Photo of Mary Claire O. McNair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Mary Claire O. McNair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
(941) 229-7606 View (941) 229-7606
Photo of Beatriz De La Espriella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Beatriz De La Espriella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Anxious, overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted. This is what it feels like to be constantly overthinking situations, which leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. Whether it's school, work or your relationships, you are feeling fearful, on edge, or irritable, no matter what you do. You might not even recall a time where things didn’t feel this way. What you do know is that you are searching for change and relief. You are ready to learn how to manage these difficult thoughts and emotions. You are ready to find joy, feel confident, and worry free. You are ready to focus on you.
Anxious, overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted. This is what it feels like to be constantly overthinking situations, which leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. Whether it's school, work or your relationships, you are feeling fearful, on edge, or irritable, no matter what you do. You might not even recall a time where things didn’t feel this way. What you do know is that you are searching for change and relief. You are ready to learn how to manage these difficult thoughts and emotions. You are ready to find joy, feel confident, and worry free. You are ready to focus on you.
(941) 876-5406 View (941) 876-5406
Photo of Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
(941) 220-5027 View (941) 220-5027
Photo of Karen Hartfield - Fearless Heart Counseling, Counselor in Venice, FL
Karen Hartfield - Fearless Heart Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
For both children and adults, challenges can create anxiety, frustration, depression, and the feeling there is no way out. I offer a place of safety and support where you can freely process emotions and thoughts, come to a deeper understanding of yourself, and find ways to get yourself unstuck. Together, we look at self-defeating patterns and seek to understand their source. It is my goal to connect with clients regardless of where they may be in their experience. I partner with and hold space for clients of all ages, assisting them in finding their own internal strength and discovering practical solutions to challenges they face.
For both children and adults, challenges can create anxiety, frustration, depression, and the feeling there is no way out. I offer a place of safety and support where you can freely process emotions and thoughts, come to a deeper understanding of yourself, and find ways to get yourself unstuck. Together, we look at self-defeating patterns and seek to understand their source. It is my goal to connect with clients regardless of where they may be in their experience. I partner with and hold space for clients of all ages, assisting them in finding their own internal strength and discovering practical solutions to challenges they face.
(941) 787-5045 View (941) 787-5045
Photo of Gary E. Savill, Ph.D., LLC, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Gary E. Savill, Ph.D., LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34284  (Online Only)
I most effectively treat persons who have one or more of the following symptoms, and/or issues: depression; anxiety; marital, family, or other relationship problems. I also have expertise in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and geriatric mental health issues, including end of life issues. I help persons who are functioning relatively well, but want to increase ability to establish and attain goals; and increase their capacity for happiness and fulfillment in life. I specialize in empowering individuals in their quest for more satisfying romantic, social, and work relationships.
I most effectively treat persons who have one or more of the following symptoms, and/or issues: depression; anxiety; marital, family, or other relationship problems. I also have expertise in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and geriatric mental health issues, including end of life issues. I help persons who are functioning relatively well, but want to increase ability to establish and attain goals; and increase their capacity for happiness and fulfillment in life. I specialize in empowering individuals in their quest for more satisfying romantic, social, and work relationships.
(941) 621-3299 View (941) 621-3299
Photo of Linda McGee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Linda McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, CPLC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
(704) 369-9403 View (704) 369-9403
Photo of Kelli Skaggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Kelli Skaggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW-QS
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
Life can be really, truly, hard, anxiety feels awful, depression can be debilitating. I strive to meet you where you are at and help you get you where you want to be. I create a space to foster positive growth in a comfortable and safe environment. I am trained and love to work with clients facing issues of anxiety and panic, grief, trauma, gender identity, bipolar disorder, OCD and adult ADHD.
Life can be really, truly, hard, anxiety feels awful, depression can be debilitating. I strive to meet you where you are at and help you get you where you want to be. I create a space to foster positive growth in a comfortable and safe environment. I am trained and love to work with clients facing issues of anxiety and panic, grief, trauma, gender identity, bipolar disorder, OCD and adult ADHD.
(941) 213-5748 View (941) 213-5748
Photo of Connie Reinhard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Connie Reinhard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
I help individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relational conflicts, grief, trauma, and low self esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I have over 25 years of experience providing counseling, supervision, crisis management and program management and development. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I have been an active member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team for over 11 years working with law enforcement and first responders. I have worked with children , adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, military and veterans.
I help individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relational conflicts, grief, trauma, and low self esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I have over 25 years of experience providing counseling, supervision, crisis management and program management and development. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I have been an active member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team for over 11 years working with law enforcement and first responders. I have worked with children , adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, military and veterans.
(941) 246-2217 View (941) 246-2217
Photo of Melissa Lavin, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Melissa Lavin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
My specialty is childhood trauma and its adult manifestations (anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-doubt/esteem, identity issues, stress, relationship difficulties, & parenting).
