Photo of James T. Dowling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30305, GA
James T. Dowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I have extensive experience in helping others with many mental health issues like depression, anxiety, transitions, career counseling, LGBTQI issues, suicidal thoughts, loss and grief, artist related issues, Asperger / Autism Spectrum, Schizophrenia, anger / stress management and many other areas.
There is hope for today. The first step toward making positive changes in your life today is to pick up the phone and make that call for an appointment. No matter what you are struggling with or going through, we can work together to help you get to a better place in your mind, heart and spirit. I take a compassionate, holistic approach to mental and emotional health and healing. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, teens, college students, and adults of all ages on a variety of mental health concerns and life issues . I am here to help you achieve your goals in life and become the most authentic you that you can be.
I have extensive experience in helping others with many mental health issues like depression, anxiety, transitions, career counseling, LGBTQI issues, suicidal thoughts, loss and grief, artist related issues, Asperger / Autism Spectrum, Schizophrenia, anger / stress management and many other areas.
There is hope for today. The first step toward making positive changes in your life today is to pick up the phone and make that call for an appointment. No matter what you are struggling with or going through, we can work together to help you get to a better place in your mind, heart and spirit. I take a compassionate, holistic approach to mental and emotional health and healing. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, teens, college students, and adults of all ages on a variety of mental health concerns and life issues . I am here to help you achieve your goals in life and become the most authentic you that you can be.
(912) 785-8707 View (912) 785-8707

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.