Photo of Eric John Lundstrom, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Eric John Lundstrom
Counselor, LICSW
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
If you find yourself over-burdened by worry, anxiety, depression, or grief, blindsided by unexpected intense reactions to painful memories, or just plain stuck, it might be a good time to talk to a counselor. I have a passion for helping people overcome depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, and grief, and manage various forms of chronic mental health conditions. I use evidence and time tested approaches to help people clarify what they want and realize and develop their own capabilities.
If you find yourself over-burdened by worry, anxiety, depression, or grief, blindsided by unexpected intense reactions to painful memories, or just plain stuck, it might be a good time to talk to a counselor. I have a passion for helping people overcome depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, and grief, and manage various forms of chronic mental health conditions. I use evidence and time tested approaches to help people clarify what they want and realize and develop their own capabilities.
(253) 766-5057 View (253) 766-5057
Photo of Lee Severson, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Lee Severson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Maybe you came here because you’re feeling anxious, feeling down or feeling stuck. Maybe you’ve had a recent loss, struggling in your job, or experiencing stress in your relationship. Maybe you struggle to find time for yourself. Maybe you’re a therapist or a first responder who gives so much and now it’s time to focus on your own wellness. Maybe you’ve had a recent life transition and you need support. Maybe you know exactly what you want and all you need is the validation and support to make a change. Maybe you don’t know what you’re feeling at the moment, but you know it’s time to seek support. You’re not alone.
Maybe you came here because you’re feeling anxious, feeling down or feeling stuck. Maybe you’ve had a recent loss, struggling in your job, or experiencing stress in your relationship. Maybe you struggle to find time for yourself. Maybe you’re a therapist or a first responder who gives so much and now it’s time to focus on your own wellness. Maybe you’ve had a recent life transition and you need support. Maybe you know exactly what you want and all you need is the validation and support to make a change. Maybe you don’t know what you’re feeling at the moment, but you know it’s time to seek support. You’re not alone.
(253) 648-0124 x516 View (253) 648-0124 x516
Photo of Michelle Reeves, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Michelle Reeves
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
You're feeling overwhelmed, tired, maybe even frustrated at reaching your potential and dreams in life, including your relationships marriage, work, and friendships. You're feeling stressed, worried about life issues, and maybe issues of pain, grief, disappointment of the past play into your daily life. It is difficult to move forward, you struggle with being authentic in relationships. Stressed and exhausted. As a seasoned Mental Health Counselor of 25 + years, I consider it an honor to journey with you through the healing process. I am trained in EMDR to help with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, relationships.
You're feeling overwhelmed, tired, maybe even frustrated at reaching your potential and dreams in life, including your relationships marriage, work, and friendships. You're feeling stressed, worried about life issues, and maybe issues of pain, grief, disappointment of the past play into your daily life. It is difficult to move forward, you struggle with being authentic in relationships. Stressed and exhausted. As a seasoned Mental Health Counselor of 25 + years, I consider it an honor to journey with you through the healing process. I am trained in EMDR to help with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, relationships.
(360) 515-3615 View (360) 515-3615
Photo of The Joy and Wellness Center, Psychologist in Puyallup, WA
The Joy and Wellness Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Our providers regularly use CBT and mindfulness techniques to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Even with the current situation, we are still accepting new clients. However, please email us rather than call. Our goal is to focus on mental wellness. We do this through a variety of treatment methods tailored for your specific needs. Our providers will work with you to determine whether CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art therapy, or other treatment methods are best in helping you overcome your current challenges. We’ll work together to develop an action plan to gain the skills and insight that help you get back on track to happiness and success.
Our providers regularly use CBT and mindfulness techniques to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Even with the current situation, we are still accepting new clients. However, please email us rather than call. Our goal is to focus on mental wellness. We do this through a variety of treatment methods tailored for your specific needs. Our providers will work with you to determine whether CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art therapy, or other treatment methods are best in helping you overcome your current challenges. We’ll work together to develop an action plan to gain the skills and insight that help you get back on track to happiness and success.
(253) 329-5745 View (253) 329-5745
Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
Photo of Deanna Brown, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Deanna Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
My specialties include: Working with First Responders in Ketamine and ThC guided trauma sessions, ADHD, Depression, Family Counseling, Trauma and PTSD Therapy, Anxiety, Autism, Couples Therapy, Life Changes, Grief and Loss Counseling Women's Issues, and Men's Health.
