Photo of Mai Shimada - Isha Health, MD
Isha Health
MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
We offer ketamine therapy for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
At Isha Health, our ideal client is a working professional who is facing overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that affects their daily life. Many of our clients feel trapped in a cycle of exhaustion, unable to enjoy their careers or personal lives as they once did. They may have tried traditional therapies or medications, but they haven’t found the relief they’re seeking. Their goal is to regain control, feel balanced again, and experience life with clarity and purpose. They want a solution that is both effective and personalized, tailored to their unique mental health journey.
We offer ketamine therapy for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
At Isha Health, our ideal client is a working professional who is facing overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that affects their daily life. Many of our clients feel trapped in a cycle of exhaustion, unable to enjoy their careers or personal lives as they once did. They may have tried traditional therapies or medications, but they haven’t found the relief they’re seeking. Their goal is to regain control, feel balanced again, and experience life with clarity and purpose. They want a solution that is both effective and personalized, tailored to their unique mental health journey.
(415) 903-8621 View (415) 903-8621
Photo of Ali Howard Kirsch, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ali Howard Kirsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I work with adults exploring issues such as: depression & anxiety; loneliness, isolation, & grief; adult & childhood trauma; relationship & communication issues; job & life dissatisfaction; parental & sibling relationships; marriage, divorce & separation; parenting issues with young or grown children.
I’m a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and a clinical supervisor. For the past 15 years I’ve helped people better understand themselves, heal from past difficulties, and build stronger interpersonal connections. Examining one’s difficulties requires courage and resolve. Therapy is a long-term investment in yourself and in your desire to live a fuller, more satisfying life. With a lot of effort and patience, the therapeutic process can pays off.
I work with adults exploring issues such as: depression & anxiety; loneliness, isolation, & grief; adult & childhood trauma; relationship & communication issues; job & life dissatisfaction; parental & sibling relationships; marriage, divorce & separation; parenting issues with young or grown children.
I’m a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and a clinical supervisor. For the past 15 years I’ve helped people better understand themselves, heal from past difficulties, and build stronger interpersonal connections. Examining one’s difficulties requires courage and resolve. Therapy is a long-term investment in yourself and in your desire to live a fuller, more satisfying life. With a lot of effort and patience, the therapeutic process can pays off.
(415) 894-9921 View (415) 894-9921
Photo of Wendy Skillern - Wendy Skillern, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Skillern, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming--but it doesn't have to. If you have experienced trauma, whether recurring or as an isolated incident, even the typical stresses of a normal day can provoke anxiety, fear, anger, or withdrawal. Luckily, therapy can provide you tools to deal with life's challenges, enabling you to minimize your stress levels and continue your personal growth. I will guide you to increased happiness and well-being by supporting you in exploring and enacting lasting, positive changes in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
Life can feel overwhelming--but it doesn't have to. If you have experienced trauma, whether recurring or as an isolated incident, even the typical stresses of a normal day can provoke anxiety, fear, anger, or withdrawal. Luckily, therapy can provide you tools to deal with life's challenges, enabling you to minimize your stress levels and continue your personal growth. I will guide you to increased happiness and well-being by supporting you in exploring and enacting lasting, positive changes in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
(415) 202-6934 View (415) 202-6934
Photo of Leslie R Davis, JD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Erin Mullin, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Mullin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Something is getting in the way of living the life you want to live. You want to be professionally successful, have good relationships with friends and family, contribute meaningfully to the world and even have some fun. Instead you may be suffering a barrage of negative thoughts about yourself, sabotaging work or relationships or feeling unbearably anxious. I can provide a supportive, respectful relationship where you can face these difficult issues. I have helped many people to curb self/other destructiveness, improve relationships and have a more successful work-life while learning to be more kind to themselves and others.
Something is getting in the way of living the life you want to live. You want to be professionally successful, have good relationships with friends and family, contribute meaningfully to the world and even have some fun. Instead you may be suffering a barrage of negative thoughts about yourself, sabotaging work or relationships or feeling unbearably anxious. I can provide a supportive, respectful relationship where you can face these difficult issues. I have helped many people to curb self/other destructiveness, improve relationships and have a more successful work-life while learning to be more kind to themselves and others.
(415) 800-4721 View (415) 800-4721
Photo of Michael Myette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Myette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Welcome!...If you are reading this, you are most likely looking to make a change. It could be something you have been working towards for some time, or a sudden spark of inspiration and clarity. Whatever your journey to this moment, you are in a ripe time for development and growth! I have extensive experience helping adults of all ages and orientations identify and meet their therapy, work, relationship, and life goals. I especially enjoy working adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, low-self-worth, life transitions, work/life balance, perfectionism, and self-actualization.
