Photo of Dr. Alanna Downing, Psychologist in Wellesley, MA
Dr. Alanna Downing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, humanistic, and mindfulness based therapies. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, humanistic, and mindfulness based therapies. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes.
(781) 303-9621 View (781) 303-9621
Photo of Sarah E Hines, Psychologist in Wellesley, MA
Sarah E Hines
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Hines provides a compassionate and grounding holding space within which clients can feel safe to explore and navigate ineffective patterns, traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, ADHD, transitions, loss, sports performance, interpersonal relationships, and sense of self.
Dr. Sarah E. Hines is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with emerging adults, adolescents, and adults. Her warm and collaborative approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, ACT, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to meet each individual's needs. Her work involves helping clients to develop a cohesive sense of self and create a life worth living through partnership, curiosity, understanding, and perseverance.
Hines provides a compassionate and grounding holding space within which clients can feel safe to explore and navigate ineffective patterns, traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, ADHD, transitions, loss, sports performance, interpersonal relationships, and sense of self.
Dr. Sarah E. Hines is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with emerging adults, adolescents, and adults. Her warm and collaborative approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, ACT, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to meet each individual's needs. Her work involves helping clients to develop a cohesive sense of self and create a life worth living through partnership, curiosity, understanding, and perseverance.
(781) 488-5095 View (781) 488-5095
Photo of Patricia Mathison, Mental Health Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Patricia Mathison
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I am a bilingual Spanish/English therapist that works with adults, and young adults to help improve their overall quality of life. Whether you have a history of anxiety, depression, or mood disorder, or you are at the moment going through a difficult time in your life, therapy can help you cope with your symptoms, and find ways to make changes in your life. I also work with parents to help them cope with the stress-related symptoms of having children with special needs/disabilities and mental health issues.
Welcome to my practice! I am a bilingual Spanish/English therapist that works with adults, and young adults to help improve their overall quality of life. Whether you have a history of anxiety, depression, or mood disorder, or you are at the moment going through a difficult time in your life, therapy can help you cope with your symptoms, and find ways to make changes in your life. I also work with parents to help them cope with the stress-related symptoms of having children with special needs/disabilities and mental health issues.
(781) 705-7338 View (781) 705-7338
Photo of Lisa Bearak Shuman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Lisa Bearak Shuman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I treat depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, infertility, women's issues and life transitions.
I provide clients with a safe, supportive & respectful therapy/coaching experience. I’m there to listen. They can share “stories, past, present, life stresses/transition, mental health issues, family/couples goals” etc. I build upon clients strengths as we work together to achieve their goals. As a therapist & life coach I strive to provide my clients with a positive experience. Treatment concludes with them feeling better about themselves & having met "their goals”. The passion I felt when chose this field, early on in high school, still remains:). Through challenging times I’m grateful to be here, to help those in need.
I treat depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, infertility, women's issues and life transitions.
I provide clients with a safe, supportive & respectful therapy/coaching experience. I’m there to listen. They can share “stories, past, present, life stresses/transition, mental health issues, family/couples goals” etc. I build upon clients strengths as we work together to achieve their goals. As a therapist & life coach I strive to provide my clients with a positive experience. Treatment concludes with them feeling better about themselves & having met "their goals”. The passion I felt when chose this field, early on in high school, still remains:). Through challenging times I’m grateful to be here, to help those in need.
(857) 342-3268 View (857) 342-3268
Photo of Rachel Shanshiry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Rachel Shanshiry
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Sometimes life throws us something that turns our whole world upside down. Other times life is “fine,” but we just don’t feel fine. We may be overwhelmed with anxiety, stress, depression, or just feeling stuck. If you are wondering whether now is the right time for therapy, the answer is probably “yes.” You start to feel different when you do things differently. Whether you are a teen, young adult, or adult, I can offer you a non-judgmental, creative space with fresh ideas and hope for the future.
