Photo of Sophia Shu Wang in San Francisco, CA
Sophia Shu Wang
MA, MT-BC, ADHD-CC, CCTP-I, CCBT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My specialty is treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and navigating narcissistic fallout through life coaching and therapy.
Through my 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds from NYC to SF, I developed a very collaborative approach, which includes but not limited to humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral. I integrate creative modality with practical CBT, ACT, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Coaching to reach the best outcome for each individual. I help my clients connect with purpose, passion, and community to go from managing difficult times to thriving and living life fully.
My specialty is treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and navigating narcissistic fallout through life coaching and therapy.
Through my 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds from NYC to SF, I developed a very collaborative approach, which includes but not limited to humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral. I integrate creative modality with practical CBT, ACT, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Coaching to reach the best outcome for each individual. I help my clients connect with purpose, passion, and community to go from managing difficult times to thriving and living life fully.
(341) 766-0668 View (341) 766-0668
Photo of Ari-Asha Castalia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ari-Asha Castalia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CI, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I work with couples & individuals, especially around anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I believe healing happens when you make a connection with another person where you can be yourself, feel valued, listened to, and cared for. Working with a therapist can be a way to access the healing you desire and deserve. In our work together we can look at ALL the aspects of you, without judgement (even the parts you don't LOVE). When the totality of you is allowed to be seen, heard and cared for, a shift happens--that's where the healing happens. While you don't need to do a "Big Dig" to examine your past, you CAN change the way the past impacts the present. If you're up for making art, that's great--and it's not required.
I work with couples & individuals, especially around anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I believe healing happens when you make a connection with another person where you can be yourself, feel valued, listened to, and cared for. Working with a therapist can be a way to access the healing you desire and deserve. In our work together we can look at ALL the aspects of you, without judgement (even the parts you don't LOVE). When the totality of you is allowed to be seen, heard and cared for, a shift happens--that's where the healing happens. While you don't need to do a "Big Dig" to examine your past, you CAN change the way the past impacts the present. If you're up for making art, that's great--and it's not required.
(650) 567-5844 View (650) 567-5844
Photo of Silvia Escobar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Silvia Escobar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I find that my style and approach is a good fit for teenagers and adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, social pressures, grief and loss. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
(415) 878-6144 View (415) 878-6144
Photo of Julie Schmidt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Julie Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I work with those who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADHD; struggling Parents as well as those experiencing Grief and Loss.
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
I work with those who are challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADHD; struggling Parents as well as those experiencing Grief and Loss.
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
(415) 649-4717 View (415) 649-4717
Photo of Lusa Hung, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lusa Hung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
(415) 825-3514 View (415) 825-3514
April Suzanne Perkins
Counselor, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety Self Esteem, women issues, marital and premarital, life transitions, spirituality,.
Going through life's journey is like riding a roller coaster full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. On a roller coaster, you often have someone sitting next to you regardless of if you know the person. Think of life the same way. It is challenging and shouldn't be done alone. My passion is to help clients go through life transitions and challenges with more ease by identifying and rediscovering their strengths to develop a healthy lifestyle.
(209) 255-5266 View (209) 255-5266
Photo of Sarah Voynow Berman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sarah Voynow Berman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Skills overcoming addictions, codependency, depression, anxiety, phobias, interpersonal conflict and trauma are taught and practiced both in session and between appointments.
Are you having any mental blocks stemming from stress? Would you like to learn creative, evidence-based practical skills that can facilitate positive lasting change? As an active psychotherapist and professional musician I work with motivated clients who want to obtain greater self compassion, acceptance and productive strategies to assist in establishing a healthy balance in their professional and personal lives.
Skills overcoming addictions, codependency, depression, anxiety, phobias, interpersonal conflict and trauma are taught and practiced both in session and between appointments.
Are you having any mental blocks stemming from stress? Would you like to learn creative, evidence-based practical skills that can facilitate positive lasting change? As an active psychotherapist and professional musician I work with motivated clients who want to obtain greater self compassion, acceptance and productive strategies to assist in establishing a healthy balance in their professional and personal lives.
(415) 578-5358 View (415) 578-5358
Photo of Minda Streamer, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco, CA
Minda Streamer
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My past work includes working with clients who have experienced PTSD, gun violence, depression, anxiety, self harm, grief, and relationship conflicts.
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
My past work includes working with clients who have experienced PTSD, gun violence, depression, anxiety, self harm, grief, and relationship conflicts.
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
(347) 658-1393 View (347) 658-1393
Photo of Time for Change, Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Time for Change, Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
My practice is focused on helping those struggling with addiction, challenged with anxiety, depression and issues with self-esteem.
One thing that we have in common is that we all experience suffering. A lost relationship, disappointment at work, substance use that has taken control and chronic self-doubt are a few of the common forms. I have found that we can lessen our suffering with acceptance, self-compassion, mindfulness and the help and support of a therapist who seeks to understand your experience. I I am particularly interested in the process of change. Why, when we know that making a change would be good for us, do we not act?
