Photo of Michelle A Birch, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Michelle A Birch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have specialized in two areas.  The first involves the treatment of loss, grief, trauma and the  anxiety disorders that sometimes accompany these events. With a new perspective, most people find it easier to incorporate new coping skills.  This can help you work through your feelings and losses. The second area of specialty is women's health, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period of life. Having a newborn and the adjustment to mothering brings on many challenges. I work with women to help them cope with the changes to themselves, their bodies as well as their relationships.
I have specialized in two areas.  The first involves the treatment of loss, grief, trauma and the  anxiety disorders that sometimes accompany these events. With a new perspective, most people find it easier to incorporate new coping skills.  This can help you work through your feelings and losses. The second area of specialty is women's health, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period of life. Having a newborn and the adjustment to mothering brings on many challenges. I work with women to help them cope with the changes to themselves, their bodies as well as their relationships.
(628) 265-8658 View (628) 265-8658
Photo of Rosie Shriver, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rosie Shriver
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Self-discovery is a process that can be both incredibly challenging and tremendously rewarding. Sometimes we seek it out and often it finds us through painful and uncomfortable symptoms or experiences. Some symptoms that I see in my practice include relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, health issues and blocks to self-expression. As a parent, I also work with postpartum moms and new parents as they navigate parenthood. Challenging experiences can lead to powerful healing and profound change. I believe in this process because it revolutionized my own life. I am honored to accompany others in their version of this process.
Self-discovery is a process that can be both incredibly challenging and tremendously rewarding. Sometimes we seek it out and often it finds us through painful and uncomfortable symptoms or experiences. Some symptoms that I see in my practice include relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, health issues and blocks to self-expression. As a parent, I also work with postpartum moms and new parents as they navigate parenthood. Challenging experiences can lead to powerful healing and profound change. I believe in this process because it revolutionized my own life. I am honored to accompany others in their version of this process.
(628) 245-0897 View (628) 245-0897
Photo of Alisa Huntington, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alisa Huntington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
My name is Dr. Alisa Huntington, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family therapist for 24 years. I love facilitating self-awareness and growth. Through a variety of modalities, I give you the tools to help you be the best version of yourself. I believe each individual has the tools to help him/her/themselves, they just might need a little guidance to unveil the layers. I see people who are depressed or anxious, questioning their sexual identity, in unhappy relationships, poor relationships with family members, adoptees or birth parents who have relinquished their child, and a variety of other issues.
My name is Dr. Alisa Huntington, and I've been a licensed Marriage and Family therapist for 24 years. I love facilitating self-awareness and growth. Through a variety of modalities, I give you the tools to help you be the best version of yourself. I believe each individual has the tools to help him/her/themselves, they just might need a little guidance to unveil the layers. I see people who are depressed or anxious, questioning their sexual identity, in unhappy relationships, poor relationships with family members, adoptees or birth parents who have relinquished their child, and a variety of other issues.
(415) 687-1016 View (415) 687-1016
Photo of Ashley Boyer, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Boyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that anxiety can control our lives and the lives of loved ones.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
I understand that anxiety can control our lives and the lives of loved ones.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
(628) 228-6535 View (628) 228-6535
Photo of Javier Ball Sepulveda, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Javier Ball Sepulveda
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I am a licensed psychologist with eight years of clinical experience providing services to individuals and families from a diverse population. I am enthusiastic about putting my skills to service and assisting my clients in the process of healing and growth. I help my clients identify effective ways to deal with everyday life stressors and help them with their interpersonal situations. I assist individuals working through their depressive and anxiety symptoms by increasing awareness of these emotional experiences and identifying ways to alleviate their afflictions by applying therapeutic tools.
I am a licensed psychologist with eight years of clinical experience providing services to individuals and families from a diverse population. I am enthusiastic about putting my skills to service and assisting my clients in the process of healing and growth. I help my clients identify effective ways to deal with everyday life stressors and help them with their interpersonal situations. I assist individuals working through their depressive and anxiety symptoms by increasing awareness of these emotional experiences and identifying ways to alleviate their afflictions by applying therapeutic tools.
(415) 914-9254 View (415) 914-9254
Photo of Leah Chalofsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leah Chalofsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112
I also focus on anxiety and recovery from trauma.
Are you a pregnant person or new parent? Are you struggling with an unhealthy relationship or are you a survivor of an abusive relationship? Are you looking for a therapist who is warm and supportive? Do you want to feel truly heard? You might be nervous to start therapy, so finding a therapist who will collaborate with you is important. I will focus on your strengths to help you heal and grow, while providing you with tools and a safe place to explore. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client offers opportunities for healing and transformation.
