Photo of Dr. Sybil McLean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ferndale, WA
Dr. Sybil McLean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, WA 98248
My main specialties are: anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD however I address other issues.
Accepting New Clients - Immediate Availability! As a Clinical Social Worker I take an humanistic approach to care. Sometimes it isn't about what is going on within a person but what's going on around them or what is affecting their life. At times your needs aren't mental health related but instead need resources to address it along w/ therapy. In therapy I address issues such as: social dynamics (social anxiety, interpersonal communication, social skills), life transitions (grief, divorce), symptom management (sleep quality, improved moods, reduced stress), & academic challenges (learning disorders, attention/distraction, behavior).
My main specialties are: anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD however I address other issues.
Accepting New Clients - Immediate Availability! As a Clinical Social Worker I take an humanistic approach to care. Sometimes it isn't about what is going on within a person but what's going on around them or what is affecting their life. At times your needs aren't mental health related but instead need resources to address it along w/ therapy. In therapy I address issues such as: social dynamics (social anxiety, interpersonal communication, social skills), life transitions (grief, divorce), symptom management (sleep quality, improved moods, reduced stress), & academic challenges (learning disorders, attention/distraction, behavior).
(360) 323-6488 View (360) 323-6488

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Masler, Psychologist in Ferndale, WA
Daniel Masler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, work issues, Autism, ADHD, grief, and bereavement.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, work issues, Autism, ADHD, grief, and bereavement.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
(206) 460-1404 View (206) 460-1404
Photo of Heather Hamilton, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Heather Hamilton
Counselor, PhD, LPC, DCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98227
If you want to learn more about Breakthrough!, or our approaches to working with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression or weight management therapy, please visit our website.
Opening 1 additional Day of appointments - 9 openings available beginning in October. With grace, and humor, we'll work with you to address challenges impacting your health, happiness, and relationships with others. It's our philosophy that whatever affects our emotional health (isolation, depression, anxiety, trauma) will affect our physical well-being (appetite, sleep, weight gain). Not too many people enjoy change and these past few years have been nothing but a roller coaster! I'd enjoy the opportunity to talk with you and understand how you're doing. How have you been affected by changes? Is BreakThrough! right for you?
If you want to learn more about Breakthrough!, or our approaches to working with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression or weight management therapy, please visit our website.
Opening 1 additional Day of appointments - 9 openings available beginning in October. With grace, and humor, we'll work with you to address challenges impacting your health, happiness, and relationships with others. It's our philosophy that whatever affects our emotional health (isolation, depression, anxiety, trauma) will affect our physical well-being (appetite, sleep, weight gain). Not too many people enjoy change and these past few years have been nothing but a roller coaster! I'd enjoy the opportunity to talk with you and understand how you're doing. How have you been affected by changes? Is BreakThrough! right for you?
(360) 746-2024 View (360) 746-2024
Photo of Alagna Valsesia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ferndale, WA
Alagna Valsesia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I am also experienced in treating anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
Hi, my name is Alagna (pronounced Ah-lah-nya), I work with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families interested in finding meaningful support as they navigate personal and relational challenges. I take a deeply systemic approach to therapy, considering you as an individual and conceptualizing the influence of familial and social systems in your life. I view healing as a holistic journey encompassing awareness, reflection, and embodiment. I take special pride in working with folks who have experienced complex family trauma, or sexual trauma, or feel a sense of existential meaninglessness in their life.
I am also experienced in treating anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
Hi, my name is Alagna (pronounced Ah-lah-nya), I work with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families interested in finding meaningful support as they navigate personal and relational challenges. I take a deeply systemic approach to therapy, considering you as an individual and conceptualizing the influence of familial and social systems in your life. I view healing as a holistic journey encompassing awareness, reflection, and embodiment. I take special pride in working with folks who have experienced complex family trauma, or sexual trauma, or feel a sense of existential meaninglessness in their life.
(206) 594-5325 View (206) 594-5325
Photo of Rj Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ferndale, WA
Rj Solomon
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
The path to healing is not one-size-fits-all or linear. Regardless of who you are, we're all out here just trying to be human. The decision to seek help is not an easy one, but my calling is to make the process feel safe, approachable, and welcomed. My goal is to be your mirror and witness to your story. I hope to create a collaborative and safe space to address your needs, achieve your goals, and bring peace and contentment to your whole self.
The path to healing is not one-size-fits-all or linear. Regardless of who you are, we're all out here just trying to be human. The decision to seek help is not an easy one, but my calling is to make the process feel safe, approachable, and welcomed. My goal is to be your mirror and witness to your story. I hope to create a collaborative and safe space to address your needs, achieve your goals, and bring peace and contentment to your whole self.
