Photo of Katie Geiser, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Katie Geiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
I am an anxiety and trauma specialist and I want to help you feel more confident in your life. Often anxiety tells us that IF the ‘bad thing’ we are trying to avoid happens- we cannot cope. These thoughts might look like “What if they don’t like me or I am judged?" “What if I fail?” “What if that really terrible thing happens, or happens again?” “What if I am in danger?” We are riddled with fear that leaves us feeling stuck, helpless, and unsure how to feel better. You may feel alone, but it doesn’t mean you need to move though it alone.
I am an anxiety and trauma specialist and I want to help you feel more confident in your life. Often anxiety tells us that IF the ‘bad thing’ we are trying to avoid happens- we cannot cope. These thoughts might look like “What if they don’t like me or I am judged?" “What if I fail?” “What if that really terrible thing happens, or happens again?” “What if I am in danger?” We are riddled with fear that leaves us feeling stuck, helpless, and unsure how to feel better. You may feel alone, but it doesn’t mean you need to move though it alone.
(608) 200-2444 View (608) 200-2444
Photo of Elizabeth Disch, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Elizabeth Disch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
I specialize in helping people - just like you - struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Feeling overwhelmed is all too common these days. Sometimes, uncomfortable thoughts and feelings even keep you up at night. You spend a lot of time trying to convince yourself that everything is "fine,” but deep down you know it's not true. Hoping all of this would just go away hasn't worked. Instead, you feel sad, isolated, and scared. If you're being honest with yourself, you know things won't improve unless you take action; but it's hard to imagine what would make a difference.
I specialize in helping people - just like you - struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Feeling overwhelmed is all too common these days. Sometimes, uncomfortable thoughts and feelings even keep you up at night. You spend a lot of time trying to convince yourself that everything is "fine,” but deep down you know it's not true. Hoping all of this would just go away hasn't worked. Instead, you feel sad, isolated, and scared. If you're being honest with yourself, you know things won't improve unless you take action; but it's hard to imagine what would make a difference.
(608) 433-2516 View (608) 433-2516
Photo of Dayne Legreid, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Dayne Legreid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711
I use multiple evidenced-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to address trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, loss & grief, self-esteem, and life transitions, and will adapt treatment to the unique needs and experiences of the client.
I'm Dayne with QUEST Counseling & Consultation Center, and I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) experienced in working with children, teens, and adults. I believe everyone is capable of creating their own change and finding wellness. My approach to treatment involves working collaboratively with clients to embrace their own strengths while learning new strategies to overcome past and present life stressors. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and believe that developing a supportive, non-judgmental space, built on mutual trust and respect, creates the strongest environment for healing and growth.
I use multiple evidenced-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to address trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, loss & grief, self-esteem, and life transitions, and will adapt treatment to the unique needs and experiences of the client.
I'm Dayne with QUEST Counseling & Consultation Center, and I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) experienced in working with children, teens, and adults. I believe everyone is capable of creating their own change and finding wellness. My approach to treatment involves working collaboratively with clients to embrace their own strengths while learning new strategies to overcome past and present life stressors. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and believe that developing a supportive, non-judgmental space, built on mutual trust and respect, creates the strongest environment for healing and growth.
(608) 912-3890 x128 View (608) 912-3890 x128
Photo of Guy Blackstone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Guy Blackstone
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
Waitlist for new clients
I help people with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness to get back in control and live the life they want. Our thoughts, memories, feelings, and bodily sensations make life so hard. Do they keep you from doing the things you want? Do you feel so overwhelmed you need to run or to escape? Do they make you regret the way you’ve lived? Do they keep you from people you care about? You don’t have to live this way. We can take steps to put you back in charge of you and your life. My mission is to help you be proud of the person you are, get you doing the things you want, with the people you care about most.
I help people with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness to get back in control and live the life they want. Our thoughts, memories, feelings, and bodily sensations make life so hard. Do they keep you from doing the things you want? Do you feel so overwhelmed you need to run or to escape? Do they make you regret the way you’ve lived? Do they keep you from people you care about? You don’t have to live this way. We can take steps to put you back in charge of you and your life. My mission is to help you be proud of the person you are, get you doing the things you want, with the people you care about most.
