Photo of Jennifer Davies, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jennifer Davies
Counselor, LMHCA, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
(253) 352-3022 View (253) 352-3022
Photo of Tanya Murdock Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Tanya Murdock Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Daytime openings. Is anxiety, procrastination and self-doubt keeping you stuck and unfulfilled? Would you prefer to have more joy, better relationships and be reaching goals? Together we can uncover the barriers to living this more joyous life. I can help you interrupt these negative patterns and become healthier and happier. I provide a caring, unjudgmental and direct approach which is tailored to your needs specifically. I want you to feel proud of yourself and we can make that happen. I also offer walk and talk which combines exercise, talk therapy and outdoor therapy. Get steps and get moving on an improved life.
Daytime openings. Is anxiety, procrastination and self-doubt keeping you stuck and unfulfilled? Would you prefer to have more joy, better relationships and be reaching goals? Together we can uncover the barriers to living this more joyous life. I can help you interrupt these negative patterns and become healthier and happier. I provide a caring, unjudgmental and direct approach which is tailored to your needs specifically. I want you to feel proud of yourself and we can make that happen. I also offer walk and talk which combines exercise, talk therapy and outdoor therapy. Get steps and get moving on an improved life.
(253) 400-2532 View (253) 400-2532
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
We offer individual and group therapy for a variety of concerns, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, pandemic issues, adjustment, attachment, behavior, school problems, identity, and substance abuse.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Photo of Alicia Elliott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Alicia Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
What’s your story? Is it a tragic tale of grief and loss? Or is your story a fast paced, anxiety ridden adventure repeatedly landing you in a pit of despair? I understand how difficult it can be to get control of the story of your life.
What’s your story? Is it a tragic tale of grief and loss? Or is your story a fast paced, anxiety ridden adventure repeatedly landing you in a pit of despair? I understand how difficult it can be to get control of the story of your life.
(253) 215-8026 View (253) 215-8026
Photo of Phylly Bland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Phylly Bland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
(253) 400-3073 View (253) 400-3073
Photo of Ann Silvers, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Ann Silvers
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Everyone can use a little help sometimes. Whether it's working through a personal or relationship problem, crisis, decision, transition, or loss; changing a habit; overcoming anxiety or roadblocks to success; or learning how to make a good relationship better & increase the likelihood it will be long & happy; I'm here to help. Clients describe me as: "easy to connect with," "resourceful," "energetic," "patient," "pragmatic: concerned with practical results," "logical: can go from the big picture to the application," "skill-building: gives you tools you can use today," as well as "has a great sense of humor."
Everyone can use a little help sometimes. Whether it's working through a personal or relationship problem, crisis, decision, transition, or loss; changing a habit; overcoming anxiety or roadblocks to success; or learning how to make a good relationship better & increase the likelihood it will be long & happy; I'm here to help. Clients describe me as: "easy to connect with," "resourceful," "energetic," "patient," "pragmatic: concerned with practical results," "logical: can go from the big picture to the application," "skill-building: gives you tools you can use today," as well as "has a great sense of humor."
(253) 200-9893 View (253) 200-9893
Photo of Dr. Colleen Rustad, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Dr. Colleen Rustad
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
(253) 201-2154 View (253) 201-2154
Photo of Eunice Kim-Setiawan, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Eunice Kim-Setiawan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise includes coping with stress, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, military/aviation families, chronic physical/emotional pain, identity, and family of origin/generational trauma.
Updated April'24. Accepting new clients on wait-list 1-3 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy pup in-training and attends some sessions.
My expertise includes coping with stress, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, military/aviation families, chronic physical/emotional pain, identity, and family of origin/generational trauma.
Updated April'24. Accepting new clients on wait-list 1-3 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy pup in-training and attends some sessions.
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Photo of Lauren Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Lauren Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
I specialize in rebuilding self esteem, improving anxiety levels, and providing relief from OCD.
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
I specialize in rebuilding self esteem, improving anxiety levels, and providing relief from OCD.
Are you the person everyone depends on to have it together? The friend they call when they need support, the manager they trust to complete the important projects, the daughter they lean on the most. You’re kind, empathetic, and extremely capable, yet somehow these traits are used against you. You’re constantly thinking of you’re to-do list, but there’s never enough time. You pride yourself on giving 100% but it's impossible to do anymore. And you wish you had someone YOU could lean on. I support women as they learn to prioritize themselves, build their self-confidence, and start living lives that actually fill them with joy.
