Photo of Liz McLaughlin, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Liz McLaughlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity issues, managing life transitions, improving the quality of your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment of what is troubling you. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use to cope more effectively. All along, I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity issues, managing life transitions, improving the quality of your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment of what is troubling you. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use to cope more effectively. All along, I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
(202) 335-7841 x4 View (202) 335-7841 x4
Photo of Mind's Eye Psychological Services, LLC, Counselor in Washington, DC
Mind's Eye Psychological Services, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CAC-AD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20013  (Online Only)
Are you living your best life? Or are you experiencing the stress/anxiety, anger, lack of motivation, sadness, grief/loss, or low self-esteem/confidence that affects us all at some point? You are not alone. Now is the time for living up to your full potential. It takes courage to seek help but no one can truly live their best life without support. I am passionate about helping you to empower yourself and create "true" happiness in your life! I believe that we have the inherent capacity to heal ourselves. Let me show you how. Contact me today.
Are you living your best life? Or are you experiencing the stress/anxiety, anger, lack of motivation, sadness, grief/loss, or low self-esteem/confidence that affects us all at some point? You are not alone. Now is the time for living up to your full potential. It takes courage to seek help but no one can truly live their best life without support. I am passionate about helping you to empower yourself and create "true" happiness in your life! I believe that we have the inherent capacity to heal ourselves. Let me show you how. Contact me today.
(202) 759-7992 View (202) 759-7992
Photo of MyTherapist DC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
MyTherapist DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD, CAC-II
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
​MyTherapist DC is a small private practice that prioritizes your personal growth. I have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals & families journey to emotional well-being.  Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Remember the FACs, its NOT your Fault, you're NOT Alone, and you're NOT Crazy. Its time to heal so you can hear what's being said without the filter of your wounds.
​MyTherapist DC is a small private practice that prioritizes your personal growth. I have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals & families journey to emotional well-being.  Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Remember the FACs, its NOT your Fault, you're NOT Alone, and you're NOT Crazy. Its time to heal so you can hear what's being said without the filter of your wounds.
(202) 998-7484 View (202) 998-7484
Photo of Massimo Scano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Megan Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Are you seeking support to address thoughts, feelings, or actions that no longer serve you? I can help you manage anxiety, ADHD, relationship challenges, or your relationship with substances with thoughtfulness and kindness. Together we can tackle the hard questions with balance and levity. Life is filled with challenges and it's crucial to have a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them successfully. I work with individuals and couples to also manage relationship issues, life transitions, and work and academic stress throughout the lifespan. Together we can build a balanced lifestyle, self-awareness, and personal growth.
Are you seeking support to address thoughts, feelings, or actions that no longer serve you? I can help you manage anxiety, ADHD, relationship challenges, or your relationship with substances with thoughtfulness and kindness. Together we can tackle the hard questions with balance and levity. Life is filled with challenges and it's crucial to have a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them successfully. I work with individuals and couples to also manage relationship issues, life transitions, and work and academic stress throughout the lifespan. Together we can build a balanced lifestyle, self-awareness, and personal growth.
(202) 929-0995 View (202) 929-0995
Photo of Claire Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Claire Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My clinical specializations include anxiety disorders, depression, guilt, shame, trauma, relationship challenges, infidelity, self-esteem, substance use, disordered eating, adult children of alcoholics, and codependency.
I am a board-certified psychotherapist. In my practice I provide psychotherapy to adults, couples, and older adolescents, using psychoanalytic psychotherapy and analytical psychology. It is my goal to create a warm and supportive environment in which to work with my clients to heal relational wounds and other forms of trauma. I support clients in their process to gain deeper self-understanding and to foster personal growth through self-compassion. Together we can explore new ways of understanding old patterns of behavior.
My clinical specializations include anxiety disorders, depression, guilt, shame, trauma, relationship challenges, infidelity, self-esteem, substance use, disordered eating, adult children of alcoholics, and codependency.
I am a board-certified psychotherapist. In my practice I provide psychotherapy to adults, couples, and older adolescents, using psychoanalytic psychotherapy and analytical psychology. It is my goal to create a warm and supportive environment in which to work with my clients to heal relational wounds and other forms of trauma. I support clients in their process to gain deeper self-understanding and to foster personal growth through self-compassion. Together we can explore new ways of understanding old patterns of behavior.