(608) 597-6846 View (608) 597-6846
Photo of Erika Lund, Psychologist in 53711, WI
Erika Lund
Psychologist, PsyD, SC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by challenges in life leaving us depressed, anxious, confused and stuck. Our distress may cue us to pay attention, heal old wounds, and mine our inner strengths and wisdom. Psychotherapy is highly personalized and helps us to manage stress and restore harmony. I draw from various treatment modalities including psychodynamic, family systems, cognitive behavioral, humanistic/transpersonal, 12 step programs, Mindfulness and coaching psychology. I approach therapy openly and collaboratively, and am committed to providing a safe, empathic space where I listen deeply, understand your worldview, and support your heroic journey towards wholeness and well-being.
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by challenges in life leaving us depressed, anxious, confused and stuck. Our distress may cue us to pay attention, heal old wounds, and mine our inner strengths and wisdom. Psychotherapy is highly personalized and helps us to manage stress and restore harmony. I draw from various treatment modalities including psychodynamic, family systems, cognitive behavioral, humanistic/transpersonal, 12 step programs, Mindfulness and coaching psychology. I approach therapy openly and collaboratively, and am committed to providing a safe, empathic space where I listen deeply, understand your worldview, and support your heroic journey towards wholeness and well-being.
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Photo of Gabriela Jump, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Gabriela Jump
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
​Hi, my name is Gabi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for Wisconsin. I am also licensed for Telehealth therapy for the State of Iowa. I hope to join you on your current journey! I understand it can be intimidating to search for a therapist. I have extensive experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/self-worth, career unease or dissatisfaction, perfectionism, relationship conflict, breakups, family conflict, life transitions, and emerging adulthood. I have served a multitude of clients in marginalized communities, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.
​Hi, my name is Gabi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for Wisconsin. I am also licensed for Telehealth therapy for the State of Iowa. I hope to join you on your current journey! I understand it can be intimidating to search for a therapist. I have extensive experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/self-worth, career unease or dissatisfaction, perfectionism, relationship conflict, breakups, family conflict, life transitions, and emerging adulthood. I have served a multitude of clients in marginalized communities, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.
(608) 470-7843 View (608) 470-7843
Photo of Joe Leonard, Marriage & Family Therapist in 53711, WI
Joe Leonard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CFNC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
My ideal client is someone coping with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or substance abuse. I specialize in Behavioral Activation - an evidenced based intervention for treating mood disorders and moving clients toward their goals. I also enjoy working with couples and families to help them communicate better and resolve interpersonal conflicts in a healthy way. I have been passionate about systemic couple and family therapy since becoming a therapist in 2019. I'm a certified Prepare-Enrich marital/premarital counselor and trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, with good outcomes.
My ideal client is someone coping with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and/or substance abuse. I specialize in Behavioral Activation - an evidenced based intervention for treating mood disorders and moving clients toward their goals. I also enjoy working with couples and families to help them communicate better and resolve interpersonal conflicts in a healthy way. I have been passionate about systemic couple and family therapy since becoming a therapist in 2019. I'm a certified Prepare-Enrich marital/premarital counselor and trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, with good outcomes.
(608) 336-3974 View (608) 336-3974
Photo of Gabrielle Montana, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Gabrielle Montana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fitchburg, WI 53711
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety is a b!tch - the heart racing, chest tightening, skin crawling, keeps you up all night kind. If you grew up in an emotionally or physically unsafe environment, been in inconsistent and unstable relationships, and live on edge with the fear of never reaching enoughness, then you get it. You find yourself being on guard, overachieving, people pleasing, and quieting your voice as a means to survive with the least amount of damage. You minimize your experiences and often say “I’m fine” when really you are living in your own personal hell and trauma is the prison keeper.
Anxiety is a b!tch - the heart racing, chest tightening, skin crawling, keeps you up all night kind. If you grew up in an emotionally or physically unsafe environment, been in inconsistent and unstable relationships, and live on edge with the fear of never reaching enoughness, then you get it. You find yourself being on guard, overachieving, people pleasing, and quieting your voice as a means to survive with the least amount of damage. You minimize your experiences and often say “I’m fine” when really you are living in your own personal hell and trauma is the prison keeper.
