Photo of Philip B. Rahm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Philip B. Rahm
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Are you struggling with issues of depression and or anxiety? Do you know you have a problem with alcohol and or drugs and need experienced, effective and compassionate care? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship where one or both of you are unhappy and it seems that no matter what you try, the relationship just does not get better? My name is Dr. Philip Rahm and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who has been helping individuals, couples, families and adolescents work through and successfully resolve their difficulties for over 30 years.
Are you struggling with issues of depression and or anxiety? Do you know you have a problem with alcohol and or drugs and need experienced, effective and compassionate care? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship where one or both of you are unhappy and it seems that no matter what you try, the relationship just does not get better? My name is Dr. Philip Rahm and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who has been helping individuals, couples, families and adolescents work through and successfully resolve their difficulties for over 30 years.
(650) 800-5530 View (650) 800-5530
Photo of Christopher Sato-Perry, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Christopher Sato-Perry
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
(650) 440-7197 View (650) 440-7197
Photo of Joe Fierro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Joe Fierro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I have experience working with various issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, grief & loss, enculturation, and stress management.
I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach in my work with clients. I believe in the human potential for healing, growth, and change. I explore with clients their life experiences and cultural influences as part of identifying areas of strength, as well as building awareness for how these factors may have contributed to challenges in the way they view themselves, their relationships, and the world. I like to help clients identify their successes, interests & talents, and aspects of their lives that are working well to include these in their process for change.
I have experience working with various issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, grief & loss, enculturation, and stress management.
I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach in my work with clients. I believe in the human potential for healing, growth, and change. I explore with clients their life experiences and cultural influences as part of identifying areas of strength, as well as building awareness for how these factors may have contributed to challenges in the way they view themselves, their relationships, and the world. I like to help clients identify their successes, interests & talents, and aspects of their lives that are working well to include these in their process for change.
(415) 886-1596 View (415) 886-1596
Photo of Robert M Holaway, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Robert M Holaway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
in Clinical Psychology from Temple University and completed clinical and research training at the Adult Anxiety Clinic of Temple (AACT) and the Anxiety and Agoraphobia Treatment Center (Bala Cynwyd, PA) in the areas of OCD and anxiety-related disorders.
I have specialized in the treatment of fear and anxiety for over 20 years. My expertise is in integrating a compassionate and pragmatic approach with empirically-supported therapies, such as CBT, ACT, and exposure therapy, to help individuals overcome life's obstacles and live more fulfilling and meaningful lives. I frequently work with individuals struggling with stress, panic disorder/agoraphobia, chronic worry, social anxiety, and phobias. I also have a specific expertise in the treatment of OCD and related disorders and am very passionate about helping people suffering with intrusive and bothersome obsessive thoughts.
in Clinical Psychology from Temple University and completed clinical and research training at the Adult Anxiety Clinic of Temple (AACT) and the Anxiety and Agoraphobia Treatment Center (Bala Cynwyd, PA) in the areas of OCD and anxiety-related disorders.
I have specialized in the treatment of fear and anxiety for over 20 years. My expertise is in integrating a compassionate and pragmatic approach with empirically-supported therapies, such as CBT, ACT, and exposure therapy, to help individuals overcome life's obstacles and live more fulfilling and meaningful lives. I frequently work with individuals struggling with stress, panic disorder/agoraphobia, chronic worry, social anxiety, and phobias. I also have a specific expertise in the treatment of OCD and related disorders and am very passionate about helping people suffering with intrusive and bothersome obsessive thoughts.
(650) 563-7534 View (650) 563-7534
Photo of Susan Light, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Susan Light
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, postpartum issues, chronic illness and pain, Tourette Syndrome and OCD.
For over 25 years I have worked with children, teens, parents, individual adults and couples facing a wide variety of issues and concerns. As I listen carefully to my clients and their challenges and goals, I choose the therapeutic modalities that best suit each individual and their needs. I focus on personal strengths as well as struggles. People have described me as active, engaged, perceptive and caring. It is a privilege to accompany and assist people in the important process of discovery, healing, change and growth.
I specialize in working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, postpartum issues, chronic illness and pain, Tourette Syndrome and OCD.
For over 25 years I have worked with children, teens, parents, individual adults and couples facing a wide variety of issues and concerns. As I listen carefully to my clients and their challenges and goals, I choose the therapeutic modalities that best suit each individual and their needs. I focus on personal strengths as well as struggles. People have described me as active, engaged, perceptive and caring. It is a privilege to accompany and assist people in the important process of discovery, healing, change and growth.