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
My specialty is childhood trauma and its adult manifestations (anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-doubt/esteem, identity issues, stress, relationship difficulties, & parenting).
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
(941) 271-9912 View (941) 271-9912
Photo of Dr. Jacquelyn T Somach, Counselor in Venice, FL
Dr. Jacquelyn T Somach
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34284
I offer treatment for anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, psychological and behavioral aspects of illness, PTSD, trauma, emotional stress, chemical-sensitivity stress, mild autism, relationship and marital issues, family challenges, life transitions, and improving interpersonal and coping skills.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Within my practice I offer a supportive environment in which to explore, learn and grow. We all need a space in our life for the full expression of our thoughts and feelings. My intention is to provide a therapeutic relationship of respect and trust, and caring professional counseling designed to facilitate healing for adults, families and couples. I have experience in positive psychology, and the science of happiness and its application, in clinical practice for a holistic approach to health and well-being.
I offer treatment for anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, psychological and behavioral aspects of illness, PTSD, trauma, emotional stress, chemical-sensitivity stress, mild autism, relationship and marital issues, family challenges, life transitions, and improving interpersonal and coping skills.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Within my practice I offer a supportive environment in which to explore, learn and grow. We all need a space in our life for the full expression of our thoughts and feelings. My intention is to provide a therapeutic relationship of respect and trust, and caring professional counseling designed to facilitate healing for adults, families and couples. I have experience in positive psychology, and the science of happiness and its application, in clinical practice for a holistic approach to health and well-being.
(941) 584-4760 View (941) 584-4760
Photo of Jennifer Grennell Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Jennifer Grennell Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
Do you struggle with constant worry, feelings of hopelessness, or traumatic memories that you can't seem to get past or are you the parent of a teen who is struggling with these things? Life comes with difficulty - but you can move through these difficulties without suffering. There is another way. Therapy with a trained professional can help you gain a sense of stability and confidence while you work through life's challenges. Together we will use evidence-based interventions to address the issues that are causing you the most difficulty and help you create a life full of hope, joy, and contentment.
Do you struggle with constant worry, feelings of hopelessness, or traumatic memories that you can't seem to get past or are you the parent of a teen who is struggling with these things? Life comes with difficulty - but you can move through these difficulties without suffering. There is another way. Therapy with a trained professional can help you gain a sense of stability and confidence while you work through life's challenges. Together we will use evidence-based interventions to address the issues that are causing you the most difficulty and help you create a life full of hope, joy, and contentment.
(941) 208-9802 View (941) 208-9802
Photo of Brad Eppley, Counselor in Venice, FL
Brad Eppley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
(941) 203-3416 View (941) 203-3416
Photo of Carol Stearn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Carol Stearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
I offer individual telehealth therapy to adults of all ages, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform. I accept Medicare and most commercial insurances as well as out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
I offer individual telehealth therapy to adults of all ages, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform. I accept Medicare and most commercial insurances as well as out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(508) 568-6226 View (508) 568-6226
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Jennifer Lieberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34286
We work together on issues including transitions, identity issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, reinvigorating relationship, healing after broken commitments, and should a couple want to dissolve the relationship, trying to do so in a way that honors the history of love and relationship.
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
We work together on issues including transitions, identity issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, reinvigorating relationship, healing after broken commitments, and should a couple want to dissolve the relationship, trying to do so in a way that honors the history of love and relationship.
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
(650) 209-7025 View (650) 209-7025
Photo of Heather D. Eslien, Counselor in Venice, FL
Heather D. Eslien
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34286
I am sensitive to how various societal oppression becomes internalized and impacts mental health which often leads to higher levels of anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm and suicide.
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
I am sensitive to how various societal oppression becomes internalized and impacts mental health which often leads to higher levels of anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm and suicide.
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
(941) 584-5091 View (941) 584-5091
Photo of Victoria Guenther, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Victoria Guenther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
Through supportive counseling I help clients face challenges of recovery from substance abuse, codependency, depression, grief, trauma, anxiety and co-occurring mental disorders.
I offer supportive, client centered and strength based psychotherapy, and invite you to engage in authentic and intuitive exchange in our work together. If you or a family member struggle with addiction, or the depression, trauma, co-dependency, anxiety that accompany it, I can help you into a more satisfying life with mindfulness, empowering your innate strengths and coping skills. Experienced with co-occurring disorders, I can help you find the best treatment combination for you.
Through supportive counseling I help clients face challenges of recovery from substance abuse, codependency, depression, grief, trauma, anxiety and co-occurring mental disorders.
