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 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 Susan Curtis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Susan Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss as well as those that struggle with depression and anxiety.
There comes a time when we all need a little help to cope with some of life's challenges. Life can often feel overwhelming and even exhausting, especially in today's environment. If this is one of those times that you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or a death or loss that you are grieving, I am here. My goal in therapy is to create a safe space for you to explore difficult emotions, while leading you towards a place of healing and self-discovery.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss as well as those that struggle with depression and anxiety.
There comes a time when we all need a little help to cope with some of life's challenges. Life can often feel overwhelming and even exhausting, especially in today's environment. If this is one of those times that you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or a death or loss that you are grieving, I am here. My goal in therapy is to create a safe space for you to explore difficult emotions, while leading you towards a place of healing and self-discovery.
(847) 802-9084 View (847) 802-9084
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 May'24. Wait-list of approximately 3-4 months. 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 Maltipoo 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 May'24. Wait-list of approximately 3-4 months. 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 Maltipoo pup in-training and attends some sessions.
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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 Phylly Bland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Phylly Bland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
I am committed to helping adult individuals and couples find deeper understanding, connection, and peace in their lives. I work with adults on anxiety, overwhelm, loneliness, relationship issues, conflict, life changes and transitions, dating, parenting, friendship, identity work, and more. My work focuses on first identifying and communicating emotional experiences; and then tracking and disrupting patterns that occur individually and in relationships. I believe in collaborating side by side to define and work toward your goals together.
(253) 400-3073 View (253) 400-3073
Photo of Christine Thurston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Christine Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
(360) 443-5452 View (360) 443-5452
Photo of Sarah Atchison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sarah Atchison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS, CGE
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
(253) 236-0733 View (253) 236-0733
Photo of 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
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 Jen Reisinger, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jen Reisinger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am a down-to-earth, approachable therapist that specializes in supporting clients through postpartum, motherhood and grief. My clients often come to me feeling frustrated that what they’re currently doing to manage the overwhelm of motherhood or the pain of grief isn't working. I frequently work with women who are surprised that they are feeling a sharp spike in anxiety, anger and overwhelm in motherhood and are yearning for the peace that comes with tuning into their authentic selves (but are stuck and don't know how to get back there!). In grief, clients often tell me they can't see the road ahead but yearn for healing.
I am a down-to-earth, approachable therapist that specializes in supporting clients through postpartum, motherhood and grief. My clients often come to me feeling frustrated that what they’re currently doing to manage the overwhelm of motherhood or the pain of grief isn't working. I frequently work with women who are surprised that they are feeling a sharp spike in anxiety, anger and overwhelm in motherhood and are yearning for the peace that comes with tuning into their authentic selves (but are stuck and don't know how to get back there!). In grief, clients often tell me they can't see the road ahead but yearn for healing.
(253) 649-2017 View (253) 649-2017
Photo of Anne Douglass, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Anne Douglass
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I work with adults and teens (age 16+) on a variety of issues relating to depression, anxiety, relationships and communication. The goal of my work is to help clients overcome difficulties and improve their mental health quality of life. My experience as a therapist will allow you to let go of old habits, fears, and belief systems which have kept them from the joyous and free life you desire. My specialty is working with adult children of alcoholics, depression and anxiety.
I work with adults and teens (age 16+) on a variety of issues relating to depression, anxiety, relationships and communication. The goal of my work is to help clients overcome difficulties and improve their mental health quality of life. My experience as a therapist will allow you to let go of old habits, fears, and belief systems which have kept them 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 Sarah Pence, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Sarah Pence
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Everyone no matter who they are are able to move past the darkness and trauma of their past, I am here to help rebuild and reshape thoughts and behaviors that have kept you in the dark. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve their best version of themselves. Reaching out for help is the hardest step in therapy a person can take. By having an open mind and free space to help clients feel safe to express past traumas is essential to build a foundation to become the version each person has the right to show the world.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Everyone no matter who they are are able to move past the darkness and trauma of their past, I am here to help rebuild and reshape thoughts and behaviors that have kept you in the dark. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve their best version of themselves. Reaching out for help is the hardest step in therapy a person can take. By having an open mind and free space to help clients feel safe to express past traumas is essential to build a foundation to become the version each person has the right to show the world.