(650) 209-7653 View (650) 209-7653
Photo of Glenn Teeter, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Glenn Teeter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Do you feel like your relationships are suffering? Are you or a loved one looking for help with depression, anxiety, or stress? Therapy is a great way to get your life unstuck and moving forward again. I encourage you to call me for a free initial phone consultation so that I can offer you some ideas about how therapy can be helpful to you, what it involves, and how long it might last. At the very least, you'll come away with lots of answers to your questions about therapy and how it works.
Do you feel like your relationships are suffering? Are you or a loved one looking for help with depression, anxiety, or stress? Therapy is a great way to get your life unstuck and moving forward again. I encourage you to call me for a free initial phone consultation so that I can offer you some ideas about how therapy can be helpful to you, what it involves, and how long it might last. At the very least, you'll come away with lots of answers to your questions about therapy and how it works.
(650) 209-8447 View (650) 209-8447
Photo of Abby Haile, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Abby Haile
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I work with teenagers and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship problems.
The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. -C.C. Scott. We all go through challenges in life, and at times they can seem bigger than our ability to manage. In therapy, we can work together to cultivate the life you want through reducing the grip of depression, anxiety, and stress; healing from grief, loss, past abuse or trauma; regulating your nervous system; developing effective coping skills; improving relationships and communication; and building on your personal strengths. I want to help you to engage with life more fully and to support you in pursuing what you value most.
I work with teenagers and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship problems.
The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. -C.C. Scott. We all go through challenges in life, and at times they can seem bigger than our ability to manage. In therapy, we can work together to cultivate the life you want through reducing the grip of depression, anxiety, and stress; healing from grief, loss, past abuse or trauma; regulating your nervous system; developing effective coping skills; improving relationships and communication; and building on your personal strengths. I want to help you to engage with life more fully and to support you in pursuing what you value most.
(650) 646-5541 View (650) 646-5541
Photo of Katie Fracalanza, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Katie Fracalanza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Myself and my colleagues at the California Psychology Center specialize in therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and depression. We help with these difficulties by customizing strategies supported by the strongest research evidence to each unique individual. We work with clients in a warm, collaborative manner to help our clients better understand themselves, learn new skills, and overcome life’s struggles in a manner consistent with their values and goals. Our practice is aimed at both alleviating psychological distress, as well as bolstering strengths and a sense of personal fulfillment.
Myself and my colleagues at the California Psychology Center specialize in therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and depression. We help with these difficulties by customizing strategies supported by the strongest research evidence to each unique individual. We work with clients in a warm, collaborative manner to help our clients better understand themselves, learn new skills, and overcome life’s struggles in a manner consistent with their values and goals. Our practice is aimed at both alleviating psychological distress, as well as bolstering strengths and a sense of personal fulfillment.
(650) 200-4704 View (650) 200-4704
Photo of Edna M. Esnil, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Edna M. Esnil
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Whether through individual, couples, or career counseling, I take pride in helping people apply psychological science to reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Carl Rogers wrote, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” If you’re looking to develop a practice for ‘the good life,’ I would be honored to work with you. Whether you’re an adolescent, adult, or someone with a health, social, relational, cultural, educational, or employment issue, my strength-based, integrative approach is designed to meet your unique needs.
Whether through individual, couples, or career counseling, I take pride in helping people apply psychological science to reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Carl Rogers wrote, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” If you’re looking to develop a practice for ‘the good life,’ I would be honored to work with you. Whether you’re an adolescent, adult, or someone with a health, social, relational, cultural, educational, or employment issue, my strength-based, integrative approach is designed to meet your unique needs.
(650) 600-0437 View (650) 600-0437
Photo of Sutha Johnson, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Sutha Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Hi there. In therapy with me, you can expect to slow down, express your whole self, feel understood, and collaboratively work through feelings of worry, stuck or on-edge, loneliness, sadness, fear or shame. Your therapy goals are central to how I tailor treatment. My expertise are working with adults focusing on generalized/social anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, and who want to strengthen an authentic relationship with self. I also specialize in processing trauma, specifically for sexual assault survivors, adults with history of childhood abuse, and traumatic grief.
Hi there. In therapy with me, you can expect to slow down, express your whole self, feel understood, and collaboratively work through feelings of worry, stuck or on-edge, loneliness, sadness, fear or shame. Your therapy goals are central to how I tailor treatment. My expertise are working with adults focusing on generalized/social anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, and who want to strengthen an authentic relationship with self. I also specialize in processing trauma, specifically for sexual assault survivors, adults with history of childhood abuse, and traumatic grief.