(608) 527-0335 View (608) 527-0335
Photo of Nichole Fritts, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Nichole Fritts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
My approach uses attachment-based & somatic experiences, including mindfulness and understanding the neuroscience behind anxiety, fear & anger.
Are you looking for something different when it comes to therapy? I believe therapy can be more relaxed & not always serious & "stuffy". My goal is for you to have an experience of comfort and encouragement while also working through difficult situations and feelings. We talk about your concerns but also about your strengths & looking at things from different perspectives. During these conversations, we can laugh about some things, have a cup of coffee/tea together and color a picture. I work hard to provide a positive, accepting and non-judgmental environment where you feel safe to talk about your reality and truth.
My approach uses attachment-based & somatic experiences, including mindfulness and understanding the neuroscience behind anxiety, fear & anger.
Are you looking for something different when it comes to therapy? I believe therapy can be more relaxed & not always serious & "stuffy". My goal is for you to have an experience of comfort and encouragement while also working through difficult situations and feelings. We talk about your concerns but also about your strengths & looking at things from different perspectives. During these conversations, we can laugh about some things, have a cup of coffee/tea together and color a picture. I work hard to provide a positive, accepting and non-judgmental environment where you feel safe to talk about your reality and truth.
(608) 544-8732 View (608) 544-8732
Photo of Michele Laux, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Michele Laux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
Specialty practice around anxiety symptoms, including those associated with trauma/abuse. Everyone needs support, and sometimes we decide we need the compassionate support of a professional psychotherapist. In this safe, therapeutic, environment, I will help you to gently address challenging issues and gain insights to improve the overall quality of your life. You will be supported in connecting to your strengths, while exploring and practicing more effective and healthy ways of living. (Please contact me directly at my email address. I don’t currently work with insurance, but have a sliding scale which starts at $80 per session.)
Specialty practice around anxiety symptoms, including those associated with trauma/abuse. Everyone needs support, and sometimes we decide we need the compassionate support of a professional psychotherapist. In this safe, therapeutic, environment, I will help you to gently address challenging issues and gain insights to improve the overall quality of your life. You will be supported in connecting to your strengths, while exploring and practicing more effective and healthy ways of living. (Please contact me directly at my email address. I don’t currently work with insurance, but have a sliding scale which starts at $80 per session.)
(608) 405-6420 View (608) 405-6420
Photo of Trisha O'Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Trisha O'Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, (ABD), LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
Telehealth (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Texas, and FL). Perhaps, you're a highly sensitive person, experience high levels of anxiety, have past trauma, or are uncertain how to navigate challenging relationships in your life. You may be going through the motions of life, lacking joy, and feeling stuck or directionless. The negative self-talk and lack of confidence and certainty is stealing your joy. You can have truly meaningful connections, live a purposeful life, and be free from the grip of doubts, fears, and crippling emotions. You aren't alone in this.
Telehealth (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Texas, and FL). Perhaps, you're a highly sensitive person, experience high levels of anxiety, have past trauma, or are uncertain how to navigate challenging relationships in your life. You may be going through the motions of life, lacking joy, and feeling stuck or directionless. The negative self-talk and lack of confidence and certainty is stealing your joy. You can have truly meaningful connections, live a purposeful life, and be free from the grip of doubts, fears, and crippling emotions. You aren't alone in this.
(737) 259-7586 View (737) 259-7586
Photo of Christina M Lachner, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53711, WI
Christina M Lachner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
**Contact by email preferred.**. Everyone gets stuck or overwhelmed and at these times we need additional support. Therapy creates opportunities for you to explore your thoughts and feelings so you can better understand and change what's getting in the way of you living as your fullest self. I work with adolescents and their parents as well as individuals; in order to address anxiety, depression, self criticism, anger, loneliness, or feeling numb and shut down. Our work together strengthens your sense of self, your relationships, and your capacity to best respond to life's inevitable changes and challenges.
**Contact by email preferred.**. Everyone gets stuck or overwhelmed and at these times we need additional support. Therapy creates opportunities for you to explore your thoughts and feelings so you can better understand and change what's getting in the way of you living as your fullest self. I work with adolescents and their parents as well as individuals; in order to address anxiety, depression, self criticism, anger, loneliness, or feeling numb and shut down. Our work together strengthens your sense of self, your relationships, and your capacity to best respond to life's inevitable changes and challenges.
