I begin with the understanding that everyone has struggles from time to time with primary relationships, work situations, financial stressors, unforeseen change of life circumstances or unresolved grief and loss. Common effects are anxiety, unexplained depression or loss of confidence. When these effects spill over into other areas of function, affecting sleep, clear thinking or enjoyment of regular activities, it is time to do some therapeutic "work" to put things in perspective and be able to move forward.
My practice is designed to work with people who feel overwhelmed or "stuck" in their current life situation. I begin with the understanding that everyone has struggles from time to time with primary relationships, work situations, financial stressors, unforeseen change of life circumstances or unresolved grief and loss. Common effects are anxiety, unexplained depression or loss of confidence. When these effects spill over into other areas of function, affecting sleep, clear thinking or enjoyment of regular activities, it is time to do some therapeutic "work" to put things in perspective and be able to move forward.
(207) 558-1577 View (207) 558-1577
Photo of Lara Kerstin Nordenson, Pre-Licensed Professional in 04103, ME
Lara Kerstin Nordenson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a warm, open and accepting therapist who specializes in holding space for teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, difficulty with emotions, grief and any feelings of suffering, hopelessness or overall dissatisfaction with yourself and your life. Being human can be painful, complex and challenging at times. I’m here to validate these challenges and help you explore what is and isn’t working for you. I view this as a collaborative process and will honor you as the expert in your own life.
I am a warm, open and accepting therapist who specializes in holding space for teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, difficulty with emotions, grief and any feelings of suffering, hopelessness or overall dissatisfaction with yourself and your life. Being human can be painful, complex and challenging at times. I’m here to validate these challenges and help you explore what is and isn’t working for you. I view this as a collaborative process and will honor you as the expert in your own life.
(207) 672-2351 View (207) 672-2351
Photo of Bobby Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Bobby Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I believe in autonomy and a client-centered approach. I am here to primarily remind you, or tell you for the first time, that you are not alone. There are tools to relieve those feelings of restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Finding that solution begins with making a personal decision to address what is holding you back and taking steps to evolve into the best version of yourself. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?
As a therapist, I believe in autonomy and a client-centered approach. I am here to primarily remind you, or tell you for the first time, that you are not alone. There are tools to relieve those feelings of restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Finding that solution begins with making a personal decision to address what is holding you back and taking steps to evolve into the best version of yourself. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?
(207) 614-7710 View (207) 614-7710
Photo of Mary Cole, Counselor in 04103, ME
Mary Cole
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include attachment, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, religious trauma, spirituality, LGBTQIA+ support/identity development, behavioral concerns, & parenting.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a wait list at this time. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
My specialties include attachment, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, religious trauma, spirituality, LGBTQIA+ support/identity development, behavioral concerns, & parenting.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a wait list at this time. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
(207) 218-0616 View (207) 218-0616
Photo of Brittany McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Brittany McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
Whether you are exploring your gender identity, looking to develop techniques to manage your anxiety, or struggling to cope with ADHD- I'd like to accompany you on your journey towards change, and ultimately, self acceptance.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- with an effort to combine aspects of ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you as the client are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to help guide you through the steps of change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can identify goals, thought patterns, or behaviors that are not serving you, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious, dysregulated, or triggered.
Whether you are exploring your gender identity, looking to develop techniques to manage your anxiety, or struggling to cope with ADHD- I'd like to accompany you on your journey towards change, and ultimately, self acceptance.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- with an effort to combine aspects of ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you as the client are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to help guide you through the steps of change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can identify goals, thought patterns, or behaviors that are not serving you, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious, dysregulated, or triggered.
(207) 515-8863 View (207) 515-8863
Photo of Rosemary McCullough, Psychologist in 04103, ME
Rosemary McCullough
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I specialize in areas of depression and anxiety, life transitions, career changes, and other developmental changes.
