Photo of Nesha Benton, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Nesha Benton
Counselor, MSEd, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes, or any other mental health issues that are interfering with your wellbeing, I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes, or any other mental health issues that are interfering with your wellbeing, I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Courtney Lynn Groat, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Courtney Lynn Groat
Counselor, t-LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
(515) 627-6862 View (515) 627-6862

Online Therapists

Photo of Katie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Katie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Recognizing that you need some help and support is the first step in making a change in your life. I am here to help you on your mental health journey. I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at, providing them with tools that they can use to achieve their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults through individual, couple and family sessions. I help my clients by addressing a variety of concerns, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and grief. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that evokes growth and positive change without judgment.
Recognizing that you need some help and support is the first step in making a change in your life. I am here to help you on your mental health journey. I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at, providing them with tools that they can use to achieve their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults through individual, couple and family sessions. I help my clients by addressing a variety of concerns, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and grief. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that evokes growth and positive change without judgment.
(515) 966-8964 x1 View (515) 966-8964 x1
Photo of Brandi Schmitt, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Brandi Schmitt
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
My diverse areas of interest include: survivors of sexual abuse & trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, depression, & anxiety.
Attempting to cope with a mental health concern is often a lonely and exhausting process. Additionally, pursuing counseling can often be a difficult decision to make, but one that I believe is worthwhile. As a counselor, my role is to help support you through your healing journey and empower you to rediscover your own unique strengths and resources as a means to promote such healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to share your own unique life story.
My diverse areas of interest include: survivors of sexual abuse & trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, depression, & anxiety.
Attempting to cope with a mental health concern is often a lonely and exhausting process. Additionally, pursuing counseling can often be a difficult decision to make, but one that I believe is worthwhile. As a counselor, my role is to help support you through your healing journey and empower you to rediscover your own unique strengths and resources as a means to promote such healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to share your own unique life story.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Lynne Vestal Counseling, PC, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Lynne Vestal Counseling, PC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50325  (Online Only)
You have your own unique fingerprint on the world. You matter. Your story matters. I believe when we enter into therapy, we come to accept ourselves as we are with a compassionate stance and change ourselves to develop more joy and fulfillment in our life. After our first session, I will develop a treatment plan as a guidepost specific to you. I’ve been a psychotherapist for 30 years and specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, relationships and transitions, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, grief and loss, and coping with a cancer diagnosis.
You have your own unique fingerprint on the world. You matter. Your story matters. I believe when we enter into therapy, we come to accept ourselves as we are with a compassionate stance and change ourselves to develop more joy and fulfillment in our life. After our first session, I will develop a treatment plan as a guidepost specific to you. I’ve been a psychotherapist for 30 years and specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, relationships and transitions, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, grief and loss, and coping with a cancer diagnosis.
(515) 368-8444 View (515) 368-8444
Photo of Sarah Fandel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Sarah Fandel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310  (Online Only)
I work with clients affected by depression; anxiety; systems of oppression; trauma or abuse; life transition difficulties; emotion dysregulation; attachment and relationship concerns; body image issues; obsessive compulsive tendencies; phobias; gender dysphoria; and identity concerns.
Are you looking to know yourself on a deeper level? To improve your self-esteem, relationships, or emotion regulation? To heal from trauma or loss? To move away from avoidance, people pleasing, or habits that hold you back? Whether you seek to work on a specific goal or to focus more generally on self-exploration and growth, I am happy you are considering working with me. I am confident that we all possess a deep capacity for healing, resiliency, and connection. I strive to continually learn from and integrate multi-faceted modalities and theories of counseling to provide therapy that aligns with your individual needs and goals.
I work with clients affected by depression; anxiety; systems of oppression; trauma or abuse; life transition difficulties; emotion dysregulation; attachment and relationship concerns; body image issues; obsessive compulsive tendencies; phobias; gender dysphoria; and identity concerns.
Are you looking to know yourself on a deeper level? To improve your self-esteem, relationships, or emotion regulation? To heal from trauma or loss? To move away from avoidance, people pleasing, or habits that hold you back? Whether you seek to work on a specific goal or to focus more generally on self-exploration and growth, I am happy you are considering working with me. I am confident that we all possess a deep capacity for healing, resiliency, and connection. I strive to continually learn from and integrate multi-faceted modalities and theories of counseling to provide therapy that aligns with your individual needs and goals.