(262) 205-1329 View (262) 205-1329
Photo of DBT Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53711, WI
DBT Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fitchburg, WI 53711
“I dont deserve to be happy” or “ I feel like I’m all over the place” or "I am an emotional mess.” Can you identify with any variation of this? I know what you are going through and can help. I can help teach you effective ways in which to control your emotions and feel comfortable in your own skin. Along the way, I hope to develop a working relationship with you and guide you in developing positive habits that can help you find a life worth living. Additionally, DBT Counseling now offers RO DBT (Radically Open DBT) which has been proven effective in treating Chronic Depression, Resistant Anxiety Disorders and other challenges.
“I dont deserve to be happy” or “ I feel like I’m all over the place” or "I am an emotional mess.” Can you identify with any variation of this? I know what you are going through and can help. I can help teach you effective ways in which to control your emotions and feel comfortable in your own skin. Along the way, I hope to develop a working relationship with you and guide you in developing positive habits that can help you find a life worth living. Additionally, DBT Counseling now offers RO DBT (Radically Open DBT) which has been proven effective in treating Chronic Depression, Resistant Anxiety Disorders and other challenges.
(404) 949-8275 View (404) 949-8275
Photo of Daniela Guerrero, Counselor in 53711, WI
Daniela Guerrero
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711
If you are ready to work through difficult life events, stress and anxiety, traumatic events, and self-doubt, let's work together.
Are you having trouble finding a BIPOC bilingual therapist? Do you feel like you want to understand more about your emotions, life experiences, and stress? Have you ever wished you had someone to share your heaviest moments with? Do you want to feel “happy” and “okay”? Look for a therapist that can connect by being warm but direct, that can have the difficult conversations, and who uses science and education to help you process your experiences and reach your goals. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and attachment, with special populations in the LatinX community, and sexual assault.
If you are ready to work through difficult life events, stress and anxiety, traumatic events, and self-doubt, let's work together.
Are you having trouble finding a BIPOC bilingual therapist? Do you feel like you want to understand more about your emotions, life experiences, and stress? Have you ever wished you had someone to share your heaviest moments with? Do you want to feel “happy” and “okay”? Look for a therapist that can connect by being warm but direct, that can have the difficult conversations, and who uses science and education to help you process your experiences and reach your goals. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and attachment, with special populations in the LatinX community, and sexual assault.
(608) 200-3242 View (608) 200-3242
Photo of Megan Ludwigson, Counselor in 53711, WI
Megan Ludwigson
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
My specialties include anxiety, life transitions, depression, sexual trauma, grief, inner child work, and spiritual development.
Currently accepting new virtual clients! We all encounter challenges and setbacks in life. Therapy can support you in overcoming them while co-creating a life that you love. I approach therapy through a wellness lens to help you flourish, which means that instead of focusing solely on what's wrong, we pay attention to your strengths and ways that you can feel your best. As a trauma-informed therapist, I recognize that healing happens within the context of felt safety and connection so I strive to create a therapeutic space where you can show up as your whole and unique self. It is an honor to be there as a witness and guide.
My specialties include anxiety, life transitions, depression, sexual trauma, grief, inner child work, and spiritual development.
Currently accepting new virtual clients! We all encounter challenges and setbacks in life. Therapy can support you in overcoming them while co-creating a life that you love. I approach therapy through a wellness lens to help you flourish, which means that instead of focusing solely on what's wrong, we pay attention to your strengths and ways that you can feel your best. As a trauma-informed therapist, I recognize that healing happens within the context of felt safety and connection so I strive to create a therapeutic space where you can show up as your whole and unique self. It is an honor to be there as a witness and guide.
(608) 765-5264 View (608) 765-5264
Photo of Kelly Forman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53711, WI
Kelly Forman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
Areas of interest includes: ADHD, Anxiety/Depression, Chronic/Serious Illness, Emerging Adulthood, Major Life Transitions, and Parenting/Stepparenting.
The wound is the place where light enters. -Rumi- Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome; even the parts that may be difficult to share. Together we can begin to create space to begin your healing journey.