(650) 749-7397 View (650) 749-7397
Photo of Maria Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Maria Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
(650) 995-5283 View (650) 995-5283
Photo of Patricia E Lund, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Patricia E Lund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Have you recently received a medical diagnosis that has thrown you "off your path?" Do you have an upcoming surgical procedure that has you frightened, and you want to be as prepared as possible? Are you scheduling an elective procedure that will make your life better, but that has inherent risks? Or perhaps you need help in healing from a disturbing medical procedure? One of my specialties as a psychotherapist is to help you manage and heal from such events. I have spent 30 years helping people diagnosed with breast cancer, other forms of cancer, and medical crises as well as life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief.
Have you recently received a medical diagnosis that has thrown you "off your path?" Do you have an upcoming surgical procedure that has you frightened, and you want to be as prepared as possible? Are you scheduling an elective procedure that will make your life better, but that has inherent risks? Or perhaps you need help in healing from a disturbing medical procedure? One of my specialties as a psychotherapist is to help you manage and heal from such events. I have spent 30 years helping people diagnosed with breast cancer, other forms of cancer, and medical crises as well as life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief.
(415) 592-6893 View (415) 592-6893
Photo of Ryan Thurwachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Ryan Thurwachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by emotions like sadness, anger, and anxiety? If so, you are in good company because many people carry deep wounds from painful experiences where they learned beliefs about themselves or the world that limit their potential. The good news is we are capable of healing these wounds. I am a Level 1 Trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist who guides clients through a transformative journey of exploring the complexities of their emotions, behaviors, and underlying beliefs. Through this healing process, we will uncover self-compassion, resilience, and a deep sense of wholeness.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed by emotions like sadness, anger, and anxiety? If so, you are in good company because many people carry deep wounds from painful experiences where they learned beliefs about themselves or the world that limit their potential. The good news is we are capable of healing these wounds. I am a Level 1 Trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist who guides clients through a transformative journey of exploring the complexities of their emotions, behaviors, and underlying beliefs. Through this healing process, we will uncover self-compassion, resilience, and a deep sense of wholeness.
(949) 749-3675 View (949) 749-3675
Photo of Devora Weinapple, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Devora Weinapple
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Whether you've been in therapy before, or this will be your first time; it is important to feel safe and comfortable enough to talk about things that are causing you distress. Are you experiencing life changes, decisions, challenges, trauma, illness, or disabilities? Are you looking for a way to cope with anxiety or depression?  Do you have nightmares or trouble sleeping?  Maybe you have experienced the loss of someone close to you, or a job, or a beloved pet.  Or you are just plain stressed out.  All the time. Talk can help, but so can non-verbal expressive therapies, in a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment.
Whether you've been in therapy before, or this will be your first time; it is important to feel safe and comfortable enough to talk about things that are causing you distress. Are you experiencing life changes, decisions, challenges, trauma, illness, or disabilities? Are you looking for a way to cope with anxiety or depression?  Do you have nightmares or trouble sleeping?  Maybe you have experienced the loss of someone close to you, or a job, or a beloved pet.  Or you are just plain stressed out.  All the time. Talk can help, but so can non-verbal expressive therapies, in a non-threatening, non-judgmental environment.
(650) 445-0582 View (650) 445-0582
Photo of Jill Pomerantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Jill Pomerantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I work with adults navigating major life transitions (post-college, relocation, career, relationship, new parent, marriage, retirement), anxiety disorders, relationship issues (including couples work), coping with cancer and other chronic illness (both patients and loved ones) and with healthcare providers (physicians, nurses, therapists).
Feeling overwhelmed, constantly unsettled or a persistent sadness that colors everything? Drained energy and mental exhaustion can leave us not knowing how to start the healing process. Seeking support is a courageous step to allow another person in and build a safe relationship in order to facilitate change. I provide a nonjudgemental supportive environment where we can work together to decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, confusion, and other uncomfortable states we often find ourselves in. I will empower and challenge you to increase self-awareness, develop insight, and learn healthy ways to cope with life's challenges.
I work with adults navigating major life transitions (post-college, relocation, career, relationship, new parent, marriage, retirement), anxiety disorders, relationship issues (including couples work), coping with cancer and other chronic illness (both patients and loved ones) and with healthcare providers (physicians, nurses, therapists).
Feeling overwhelmed, constantly unsettled or a persistent sadness that colors everything? Drained energy and mental exhaustion can leave us not knowing how to start the healing process. Seeking support is a courageous step to allow another person in and build a safe relationship in order to facilitate change. I provide a nonjudgemental supportive environment where we can work together to decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, confusion, and other uncomfortable states we often find ourselves in. I will empower and challenge you to increase self-awareness, develop insight, and learn healthy ways to cope with life's challenges.
(424) 235-5842 View (424) 235-5842
Photo of Keith A. Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Keith A. Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
My background includes working with; sexual trauma, (co-founder of the Sexual Assault Center, Nashville, TN), performance and anxiety containment (athletes, professionals, Army soldiers and families, students therapists), unique populations (LGBTQ+, people escaping childhood religious cultures, and veterans), and adoption.