Welcome! I am accepting patients on a limited basis. I work well with adults and couples who wish to have greater insight into their psychology in order to reach their optimal goals, and overcome obstacles to living a higher quality life. In therapy, I will help you to experience greater levels of hope and optimism to reach your highest potential. I employ both solution-focused and longer-term approaches, depending upon your need. As a psychologist, I have specialty training in psychological evaluation, which can more quickly help to identify unknowns and underlying issues we can discuss in therapy.
I specialize in areas of depression and anxiety, life transitions, career changes, and other developmental changes.
Welcome! I am accepting patients on a limited basis. I work well with adults and couples who wish to have greater insight into their psychology in order to reach their optimal goals, and overcome obstacles to living a higher quality life. In therapy, I will help you to experience greater levels of hope and optimism to reach your highest potential. I employ both solution-focused and longer-term approaches, depending upon your need. As a psychologist, I have specialty training in psychological evaluation, which can more quickly help to identify unknowns and underlying issues we can discuss in therapy.
(207) 367-3540 View (207) 367-3540
Photo of Rebecca Kenny, Counselor in 04103, ME
Rebecca Kenny
Counselor, MA, LCPC-c
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with life changes, anxiety, irritability, guilt, trauma, self-doubt, or other emotions, please reach out. Sometimes life gets messy, and things get in the way of living the way we desire. My approach helps you discover your inner resources and strengths to empower you toward the life you desire. I use EMDR therapy, solution-focused, narrative, ACT, mindfulness, and CBT.
Welcome, it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with life changes, anxiety, irritability, guilt, trauma, self-doubt, or other emotions, please reach out. Sometimes life gets messy, and things get in the way of living the way we desire. My approach helps you discover your inner resources and strengths to empower you toward the life you desire. I use EMDR therapy, solution-focused, narrative, ACT, mindfulness, and CBT.
(207) 407-9176 View (207) 407-9176
Photo of Roland B. Mendiola, Psychologist in 04103, ME
Roland B. Mendiola
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
It's a joy, passion, and privilege doing this work. Over the past 15 years, I've practiced in school settings, community mental health, managed care, VA hospitals, university counseling centers, and private practice. My clinical interests are in fear, stress, depression, and suicide; creativity and the expressive arts; issues of intimacy and vulnerability in relationships; and issues of culture, identity, and liberation - especially regarding race, gender, sexuality, and spirituality. My specialized training (20 years) is in Buddhist psychology, trauma-informed creative art therapy, and exposure therapy for anxiety and trauma.
It's a joy, passion, and privilege doing this work. Over the past 15 years, I've practiced in school settings, community mental health, managed care, VA hospitals, university counseling centers, and private practice. My clinical interests are in fear, stress, depression, and suicide; creativity and the expressive arts; issues of intimacy and vulnerability in relationships; and issues of culture, identity, and liberation - especially regarding race, gender, sexuality, and spirituality. My specialized training (20 years) is in Buddhist psychology, trauma-informed creative art therapy, and exposure therapy for anxiety and trauma.
(207) 517-2390 View (207) 517-2390
Photo of Josh Kingsbury, Psychologist in 04103, ME
Josh Kingsbury
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
People often come to my office for a broad range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career concerns and grief.
We all experience challenges during our everyday lives. Sometimes these challenges can seem overwhelming and discouraging. I work with people who want to make changes in their lives to help themselves overcome these difficult experiences. These changes can often be difficult to contemplate, yet alone act on. I strive to create a supportive environment for my clients where they can explore their concerns and the emotions that arise.
People often come to my office for a broad range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career concerns and grief.
We all experience challenges during our everyday lives. Sometimes these challenges can seem overwhelming and discouraging. I work with people who want to make changes in their lives to help themselves overcome these difficult experiences. These changes can often be difficult to contemplate, yet alone act on. I strive to create a supportive environment for my clients where they can explore their concerns and the emotions that arise.
