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
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 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 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 Sheryl Eva Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sheryl Eva Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
(253) 292-5017 View (253) 292-5017
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
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 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 Nathalie Harris-Eckel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Nathalie Harris-Eckel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck and struggling to move ahead. We have learned to cope and move through our lives using tools and coping mechanisms that have worked in some ways, but have not allowed us to feel grounded, comfortable, or fully happy with our lives as we progress through them. My job is to work collaboratively with you to create safety and trust through which we can help you develop skills and gain insights, allowing you to reclaim happiness and comfort in your life. I am most passionate about supporting people dealing with Anxiety, Grief, and Life Transition issues.
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck and struggling to move ahead. We have learned to cope and move through our lives using tools and coping mechanisms that have worked in some ways, but have not allowed us to feel grounded, comfortable, or fully happy with our lives as we progress through them. My job is to work collaboratively with you to create safety and trust through which we can help you develop skills and gain insights, allowing you to reclaim happiness and comfort in your life. I am most passionate about supporting people dealing with Anxiety, Grief, and Life Transition issues.
(253) 478-8279 View (253) 478-8279
Photo of Ian Chittle, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Ian Chittle
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
I help people that are feeling anxious and depressed, feel less anxious and depressed. Your mind replays the past and dwells on the future, sending you into panic or making it hard to get out of bed. Your stomach is queasy, your neck is tight, and you feel like you can never quite relax. It feels like others don't see or trust the challenges you face and the effort you actually put in to just get by. You feel uncomfortable in your own skin and unaccepted wherever you go and crave a place that you can truly be yourself, un-judged and appreciated for your unique ideas and qualities. We are going to figure this out together.
(360) 869-0329 View (360) 869-0329
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 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 Angela Sue Garvey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Angela Sue Garvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Are you disconnected from life and unsure of what you want? Are you stressed and overwhelmed but never fulfilled? Do you know your potential is beyond your current life circumstances? Do you feel the weight of comparison and exhaustion from striving? If you are ready to  ->Release rejection, criticism, and judgment. ->Let go of your past and create a vibrant life. ->Heal your relationships ->Break free from shame, guilt, anxiety, and embarrassment. ->Build confidence and find your purpose. ->Feel confident in any situation. ->Build a life of grace, simplicity, and vitality. You've likely tried many things that haven't worked.
Are you disconnected from life and unsure of what you want? Are you stressed and overwhelmed but never fulfilled? Do you know your potential is beyond your current life circumstances? Do you feel the weight of comparison and exhaustion from striving? If you are ready to  ->Release rejection, criticism, and judgment. ->Let go of your past and create a vibrant life. ->Heal your relationships ->Break free from shame, guilt, anxiety, and embarrassment. ->Build confidence and find your purpose. ->Feel confident in any situation. ->Build a life of grace, simplicity, and vitality. You've likely tried many things that haven't worked.
(509) 285-0764 View (509) 285-0764
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 Kassandrea E Manuele, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
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
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 Betsy Moore, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Betsy Moore
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My background is in Psychodynamic and Attachment theory but I have recognized the value of many evidence based approaches in addressing trauma, anxiety and depression.
Everyone has a unique story to tell. Sometimes the story is full of joy and laughter and sometimes it has challenges and heartbreak. For most of us, it falls somewhere in between. By taking the time to share and understand your story, you are given the opportunity to understand how your past shapes your current existence and how past relationships inevitably impact current ones. By understanding and owning your story, you give yourself the opportunity to choose how you want to go forward. One's past does not have to define one's future.
My background is in Psychodynamic and Attachment theory but I have recognized the value of many evidence based approaches in addressing trauma, anxiety and depression.
Everyone has a unique story to tell. Sometimes the story is full of joy and laughter and sometimes it has challenges and heartbreak. For most of us, it falls somewhere in between. By taking the time to share and understand your story, you are given the opportunity to understand how your past shapes your current existence and how past relationships inevitably impact current ones. By understanding and owning your story, you give yourself the opportunity to choose how you want to go forward. One's past does not have to define one's future.
(253) 200-6298 View (253) 200-6298
Photo of Aunastasia Zsidiewicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Aunastasia Zsidiewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CADC I, EMDR
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing the lasting impacts of traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and negative beliefs about yourself? Have you heard of EMDR therapy and wondered how it may benefit you? Would you like to rediscover a sense of peace and empowerment as you journey towards healing from the aftermath of trauma? You are in the right place if you have said "yes" to any of these questions! I offer online therapy to clients in Washington and Oregon, and if you are ready to set down the heavy weight of past experiences, enjoy the present, and feel excited about the future - email me today!
Are you experiencing the lasting impacts of traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and negative beliefs about yourself? Have you heard of EMDR therapy and wondered how it may benefit you? Would you like to rediscover a sense of peace and empowerment as you journey towards healing from the aftermath of trauma? You are in the right place if you have said "yes" to any of these questions! I offer online therapy to clients in Washington and Oregon, and if you are ready to set down the heavy weight of past experiences, enjoy the present, and feel excited about the future - email me today!
(206) 785-2739 View (206) 785-2739
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.