Sometimes life throws us something that turns our whole world upside down. Other times life is “fine,” but we just don’t feel fine. We may be overwhelmed with anxiety, stress, depression, or just feeling stuck. If you are wondering whether now is the right time for therapy, the answer is probably “yes.” You start to feel different when you do things differently. Whether you are a teen, young adult, or adult, I can offer you a non-judgmental, creative space with fresh ideas and hope for the future.
(781) 527-4750 View (781) 527-4750
Photo of Dana Albert-Proos, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Dana Albert-Proos
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I also offer therapy for adults specializing in anxiety, depression and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist with more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am a strong believer in the ability of creativity and the arts to connect and support individuals, families, and groups through different life events and needs. I offer a warm, person-centered approach that meets individuals where they are.
I also offer therapy for adults specializing in anxiety, depression and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist with more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am a strong believer in the ability of creativity and the arts to connect and support individuals, families, and groups through different life events and needs. I offer a warm, person-centered approach that meets individuals where they are.
(781) 607-7074 View (781) 607-7074
Photo of Beth Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Beth Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If your self-limiting thoughts and anxieties are disrupting your life or getting in the way of you enjoying your relationships or parenting, I can help. Drawing from a range of evidence based treatment modalities, including CBT, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness, I offer a strengths-based perspective to the therapeutic relationship. We will work together to explore the patterns, habits and beliefs that get in the way and practice new ways of pushing past what holds you back. As a SPACE informed clinician, I particularly enjoy working with parents of children/teens managing anxiety related disorders.
If your self-limiting thoughts and anxieties are disrupting your life or getting in the way of you enjoying your relationships or parenting, I can help. Drawing from a range of evidence based treatment modalities, including CBT, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness, I offer a strengths-based perspective to the therapeutic relationship. We will work together to explore the patterns, habits and beliefs that get in the way and practice new ways of pushing past what holds you back. As a SPACE informed clinician, I particularly enjoy working with parents of children/teens managing anxiety related disorders.
View
Photo of Abby Granigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Abby Granigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Feeling overwhelmed by 'what ifs' and constant worry? If decision-making feels daunting and life transitions leave you paralyzed with fear, you're not alone. These struggles can manifest physically—headaches, tension, stomach issues, or panic attacks. It's natural to want to escape this discomfort, but imagine facing these challenges with confidence. In our sessions, you'll learn to manage anxiety, embrace change, and make empowered choices. Together, we'll transform your fears into a journey of self-discovery and growth. You don't have to navigate this path alone; let's find peace and fulfillment together.
Feeling overwhelmed by 'what ifs' and constant worry? If decision-making feels daunting and life transitions leave you paralyzed with fear, you're not alone. These struggles can manifest physically—headaches, tension, stomach issues, or panic attacks. It's natural to want to escape this discomfort, but imagine facing these challenges with confidence. In our sessions, you'll learn to manage anxiety, embrace change, and make empowered choices. Together, we'll transform your fears into a journey of self-discovery and growth. You don't have to navigate this path alone; let's find peace and fulfillment together.
(339) 330-0940 View (339) 330-0940
Photo of Selina Lang, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings including school, crisis stabilization, residential, and inpatient settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulties around anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and trauma. I bring authenticity and transparency, creativity, unconditional acceptance, and humor to the therapy space.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings including school, crisis stabilization, residential, and inpatient settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulties around anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, and trauma. I bring authenticity and transparency, creativity, unconditional acceptance, and humor to the therapy space.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
Photo of Lena Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Lena Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
(978) 991-5019 View (978) 991-5019
Photo of Barbara Maia, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Barbara Maia
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Specializing in issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma (EMDR) and acculturation, I have much experience working in community settings, schools, and a strong background in crisis intervention.
Availability prior to 3pm- Are you experiencing difficulties at work, college, in social situations and self-esteem? Have you been feeling more sad lately? Therapy can be beneficial and instrumental if you are looking for change in your life. We all have the ability to make positive changes to improve our lives. With years of experience working with adults, I am available to support you in dealing with daily struggles and achieving life goals.