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Photo of Megan Runchey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Megan Runchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
I have experience working with teens, adults, & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic mental illness, life changes/stressors, & marital conflict.
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgement free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences and pasts that influence where we are in our journey through life. I enjoy working with adults & teens to find their strengths in order to empower and assist them to become the version of themselves they desire to be. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
I have experience working with teens, adults, & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic mental illness, life changes/stressors, & marital conflict.
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgement free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences and pasts that influence where we are in our journey through life. I enjoy working with adults & teens to find their strengths in order to empower and assist them to become the version of themselves they desire to be. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
(515) 882-4780 View (515) 882-4780
Photo of Fein Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Fein Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
While I specialize in anxiety, trauma, ADHD, diversity, relationships, climate psychology, social justice and addictions, my primary focus is you and what you bring with you to the sessions.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
While I specialize in anxiety, trauma, ADHD, diversity, relationships, climate psychology, social justice and addictions, my primary focus is you and what you bring with you to the sessions.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
(515) 964-1733 View (515) 964-1733
Photo of Johnathan Starko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Johnathan Starko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023  (Online Only)
I am trained in several helpful therapeutic modalities, and I have experience treating various issues, including life transitions, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and more.
I work with adults and older adolescents. I am passionate about helping others learn to cope with stressors in their lives and be able to communicate with others more effectively. I hope to help you through any tough transitions you may be going through to develop a positive state of mind and emotional, relational, and physical well-being. If you want to create positive change in your life or your relationships, I am ready to walk alongside you to help you find your way!
I am trained in several helpful therapeutic modalities, and I have experience treating various issues, including life transitions, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and more.
I work with adults and older adolescents. I am passionate about helping others learn to cope with stressors in their lives and be able to communicate with others more effectively. I hope to help you through any tough transitions you may be going through to develop a positive state of mind and emotional, relational, and physical well-being. If you want to create positive change in your life or your relationships, I am ready to walk alongside you to help you find your way!
(515) 679-3486 x7 View (515) 679-3486 x7
Photo of Emilie Ruehs, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Emilie Ruehs
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
I work together with each individual to identify strengths, inter-relational patterns, and motivation for change. I see clients 14 and older with a particular focus on teens and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harm/non-suicidal self-injury, with additional experience in depression, anxiety, body image, life transitions, and identity.
I work together with each individual to identify strengths, inter-relational patterns, and motivation for change. I see clients 14 and older with a particular focus on teens and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harm/non-suicidal self-injury, with additional experience in depression, anxiety, body image, life transitions, and identity.
(515) 493-3961 View (515) 493-3961
Photo of The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Zach is proud to announce that The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa is a regional clinic for the National Social Anxiety Center.
Have you ever had the thought "Maybe I have a problem with anxiety?" One of the worst things about anxiety (aside from the feeling) is the avoidance it creates in a person's life. From mildly interfering with enjoyment to outright avoiding things altogether, anxiety can be paralyzing. Whether it's related to social situations, more generalized, panic attacks, phobia, agoraphobia, or related disorders such as OCD. These are my first and foremost areas of expertise. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is seeing and comparing the progress a person makes along the way.
Zach is proud to announce that The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa is a regional clinic for the National Social Anxiety Center.
Have you ever had the thought "Maybe I have a problem with anxiety?" One of the worst things about anxiety (aside from the feeling) is the avoidance it creates in a person's life. From mildly interfering with enjoyment to outright avoiding things altogether, anxiety can be paralyzing. Whether it's related to social situations, more generalized, panic attacks, phobia, agoraphobia, or related disorders such as OCD. These are my first and foremost areas of expertise. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is seeing and comparing the progress a person makes along the way.