Areas of interest includes: ADHD, Anxiety/Depression, Chronic/Serious Illness, Emerging Adulthood, Major Life Transitions, and Parenting/Stepparenting.
The wound is the place where light enters. -Rumi- Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome; even the parts that may be difficult to share. Together we can begin to create space to begin your healing journey.
(608) 473-3577 View (608) 473-3577
Photo of Lexi Bonilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53711, WI
Lexi Bonilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery & empowerment? It takes courage to confront the stories that have shaped our lives and rewrite them into narratives that uplift and inspire. If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts or behaviors, know that you're not alone. Taking the first step towards change is monumental, and it's a step you don't have to take alone. In therapy, we'll work together to unravel the patterns that hold you back and discover the strength within you. My approach is rooted in collaboration, drawing on your unique strengths while compassionately exploring the challenges you face.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery & empowerment? It takes courage to confront the stories that have shaped our lives and rewrite them into narratives that uplift and inspire. If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts or behaviors, know that you're not alone. Taking the first step towards change is monumental, and it's a step you don't have to take alone. In therapy, we'll work together to unravel the patterns that hold you back and discover the strength within you. My approach is rooted in collaboration, drawing on your unique strengths while compassionately exploring the challenges you face.
(608) 420-5866 View (608) 420-5866
Photo of Kathy Goerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 53711, WI
Kathy Goerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SEP, DARTT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
Hi, I am Kathy. I work with a variety of clients who want to enrich their lives, reduce personal or relational distress and suffering, and increase their vitality in life. I treat anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational/developmental trauma, PTSD, and surgical trauma, including preparing for surgery. I work with adults (ages 18+) in individual sessions. I am an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist.
Hi, I am Kathy. I work with a variety of clients who want to enrich their lives, reduce personal or relational distress and suffering, and increase their vitality in life. I treat anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational/developmental trauma, PTSD, and surgical trauma, including preparing for surgery. I work with adults (ages 18+) in individual sessions. I am an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist.
(608) 496-9226 View (608) 496-9226
Photo of Lacey Schmidt, Psychologist in 53711, WI
Lacey Schmidt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fitchburg, WI 53711
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a parent who is stressed and burned out of navigating the ups and downs of parenting or trying to deal with other life stressors while being a parent? Is this leading to losing your temper, irritability, tiredness, shutting down, or excessive amounts of parent guilt? Or maybe you’re not a parent, but your anxiety is getting in the way of fully engaging and enjoying life. The “what if’s” and “if only’s”, planning and running through those plans repeatedly, or just having a non-stop busy mind in general can make it really difficult to enjoy anything. I would love to help you!
Are you a parent who is stressed and burned out of navigating the ups and downs of parenting or trying to deal with other life stressors while being a parent? Is this leading to losing your temper, irritability, tiredness, shutting down, or excessive amounts of parent guilt? Or maybe you’re not a parent, but your anxiety is getting in the way of fully engaging and enjoying life. The “what if’s” and “if only’s”, planning and running through those plans repeatedly, or just having a non-stop busy mind in general can make it really difficult to enjoy anything. I would love to help you!
(608) 530-1348 View (608) 530-1348
Photo of Dawn Lawhon, Psychologist in 53711, WI
Dawn Lawhon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by work and as though you’ve lost the way forward? I specialize in individual therapy for healthcare professionals and others in highly demanding jobs seeking to recover from anxiety, stress, and burnout, and to re-find their sense of passion, purpose, and meaning. I especially enjoy working with adult ADHDers and others who identify as neurodivergent. Together, we'll consider the full range of your stressors (at work and away from it), assess the impact of the systems in which you work and live, and identify the ways of coping and growing that are most helpful for you.
Feeling overwhelmed by work and as though you’ve lost the way forward? I specialize in individual therapy for healthcare professionals and others in highly demanding jobs seeking to recover from anxiety, stress, and burnout, and to re-find their sense of passion, purpose, and meaning. I especially enjoy working with adult ADHDers and others who identify as neurodivergent. Together, we'll consider the full range of your stressors (at work and away from it), assess the impact of the systems in which you work and live, and identify the ways of coping and growing that are most helpful for you.
(415) 843-8167 View (415) 843-8167
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.