Photo of Emma Nelson, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Emma Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
(414) 296-9981 x504 View (414) 296-9981 x504
Photo of Christopher Sloan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Christopher Sloan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53207
He has worked with people needing help for substance use disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Chris Sloan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Chris has a diversity of experience and knowledge. Before earning his degree in social work, he earned his Master's in English and Literature. Chris still loves art and the humanities. His passion for understanding the communication and expression of ideas lends itself readily to the work he does now. As much as Chris love ideas, he went back to school to get his Master's in social work because he wanted to be able to help people in more practical and direct ways.
He has worked with people needing help for substance use disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Chris Sloan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Chris has a diversity of experience and knowledge. Before earning his degree in social work, he earned his Master's in English and Literature. Chris still loves art and the humanities. His passion for understanding the communication and expression of ideas lends itself readily to the work he does now. As much as Chris love ideas, he went back to school to get his Master's in social work because he wanted to be able to help people in more practical and direct ways.
(414) 296-7722 View (414) 296-7722
Photo of Kathryn J. Pope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Kathryn J. Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My areas of expertise include/possible areas of focus: Anger, Anxiety, Coping Strategies, Life Transitions, Marriage/Relationship Difficulties/Divorce, LGBTQ+ and gender dynamics, Mood Dysregulation/Stabilization, Overall Life Fulfillment/Self-Actualization, and Parenting Issues.
I am honored for you to consider my practice to assist you in navigating this journey we call life. Are you experiencing a life changing event that you are struggling to navigate? At a crossroads, trying to decide where to go or what to do next? In a time of transition with your partner, or loved one? Struggling to get along or communicate? Do you need an objective impartial party to help guide you? There is no right or wrong answer, just what is best for your situation and those involved. I am affirming and supportive of the LGBTQ+ and Poly(ENM) communities. My hope is to guide you to a place of "transformation and new beginnings".
My areas of expertise include/possible areas of focus: Anger, Anxiety, Coping Strategies, Life Transitions, Marriage/Relationship Difficulties/Divorce, LGBTQ+ and gender dynamics, Mood Dysregulation/Stabilization, Overall Life Fulfillment/Self-Actualization, and Parenting Issues.
I am honored for you to consider my practice to assist you in navigating this journey we call life. Are you experiencing a life changing event that you are struggling to navigate? At a crossroads, trying to decide where to go or what to do next? In a time of transition with your partner, or loved one? Struggling to get along or communicate? Do you need an objective impartial party to help guide you? There is no right or wrong answer, just what is best for your situation and those involved. I am affirming and supportive of the LGBTQ+ and Poly(ENM) communities. My hope is to guide you to a place of "transformation and new beginnings".
(414) 251-1706 View (414) 251-1706
Photo of Ryan Larkey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Ryan Larkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Many of us struggle daily with issues like anxiety, stress, depression, anger or just feeling misunderstood. We may feel stuck and ashamed at our inability to just will ourselves into being "better". This internal suffering is so common, but the good news is we all possess an internal capacity for change. It hurts to feel "stuck", but making changes can also be hard to do on our own. I have years of experience working with folks with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, stress and other personal challenges. I am specially trained and committed to supporting clients in the LGBTQ community and immigrant populations.
Many of us struggle daily with issues like anxiety, stress, depression, anger or just feeling misunderstood. We may feel stuck and ashamed at our inability to just will ourselves into being "better". This internal suffering is so common, but the good news is we all possess an internal capacity for change. It hurts to feel "stuck", but making changes can also be hard to do on our own. I have years of experience working with folks with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, stress and other personal challenges. I am specially trained and committed to supporting clients in the LGBTQ community and immigrant populations.
(262) 233-9635 View (262) 233-9635
Photo of Jami DeVolder, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Jami DeVolder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I work with adults 25+ in WI and IL. My clients are those who want to do deeper therapeutic work, explore personal growth, and traverse challenging relationship dynamics (familial, romantic, or otherwise). I treat clients experiencing mood disorders, identity issues, personality disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, and those dealing with sexual, relationship, and intimacy problems. Often, a crisis or a crossroads brings folks to therapy and the treatment process allows them to make life-long improvements to the quality of their lives.
I work with adults 25+ in WI and IL. My clients are those who want to do deeper therapeutic work, explore personal growth, and traverse challenging relationship dynamics (familial, romantic, or otherwise). I treat clients experiencing mood disorders, identity issues, personality disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, and those dealing with sexual, relationship, and intimacy problems. Often, a crisis or a crossroads brings folks to therapy and the treatment process allows them to make life-long improvements to the quality of their lives.