I also focus on anxiety and recovery from trauma.
Are you a pregnant person or new parent? Are you struggling with an unhealthy relationship or are you a survivor of an abusive relationship? Are you looking for a therapist who is warm and supportive? Do you want to feel truly heard? You might be nervous to start therapy, so finding a therapist who will collaborate with you is important. I will focus on your strengths to help you heal and grow, while providing you with tools and a safe place to explore. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client offers opportunities for healing and transformation.
(415) 625-5491 View (415) 625-5491
Photo of Melissa Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Melissa Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist. I help clients create healthier patterns in life and improve relationships. Services available for adults, couples, families and children. My areas of emphasis include abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, parenting support, self-esteem, and personal growth. I am also trained in EMDR.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist. I help clients create healthier patterns in life and improve relationships. Services available for adults, couples, families and children. My areas of emphasis include abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, parenting support, self-esteem, and personal growth. I am also trained in EMDR.
(415) 799-9445 View (415) 799-9445
Photo of Cosmin I Gheorghe, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cosmin I Gheorghe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I have 20+ years experience assisting clients to overcome issues related to Anxiety, Mid-Life Crisis, Burnout, Anger, Depression, Addictive/Compulsive Behavior. My clients say they appreciate my "genuine, therapuetic connection", my "warm, grounded, interactive therapy sessions"; my "solid multi-cultural competency". I am not the kind of therapist that sits and nods. I actively work with you to explore what is hapening and identify the best possible solutions. Finding the right therapist is tricky. This is why I am happy to talk with you on the phone before we decide to work together.
I have 20+ years experience assisting clients to overcome issues related to Anxiety, Mid-Life Crisis, Burnout, Anger, Depression, Addictive/Compulsive Behavior. My clients say they appreciate my "genuine, therapuetic connection", my "warm, grounded, interactive therapy sessions"; my "solid multi-cultural competency". I am not the kind of therapist that sits and nods. I actively work with you to explore what is hapening and identify the best possible solutions. Finding the right therapist is tricky. This is why I am happy to talk with you on the phone before we decide to work together.
(415) 323-3058 View (415) 323-3058
Photo of Megan Fuller O'Donnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Megan Fuller O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I also utilize strengths based approaches and have a history of working with gifted and 2E (Twice Exceptional) individuals who struggle with anxiety due to high sensitivities and intensity.
Hello! I work with adolescents, parents, adults and couples. I create a safe space for individuals to explore and learn more about themselves. I aim to understand each individual's motivations and experience. I provide clients with insights that will help them get clarity about their circumstances in hopes of reducing symptoms. I provide psycho-education about the client's behavior and help them connect the links between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize my clinical experience to determine what interventions and theoretical orientation makes the most sense for each individual to help support their progress.
I also utilize strengths based approaches and have a history of working with gifted and 2E (Twice Exceptional) individuals who struggle with anxiety due to high sensitivities and intensity.
Hello! I work with adolescents, parents, adults and couples. I create a safe space for individuals to explore and learn more about themselves. I aim to understand each individual's motivations and experience. I provide clients with insights that will help them get clarity about their circumstances in hopes of reducing symptoms. I provide psycho-education about the client's behavior and help them connect the links between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize my clinical experience to determine what interventions and theoretical orientation makes the most sense for each individual to help support their progress.
(415) 915-2486 View (415) 915-2486
Photo of Christina Velasco, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Velasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Trauma, relationships, anxiety. I help people feel relief and deeper understanding from any and/or all of these, and whatever is coming up for you because of them. Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, run-down, in a rut or stuck are all great reasons to come to therapy. It's also okay if you're not exactly sure what's going on - but you know you want to feel better. I have a deep understanding of how our past affects our present and where patterns come from. Taking time to unpack them is a crucial step to breaking free and living the life you want - something I know that you are truly capable of.
Trauma, relationships, anxiety. I help people feel relief and deeper understanding from any and/or all of these, and whatever is coming up for you because of them. Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, run-down, in a rut or stuck are all great reasons to come to therapy. It's also okay if you're not exactly sure what's going on - but you know you want to feel better. I have a deep understanding of how our past affects our present and where patterns come from. Taking time to unpack them is a crucial step to breaking free and living the life you want - something I know that you are truly capable of.
(415) 364-8120 View (415) 364-8120
Photo of Theresa Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Theresa Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
(415) 949-2885 View (415) 949-2885
Photo of Erica Edwards Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Erica Edwards Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I specialize in supporting clients who wish to explore issues regarding grief, relationship stress, self acceptance, cultural/ racial identity, creativity and artistry, anxiety management, life transitions, depression, hoarding, and cultivating mindfulness,.