(206) 207-3642 View (206) 207-3642
Photo of Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Dr. Isabel E. Kaufman Forensic Expert/Therapist
Counselor, DR, LMHCC, CFC, Forensi, Expert
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
Through Life Stages: offers an array of services including but not limited to individual, children, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss therapy and conflict resolution. Dr Kaufman uses state of the art Mental Health Assessments. The Assessment includes a comprehensive social history, referral information, diagnostic impression, significant findings, and recommendations for treatment. A thorough Mental Health Evaluation like this is the best way to help yourself, your child, and your family. As a Professional Counselor Isabel E. Kaufman is experienced, knowledgeable and able to help!
(360) 927-1980 View (360) 927-1980
Photo of Joli Winsett, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Joli Winsett
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Lynden, WA 98264
Not accepting new clients
Find healing. I offer multiple art therapy methods for ages 13+ to facilitate your mental and emotional healing, from simple mark-making to Neurographica to assessments that unlock your unconscious mind. If you want to just talk, then we'll do that. This is your path to healing. Come as you are. There's no art experience required to benefit from art therapy. Your creativity comes from within you, not from the opinions of others. In art therapy, your inner thoughts and feelings become your muse, helping you see them from a new perspective.
Find healing. I offer multiple art therapy methods for ages 13+ to facilitate your mental and emotional healing, from simple mark-making to Neurographica to assessments that unlock your unconscious mind. If you want to just talk, then we'll do that. This is your path to healing. Come as you are. There's no art experience required to benefit from art therapy. Your creativity comes from within you, not from the opinions of others. In art therapy, your inner thoughts and feelings become your muse, helping you see them from a new perspective.
(360) 233-8874 View (360) 233-8874
Photo of Mary Susan Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ferndale, WA
Mary Susan Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
(206) 455-8671 View (206) 455-8671

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Raisa Felts, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Dr. Raisa Felts
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98075  (Online Only)
I specialize working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. This includes the treatment of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. I have over 10 years of experience working with autism in both research and clinical settings. I am passionate about helping individuals work through anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and other challenges that may affect their daily lives. Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, and exhausted? I am here to help guide you through this journey and cultivate a genuine relationship where we can safely discuss challenges based on your needs.
I specialize working with neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. This includes the treatment of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. I have over 10 years of experience working with autism in both research and clinical settings. I am passionate about helping individuals work through anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and other challenges that may affect their daily lives. Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, and exhausted? I am here to help guide you through this journey and cultivate a genuine relationship where we can safely discuss challenges based on your needs.
(206) 208-6705 View (206) 208-6705
Photo of Claudia Correa, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Claudia Correa
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I have navigated with my clients through a range of issues including post-traumatic-stress-disorder, sexual assault and abuse, anxiety, gender identity, relationship concerns, mood disorders, and religious faith crises.
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
I have navigated with my clients through a range of issues including post-traumatic-stress-disorder, sexual assault and abuse, anxiety, gender identity, relationship concerns, mood disorders, and religious faith crises.
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
(206) 350-2239 View (206) 350-2239
Photo of Counseling Services for Wellbeing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ferndale, WA
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Dr. Julie Lesperance, Psychologist in Ferndale, WA
Dr. Julie Lesperance
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Port Angeles, WA 98362  (Online Only)
Many begin therapy during transitional times of life, when it can be necessary to relieve underlying feelings of anxiety, distress or challenging emotions.
I identify as a (W)holistic Psychologist in orientation. Human beings have complex connections between their psyche, socio-cultural background and biological self, and are influenced by personal life experiences. The interplay of these aspects are where imbalances may occur and informative symptoms may arise. In my practice, we would collaborate on identifying these connections and reveal unconscious internal reactions that cause us to act, and react in our interpersonal relationships and life choices. My patients seek an authentic life, with increased self-knowledge and a decrease in pain and symptoms
Many begin therapy during transitional times of life, when it can be necessary to relieve underlying feelings of anxiety, distress or challenging emotions.
I identify as a (W)holistic Psychologist in orientation. Human beings have complex connections between their psyche, socio-cultural background and biological self, and are influenced by personal life experiences. The interplay of these aspects are where imbalances may occur and informative symptoms may arise. In my practice, we would collaborate on identifying these connections and reveal unconscious internal reactions that cause us to act, and react in our interpersonal relationships and life choices. My patients seek an authentic life, with increased self-knowledge and a decrease in pain and symptoms
(360) 467-6957 View (360) 467-6957
Photo of Andrew Zarate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ferndale, WA
Andrew Zarate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RDN, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Andrew (he/him/his). I’m here to work with you to improve the quality of your life using insight oriented talk therapy. I work with adults on issues ranging from, but not limited to, general stressors of life, interpersonal and relational issues, shame, multicultural issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and navigating life transitions. I also have experience in treating chronic mental health conditions such as anxiety, and depression.
Hi, I'm Andrew (he/him/his). I’m here to work with you to improve the quality of your life using insight oriented talk therapy. I work with adults on issues ranging from, but not limited to, general stressors of life, interpersonal and relational issues, shame, multicultural issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and navigating life transitions. I also have experience in treating chronic mental health conditions such as anxiety, and depression.
