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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Jaime DiGiovanna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Jaime DiGiovanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and challenges with substance use.
I have worked with a broad base of clients and stay grounded in a trauma informed, person-centered approach. I work with both teens and adults. In my career as a therapist, I has worked with patients ranging in age from 6 years old to over 70 in a variety of environments. I see each of my patients as the expert of their own lives.
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and challenges with substance use.
I have worked with a broad base of clients and stay grounded in a trauma informed, person-centered approach. I work with both teens and adults. In my career as a therapist, I has worked with patients ranging in age from 6 years old to over 70 in a variety of environments. I see each of my patients as the expert of their own lives.
(253) 263-1902 View (253) 263-1902
Photo of Dawn Lindsay, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Dawn Lindsay
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, MHP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Imagine walking by “that place” and not be triggered into a panic attack with the memory attached to it.
You have quietly suffered for too long. You have faced a pain that is so dark and deep you haven’t thought about it in years. You’ve managed to bury the trauma enough to carry on with your life. People look at you and think, “They have got it all together.” But the pain is starting to surface. The past is catching up, and you can’t outrun it this time. You’re ready now. You’re ready to face the darkness and experience true healing. The good news is, you don’t have to face it alone.
Imagine walking by “that place” and not be triggered into a panic attack with the memory attached to it.
You have quietly suffered for too long. You have faced a pain that is so dark and deep you haven’t thought about it in years. You’ve managed to bury the trauma enough to carry on with your life. People look at you and think, “They have got it all together.” But the pain is starting to surface. The past is catching up, and you can’t outrun it this time. You’re ready now. You’re ready to face the darkness and experience true healing. The good news is, you don’t have to face it alone.
(253) 300-0905 View (253) 300-0905
Photo of Anne Douglass, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Anne Douglass
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
The goal of my work is to help clients is to overcome obstacles to healthy relationships, communication, and lifestyle success. Growing up in an alcoholic or dysfunctional family will effect one's adulthood and have a negative impact on relationships. You want to process this with a trusted professional. My experience as a therapist will allow you to let go of old habits, fears, and rules which have kept you from the joyous and free life you desire. My specialty is working with adult children of alcoholics, depression and anxiety.
The goal of my work is to help clients is to overcome obstacles to healthy relationships, communication, and lifestyle success. Growing up in an alcoholic or dysfunctional family will effect one's adulthood and have a negative impact on relationships. You want to process this with a trusted professional. My experience as a therapist will allow you to let go of old habits, fears, and rules which have kept you from the joyous and free life you desire. My specialty is working with adult children of alcoholics, depression and anxiety.
(253) 785-3089 View (253) 785-3089
Photo of Jennifer Tynna Irwin, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jennifer Tynna Irwin
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Have you been impacted by problematic relationships, infidelity, or sex addiction? You might feel lost, betrayed, and alone. Do you ask yourself, "How do I keep ending up in these relationships?". Are you afraid to be alone even when your partner is clearly unhealthy? Core beliefs are the foundation of our being but when they cause us pain, embarrassment, and shame we can become depressed, anxious, fake, and withdrawn. Do you compare yourself to others (I call this Comparanoia)? Do you tell yourself “I am stupid”, “I am worthless”, or “I am not good enough”? If so, then your core beliefs may be contributing to your pain today.
Have you been impacted by problematic relationships, infidelity, or sex addiction? You might feel lost, betrayed, and alone. Do you ask yourself, "How do I keep ending up in these relationships?". Are you afraid to be alone even when your partner is clearly unhealthy? Core beliefs are the foundation of our being but when they cause us pain, embarrassment, and shame we can become depressed, anxious, fake, and withdrawn. Do you compare yourself to others (I call this Comparanoia)? Do you tell yourself “I am stupid”, “I am worthless”, or “I am not good enough”? If so, then your core beliefs may be contributing to your pain today.
(253) 358-8564 View (253) 358-8564
Photo of Stacie McLean, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Stacie McLean, LMHC, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
(253) 527-6860 View (253) 527-6860
Photo of Deborah A Williams, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Deborah A Williams
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Barriers I work with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues and anger problems.
Oftentimes we seek out therapy because components in our lives are causing us significant distress and disrupt our ability to function effectively and feel happiness. I ask clients who come into therapy to bring with them an open attitude, a willingness to explore their life perspectives and their relationships with others, that they may experience true change and healing. This journey towards emotional maturity often involves a certain amount of discomfort and pain before the healing and change can occur. I provide a warm, trusting, safe space to assist people so that they may continue that journey.
Barriers I work with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues and anger problems.
Oftentimes we seek out therapy because components in our lives are causing us significant distress and disrupt our ability to function effectively and feel happiness. I ask clients who come into therapy to bring with them an open attitude, a willingness to explore their life perspectives and their relationships with others, that they may experience true change and healing. This journey towards emotional maturity often involves a certain amount of discomfort and pain before the healing and change can occur. I provide a warm, trusting, safe space to assist people so that they may continue that journey.
(253) 262-0501 View (253) 262-0501
Photo of Elizabeth Marshall, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Elizabeth Marshall
Counselor, BSW, MFT, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
It takes courage to ask for help. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma? Are you at a crossroads in life or feeling stuck? I specialize in helping people through these times to transitions to lead fulfilling lives. My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify root causes and core beliefs. I'm skilled in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, TF-CBT, family systems, and Inner child work. I will teach you skills to decrease and overcome these symptoms. Together, we will increase emotional regulation and feelings of safety. Teens and parents love me!
It takes courage to ask for help. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma? Are you at a crossroads in life or feeling stuck? I specialize in helping people through these times to transitions to lead fulfilling lives. My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify root causes and core beliefs. I'm skilled in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, TF-CBT, family systems, and Inner child work. I will teach you skills to decrease and overcome these symptoms. Together, we will increase emotional regulation and feelings of safety. Teens and parents love me!
(253) 262-0294 View (253) 262-0294
Photo of Jenny Grace Shaw, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jenny Grace Shaw
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CSC, HHP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My Specialized focus include challenges with Disordered Eating, Body Image, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Self-Harming, Depression, Relationships, Co-Dependency, Whole-self Wellness; Mind, Body, and Spirit, addictions, abuse, and trauma, PTSD, Identity Empowerment, Anxiety, and Depression.
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
My Specialized focus include challenges with Disordered Eating, Body Image, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Self-Harming, Depression, Relationships, Co-Dependency, Whole-self Wellness; Mind, Body, and Spirit, addictions, abuse, and trauma, PTSD, Identity Empowerment, Anxiety, and Depression.
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
(808) 736-4177 View (808) 736-4177
Photo of Rachel Rainbolt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Rachel Rainbolt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to show up as the mother you want to be? If you begin your day with a whole-hearted intention for peace that seems to dissolve with each day’s anxieties and triggers, I can help. I have immediate openings for aspiring gentle mothers and their loved ones who are tired of the struggle and ready for peace, freedom, connection, and joy within themselves, their relationships, and their lives.
Do you struggle to show up as the mother you want to be? If you begin your day with a whole-hearted intention for peace that seems to dissolve with each day’s anxieties and triggers, I can help. I have immediate openings for aspiring gentle mothers and their loved ones who are tired of the struggle and ready for peace, freedom, connection, and joy within themselves, their relationships, and their lives.
(253) 766-5473 View (253) 766-5473
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.