Specializing in issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma (EMDR) and acculturation, I have much experience working in community settings, schools, and a strong background in crisis intervention.
Availability prior to 3pm- Are you experiencing difficulties at work, college, in social situations and self-esteem? Have you been feeling more sad lately? Therapy can be beneficial and instrumental if you are looking for change in your life. We all have the ability to make positive changes to improve our lives. With years of experience working with adults, I am available to support you in dealing with daily struggles and achieving life goals.
(978) 378-3108 View (978) 378-3108
Photo of Catherine Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(978) 543-1961 View (978) 543-1961
Photo of Caroline Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Caroline Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I enjoy working with others struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, confidence, spirituality, relationship issues, and self-worth. I often find myself working with those who are learning how to honor their intuition and develop their true and higher selves. I also enjoy working with clients who are open to alternative therapies. I am a heart-centered and strengths-based therapist who meets clients where they are in life and strives to provide a nurturing environment to allow my clients to grow into the best versions of themselves.
I enjoy working with others struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, confidence, spirituality, relationship issues, and self-worth. I often find myself working with those who are learning how to honor their intuition and develop their true and higher selves. I also enjoy working with clients who are open to alternative therapies. I am a heart-centered and strengths-based therapist who meets clients where they are in life and strives to provide a nurturing environment to allow my clients to grow into the best versions of themselves.
(978) 404-8138 View (978) 404-8138
Photo of Garima L Menon, Psychologist in Wellesley, MA
Garima L Menon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
(617) 917-2337 View (617) 917-2337
Photo of Tanya Cherkerzian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Tanya Cherkerzian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Welcome to my practice! I invite you to consider working together to address your specific goals and challenges in a supportive and collaborative way. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with issues of anxiety, specific phobias, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, adjustment to life transitions and building coping strategies and resilience. I believe that with challenge comes an opportunity for inner growth and strength. Mindset is a powerful tool that can help you to feel strong, calm, and confident.
Welcome to my practice! I invite you to consider working together to address your specific goals and challenges in a supportive and collaborative way. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with issues of anxiety, specific phobias, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, adjustment to life transitions and building coping strategies and resilience. I believe that with challenge comes an opportunity for inner growth and strength. Mindset is a powerful tool that can help you to feel strong, calm, and confident.
(617) 658-3834 View (617) 658-3834
Photo of Linda M Palladino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Linda M Palladino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I provide individual, family, and group therapy for persons who are concerned about their emotional health and well-being. With over 25 years of experience in the treatment of pre- teens, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, divorce, career transitions, academic achievement, work/life balance, faith-based conflicts and other life stressors, my practice provides people with a safe, respectful, and healing environment. " Ring the bells that still can ring, forget your perfect offering, there is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." Leonard Cohen
I provide individual, family, and group therapy for persons who are concerned about their emotional health and well-being. With over 25 years of experience in the treatment of pre- teens, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, divorce, career transitions, academic achievement, work/life balance, faith-based conflicts and other life stressors, my practice provides people with a safe, respectful, and healing environment. " Ring the bells that still can ring, forget your perfect offering, there is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." Leonard Cohen
(508) 332-7351 View (508) 332-7351
Photo of Helen M Ceres, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Helen M Ceres
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have been providing collaborative, interactive therapy services to children, adolescents, teens, young adults, adults, couples, and family for over 25 years. I am eclectic in approach, beginning with Relational and Client-Centered models, incorporating Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems Therapies; addressing Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Grief, Loss and Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Anger/Frustration management, Self Esteem and Confidence Building, Social/Relationship Building Skills, LGBTQ, Parenting Coaching/Skills.