(206) 737-0650 View (206) 737-0650
Photo of Lynsey Isaacs, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Lynsey Isaacs
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDPT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm experienced in treating depression and anxiety, getting to the root cause of problematic thought and behavioral patterns.
Even when you check all the right boxes in life, it can be overwhelming and feel like your emotions are in control. Maybe you feel "stuck" or hopeless that real change is possible. There are a multitude of reasons why we seek treatment. Regardless of the why, your pain is real and you deserve support. With your willingness to do the work, I will show up and meet you wherever you are at on your journey. If you are ready to invest in yourself, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
I'm experienced in treating depression and anxiety, getting to the root cause of problematic thought and behavioral patterns.
Even when you check all the right boxes in life, it can be overwhelming and feel like your emotions are in control. Maybe you feel "stuck" or hopeless that real change is possible. There are a multitude of reasons why we seek treatment. Regardless of the why, your pain is real and you deserve support. With your willingness to do the work, I will show up and meet you wherever you are at on your journey. If you are ready to invest in yourself, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
(425) 243-0305 View (425) 243-0305
Photo of Amy Appel Picco, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Amy Appel Picco
Counselor, DO, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, chronic illness, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, difficult life transitions, grief, burnout, and overwhelm. I believe discovering our authentic self, landing safely back in our body, finding the deeper meanings underneath our current symptoms, releasing patterns that no longer serve us, and identifying our fears, hopes and desires can help us find a renewed sense of peace and purpose in our life.
I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, chronic illness, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, difficult life transitions, grief, burnout, and overwhelm. I believe discovering our authentic self, landing safely back in our body, finding the deeper meanings underneath our current symptoms, releasing patterns that no longer serve us, and identifying our fears, hopes and desires can help us find a renewed sense of peace and purpose in our life.
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Photo of Kids and Family Counseling PLLC., Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Kids and Family Counseling PLLC.
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duvall, WA 98019
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
(425) 549-9710 View (425) 549-9710
Photo of Angela R. Schellenberg, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Angela R. Schellenberg
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, K-8 cer
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
(206) 278-3407 View (206) 278-3407
Photo of Shannon Dubach, Psychologist in Ferndale, WA
Shannon Dubach
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
I successfully help adults and adolescents with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, fears, loss, grief and relationship issues.
You're considering therapy. It is often a complicated and difficult decision but sometimes we just know that it's time to try something new. I believe taking the courageous step to begin therapy helps individuals and families address challenges that keep us from our full potential. Whether you are suffering from anxiety or depression, relationship issues or isolation, financial preoccupations, or a desire for a new career, you know it is time to work to make things better. I am a psychologist providing flexible, relational therapy to help you to address a range of issues. My style is warm, compassionate, and down-to-earth.
I successfully help adults and adolescents with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, fears, loss, grief and relationship issues.
You're considering therapy. It is often a complicated and difficult decision but sometimes we just know that it's time to try something new. I believe taking the courageous step to begin therapy helps individuals and families address challenges that keep us from our full potential. Whether you are suffering from anxiety or depression, relationship issues or isolation, financial preoccupations, or a desire for a new career, you know it is time to work to make things better. I am a psychologist providing flexible, relational therapy to help you to address a range of issues. My style is warm, compassionate, and down-to-earth.
(510) 746-8062 View (510) 746-8062
Photo of Ian Jacobson, Counselor in Ferndale, WA
Ian Jacobson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
*Currently accepting new patients* Hi, there! I'm Ian. If you are feeling down, anxious, or stuck or are struggling in your relationships, I would like to help. I believe that meaningful personal connection—feeling understood, accepted, & loved—is at the heart of well-being, so my desire is to provide a genuine, warm, & safe presence in which my clients feel comfortable sharing their stories & exploring how their past has shaped them & their experience of the present. Though I use a psychodynamic approach, I tailor my approach to meet my clients' needs, integrating techniques from various approaches like CBT, gestalt, & mindfulness.
*Currently accepting new patients* Hi, there! I'm Ian. If you are feeling down, anxious, or stuck or are struggling in your relationships, I would like to help. I believe that meaningful personal connection—feeling understood, accepted, & loved—is at the heart of well-being, so my desire is to provide a genuine, warm, & safe presence in which my clients feel comfortable sharing their stories & exploring how their past has shaped them & their experience of the present. Though I use a psychodynamic approach, I tailor my approach to meet my clients' needs, integrating techniques from various approaches like CBT, gestalt, & mindfulness.
(206) 531-7328 View (206) 531-7328
Photo of Dr. Ellen Bronder, Psychologist in Ferndale, WA
Dr. Ellen Bronder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive & high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive & high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
(216) 299-3810 View (216) 299-3810

See more therapy options for Ferndale

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.