Accepting New Patients with for Ketamine Guided Therapy in my practice with evening, weekend, day, morning slots available Telehealth and In person. I specialize in Psychedelic Ketamine and THC Guided Therapy which is billed at private pay Only all other treatments cam be billed with insurances using therapists at our practice. I am a proud Army Veteran working in the field of counseling since 2015. I have experience working with combat veterans, CPS, couples, children, teens, adults, families, first responders, LGBTQ community, Licensed Approved Supervisor to Supervise Therapists, and a prior Director of a Psychiatric Hospital.
My specialties include: Working with First Responders in Ketamine and ThC guided trauma sessions, ADHD, Depression, Family Counseling, Trauma and PTSD Therapy, Anxiety, Autism, Couples Therapy, Life Changes, Grief and Loss Counseling Women's Issues, and Men's Health.
Accepting New Patients with for Ketamine Guided Therapy in my practice with evening, weekend, day, morning slots available Telehealth and In person. I specialize in Psychedelic Ketamine and THC Guided Therapy which is billed at private pay Only all other treatments cam be billed with insurances using therapists at our practice. I am a proud Army Veteran working in the field of counseling since 2015. I have experience working with combat veterans, CPS, couples, children, teens, adults, families, first responders, LGBTQ community, Licensed Approved Supervisor to Supervise Therapists, and a prior Director of a Psychiatric Hospital.
(206) 717-8722 View (206) 717-8722
Photo of Jessica Tate, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Jessica Tate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, stress, self-esteem, and relationship conflicts.
I believe that people as unique individuals have the capacity to grow, heal and change, learning new ways for improving their health and well-being in all areas of life including biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Personal growth is facilitated by setting and working toward goals, assessing and building strengths in these areas to develop skills and resources that help them manage life challenges. As a professional, I focus on working collaboratively with my clients in a safe and open environment to identify goals and work towards positive resolutions.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, stress, self-esteem, and relationship conflicts.
I believe that people as unique individuals have the capacity to grow, heal and change, learning new ways for improving their health and well-being in all areas of life including biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Personal growth is facilitated by setting and working toward goals, assessing and building strengths in these areas to develop skills and resources that help them manage life challenges. As a professional, I focus on working collaboratively with my clients in a safe and open environment to identify goals and work towards positive resolutions.
(253) 243-3048 View (253) 243-3048
Photo of Amanda Allie, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Amanda Allie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help when you're stuck can be hard. If you're reading this, you're on your way to getting better. Whether you are experiencing severe anxiety, mild trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, counseling can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person) for your convenience, to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you are proud of. I provide consistent, non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
Asking for help when you're stuck can be hard. If you're reading this, you're on your way to getting better. Whether you are experiencing severe anxiety, mild trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, counseling can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person) for your convenience, to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you are proud of. I provide consistent, non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
(253) 201-1483 View (253) 201-1483
Photo of Jose Torres-Oyama, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Jose Torres-Oyama
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I have a passion for working with couples and individuals experiencing a myriad of difficult life circumstances including issues related to communication, relationships, infidelity, sex, intimacy, anxiety, trauma, depression, and adjusting to significant life changes.
The Mindful Kaizen was created because I know life can present extremely challenging situations. It can feel like there is little to no hope that things will change. To encounter difficult times and feel unsure of where or who to turn to can feel overwhelming. If you are reading this, you have already taken a huge step toward making a change. Whether you are experiencing internal distress or distress in your relationships, I am here to help you work toward building your desired future one step at a time. Together, let's make this a mindful kaizen.
I have a passion for working with couples and individuals experiencing a myriad of difficult life circumstances including issues related to communication, relationships, infidelity, sex, intimacy, anxiety, trauma, depression, and adjusting to significant life changes.
The Mindful Kaizen was created because I know life can present extremely challenging situations. It can feel like there is little to no hope that things will change. To encounter difficult times and feel unsure of where or who to turn to can feel overwhelming. If you are reading this, you have already taken a huge step toward making a change. Whether you are experiencing internal distress or distress in your relationships, I am here to help you work toward building your desired future one step at a time. Together, let's make this a mindful kaizen.
(253) 518-3980 View (253) 518-3980
Photo of Angie Fosmark, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Angie Fosmark
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, relationship problems, trauma recovery, loss and grief, as well as crisis and life transitions. I help individuals and couples recover from painful experiences, overcome barriers that interfere with relationships and wellbeing, and find healthy, satisfying approaches to problems.