(202) 968-2303 View (202) 968-2303
Photo of Faith2Evolve, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Faith2Evolve, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAEd, MSW, LICSW, LCAS, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20019  (Online Only)
My clinical focus is centered around those that have concerns with anxiety, depression, sexual aggression and substance use.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina, and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, DC. I received my Bachelors in Family and Community Services, Masters in Adult Education from East Carolina University and a Masters of Social Work from North Carolina State University. I have worked in mental health and substance abuse field since 2005. I enjoy working with individuals including adults and adolescents.
My clinical focus is centered around those that have concerns with anxiety, depression, sexual aggression and substance use.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina, and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, DC. I received my Bachelors in Family and Community Services, Masters in Adult Education from East Carolina University and a Masters of Social Work from North Carolina State University. I have worked in mental health and substance abuse field since 2005. I enjoy working with individuals including adults and adolescents.
(202) 318-6499 View (202) 318-6499
Photo of Philip W Meilman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Philip W Meilman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 46 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 46 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
(607) 358-7129 View (607) 358-7129
Photo of iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
We specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, job stress, major life crises, and life transitions.
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
We specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, job stress, major life crises, and life transitions.
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
(202) 952-9428 View (202) 952-9428
Photo of Naisha Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Naisha Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011
I work with clients who have depression, self-doubts, anxiety, fear or guilt from losing a loved one and individuals who are dual diagnosed.
Naisha Price LPC, "Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you really need to talk to someone? Do you have feelings of depression, self-doubt, fear, and find yourself anxious around others? If so, you're not alone. I understand the challenges that come with navigating these emotions, and I am here to help. With a strong foundation in counseling techniques, I am equipped with the knowledge and skills to guide individuals on their path to healing and self-discovery.
I work with clients who have depression, self-doubts, anxiety, fear or guilt from losing a loved one and individuals who are dual diagnosed.
Naisha Price LPC, "Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you really need to talk to someone? Do you have feelings of depression, self-doubt, fear, and find yourself anxious around others? If so, you're not alone. I understand the challenges that come with navigating these emotions, and I am here to help. With a strong foundation in counseling techniques, I am equipped with the knowledge and skills to guide individuals on their path to healing and self-discovery.
(855) 779-9264 View (855) 779-9264
Photo of Nikki Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nikki Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with adults experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief, or coping with stress and change.
As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based, person-centered, and deeply collaborative perspective. We become a team in your therapy journey. My approach to therapy is integrative, and I draw from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic frameworks to support individual needs and goals. I also believe humor can play an important role in the therapeutic process. Clients work hard in therapy, and moments of levity can help reframe and normalize struggles in a positive or relieving manner.
I primarily work with adults experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief, or coping with stress and change.
As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based, person-centered, and deeply collaborative perspective. We become a team in your therapy journey. My approach to therapy is integrative, and I draw from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic frameworks to support individual needs and goals. I also believe humor can play an important role in the therapeutic process. Clients work hard in therapy, and moments of levity can help reframe and normalize struggles in a positive or relieving manner.
(202) 972-6801 View (202) 972-6801
Photo of Suzanne A. Black, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Suzanne A. Black
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I specialise in the treatment of affective disorders: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD .
Clinical Psychologist licensed in CA, NY, Washington, DC, over 25 years experience nationally/internationally. Eclectic approach tailored to the individual. Various modalities, solution-focused. Conduct online therapy. Training: Medical Ctr: Neuropsychology; UCLA postdoctoral fellowship: Emergency Room Psychiatry. Fmr Asst Clinical Professor of Psychiatry UCSF. Work w large range of cultures internationally, with embassies, international treaty organisations, university abroad programs, terrorist attack victims, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, medical challenges, couples, group therapies, adults, adolescents.
I specialise in the treatment of affective disorders: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD .
Clinical Psychologist licensed in CA, NY, Washington, DC, over 25 years experience nationally/internationally. Eclectic approach tailored to the individual. Various modalities, solution-focused. Conduct online therapy. Training: Medical Ctr: Neuropsychology; UCLA postdoctoral fellowship: Emergency Room Psychiatry. Fmr Asst Clinical Professor of Psychiatry UCSF. Work w large range of cultures internationally, with embassies, international treaty organisations, university abroad programs, terrorist attack victims, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, medical challenges, couples, group therapies, adults, adolescents.
(347) 754-3945 View (347) 754-3945
Photo of Debra Cruz Counseling, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Debra Cruz Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, CEAP, CEC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Debra Ann Cruz is a speaker, author, psychotherapist, and executive coach, and romantic intimacy specialist. Over the past 20 years, I have worked hard to create an innovative blend of psychotherapy, spirituality, and executive coaching to help clients reach breakthroughs and emotional healing to level up to own the success and prosperity they desire and deserve. Her specialty is helping high-functioning professionals, executives, and leaders to stop holding themselves back due to a negative internal dialogue of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt from their past.