My practice is focused on helping those struggling with addiction, challenged with anxiety, depression and issues with self-esteem.
One thing that we have in common is that we all experience suffering. A lost relationship, disappointment at work, substance use that has taken control and chronic self-doubt are a few of the common forms. I have found that we can lessen our suffering with acceptance, self-compassion, mindfulness and the help and support of a therapist who seeks to understand your experience. I I am particularly interested in the process of change. Why, when we know that making a change would be good for us, do we not act?
(415) 625-1673 View (415) 625-1673
Photo of Amma H Tai, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Amma H Tai
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing individual and group therapy in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I specialize in anxiety disorders, stress and related conditions, and provide ADHD evaluation. Change may cause stress, but dealing with a change successfully would leave us stronger, more confident, and better prepared for a new chapter in our life. My approach is practical, focusing on fast symptom relief. I will help you understand your concerns and guide you to solutions you believe are best by learning new skills that will allow you to deal with challenges and maximize your full potential.
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing individual and group therapy in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I specialize in anxiety disorders, stress and related conditions, and provide ADHD evaluation. Change may cause stress, but dealing with a change successfully would leave us stronger, more confident, and better prepared for a new chapter in our life. My approach is practical, focusing on fast symptom relief. I will help you understand your concerns and guide you to solutions you believe are best by learning new skills that will allow you to deal with challenges and maximize your full potential.
(628) 333-6588 View (628) 333-6588
Photo of Megan Kossar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Megan Kossar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
Using a non judgmental humanistic theory approach, we can work to reduce anxiety, anger, grief, and stress, and uncover a more fulfilling and rewarding path forward.
As a skilled psychotherapist, I understand the challenges and concerns that can arise when seeking therapy. That's why I accept insurance to make the process more accessible and affordable for those in need. Whether you're new to therapy or have sought help in the past, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights necessary to manage life's difficulties and achieve healthy, meaningful relationships. With over 26 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients facing chronic and terminal illnesses, as well as their support systems, helping to alleviate stress and promote positive coping strategies.
Using a non judgmental humanistic theory approach, we can work to reduce anxiety, anger, grief, and stress, and uncover a more fulfilling and rewarding path forward.
As a skilled psychotherapist, I understand the challenges and concerns that can arise when seeking therapy. That's why I accept insurance to make the process more accessible and affordable for those in need. Whether you're new to therapy or have sought help in the past, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights necessary to manage life's difficulties and achieve healthy, meaningful relationships. With over 26 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients facing chronic and terminal illnesses, as well as their support systems, helping to alleviate stress and promote positive coping strategies.
(628) 266-4342 View (628) 266-4342
Photo of Isis Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Isis Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
(312) 561-3208 View (312) 561-3208
Photo of Chad Kordt-Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Chad Kordt-Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I help people looking for ways to manage worry, and to find hope during stressful periods of their lives.
In response to current disruptions to daily life and worries related to Covid-19, I am now serving individual adults looking for strategies to manage stress. I specialize in teletherapy for individuals and for parents. I also specialize in supporting parents. Many parents need a forum to discuss the new reality of sheltering in place, and sometimes homeschooling children. If you have a child who is sensitive, reactive, or sometimes hard to parent, I can help. I have experience with a wide range of children of all ages, and have supported parents and individual adults for many years.
I help people looking for ways to manage worry, and to find hope during stressful periods of their lives.
In response to current disruptions to daily life and worries related to Covid-19, I am now serving individual adults looking for strategies to manage stress. I specialize in teletherapy for individuals and for parents. I also specialize in supporting parents. Many parents need a forum to discuss the new reality of sheltering in place, and sometimes homeschooling children. If you have a child who is sensitive, reactive, or sometimes hard to parent, I can help. I have experience with a wide range of children of all ages, and have supported parents and individual adults for many years.
(415) 582-6952 View (415) 582-6952
Photo of Dr. Aaron Smith, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Aaron Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
In order to assist clients in working toward their optimal self, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
In order to assist clients in working toward their optimal self, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
(424) 477-3608 View (424) 477-3608
Photo of Brian King, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Brian King
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
(415) 991-3069 View (415) 991-3069
Photo of Ruby Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ruby Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94134
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
(619) 586-6733 View (619) 586-6733
Photo of Katrina Sesline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Katrina Sesline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
(510) 616-9406 View (510) 616-9406
Photo of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
(510) 858-0916 View (510) 858-0916
Photo of Lynn Talmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
(949) 612-2083 View (949) 612-2083
Photo of Michelle Reinlieb, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Michelle Reinlieb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with clients facing stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, fertility/postpartum issues, or workplace challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) in Washington (in-person in Redmond and telehealth across the state) and California (telehealth) with extensive experience working with young adults, adults and older adults. I offer a warm and individualized approach with a foundation in evidence based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with clients facing stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, fertility/postpartum issues, or workplace challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) in Washington (in-person in Redmond and telehealth across the state) and California (telehealth) with extensive experience working with young adults, adults and older adults. I offer a warm and individualized approach with a foundation in evidence based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(310) 282-7545 View (310) 282-7545

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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.