I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, relationship problems, trauma recovery, loss and grief, as well as crisis and life transitions. I help individuals and couples recover from painful experiences, overcome barriers that interfere with relationships and wellbeing, and find healthy, satisfying approaches to problems.
(253) 256-1485 View (253) 256-1485
Photo of Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, Couples, Gottman
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
We specialize in: working with children, burnout, ADHD, anxiety, body image/self-esteem, depression, divorce, grief, loss, OCD, relationship issues and trauma.
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Maya Angelou. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Wright Choice Counseling, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. We have two beautiful offices and or do online therapy too!
We specialize in: working with children, burnout, ADHD, anxiety, body image/self-esteem, depression, divorce, grief, loss, OCD, relationship issues and trauma.
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Maya Angelou. Acknowledging your challenges & seeking help are the first steps in healing. At Wright Choice Counseling, we have a diverse group of clinicians to offer support to individuals, couples, & families. We believe that each person possesses special strengths, & we strive to build upon these to facilitate growth. We have two beautiful offices and or do online therapy too!
(618) 266-2693 View (618) 266-2693
Photo of Shelleigh-Mairi W Ferguson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Shelleigh-Mairi W Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I take a creative, client-centered approach to therapy, utilizing narrative therapy, EMDR, IFS, CBT, and DBT to help clients with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Do you have a sense that you have no control over your life, thoughts, or feelings, causing you NOT to be an active participant in your own life? Do these feelings cause you to feel that you are drifting through life, becoming depressed and anxious? My goal is to offer a safe, supportive space, to walk with you on your journey, explore aspects of the 'self' that you would like to build, and discover strengths that can be used in your present and future, in order to construct the life you desire. Remember, the steps you take don’t have to be big, they just have to be heading you in the right direction.
I take a creative, client-centered approach to therapy, utilizing narrative therapy, EMDR, IFS, CBT, and DBT to help clients with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Do you have a sense that you have no control over your life, thoughts, or feelings, causing you NOT to be an active participant in your own life? Do these feelings cause you to feel that you are drifting through life, becoming depressed and anxious? My goal is to offer a safe, supportive space, to walk with you on your journey, explore aspects of the 'self' that you would like to build, and discover strengths that can be used in your present and future, in order to construct the life you desire. Remember, the steps you take don’t have to be big, they just have to be heading you in the right direction.
(253) 240-4994 View (253) 240-4994
Photo of Deanne Dietz, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Deanne Dietz
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
Welcome. I currently have in office or virtual openings for Traditional 55 minute, or Individual EMDR Intensives (trauma clearing and/or early childhood repair). Please see my website www.hearthealing.org - For Couples Repair Intensives: www.revive-your-relationship.com - Gain clarity and compassion, and feel more connected to others. Men and women come for healing from their past traumas and relief from stressors, such as relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, ADD, ACOA and boundary issues. Others come to gain a sense of who they are, what their life's purpose is, or spiritual growth.
Welcome. I currently have in office or virtual openings for Traditional 55 minute, or Individual EMDR Intensives (trauma clearing and/or early childhood repair). Please see my website www.hearthealing.org - For Couples Repair Intensives: www.revive-your-relationship.com - Gain clarity and compassion, and feel more connected to others. Men and women come for healing from their past traumas and relief from stressors, such as relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, ADD, ACOA and boundary issues. Others come to gain a sense of who they are, what their life's purpose is, or spiritual growth.
(253) 651-3752 View (253) 651-3752
Photo of Julie L Pavlicek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Julie L Pavlicek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Life is a journey. We follow a path and sometimes there are things that get in the way, and we start to feel stuck in old patterns/habits, picking unhealthy relationships, and/or we just can't understand why we are unhappy, especially when we have done all the 'right' things. Talking about where we want to go with a therapist and finding different ways to challenge and change those old coping mechanisms and learn to get 'unstuck', with CBT, DBT, and/or EMDR can be helpful. I enjoy working with people to process trauma, tackle anxiety issues, and navigate relationships.