(773) 801-5128 View (773) 801-5128
Photo of Karen Loka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Karen Loka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
My name is Karen Loka, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Eau Claire, WI area, working with clients in MN, WI and IA via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, pain management, difficulty sleeping, and grief and loss. I use Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients navigate a forward path. I have found my style of therapy is best suited to adults that are dealing with transitional and chronic health challenges to develop a more positive outlook on life.
My name is Karen Loka, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Eau Claire, WI area, working with clients in MN, WI and IA via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, pain management, difficulty sleeping, and grief and loss. I use Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients navigate a forward path. I have found my style of therapy is best suited to adults that are dealing with transitional and chronic health challenges to develop a more positive outlook on life.
(414) 240-1328 View (414) 240-1328
Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Paul M Smerz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
(414) 905-3081 x470 View (414) 905-3081 x470
Photo of Kari Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Kari Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
(262) 208-1946 View (262) 208-1946
Photo of Mehwish Aqueel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Mehwish Aqueel
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53221
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
(414) 246-5601 View (414) 246-5601
Photo of Bridget Stemper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Bridget Stemper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
My primary clinical interests are working with clients with grief, anxiety disorders, and relationship issues.
Therapy is a highly personal and unique process for each person. I strive to meet you where you are in life with a genuine and non-judgmental approach. We will work together to identify where you feel stuck, explore your strengths and what brings your life meaning, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself individually and in relation to others.
My primary clinical interests are working with clients with grief, anxiety disorders, and relationship issues.
Therapy is a highly personal and unique process for each person. I strive to meet you where you are in life with a genuine and non-judgmental approach. We will work together to identify where you feel stuck, explore your strengths and what brings your life meaning, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself individually and in relation to others.
(414) 261-3367 View (414) 261-3367
Photo of Erin Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Erin Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
My clients are adults and adolescents who tend to identify themselves as highly sensitive, perfectionistic, and self-critical. They often feel intense emotions and have active minds that always seem to be "on". Using strengths-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness approaches, I help individuals learn to step back and notice their thoughts and feelings rather than be controlled by them. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, these skills allow people to connect with their values and pursue what's important to them.
My clients are adults and adolescents who tend to identify themselves as highly sensitive, perfectionistic, and self-critical. They often feel intense emotions and have active minds that always seem to be "on". Using strengths-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness approaches, I help individuals learn to step back and notice their thoughts and feelings rather than be controlled by them. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, these skills allow people to connect with their values and pursue what's important to them.
(414) 436-2532 View (414) 436-2532
Photo of Stephen Feest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Stephen Feest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
My name is Stephen Feest, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy as person-centered and establishing strengths before addressing distress. In my therapeutic approach, I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I like to use methods and skills from other theoretical approaches such as DBT if I feel it will benefit the patient. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and the geriatric populations. I enjoy working with patients on self-improvement, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
My name is Stephen Feest, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy as person-centered and establishing strengths before addressing distress. In my therapeutic approach, I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I like to use methods and skills from other theoretical approaches such as DBT if I feel it will benefit the patient. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and the geriatric populations. I enjoy working with patients on self-improvement, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment disorders.
(414) 240-1126 View (414) 240-1126
Photo of Julie Abdullah, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Julie Abdullah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
(414) 404-3243 View (414) 404-3243
Photo of Gretchen Mead in Milwaukee, WI
Gretchen Mead
LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Currently accepting clients for ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration and psychotherapy. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health - including deeply connecting to our own mind, body and spirit, others, the earth, and a larger purpose.
Currently accepting clients for ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration and psychotherapy. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health - including deeply connecting to our own mind, body and spirit, others, the earth, and a larger purpose.
(262) 239-7820 View (262) 239-7820
Photo of Melissa Vermillion, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Melissa Vermillion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
I enjoy working with adults to aid in self-growth by working toward overcoming daily and life stressors, learning and breaking behavioral patterns, as well as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. Through active listening and support, my treatment philosophy involves helping clients improve their well-being by processing, building self-awareness, and developing tools to cope and manage their issues and concerns. My empathetic nature helps clients build trust to focus on and work toward achieving their goals and building insight. I consider myself a LGBTQIA+ and sex worker- affirming therapist.
I enjoy working with adults to aid in self-growth by working toward overcoming daily and life stressors, learning and breaking behavioral patterns, as well as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. Through active listening and support, my treatment philosophy involves helping clients improve their well-being by processing, building self-awareness, and developing tools to cope and manage their issues and concerns. My empathetic nature helps clients build trust to focus on and work toward achieving their goals and building insight. I consider myself a LGBTQIA+ and sex worker- affirming therapist.