(253) 858-7056 View (253) 858-7056
Photo of Kathryn Grace Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gig Harbor, WA
Kathryn Grace Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Grief and Loss, and Relationships.
Sometimes we need a different perspective to help navigate life's storms and battles. Whether you need a space to talk and process daily challenges, have concerns about your brain, or how you respond and cope with those challenges, I am here to help. Through our sessions we can discover what it is that is blocking you from living your life to the fullest, equip you with tools to navigate the future, and sort out the past. Brain Matter Healing Mission Statement: To help all humans break free from the past so they can thrive into the future. Healing can happen, and it can start today.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Grief and Loss, and Relationships.
Sometimes we need a different perspective to help navigate life's storms and battles. Whether you need a space to talk and process daily challenges, have concerns about your brain, or how you respond and cope with those challenges, I am here to help. Through our sessions we can discover what it is that is blocking you from living your life to the fullest, equip you with tools to navigate the future, and sort out the past. Brain Matter Healing Mission Statement: To help all humans break free from the past so they can thrive into the future. Healing can happen, and it can start today.
(206) 558-0451 View (206) 558-0451
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 Kendra Foisie Rice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Kendra Foisie Rice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, PMH-C, CDHWP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Has becoming a parent been more challenging than you expected? Are you struggling to feel connected to your partner or to your baby? Are you feeling unsupported, exhausted, fearful, or sad when you thought you would be feeling elated? Are you questioning whether your experience is normal and wondering if things could be better? Now more than ever, moms and parents are feeling the pressure to be "perfect" without the support they really need to thrive. You can and should be doing more than just surviving parenthood.
Has becoming a parent been more challenging than you expected? Are you struggling to feel connected to your partner or to your baby? Are you feeling unsupported, exhausted, fearful, or sad when you thought you would be feeling elated? Are you questioning whether your experience is normal and wondering if things could be better? Now more than ever, moms and parents are feeling the pressure to be "perfect" without the support they really need to thrive. You can and should be doing more than just surviving parenthood.
(206) 944-6234 View (206) 944-6234
Photo of Gail Henricksen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Gail Henricksen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
As a systemic therapist, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their inner complexities, fostering healing, growth, and self-discovery. I approach clients holistically, considering their relationships and connections using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model as a foundation. This dynamic model identifies and works with inner subpersonalities, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance. I tailor this approach to individual needs, incorporating additional methods when necessary, fostering transformative change at personal and relational levels.
As a systemic therapist, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their inner complexities, fostering healing, growth, and self-discovery. I approach clients holistically, considering their relationships and connections using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model as a foundation. This dynamic model identifies and works with inner subpersonalities, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance. I tailor this approach to individual needs, incorporating additional methods when necessary, fostering transformative change at personal and relational levels.
(253) 285-1115 View (253) 285-1115
Photo of Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
(360) 788-3035 View (360) 788-3035
Photo of Mary Allison Jensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Mary Allison Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
Sustainable Practice Clinical Supervision Group for social work and marriage and family therapy associates begins Tuesday, May 21, 2024! In this group we will explore themes including the ethical imperative of self-care, identifying warning signs of burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary traumatic stress, and professional use of self as a helping professional. Please email for more details and enrollment information. In my clinical work, I primarily work with individuals who are ready to explore family of origin issues and how early experiences may have shaped their belief systems and patterns of behavior.
Sustainable Practice Clinical Supervision Group for social work and marriage and family therapy associates begins Tuesday, May 21, 2024! In this group we will explore themes including the ethical imperative of self-care, identifying warning signs of burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary traumatic stress, and professional use of self as a helping professional. Please email for more details and enrollment information. In my clinical work, I primarily work with individuals who are ready to explore family of origin issues and how early experiences may have shaped their belief systems and patterns of behavior.
(253) 499-7896 View (253) 499-7896
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.