(253) 352-2697 View (253) 352-2697
Photo of Lindsey Nickell, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Lindsey Nickell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, YTT200
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(253) 243-8791 View (253) 243-8791
Photo of Aimee Tesdahl, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Aimee Tesdahl
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I love to work with adults of any age with various concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues and grief.
Are you looking for someone that you connect with, provides compassion and support, and helps you process through your concerns? It can be hard to find the right therapist for you. My hope is that you would feel safe, understood and accepted in counseling. I work collaboratively with clients to help them manage concerns in their life. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, putting your needs first and providing you the tools you need to find healing.
I love to work with adults of any age with various concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues and grief.
Are you looking for someone that you connect with, provides compassion and support, and helps you process through your concerns? It can be hard to find the right therapist for you. My hope is that you would feel safe, understood and accepted in counseling. I work collaboratively with clients to help them manage concerns in their life. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, putting your needs first and providing you the tools you need to find healing.
(253) 528-8074 View (253) 528-8074
Photo of Annaliese Jacobsson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Annaliese Jacobsson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
If you’re frequently anxious or overwhelmed, if there are difficult events from your life continuing to invade your life in memories or nightmares, if you’re experiencing chronic pain, if you’re feeling depressed, irritable, stuck, or alone, I can help. You may have tried everything you can think of to start feeling better and nothing seems to fully address your struggles. I’m so glad you’re here. There is hope. If you don’t believe that yet, that’s ok, I am holding it for you until you can.
If you’re frequently anxious or overwhelmed, if there are difficult events from your life continuing to invade your life in memories or nightmares, if you’re experiencing chronic pain, if you’re feeling depressed, irritable, stuck, or alone, I can help. You may have tried everything you can think of to start feeling better and nothing seems to fully address your struggles. I’m so glad you’re here. There is hope. If you don’t believe that yet, that’s ok, I am holding it for you until you can.
(253) 243-0128 View (253) 243-0128
Photo of Elizabeth M Humes, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Elizabeth M Humes
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
(253) 214-3668 View (253) 214-3668
Photo of Sandra A Milton, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Sandra A Milton
Counselor, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are experiencing interpersonal difficulties, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, infidelity (either the faithful or the unfaithful partner), or confusion regarding their current or future life situation.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired by the client, I approach their circumstances from a biblical perspective.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are experiencing interpersonal difficulties, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, infidelity (either the faithful or the unfaithful partner), or confusion regarding their current or future life situation.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired by the client, I approach their circumstances from a biblical perspective.
(855) 835-6580 x305 View (855) 835-6580 x305
Photo of Colleen Bebich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Colleen Bebich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
(253) 243-2486 View (253) 243-2486
Photo of Wendy Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Wendy Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
(253) 265-4959 View (253) 265-4959
Photo of Sheila Keenan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sheila Keenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child difficulties, work/life balance, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
We all encounter situations that feel overwhelming and test our coping abilities. I see therapy as a collaborative process that will help you navigate the challenges and transitions that life presents. I offer a safe, supportive environment to talk about issues that can be difficult to discuss elsewhere. Together we will explore how certain thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences might be contributing to your difficulties. We will identify your strengths and figure out effective coping strategies to create positive changes in your life. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child difficulties, work/life balance, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
We all encounter situations that feel overwhelming and test our coping abilities. I see therapy as a collaborative process that will help you navigate the challenges and transitions that life presents. I offer a safe, supportive environment to talk about issues that can be difficult to discuss elsewhere. Together we will explore how certain thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences might be contributing to your difficulties. We will identify your strengths and figure out effective coping strategies to create positive changes in your life. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
(206) 538-2898 View (206) 538-2898
Photo of Christine Thurston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Christine Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
(360) 443-5452 View (360) 443-5452
Photo of Sarah Atchison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sarah Atchison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS, CGE
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
(253) 236-0733 View (253) 236-0733
Photo of Victoria Tierney, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Victoria Tierney
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
(360) 523-7363 View (360) 523-7363
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.