Debra Ann Cruz is a speaker, author, psychotherapist, and executive coach, and romantic intimacy specialist. Over the past 20 years, I have worked hard to create an innovative blend of psychotherapy, spirituality, and executive coaching to help clients reach breakthroughs and emotional healing to level up to own the success and prosperity they desire and deserve. Her specialty is helping high-functioning professionals, executives, and leaders to stop holding themselves back due to a negative internal dialogue of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt from their past.
(202) 929-5570 View (202) 929-5570
Photo of Ozlem Yazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ozlem Yazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
(202) 838-4312 View (202) 838-4312
Photo of Amy Oberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Oberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
View
Photo of Lauren Kay Laich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lauren Kay Laich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen & accept us as we are, without judgment; this is my goal as a therapist.
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen & accept us as we are, without judgment; this is my goal as a therapist.
(866) 275-2079 View (866) 275-2079
Photo of Dr. Victor D. Kidd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Victor D. Kidd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018  (Online Only)
The therapeutic journey is a great way to challenge outdated perspectives while providing a new lens on emotional & mental well-being. Dr. Kidd will guide you through the journey of self-discovery & self-mastery, aligning you with your redefined perspective & life purpose. From challenges with anxiety & depression to trauma & family history, Dr. Kidd's purpose is to assist you in considering the various solutions for a more fulfilling life. It is together, through the therapeutic process, we will tackle your life challenges, leading to growth and prosperity. His hope is that we learn how to reflect, heal, and embrace new beginnings!
The therapeutic journey is a great way to challenge outdated perspectives while providing a new lens on emotional & mental well-being. Dr. Kidd will guide you through the journey of self-discovery & self-mastery, aligning you with your redefined perspective & life purpose. From challenges with anxiety & depression to trauma & family history, Dr. Kidd's purpose is to assist you in considering the various solutions for a more fulfilling life. It is together, through the therapeutic process, we will tackle your life challenges, leading to growth and prosperity. His hope is that we learn how to reflect, heal, and embrace new beginnings!
(202) 410-0685 View (202) 410-0685
Photo of Focused Solutions, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Focused Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Our seasoned clinicians and consultants are licensed and experienced in dealing with a variety of emotional wellness issues, including depression, anxiety, substance misuse, trauma, abuse, and learning disabilities.
We understand that making the decision to seek therapy can be overwhelming, and we are here to help guide you through the process by clearing a path to well-being. By working together, we can develop a strategy that promotes a healthier life for you and the ones closest to you. Our compassionate approach provides a safe and caring environment for you to seek the support that you deserve.
Our seasoned clinicians and consultants are licensed and experienced in dealing with a variety of emotional wellness issues, including depression, anxiety, substance misuse, trauma, abuse, and learning disabilities.
We understand that making the decision to seek therapy can be overwhelming, and we are here to help guide you through the process by clearing a path to well-being. By working together, we can develop a strategy that promotes a healthier life for you and the ones closest to you. Our compassionate approach provides a safe and caring environment for you to seek the support that you deserve.
(202) 949-2810 View (202) 949-2810
Photo of TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(301) 918-5812 View (301) 918-5812
Photo of Brian J. Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Brian J. Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Waitlist for new clients
I work with those experiencing anxiety & depression, trauma, dealing with major life decisions & transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, and those that feel that something is missing and want to know more about their self.
For many people, therapy can provide relief from suffering and give a person a deepened awareness of their life. Therapy can help us gain an active perspective in living a full and meaningful life. Whether one is struggling with depression, anxiety, or interpersonal problems, therapy may be a helpful journey to alleviate the pain. My approach is interpersonal and psychodynamically informed while also exploring concrete solutions. Many people can feel better in a couple sessions and others are looking for a long term process. Both can be helpful.
I work with those experiencing anxiety & depression, trauma, dealing with major life decisions & transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, and those that feel that something is missing and want to know more about their self.
For many people, therapy can provide relief from suffering and give a person a deepened awareness of their life. Therapy can help us gain an active perspective in living a full and meaningful life. Whether one is struggling with depression, anxiety, or interpersonal problems, therapy may be a helpful journey to alleviate the pain. My approach is interpersonal and psychodynamically informed while also exploring concrete solutions. Many people can feel better in a couple sessions and others are looking for a long term process. Both can be helpful.
(202) 759-6499 View (202) 759-6499
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.