Welcome!...If you are reading this, you are most likely looking to make a change. It could be something you have been working towards for some time, or a sudden spark of inspiration and clarity. Whatever your journey to this moment, you are in a ripe time for development and growth! I have extensive experience helping adults of all ages and orientations identify and meet their therapy, work, relationship, and life goals. I especially enjoy working adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, low-self-worth, life transitions, work/life balance, perfectionism, and self-actualization.
(415) 991-7993 View (415) 991-7993
Photo of Rebecca Peng, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Peng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As an Asian female therapist, I deeply understand the challenges and opportunities that come with a bi-cultural upbringing. Every individual possesses the innate desire to grow as well as the capacity to heal from traumas and painful life events. I am here to guide you through difficult life transitions and improve your relationships. I will help you approach life with fresh perspectives and more effective strategies. I have more than a decade of therapy experience with clients of all ages struggling with issues such as depression and anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, and unhealthy relationships.
As an Asian female therapist, I deeply understand the challenges and opportunities that come with a bi-cultural upbringing. Every individual possesses the innate desire to grow as well as the capacity to heal from traumas and painful life events. I am here to guide you through difficult life transitions and improve your relationships. I will help you approach life with fresh perspectives and more effective strategies. I have more than a decade of therapy experience with clients of all ages struggling with issues such as depression and anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, and unhealthy relationships.
(415) 413-0418 View (415) 413-0418
Photo of Derek Rubinstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Derek Rubinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
(415) 521-3766 View (415) 521-3766
Photo of Batya Ross, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Batya Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am experienced in working with people confronted by relationship challenges, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, family challenges and self harm.
Most of us lug around a suitcase full of our thoughts, feelings, family history and past experiences and have no idea what's in there. Our current responses to and experience of life come from the contents of that suitcase. Together in therapy we gently unpack it. We will see what is working for you, what needs more support and what has served it's purpose but no longer works. I work collaboratively and am curious about all the things that make you who you are. I am particularly interested in working with people who feel misunderstood or unimportant.
I am experienced in working with people confronted by relationship challenges, low self esteem, anxiety, depression, family challenges and self harm.
Most of us lug around a suitcase full of our thoughts, feelings, family history and past experiences and have no idea what's in there. Our current responses to and experience of life come from the contents of that suitcase. Together in therapy we gently unpack it. We will see what is working for you, what needs more support and what has served it's purpose but no longer works. I work collaboratively and am curious about all the things that make you who you are. I am particularly interested in working with people who feel misunderstood or unimportant.
(415) 275-6820 View (415) 275-6820
Photo of Jeremy Mintz, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeremy Mintz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and preteens with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and behavioral problems, among other concerns.
I imagine you've found your way here because you're feeling stuck and needing a reason to hope that things will change. Others may not see that you're feeling this way, but you know you're in need of relief. If this sounds like what you're going through, I may be a good fit to help you.
I specialize in treating adults, adolescents, and preteens with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and behavioral problems, among other concerns.
I imagine you've found your way here because you're feeling stuck and needing a reason to hope that things will change. Others may not see that you're feeling this way, but you know you're in need of relief. If this sounds like what you're going through, I may be a good fit to help you.
(415) 964-2474 View (415) 964-2474
Photo of Ashley Ah Hyun Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Ah Hyun Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
We also offer EMDR Therapy, PTSD Treatment, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, and Therapy for Bipolar Disorder.
We specialize in Trauma and PTSD. We work with individual adults who have a long history of childhood trauma, sexual violence and abuse, difficult family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural differences with their parents, family members with substance use issues, social anxiety, phobia, and depression. We help you process what happened, attend to and be with your emotions without dissociating, and rather find relief from sharing the stories. We also work with people whose doctors have recommended seeking trauma therapy like EMDR therapy.
We also offer EMDR Therapy, PTSD Treatment, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, and Therapy for Bipolar Disorder.
We specialize in Trauma and PTSD. We work with individual adults who have a long history of childhood trauma, sexual violence and abuse, difficult family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural differences with their parents, family members with substance use issues, social anxiety, phobia, and depression. We help you process what happened, attend to and be with your emotions without dissociating, and rather find relief from sharing the stories. We also work with people whose doctors have recommended seeking trauma therapy like EMDR therapy.
(650) 955-4312 View (650) 955-4312
Photo of Heather B Morris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather B Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Individual therapy may focus on understanding unhelpful thought patterns and fears.