My style of therapy is client-centered. I want to know who the person is that has chosen to come to therapy to improve their life. Clients can describe the areas of their life that they want to improve, and as these are recorded, individual therapy goals are created. This process is possible because I am often described as a master listener. Once the goals for improvement have been established, a game plan is able to be created. My unique background includes anxiety containment, trauma resolution, and resilience creation. Each client has strengths to build from to create a more effective way of thinking about the issues.
My background includes working with; sexual trauma, (co-founder of the Sexual Assault Center, Nashville, TN), performance and anxiety containment (athletes, professionals, Army soldiers and families, students therapists), unique populations (LGBTQ+, people escaping childhood religious cultures, and veterans), and adoption.
My style of therapy is client-centered. I want to know who the person is that has chosen to come to therapy to improve their life. Clients can describe the areas of their life that they want to improve, and as these are recorded, individual therapy goals are created. This process is possible because I am often described as a master listener. Once the goals for improvement have been established, a game plan is able to be created. My unique background includes anxiety containment, trauma resolution, and resilience creation. Each client has strengths to build from to create a more effective way of thinking about the issues.
(510) 621-6395 View (510) 621-6395
Photo of Kimberly Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Kimberly Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Kimberly Higgins, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board Certified Diplomate (BCD) based in Northern California working with adult clients statewide via telehealth. My work is with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustment to life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary approaches to therapy. We’ll work together so that you can build a foundation to move toward wellness.
Welcome! My name is Kimberly Higgins, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board Certified Diplomate (BCD) based in Northern California working with adult clients statewide via telehealth. My work is with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustment to life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary approaches to therapy. We’ll work together so that you can build a foundation to move toward wellness.
(415) 704-0705 View (415) 704-0705
Photo of Tamara L Hartl, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Tamara L Hartl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Anxiety can be a debilitating condition. Fortunately, cognitive behavioral therapy has been proven to help people break free from anxiety's limitations. I work with individuals struggling with worry, indecisiveness, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety. I work collaboratively with people to set concrete goals and then systematically go about achieving them. My ideal client is someone who no longer wants anxiety to dictate their choices in life. My clients want the freedom and flexibility to make decisions based on values rather than fear.
Anxiety can be a debilitating condition. Fortunately, cognitive behavioral therapy has been proven to help people break free from anxiety's limitations. I work with individuals struggling with worry, indecisiveness, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety. I work collaboratively with people to set concrete goals and then systematically go about achieving them. My ideal client is someone who no longer wants anxiety to dictate their choices in life. My clients want the freedom and flexibility to make decisions based on values rather than fear.
(650) 955-0328 View (650) 955-0328
Photo of Margaux Dever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Margaux Dever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94026
My experience within the field of social work is diverse, but presently I have been specializing working with pregnant, and postpartum women with anxiety, depression(antepartum/postpartum).
Maybe you have come to a place in life where "figuring it out" on your own is not working. Maybe you want to develop new skills, a new perspective from someone with experience, non-bias, and without judgement. I am committed to assist individuals, couples, and families navigate life. It can be hard to make that first step to reach out for help, but I will meet you right where you are at!
My experience within the field of social work is diverse, but presently I have been specializing working with pregnant, and postpartum women with anxiety, depression(antepartum/postpartum).
Maybe you have come to a place in life where "figuring it out" on your own is not working. Maybe you want to develop new skills, a new perspective from someone with experience, non-bias, and without judgement. I am committed to assist individuals, couples, and families navigate life. It can be hard to make that first step to reach out for help, but I will meet you right where you are at!
(650) 547-8457 View (650) 547-8457
Photo of Jason Angel, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Jason Angel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
A Bay Area native, Dr. Jason Angel specializes in both cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) and dialectical behavioral treatment (DBT) for mood and anxiety disorders. Dr. Angel received his Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University graduating phi beta kappa and with honors and distinction. He then received his PH.D. in clinical psychology at Harvard University conducting research on cognitive factors involved in major depression. Dr. Angel has worked in clinics in the Boston area, including the Bipolar Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), and the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Institute and the Klarman Eating Disorders Center at Mclean Hospital.
A Bay Area native, Dr. Jason Angel specializes in both cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) and dialectical behavioral treatment (DBT) for mood and anxiety disorders. Dr. Angel received his Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University graduating phi beta kappa and with honors and distinction. He then received his PH.D. in clinical psychology at Harvard University conducting research on cognitive factors involved in major depression. Dr. Angel has worked in clinics in the Boston area, including the Bipolar Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), and the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Institute and the Klarman Eating Disorders Center at Mclean Hospital.
(650) 466-7917 View (650) 466-7917
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.