Stacey Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
"Stop worrying." they say. "Just cheer up!" they say. If you could, you would but just don't know how. For many, feelings of anxiety, sadness, and grief can be difficult to manage, and at times these feelings can be debilitating. Difficulty managing symptoms can often result in missed days at school or work, avoiding others, low self-esteem, and managing life. Many individuals feel they are alone and no one understands how they feel. Other may feel scared or worried something is wrong with them. Trust me, you are not alone in the way you feel.
"Stop worrying." they say. "Just cheer up!" they say. If you could, you would but just don't know how. For many, feelings of anxiety, sadness, and grief can be difficult to manage, and at times these feelings can be debilitating. Difficulty managing symptoms can often result in missed days at school or work, avoiding others, low self-esteem, and managing life. Many individuals feel they are alone and no one understands how they feel. Other may feel scared or worried something is wrong with them. Trust me, you are not alone in the way you feel.
(941) 837-5785 View (941) 837-5785
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 Theresa A Benedict, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Theresa A Benedict
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am trained to treat a number of areas, including depression, guilt, anxiety, stressful life changes, grief, relationship issues and impulse control.
It is my goal to assist clients in recognizing and maximizing their strengths so that they can experience more enjoyment in their lives. By providing a safe, supportive and understanding environment I am able to help my clients in making healthy changes. I truly enjoy collaborating with clients to address areas of concern and to facilitate growth. My approach to therapy is non-traditional, solution focused and very effective. Therapy is individualized to the client's needs and goals. I work in both short-term and long-term milieu depending on the client's preferences and needs.
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am trained to treat a number of areas, including depression, guilt, anxiety, stressful life changes, grief, relationship issues and impulse control.
It is my goal to assist clients in recognizing and maximizing their strengths so that they can experience more enjoyment in their lives. By providing a safe, supportive and understanding environment I am able to help my clients in making healthy changes. I truly enjoy collaborating with clients to address areas of concern and to facilitate growth. My approach to therapy is non-traditional, solution focused and very effective. Therapy is individualized to the client's needs and goals. I work in both short-term and long-term milieu depending on the client's preferences and needs.
(941) 357-7365 View (941) 357-7365
Photo of Christine DiGangi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Christine DiGangi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
My areas of interest include: PTSD, trauma, child abuse, anxiety, anger, and parent child interactions.
ADULTS-We have all learned ways to survive this lifetime, including you. I know you are a survivor because you are reading this...but wouldn't life be better if you were thriving? Life can be overwhelming due to past events resurfacing, worry, anger, relationship issues, or difficult parent-child interactions. You can continue to survive these events...after all you've gotten this far, or you can learn to address these issues and ultimately thrive. I believe through the course of a positive relationship, therapeutic interventions, and a client's self determination, change can occur to help reach your goals.
My areas of interest include: PTSD, trauma, child abuse, anxiety, anger, and parent child interactions.
ADULTS-We have all learned ways to survive this lifetime, including you. I know you are a survivor because you are reading this...but wouldn't life be better if you were thriving? Life can be overwhelming due to past events resurfacing, worry, anger, relationship issues, or difficult parent-child interactions. You can continue to survive these events...after all you've gotten this far, or you can learn to address these issues and ultimately thrive. I believe through the course of a positive relationship, therapeutic interventions, and a client's self determination, change can occur to help reach your goals.
(847) 423-8029 View (847) 423-8029
Photo of Belle Heneberger, Counselor in Venice, FL
Belle Heneberger
Counselor, RN, MEd, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34287
Eliminate conflict, anxiety and depression more quickly when you engage your subconscious mind in the process of positive and rapid change. Activate new ways of thinking and coping to get more of what you want in life! Learn how previous experiences have influenced your choices until now, and begin to make the changes you want immediately. My approach is caring and supportive. As you clarify your goals and move towards attaining them, you will become more aware of your own strengths and options moving forward.
Eliminate conflict, anxiety and depression more quickly when you engage your subconscious mind in the process of positive and rapid change. Activate new ways of thinking and coping to get more of what you want in life! Learn how previous experiences have influenced your choices until now, and begin to make the changes you want immediately. My approach is caring and supportive. As you clarify your goals and move towards attaining them, you will become more aware of your own strengths and options moving forward.
(941) 479-0968 View (941) 479-0968
Photo of Michele Messina in Venice, FL
Michele Messina
MA, CAGS, LSP
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34284
Specializing in psychoeducational testing, I assess ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, giftedness, depression, OCD, and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals, couples, and children navigating emotional, social, or adjustment challenges. Whether rooted in depression, anxiety, OCD, or complex trauma, I offer a diverse range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Collaboratively, we develop and monitor treatment plans to ensure they align with your specific goals and preferences. Treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, and play therapy.
Specializing in psychoeducational testing, I assess ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, giftedness, depression, OCD, and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals, couples, and children navigating emotional, social, or adjustment challenges. Whether rooted in depression, anxiety, OCD, or complex trauma, I offer a diverse range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Collaboratively, we develop and monitor treatment plans to ensure they align with your specific goals and preferences. Treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, and play therapy.