(414) 209-4235 View (414) 209-4235
Photo of Lori Marhefke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Lori Marhefke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Welcome! My name is Lori Marhefke. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is holistic and person-centered. I typically focus on anxiety, panic, grief, trauma, and shame. I work with a variety of clients. Most of my clients are facing very stressful life transitions related to work, school, or family. I am comfortable treating anxiety, panic, grief, trauma and shame.
Welcome! My name is Lori Marhefke. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Wisconsin. My approach to therapy is holistic and person-centered. I typically focus on anxiety, panic, grief, trauma, and shame. I work with a variety of clients. Most of my clients are facing very stressful life transitions related to work, school, or family. I am comfortable treating anxiety, panic, grief, trauma and shame.
(414) 246-4121 View (414) 246-4121
Photo of Caitlin Walsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Caitlin Walsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Do you find yourself anxious and worried no matter what you do? Challenges connecting in relationships? Getting stuck in negative thoughts about yourself? Feeling like your grief and pain might consume you? You may be at your limit with how anxiety, relationships, self esteem or grief are negatively impacting your life and maybe you feel powerless to change it. You might not remember a time when things felt better. One thing is for sure: you are ready for some relief. You are ready to not feel anxious all the time, to have connected relationships, feel positive about yourself and honor your grief in healthy ways.
Do you find yourself anxious and worried no matter what you do? Challenges connecting in relationships? Getting stuck in negative thoughts about yourself? Feeling like your grief and pain might consume you? You may be at your limit with how anxiety, relationships, self esteem or grief are negatively impacting your life and maybe you feel powerless to change it. You might not remember a time when things felt better. One thing is for sure: you are ready for some relief. You are ready to not feel anxious all the time, to have connected relationships, feel positive about yourself and honor your grief in healthy ways.
(414) 422-8593 View (414) 422-8593
Photo of Amanda Volbrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Amanda Volbrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53207
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, low self-esteem, life transitions, and stress management.
Making impactful, long-lasting change can be difficult. Draining mental health symptoms, substance use, and trauma can contribute to making positive lasting change feel like an impossible and daunting task. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. An essential part of our work is exploring the past and making connections between the past and present. I enjoy getting to know my clients as individuals, assisting them in their journey of learning about themselves, and helping them learn the skills they need to live a more meaningful life.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, low self-esteem, life transitions, and stress management.
Making impactful, long-lasting change can be difficult. Draining mental health symptoms, substance use, and trauma can contribute to making positive lasting change feel like an impossible and daunting task. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. An essential part of our work is exploring the past and making connections between the past and present. I enjoy getting to know my clients as individuals, assisting them in their journey of learning about themselves, and helping them learn the skills they need to live a more meaningful life.
(414) 348-5542 View (414) 348-5542
Photo of Alexander Wissing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Alexander Wissing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Alex Wissing is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, OCD, and a variety of other mental health concerns. Alex treats adults aged 18 and older utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in his approach with clients. Alex earned his bachelor’s degree at UW-Wisconsin Milwaukee in Psychology. He completed his Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at UW-Wisconsin Milwaukee. Alex has spent the last 7 years working in a variety of programs and levels of care at Rogers Behavioral Health in Oconomowoc, WI.
Alex Wissing is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, OCD, and a variety of other mental health concerns. Alex treats adults aged 18 and older utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in his approach with clients. Alex earned his bachelor’s degree at UW-Wisconsin Milwaukee in Psychology. He completed his Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at UW-Wisconsin Milwaukee. Alex has spent the last 7 years working in a variety of programs and levels of care at Rogers Behavioral Health in Oconomowoc, WI.
(262) 599-6537 View (262) 599-6537
Photo of Cayla Lund, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Cayla Lund
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Cayla Lund is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist with over 5 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and transitional concerns. Cayla is passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and helping navigate through related issues. Cayla provides treatment to clients ages ranging from 10 years old and 35 years old. Cayla utilizes Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Cayla has experience counseling children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and groups in clinical and inpatient settings.
Cayla Lund is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist with over 5 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and transitional concerns. Cayla is passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and helping navigate through related issues. Cayla provides treatment to clients ages ranging from 10 years old and 35 years old. Cayla utilizes Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Cayla has experience counseling children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and groups in clinical and inpatient settings.
(262) 668-8338 View (262) 668-8338
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.