Welcome! People have all kinds of thoughts and feelings. Therapy is one of the few places where you can express yourself fully without fear of judgment. I offer an accepting, inclusive environment where you can feel comfortable showing up just as you are. Whether you are single, dating, or in an established relationship, I can help you reconnect with yourself and others more effectively. I also work with anxiety and attention issues. Lack of quality sleep can also be an obstacle to mental health. I am certified in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia) to help my clients overcome insomnia and achieve better rest.
Individual therapy may focus on understanding unhelpful thought patterns and fears.
Welcome! People have all kinds of thoughts and feelings. Therapy is one of the few places where you can express yourself fully without fear of judgment. I offer an accepting, inclusive environment where you can feel comfortable showing up just as you are. Whether you are single, dating, or in an established relationship, I can help you reconnect with yourself and others more effectively. I also work with anxiety and attention issues. Lack of quality sleep can also be an obstacle to mental health. I am certified in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia) to help my clients overcome insomnia and achieve better rest.
(628) 265-4498 View (628) 265-4498
Photo of Leslie Yan Meier, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie Yan Meier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in three areas: substance abuse/addictions treatment, including both harm reduction and abstinence-focused treatments; mood disorders treatment, with an emphasis on bipolar disorder; and evidence based therapies, including CBT, DBT, CPT, and ACT for a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. Through the process of psychotherapy, I endeavor to help clients gain insight and perspective into their relationships and behaviors with the intention of achieving positive change. We will work in tandem to identify treatment goals and expectations at the outset of treatment, and will ensure that the focus of therapy is on the most salient issues.
I specialize in three areas: substance abuse/addictions treatment, including both harm reduction and abstinence-focused treatments; mood disorders treatment, with an emphasis on bipolar disorder; and evidence based therapies, including CBT, DBT, CPT, and ACT for a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. Through the process of psychotherapy, I endeavor to help clients gain insight and perspective into their relationships and behaviors with the intention of achieving positive change. We will work in tandem to identify treatment goals and expectations at the outset of treatment, and will ensure that the focus of therapy is on the most salient issues.
(415) 226-4996 View (415) 226-4996
Photo of Robynne Herron, LPCC
Robynne Herron
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have experience working with clients experiencing mental illness such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, substance use, Schizophrenia, BiPolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello, I am Robynne (Robin üòâ) Herron. I am a Licensed Profession Clinical Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is relaxed with a gratuitous use of humor. I favor existential and client-centered approaches. Typically, I work with clients that are focused on figuring out how to feel better; however, I have worked with many clients that weren't sure what feeling better would look like or that were stuck thinking it couldn't get better at all.
I have experience working with clients experiencing mental illness such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, substance use, Schizophrenia, BiPolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello, I am Robynne (Robin üòâ) Herron. I am a Licensed Profession Clinical Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is relaxed with a gratuitous use of humor. I favor existential and client-centered approaches. Typically, I work with clients that are focused on figuring out how to feel better; however, I have worked with many clients that weren't sure what feeling better would look like or that were stuck thinking it couldn't get better at all.
(415) 340-7922 View (415) 340-7922
Photo of Barrie Eden Yuspeh, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barrie Eden Yuspeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I work with people dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression and childhood issues.
I offer remote sessions that fit your needs. 2022 can be a great time to begin therapy and check in on your goals. Are you ready to make some changes? Or look at old blocks that have been holding you back? I offer psychotherapy for mind, body and spirit and I can help you to create and foster the life you want. I help people find more ease, more satisfaction, more confidence and more connection to themselves and others. By creating an atmosphere for learning, discovery and healing, I have seen many clients go through a deep transformative process.
I work with people dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression and childhood issues.
I offer remote sessions that fit your needs. 2022 can be a great time to begin therapy and check in on your goals. Are you ready to make some changes? Or look at old blocks that have been holding you back? I offer psychotherapy for mind, body and spirit and I can help you to create and foster the life you want. I help people find more ease, more satisfaction, more confidence and more connection to themselves and others. By creating an atmosphere for learning, discovery and healing, I have seen many clients go through a deep transformative process.
(415) 935-4932 View (415) 935-4932
Photo of Dr. Nathan Hale, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nathan Hale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with patients to live better with anxiety, depression and ADHD.
Are you bothered by constant worry, fear, nervousness or anxiety? Feeling down, depressed, hopeless or like life is always going wrong? Having difficulty focusing or concentrating and feeling like you are always on the move? Is procrastinating or always putting things off until the last minute something you struggle with? These are all a part of being human, and there is nothing wrong with you. Let me help you better how to understand these thoughts, and feelings and drop the struggle against them. I can help you better understand how you can change behaviors and live a better life, even with these thoughts and feelings.
