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 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
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 Valerie St. John, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Valerie St. John
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
(360) 529-3401 View (360) 529-3401
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 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 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 Narrows Counseling & Wellness, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Narrows Counseling & Wellness
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Weeks, months, or possibly years pass while ignoring a nagging sensation in our minds, bodies, and souls. The sensation is communicating to us that something is not right. When we listen, we might notice a few things. In our work, we might feel overwhelmed or dissatisfied. In our day-to-day life, we might feel irritated or uncertain. Maybe we notice overall feelings of worry and fatigue. Maybe we feel disconnected spiritually. We may have chronic stress, depressive feelings, and anxiety. We may not have a clear path or plan for our life. We want to be free and have more meaning in our lives, but we don’t know how to start.
Weeks, months, or possibly years pass while ignoring a nagging sensation in our minds, bodies, and souls. The sensation is communicating to us that something is not right. When we listen, we might notice a few things. In our work, we might feel overwhelmed or dissatisfied. In our day-to-day life, we might feel irritated or uncertain. Maybe we notice overall feelings of worry and fatigue. Maybe we feel disconnected spiritually. We may have chronic stress, depressive feelings, and anxiety. We may not have a clear path or plan for our life. We want to be free and have more meaning in our lives, but we don’t know how to start.
(253) 649-2689 View (253) 649-2689
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 Dustin-Leigh Fowler, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Dustin-Leigh Fowler
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
(253) 400-2711 View (253) 400-2711
Photo of Erin Manning, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Erin Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
(253) 793-0858 View (253) 793-0858
Photo of Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
(253) 214-9742 View (253) 214-9742
Photo of Key Point Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Key Point Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
WE HAVE IMMEDIATE OPENINGS WITH CLEO LEVINE SEE KEYPOINTTHERAPY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. What is essential? Now more than ever we are debating this question. For some, this has led to considerable amounts of stress and difficulty managing their daily lives. For those already struggling, or to those with newfound struggles, let's build a path forward--together.
WE HAVE IMMEDIATE OPENINGS WITH CLEO LEVINE SEE KEYPOINTTHERAPY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. What is essential? Now more than ever we are debating this question. For some, this has led to considerable amounts of stress and difficulty managing their daily lives. For those already struggling, or to those with newfound struggles, let's build a path forward--together.
(253) 780-0680 View (253) 780-0680
Photo of Mali Hawkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Mali Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We have all experienced times when life seems challenging... a period of transition, ongoing struggles with anxiety or depression, or a loss that turns our world upside down. In our darkest moments, there can be no greater consolation than the gift of companionship on our journey through pain. Everyone longs to feel connection, to be freed from our isolation; we long for relationship. And in these moments, you may benefit from the help of a counselor. No matter where you find yourself in your life journey, I can promise that you will be welcome in my office, and together we will work towards healing.
We have all experienced times when life seems challenging... a period of transition, ongoing struggles with anxiety or depression, or a loss that turns our world upside down. In our darkest moments, there can be no greater consolation than the gift of companionship on our journey through pain. Everyone longs to feel connection, to be freed from our isolation; we long for relationship. And in these moments, you may benefit from the help of a counselor. No matter where you find yourself in your life journey, I can promise that you will be welcome in my office, and together we will work towards healing.
(253) 444-4250 View (253) 444-4250
Photo of Jeanette Lantz, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Jeanette Lantz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are anxiety or stress getting the better of you? Maybe you find yourself worrying all the time. Or you can't sleep. Maybe you find unwanted thoughts filling your day and driving you to do things that get in the way of the life you want. Perhaps it was harder to bounce back after having a baby than you thought it would be. Or maybe you are struggling to get past a hard thing that has happened and don't know how to get back to the full and meaningful life you want. I'm here to help.
Are anxiety or stress getting the better of you? Maybe you find yourself worrying all the time. Or you can't sleep. Maybe you find unwanted thoughts filling your day and driving you to do things that get in the way of the life you want. Perhaps it was harder to bounce back after having a baby than you thought it would be. Or maybe you are struggling to get past a hard thing that has happened and don't know how to get back to the full and meaningful life you want. I'm here to help.
(253) 214-3729 View (253) 214-3729

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Evinger PLLC, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jennifer Evinger PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Fircrest, WA 98466
It can be a challenge to find a counselor that is not only a good fit, but has the knowledge to help with the concerns you are bringing to therapy. I work with both both children and adults in my practice and have spent the past 10 years specializing in treating depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns in children, and trauma/PTSD using evidence-based treatments. Clients have described me as straight-forward as well as taking the time to understand their experience.
It can be a challenge to find a counselor that is not only a good fit, but has the knowledge to help with the concerns you are bringing to therapy. I work with both both children and adults in my practice and have spent the past 10 years specializing in treating depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns in children, and trauma/PTSD using evidence-based treatments. Clients have described me as straight-forward as well as taking the time to understand their experience.
(253) 785-6569 View (253) 785-6569
Photo of Sarah Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sarah Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Waitlist for new clients
Life can often be incredibly overwhelming and sometimes it's helpful to have a little extra support. If you are struggling with anxiety, ADHD, parenting, postpartum or perinatal concerns, low self-esteem, panic, OCD, and/or intrusive thoughts, therapy can help. If you need support through different life transitions and are trying to adjust to a different normal, I am here for you. I specialize in supporting clients through anxiety-related concerns with empathy and kindness. I offer a holistic and systemic perspective for all of the people I work with and will identify how the systems you are a part of impact your current struggles.
Life can often be incredibly overwhelming and sometimes it's helpful to have a little extra support. If you are struggling with anxiety, ADHD, parenting, postpartum or perinatal concerns, low self-esteem, panic, OCD, and/or intrusive thoughts, therapy can help. If you need support through different life transitions and are trying to adjust to a different normal, I am here for you. I specialize in supporting clients through anxiety-related concerns with empathy and kindness. I offer a holistic and systemic perspective for all of the people I work with and will identify how the systems you are a part of impact your current struggles.
(253) 649-2403 View (253) 649-2403
Photo of Stephanie Perceful, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Stephanie Perceful
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
(253) 242-8557 View (253) 242-8557
Photo of Stanford Stringham, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Stanford Stringham
Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406
S. Todd Stringham, LMHC, received his Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2016, and has been working for Comprehensive Life Resources as a therapist in Tacoma. Todd's eclectic style draws from a variety of techniques that include: (ACT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy, (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and (MI) Motivational Interview. He works with adults suffering from anxiety disorders including phobias and OCD, depression, trauma, stress and adjustment disorder.
S. Todd Stringham, LMHC, received his Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2016, and has been working for Comprehensive Life Resources as a therapist in Tacoma. Todd's eclectic style draws from a variety of techniques that include: (ACT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy, (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and (MI) Motivational Interview. He works with adults suffering from anxiety disorders including phobias and OCD, depression, trauma, stress and adjustment disorder.
(253) 364-4695 View (253) 364-4695

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.