I offer supportive, client centered and strength based psychotherapy, and invite you to engage in authentic and intuitive exchange in our work together. If you or a family member struggle with addiction, or the depression, trauma, co-dependency, anxiety that accompany it, I can help you into a more satisfying life with mindfulness, empowering your innate strengths and coping skills. Experienced with co-occurring disorders, I can help you find the best treatment combination for you.
(469) 773-6024 View (469) 773-6024
Photo of Dallas Carey, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Dallas Carey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34284
I specialize in anxiety & depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Dallas Carey. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a focus on helping others design their own consciousness. I work holistically. This means when someone comes to me, I help them target important life domains (e.g., nutrition, sleep, relationships, stress, thinking style, & daily structure.) For example, I am interested in how you think and feel about yourself (and your future self) & others, as well as how daily lifestyle choices facilitate your well-being. You’ll often catch me saying “Let’s discover the thought between the thoughts" or "that situation didn't make you depressed; your perception did."
I specialize in anxiety & depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Dallas Carey. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a focus on helping others design their own consciousness. I work holistically. This means when someone comes to me, I help them target important life domains (e.g., nutrition, sleep, relationships, stress, thinking style, & daily structure.) For example, I am interested in how you think and feel about yourself (and your future self) & others, as well as how daily lifestyle choices facilitate your well-being. You’ll often catch me saying “Let’s discover the thought between the thoughts" or "that situation didn't make you depressed; your perception did."
(352) 612-0044 View (352) 612-0044
Photo of Jodee Pineau Chaisson, Counselor in Venice, FL
Jodee Pineau Chaisson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34284
Working with individuals I focuse on depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem and holistic strategies.
Through the process of therapy, you can develop new ways of dealing with conflicts, communication difficulties, grief and loss, and many other daily concerns. In a non-judgmental and supportive environment, you can make positive changes for a stronger today and future. I believe that addressing the relationship between couples may require a “sacred space”. This safe space can allow the therapist to work with couples in breaking down walls that may have kept them trapped in overwhelming situations, and aid them in developing deeper connections
Working with individuals I focuse on depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem and holistic strategies.
Through the process of therapy, you can develop new ways of dealing with conflicts, communication difficulties, grief and loss, and many other daily concerns. In a non-judgmental and supportive environment, you can make positive changes for a stronger today and future. I believe that addressing the relationship between couples may require a “sacred space”. This safe space can allow the therapist to work with couples in breaking down walls that may have kept them trapped in overwhelming situations, and aid them in developing deeper connections
(941) 336-5816 View (941) 336-5816
Photo of John Mann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
John Mann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34286
Hello, my name is John Mann and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1980. I have experience working with mental health, adjustment disorders, relationship dynamics, self esteem, anxiety, depression, life change, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics, and substance abuse issues with young adults, adults and older adults. I do not believe that people are “broken”, needing to be fixed by a professional. I believe that there are many approaches towards achieving a goal and that working together is the key to establishing an effective and sustainable treatment approach.
Hello, my name is John Mann and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1980. I have experience working with mental health, adjustment disorders, relationship dynamics, self esteem, anxiety, depression, life change, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics, and substance abuse issues with young adults, adults and older adults. I do not believe that people are “broken”, needing to be fixed by a professional. I believe that there are many approaches towards achieving a goal and that working together is the key to establishing an effective and sustainable treatment approach.
(941) 241-2261 View (941) 241-2261
Photo of Marla Joy Carman, Mental Health Counselor in Venice, FL
Marla Joy Carman
Mental Health Counselor, MAPC, NCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34284
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with grief and loss, relationships, depression, anxiety, helping to heal trauma, empower, coach and assist many to be their best self!.
Please call 253-352-2480 or email me directly at inner.wellth@yahoo.com to schedule an intake or a free consultation for 15 minutes. It can be a scary thing to reach out for help and support! You might feel like there might be judgment or misunderstanding! Maybe you're puzzled as to why you haven't reached your goals, wondering what's holding you back? What are the barriers? I also offer EMDR and ART (accelerated resolution therapy) if we feel you're "stuck". Maybe you've never considered what you really want in life? Are you in a transition in life? I'd love to help you get to where you want to go!
I have worked with grief and loss, relationships, depression, anxiety, helping to heal trauma, empower, coach and assist many to be their best self!.
Please call 253-352-2480 or email me directly at inner.wellth@yahoo.com to schedule an intake or a free consultation for 15 minutes. It can be a scary thing to reach out for help and support! You might feel like there might be judgment or misunderstanding! Maybe you're puzzled as to why you haven't reached your goals, wondering what's holding you back? What are the barriers? I also offer EMDR and ART (accelerated resolution therapy) if we feel you're "stuck". Maybe you've never considered what you really want in life? Are you in a transition in life? I'd love to help you get to where you want to go!
(360) 516-4796 View (360) 516-4796
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.