(207) 773-2828 x107 View (207) 773-2828 x107
Photo of Randall Roberts Melvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Randall Roberts Melvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
I work with individuals coping with such issues as :depression,anxiety,relationship conflicts,and personality disorders.
I view Psychotherapy as collaborative effort where the client and therapist work together to find resolution to issues. It is an active process whether we're doing individual or couples' therapy. Although issues often feel quite daunting initially, they become manageable and ultimately resolved in a timely fashion. After over 35 years of experience, I believe that most, if not all presenting problems can be helped.
I work with individuals coping with such issues as :depression,anxiety,relationship conflicts,and personality disorders.
I view Psychotherapy as collaborative effort where the client and therapist work together to find resolution to issues. It is an active process whether we're doing individual or couples' therapy. Although issues often feel quite daunting initially, they become manageable and ultimately resolved in a timely fashion. After over 35 years of experience, I believe that most, if not all presenting problems can be helped.
(207) 358-4197 x106 View (207) 358-4197 x106
Photo of Eric Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Eric Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
If you are someone who is experiencing anxiety or stress in your life, I would love to help you work through those feelings. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and young adults, so if you are experiencing difficulties associated with identity exploration, at any age, we may be a good fit for one another. If you have feelings that are impacting your daily life and goals for how you would like your life to be, we could collaborate to work toward those goals. I have experience working with teens/young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, unhoused populations, and in both rural and urban settings.
If you are someone who is experiencing anxiety or stress in your life, I would love to help you work through those feelings. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and young adults, so if you are experiencing difficulties associated with identity exploration, at any age, we may be a good fit for one another. If you have feelings that are impacting your daily life and goals for how you would like your life to be, we could collaborate to work toward those goals. I have experience working with teens/young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, unhoused populations, and in both rural and urban settings.
(207) 803-6039 View (207) 803-6039
Photo of Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
(207) 370-5389 View (207) 370-5389
Photo of Paul D Montgomery, Counselor in 04103, ME
Paul D Montgomery
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
(207) 843-9518 View (207) 843-9518
Photo of Simone Rollins, Counselor in 04103, ME
Simone Rollins
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
I have special interest and training in play therapy, developmental trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis), anxiety disorders, and life transitions.
I believe wholeheartedly that all people possess the innate ability to grow and heal. I see myself as an ally and guide on your personal journey of self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and uncertain. I offer a place for clients to experience respite from the demands of everyday life, and focus inward. I work with children and adults. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. In my work, I draw on Existential Therapy, Depth Psychology, Buddhist Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I have special interest and training in play therapy, developmental trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis), anxiety disorders, and life transitions.
I believe wholeheartedly that all people possess the innate ability to grow and heal. I see myself as an ally and guide on your personal journey of self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and uncertain. I offer a place for clients to experience respite from the demands of everyday life, and focus inward. I work with children and adults. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. In my work, I draw on Existential Therapy, Depth Psychology, Buddhist Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
(207) 506-3027 View (207) 506-3027
Photo of Ellie Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04103, ME
Ellie Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I have a high level of experience and comfort in treating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, grief, caregiver stress, and those affected by addiction and alcoholism.
Welcome! My work centers around prioritizing emotional wellbeing throughout periods of transition and change. Many clients whom I work with feel stuck or incredibly overwhelmed in their current circumstance and benefit from a collaborative and insightful approach to treatment. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space to do this work. I truly enjoy working with adults of all ages and coming from all walks of life.
I have a high level of experience and comfort in treating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, grief, caregiver stress, and those affected by addiction and alcoholism.
Welcome! My work centers around prioritizing emotional wellbeing throughout periods of transition and change. Many clients whom I work with feel stuck or incredibly overwhelmed in their current circumstance and benefit from a collaborative and insightful approach to treatment. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space to do this work. I truly enjoy working with adults of all ages and coming from all walks of life.
(207) 200-1431 View (207) 200-1431

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.