(941) 676-9547 View (941) 676-9547
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 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 Judith Steiner, Counselor in Venice, FL
Judith Steiner
Counselor, LMHC, TIRT, LSRT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
(941) 270-3583 View (941) 270-3583
Photo of Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Bi-Polar Disorder, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, sports head injury, Stroke recovery and some neurological conditions many of which lead to memory loss,confusion and concentration problems.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. In the last 18 years, I have found that the combination of cognitive behavioral talk therapy and/or a complimentary psycho-physiological therapy, EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback, has been the most robust evidenced-based interventions I have used in my years of practice.
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Bi-Polar Disorder, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, sports head injury, Stroke recovery and some neurological conditions many of which lead to memory loss,confusion and concentration problems.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. In the last 18 years, I have found that the combination of cognitive behavioral talk therapy and/or a complimentary psycho-physiological therapy, EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback, has been the most robust evidenced-based interventions I have used in my years of practice.
(941) 487-0976 View (941) 487-0976
Photo of Gina M Cobb, Counselor in Venice, FL
Gina M Cobb
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
I have a heart for children and work closely with them and their families by helping them in areas of behavioral concerns, ADHD, anxiety, grief/divorce processing, and depression.
Have life's challenges left you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and alone? Does your life transition feel more like you're "stuck", stressed, and unsure what to do? I understand and value working as a team with you in a warm, professional, and safe setting that permits clients the freedom of unconditional acceptance, while exploring how to move forward in life by providing helpful insight and healthy functional tools that encourage restored and positive relationships. As a woman, mother, and grandmother, I have valuable life experience that enhances the counseling process by relating on a personal level to your concerns and unique needs.
I have a heart for children and work closely with them and their families by helping them in areas of behavioral concerns, ADHD, anxiety, grief/divorce processing, and depression.
Have life's challenges left you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and alone? Does your life transition feel more like you're "stuck", stressed, and unsure what to do? I understand and value working as a team with you in a warm, professional, and safe setting that permits clients the freedom of unconditional acceptance, while exploring how to move forward in life by providing helpful insight and healthy functional tools that encourage restored and positive relationships. As a woman, mother, and grandmother, I have valuable life experience that enhances the counseling process by relating on a personal level to your concerns and unique needs.
(941) 220-0285 View (941) 220-0285
Photo of Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Venice, FL
Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
(941) 344-2754 View (941) 344-2754
Photo of Ellen C Ferguson, Counselor in Venice, FL
Ellen C Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
(941) 304-5250 View (941) 304-5250
Photo of Colleen M. Crooms, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Colleen M. Crooms
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I am a licensed psychologist with a strong skill set in providing testing and therapy services for Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and Learning Disorders at any age. I love the evaluation process and often feel like a detective looking for clues to help explain what is going on. Sometimes we know something is not quite working, but need help figuring out the clues and what to do about them. I'm here to help guide you through identification of issues, treatment options and access to services or accommodations.
I am a licensed psychologist with a strong skill set in providing testing and therapy services for Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and Learning Disorders at any age. I love the evaluation process and often feel like a detective looking for clues to help explain what is going on. Sometimes we know something is not quite working, but need help figuring out the clues and what to do about them. I'm here to help guide you through identification of issues, treatment options and access to services or accommodations.
(941) 304-4364 View (941) 304-4364
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 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 Rachel Funnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Rachel Funnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34284  (Online Only)
Specialties: marriage/relationship (Level 1 Gottman Method training), parenting, disruptive child behaviors, family conflict, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, and social skills.
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
Specialties: marriage/relationship (Level 1 Gottman Method training), parenting, disruptive child behaviors, family conflict, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, and social skills.
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
(941) 357-4090 View (941) 357-4090
Photo of Leigh O'Rourke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Leigh O'Rourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over thirty years. My practice consists primarily of individuals (adults and adolescents) dealing with depression, anxiety, loss and low self-esteem. I also work with couples and families struggling with relationship and transition issues.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over thirty years. My practice consists primarily of individuals (adults and adolescents) dealing with depression, anxiety, loss and low self-esteem. I also work with couples and families struggling with relationship and transition issues.
(941) 735-5959 View (941) 735-5959
Photo of Camile Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Camile Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
While being a strong human who can manage everything like a boss is certainly admirable, neglecting one's mental and emotional well-being can ultimately have its fair share of negative impacts. It's important to recognize that being strong doesn't mean being invincible, and everyone needs to take care of themselves in order to function at their best. Ignoring mental and emotional needs can lead to feelings of burnout, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also lead to strained relationships with loved ones, as well as decreased productivity and overall quality of life.
While being a strong human who can manage everything like a boss is certainly admirable, neglecting one's mental and emotional well-being can ultimately have its fair share of negative impacts. It's important to recognize that being strong doesn't mean being invincible, and everyone needs to take care of themselves in order to function at their best. Ignoring mental and emotional needs can lead to feelings of burnout, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also lead to strained relationships with loved ones, as well as decreased productivity and overall quality of life.
(941) 841-0875 View (941) 841-0875
Photo of Dr. Todd Snyder, Counselor in Venice, FL
Dr. Todd Snyder
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34284
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
(941) 236-5078 View (941) 236-5078
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.