I believe each of us can lead lives of authenticity, balance, and purpose through mindfulness and self-reflection. I aim to create a warm, peaceful space for healing and awakening, a place where you can slow down your breath, calm the chattering of your mind, and get in touch with the deeper parts of yourself. My goal is to empower you to be your own compass and access your own inner strength and resilience. We all need someone we can count on: to listen, to try to understand, and to walk side by side as we travel rocky terrain. I would be honored to go on that journey with you.
I specialize in supporting clients who wish to explore issues regarding grief, relationship stress, self acceptance, cultural/ racial identity, creativity and artistry, anxiety management, life transitions, depression, hoarding, and cultivating mindfulness,.
I believe each of us can lead lives of authenticity, balance, and purpose through mindfulness and self-reflection. I aim to create a warm, peaceful space for healing and awakening, a place where you can slow down your breath, calm the chattering of your mind, and get in touch with the deeper parts of yourself. My goal is to empower you to be your own compass and access your own inner strength and resilience. We all need someone we can count on: to listen, to try to understand, and to walk side by side as we travel rocky terrain. I would be honored to go on that journey with you.
(415) 942-5784 View (415) 942-5784
Brown Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
(415) 849-7242 View (415) 849-7242
Photo of Bay Area Gestalt Institute, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bay Area Gestalt Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
(415) 969-3361 View (415) 969-3361
Photo of Cecille Basila, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cecille Basila
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
Some topics may include relationships with our habits and fears, increasing understanding of the guidance system of our emotions, and accessing our innate wisdom.
My intention is to empower you with tools for healing, change, and personal fulfillment. I provide a holistic approach that combines ancient traditions with evidenced based practices. I believe everyone has the wisdom with in themselves to know what is needed for healing and transformation. Courageously accepting an invitation to explore your unique path in this human experience can expand your view in seeing all the different ways you can show up for life.
Some topics may include relationships with our habits and fears, increasing understanding of the guidance system of our emotions, and accessing our innate wisdom.
My intention is to empower you with tools for healing, change, and personal fulfillment. I provide a holistic approach that combines ancient traditions with evidenced based practices. I believe everyone has the wisdom with in themselves to know what is needed for healing and transformation. Courageously accepting an invitation to explore your unique path in this human experience can expand your view in seeing all the different ways you can show up for life.
(415) 818-0213 View (415) 818-0213
Photo of New Perspectives Center for Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
New Perspectives Center for Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
We are a nonprofit counseling center dedicated to providing excellent therapy for adults, teens, children, couples and families. Our diverse staff can help you with a wide variety of issues, such as: depression and anxiety, emotion regulation, coping with illness, ADHD, grief, stage of life changes, couples and relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality concerns. Our affordable fees are based on your income and we offer a need-based sliding scale to help you make weekly therapy a reality. Plus we accept Medi-Cal with no co-payment!
We are a nonprofit counseling center dedicated to providing excellent therapy for adults, teens, children, couples and families. Our diverse staff can help you with a wide variety of issues, such as: depression and anxiety, emotion regulation, coping with illness, ADHD, grief, stage of life changes, couples and relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality concerns. Our affordable fees are based on your income and we offer a need-based sliding scale to help you make weekly therapy a reality. Plus we accept Medi-Cal with no co-payment!
(415) 634-1261 View (415) 634-1261
Photo of Brigitte Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brigitte Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I specialize in treating ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, divorce/separation, educational needs & learning differences, grief & loss, immigration issues, trauma and life transitions.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
I specialize in treating ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, divorce/separation, educational needs & learning differences, grief & loss, immigration issues, trauma and life transitions.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
(415) 366-3636 View (415) 366-3636
Photo of Olesya Anatolevna Leskel, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
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
Photo of Jo Sopko, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jo Sopko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
(415) 799-4143 View (415) 799-4143
Photo of The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF), Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Our many specializations include: Gen Z and Millennials, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, depression, perfectionism + imposter syndrome, gender, racial and sexual identity, life balance, dating + relationships, career transition, body image, trauma/EMDR, pregnancy and postpartum support, grief, and OCD.
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
Our many specializations include: Gen Z and Millennials, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, depression, perfectionism + imposter syndrome, gender, racial and sexual identity, life balance, dating + relationships, career transition, body image, trauma/EMDR, pregnancy and postpartum support, grief, and OCD.
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
(415) 335-7793 View (415) 335-7793

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.