(515) 512-5167 View (515) 512-5167
Photo of Joanna Primus, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Joanna Primus
Counselor, tLMHC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Now accepting new clients. When we face challenges in life, we go to what has worked in the past. We distract ourselves, distance ourselves, or self-medicate with food, relationships, substances and more. At some point, these methods do more harm than good. Let's work together to identify the ways you cope and find better options. I will create a comfortable and safe environment free from judgment that encourages self-discovery. I have experience helping people with trauma, relationships, self-esteem, body image, substance use, anxiety, depression, OCD, binge eating disorder, suicidal thoughts and more.
Now accepting new clients. When we face challenges in life, we go to what has worked in the past. We distract ourselves, distance ourselves, or self-medicate with food, relationships, substances and more. At some point, these methods do more harm than good. Let's work together to identify the ways you cope and find better options. I will create a comfortable and safe environment free from judgment that encourages self-discovery. I have experience helping people with trauma, relationships, self-esteem, body image, substance use, anxiety, depression, OCD, binge eating disorder, suicidal thoughts and more.
(319) 281-0179 View (319) 281-0179
Photo of Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
(515) 221-8194 View (515) 221-8194
Photo of Aryn Lemon, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Aryn Lemon
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nevada, IA 50201
Waitlist for new clients
I have additional experience in working with depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Welcome! In therapy, I believe it is essential for you to feel seen, heard, and valued for who you are. In this sacred space, you have the freedom to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering self-acceptance and empowering you to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Central to my practice is the unwavering belief in the resiliency and potential within each individual. Through a foundation of Person-Centered Therapy, I create an environment characterized by empathy, trust, and unconditional positive regard. I recognize that choosing to go to therapy is sometimes scary, so thank you for taking those first steps.
I have additional experience in working with depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Welcome! In therapy, I believe it is essential for you to feel seen, heard, and valued for who you are. In this sacred space, you have the freedom to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering self-acceptance and empowering you to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Central to my practice is the unwavering belief in the resiliency and potential within each individual. Through a foundation of Person-Centered Therapy, I create an environment characterized by empathy, trust, and unconditional positive regard. I recognize that choosing to go to therapy is sometimes scary, so thank you for taking those first steps.
(515) 854-0361 View (515) 854-0361
Photo of Mary Middleton Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Mary Middleton Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mason City, IA 50401
Accepting new clients. Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? During this trying time, it is important to develop skills to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.
Accepting new clients. Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? During this trying time, it is important to develop skills to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.
(641) 332-6497 View (641) 332-6497
Photo of Brian L Bentley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Brian L Bentley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
(515) 393-2774 View (515) 393-2774
Photo of Annie Lass, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Annie Lass
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or another issue, I will help you recognize underlying problems, realize your strengths, and adjust your behaviors and thoughts to see things differently and healthier.
As a clinician I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or another issue, I will help you recognize underlying problems, realize your strengths, and adjust your behaviors and thoughts to see things differently and healthier.
As a clinician I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
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Photo of Jackie Dehner, Counselor in Hamilton County, IA
Jackie Dehner
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50317  (Online Only)
I have a vast amount of experience working with a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
It is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to share space with clients. Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I provide support and acceptance to all who cross the threshold of my office. Grounded in a Narrative theoretical orientation, I view clients as the experts of their own lives and I aim to help empower them while amplifying their voice. I believe every individual deserves to be heard and seen without judgement and I provide this to all clients through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
I have a vast amount of experience working with a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
It is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to share space with clients. Utilizing a collaborative approach to healing, I provide support and acceptance to all who cross the threshold of my office. Grounded in a Narrative theoretical orientation, I view clients as the experts of their own lives and I aim to help empower them while amplifying their voice. I believe every individual deserves to be heard and seen without judgement and I provide this to all clients through a strong therapeutic alliance and relational depth.
(515) 461-8010 View (515) 461-8010
Photo of Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMPE
Verified Verified
I have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, work-life balance, and conflicts in relationships.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
I have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, work-life balance, and conflicts in relationships.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
(515) 497-2249 View (515) 497-2249
Photo of Nicole Schrader, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton County, IA
Nicole Schrader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with clients with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, sex issues, life transitions, and more.
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, somatics, breathwork, and holistic practices.
I have experience with clients with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, sex issues, life transitions, and more.
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, somatics, breathwork, and holistic practices.
(515) 972-9048 View (515) 972-9048

See more therapy options for Hamilton County

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.