Life is a journey. We follow a path and sometimes there are things that get in the way, and we start to feel stuck in old patterns/habits, picking unhealthy relationships, and/or we just can't understand why we are unhappy, especially when we have done all the 'right' things. Talking about where we want to go with a therapist and finding different ways to challenge and change those old coping mechanisms and learn to get 'unstuck', with CBT, DBT, and/or EMDR can be helpful. I enjoy working with people to process trauma, tackle anxiety issues, and navigate relationships.
(602) 767-2630 View (602) 767-2630
Photo of Kellee Franks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Kellee Franks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
Do you or your teen struggle in your relationships, with stress/anxiety, or your sense of self? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost by having to meet everyone's expectations, getting through everyday life, and feeling the weight of your stresses? Do you wonder or hope that your life, emotional health, and relationships could be better, or your teen could have better relationships, improved emotional regulation, and higher self-esteem? Now more than ever, adolescents, young adults, and women are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about themselves, finding their place in life, and developing their sense of self.
Do you or your teen struggle in your relationships, with stress/anxiety, or your sense of self? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost by having to meet everyone's expectations, getting through everyday life, and feeling the weight of your stresses? Do you wonder or hope that your life, emotional health, and relationships could be better, or your teen could have better relationships, improved emotional regulation, and higher self-esteem? Now more than ever, adolescents, young adults, and women are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about themselves, finding their place in life, and developing their sense of self.
(253) 242-9814 View (253) 242-9814
Photo of Cara McCartney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Cara McCartney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
ABC staff are master level clinicians with years of experience with children and families who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse and/or neglect.
Our mission at Achieving Balance Counseling is to foster an environment that empowers an individual or family’s ability to resolve, change and achieve balance in order to attain happiness, hope and harmony in life.
ABC staff are master level clinicians with years of experience with children and families who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse and/or neglect.
Our mission at Achieving Balance Counseling is to foster an environment that empowers an individual or family’s ability to resolve, change and achieve balance in order to attain happiness, hope and harmony in life.
(253) 523-3012 View (253) 523-3012
Photo of The Salish Sea Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Chante Anderson, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Chante Anderson
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I've found that true healing unfolds when we honor the whole person, and I'm here to help you do just that. My practice specializes in several areas, including PTSD, ADHD, adult autism, other neurodivergencies, whole body health, and self-improvement. I also see a lot of individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. I understand that healing is a multi-dimensional process, and to truly thrive, we must address all aspects of ourselves. I'm dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for you to share your unique story. I am licensed in both WA and OR state.
I've found that true healing unfolds when we honor the whole person, and I'm here to help you do just that. My practice specializes in several areas, including PTSD, ADHD, adult autism, other neurodivergencies, whole body health, and self-improvement. I also see a lot of individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. I understand that healing is a multi-dimensional process, and to truly thrive, we must address all aspects of ourselves. I'm dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for you to share your unique story. I am licensed in both WA and OR state.
(253) 242-2565 View (253) 242-2565
Photo of Erika St Peter, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Erika St Peter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
I offer a simple, down-to-earth way of approaching therapy to make it easier and reduce anxiety.
No longer taking new clients at this time.
I offer a simple, down-to-earth way of approaching therapy to make it easier and reduce anxiety.
No longer taking new clients at this time.
(206) 430-1810 View (206) 430-1810
Photo of LuAnne Rivera, Lighthouse Counseling LLC, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
LuAnne Rivera, Lighthouse Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98375
I have over 25 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, and family-related issues.
Are you tired of going around that same mountain over and over? Let me help you find the way out. While therapy can feel like a scary place, I strive to make your therapy encounter a safe, collaborative, encouraging, and even a thriving experience. I am certified in trauma focused cognitive/behavioral therapy, and trained in grief assessment, EMDR therapy, as a SYMBIS facilitator and a chemical dependency specialist, Currently I am accepting adolescents and older. I enjoy the interaction and growth that occurs through empowering you, the client, to make your own choices and become your most authentic self.
I have over 25 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, and family-related issues.
Are you tired of going around that same mountain over and over? Let me help you find the way out. While therapy can feel like a scary place, I strive to make your therapy encounter a safe, collaborative, encouraging, and even a thriving experience. I am certified in trauma focused cognitive/behavioral therapy, and trained in grief assessment, EMDR therapy, as a SYMBIS facilitator and a chemical dependency specialist, Currently I am accepting adolescents and older. I enjoy the interaction and growth that occurs through empowering you, the client, to make your own choices and become your most authentic self.
(253) 499-7632 View (253) 499-7632
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.