I have been providing collaborative, interactive therapy services to children, adolescents, teens, young adults, adults, couples, and family for over 25 years. I am eclectic in approach, beginning with Relational and Client-Centered models, incorporating Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems Therapies; addressing Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Grief, Loss and Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Anger/Frustration management, Self Esteem and Confidence Building, Social/Relationship Building Skills, LGBTQ, Parenting Coaching/Skills.
(617) 934-0195 View (617) 934-0195
Photo of Kathryn Cumming, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Kathryn Cumming
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Cert, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181
Anxiety, depression, negative thinking, feeling stuck or confused, trouble finding motivation, these and other feelings can be managed, even overcome.
I am accepting new clients for EMDR only. I am a certified EMDR therapist. Don’t have time to go to therapy? Don’t want to get into” it”? What takes months or years in traditional therapy can take weeks with EMDR. With intensives ( 3-4 hour sessions 2-3 times in one month) or extended EMDR sessions ( 1.5-2 hour sessions one time per week for one to two months) you can feel better in a matter of 2-3 sessions and not have to talk about what you are feeling or process emotions like you do in traditional therapies. We focus on your strengths and comfort level & we will tailor your therapy for what works with your busy schedule.
Anxiety, depression, negative thinking, feeling stuck or confused, trouble finding motivation, these and other feelings can be managed, even overcome.
I am accepting new clients for EMDR only. I am a certified EMDR therapist. Don’t have time to go to therapy? Don’t want to get into” it”? What takes months or years in traditional therapy can take weeks with EMDR. With intensives ( 3-4 hour sessions 2-3 times in one month) or extended EMDR sessions ( 1.5-2 hour sessions one time per week for one to two months) you can feel better in a matter of 2-3 sessions and not have to talk about what you are feeling or process emotions like you do in traditional therapies. We focus on your strengths and comfort level & we will tailor your therapy for what works with your busy schedule.
(508) 374-9851 View (508) 374-9851
Photo of Esther Merritt, Counselor in Wellesley, MA
Esther Merritt
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181
Are you a high achiever but under value yourself? Work hard and have objective success but feel something is missing, or that it's still not enough? Do you feel aspects of your life need improvement, direction, guidance, change, or growth? Is the old tried and true approach you take, not working anymore?  Come improve your mood, reduce anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, manage stress, work through academic/social/professional challenges, process grief, improve relationships and communication, strengthen parenting techniques, and have smoother life transitions. Therapy's success is equal to the work you put into it, come do the work!
Are you a high achiever but under value yourself? Work hard and have objective success but feel something is missing, or that it's still not enough? Do you feel aspects of your life need improvement, direction, guidance, change, or growth? Is the old tried and true approach you take, not working anymore?  Come improve your mood, reduce anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, manage stress, work through academic/social/professional challenges, process grief, improve relationships and communication, strengthen parenting techniques, and have smoother life transitions. Therapy's success is equal to the work you put into it, come do the work!
(508) 812-4066 View (508) 812-4066
Photo of Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wellesley, MA
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I draw on over 25 years of practice, research and teaching psychotherapy to help you envision what you want for your self, your relationships, work and future. From there, we will work through barriers that block you from the life you envision. To do so, we identify and resolve ‘stuck’ feelings and patterns using a highly collaborative, flexible, results-oriented blend of psychodynamic, somatic, hypnotic, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, and other modalities. Your therapy is an investment in present and future you and I am a highly skilled, positive, enthusiastic partner in your growth. Feel free to email or call for a free consult.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I draw on over 25 years of practice, research and teaching psychotherapy to help you envision what you want for your self, your relationships, work and future. From there, we will work through barriers that block you from the life you envision. To do so, we identify and resolve ‘stuck’ feelings and patterns using a highly collaborative, flexible, results-oriented blend of psychodynamic, somatic, hypnotic, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, and other modalities. Your therapy is an investment in present and future you and I am a highly skilled, positive, enthusiastic partner in your growth. Feel free to email or call for a free consult.
(617) 600-4029 View (617) 600-4029
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.