I specialize in working with patients to live better with anxiety, depression and ADHD.
Are you bothered by constant worry, fear, nervousness or anxiety? Feeling down, depressed, hopeless or like life is always going wrong? Having difficulty focusing or concentrating and feeling like you are always on the move? Is procrastinating or always putting things off until the last minute something you struggle with? These are all a part of being human, and there is nothing wrong with you. Let me help you better how to understand these thoughts, and feelings and drop the struggle against them. I can help you better understand how you can change behaviors and live a better life, even with these thoughts and feelings.
(415) 858-1909 View (415) 858-1909
Photo of Tammy Que Phan Vuong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy Que Phan Vuong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hello. I work with adults, families and couples. My training and expertise are treating anxiety, depression, relationship/family/in-law issues, psychosis, personality disorders, life transition, immigrations and identity exploration. My therapy styles are warm, client centered, emotional focused. I share with my clients a lot that "You want to make sure you feel comfortable talking to me." It is true because therapy is personal.
Hello. I work with adults, families and couples. My training and expertise are treating anxiety, depression, relationship/family/in-law issues, psychosis, personality disorders, life transition, immigrations and identity exploration. My therapy styles are warm, client centered, emotional focused. I share with my clients a lot that "You want to make sure you feel comfortable talking to me." It is true because therapy is personal.
(415) 936-0585 View (415) 936-0585
Photo of Lizette G Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizette G Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I help children (8 and older), teens, and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality.
You want to feel seen, understood, and validated in your experience. You want a life that’s more fulfilling. Maybe your past experiences are getting in your way and you’re feeling ready to finally work through them... and maybe even learn to use them as opportunities to grow. Maybe you’re tired of feeling disconnected and lost. Maybe you’re: -Feeling numb to the world around you. -Trying to thrive but feeling burned out. -Feeling down, anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself. -Struggling to figure out how to move forward from your past.
I help children (8 and older), teens, and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality.
You want to feel seen, understood, and validated in your experience. You want a life that’s more fulfilling. Maybe your past experiences are getting in your way and you’re feeling ready to finally work through them... and maybe even learn to use them as opportunities to grow. Maybe you’re tired of feeling disconnected and lost. Maybe you’re: -Feeling numb to the world around you. -Trying to thrive but feeling burned out. -Feeling down, anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself. -Struggling to figure out how to move forward from your past.
(415) 881-5711 View (415) 881-5711
Photo of Pete Van Auken, MFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pete Van Auken
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a psychotherapist with offices in San Francisco and Marin, and I provide individual therapy for adults and teens. I have a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, helping people to explore and resolve deeper issues that might be holding them back or manifesting as depression or anxiety. I specialize in helping clients to navigate major life transitions, overcome feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed, improve their relationships, and live with a stronger sense of vitality and authenticity.
I am a psychotherapist with offices in San Francisco and Marin, and I provide individual therapy for adults and teens. I have a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, helping people to explore and resolve deeper issues that might be holding them back or manifesting as depression or anxiety. I specialize in helping clients to navigate major life transitions, overcome feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed, improve their relationships, and live with a stronger sense of vitality and authenticity.
(415) 326-9551 View (415) 326-9551
Photo of Olesya Anatolevna Leskel, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, MEd, Counselor
Olesya Anatolevna Leskel
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, MEd
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
In 12 years of being a therapist I helped people just like you to find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, develop healthy ways of looking at yourself and connecting to others.
Do you feel alone with what you are going through ? Do you feel stuck in a situation and don't see way out? Please know, you don't have to suffer alone! The help is just a phone call way! As your therapist, I will help you feel safe, accepted, and cared for. My care and understanding is genuine, as for someone who struggled myself the strugglers of others are easy to understand. I am direct but compassionate, working hard to uncover the root of the problem rather than putting a bandage on it.
In 12 years of being a therapist I helped people just like you to find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, develop healthy ways of looking at yourself and connecting to others.
Do you feel alone with what you are going through ? Do you feel stuck in a situation and don't see way out? Please know, you don't have to suffer alone! The help is just a phone call way! As your therapist, I will help you feel safe, accepted, and cared for. My care and understanding is genuine, as for someone who struggled myself the strugglers of others are easy to understand. I am direct but compassionate, working hard to uncover the root of the problem rather than putting a bandage on it.
(415) 702-3807 View (415) 702-3807
1
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.