Anxiety Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Rebecca Zarza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Rebecca Zarza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will work with you on developing goals to support growth to better living with depression and anxiety. I am a compassionate listener that provides a nonjudgmental space to work through challenges that you may be going through. I specializes in children, youth, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and mood disorders. I have been providing therapeutic services to youth and families since 2009 when I started working in the school system providing therapy to students through there Individual Education Plans, and have expanded to providing individual therapy. .
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will work with you on developing goals to support growth to better living with depression and anxiety. I am a compassionate listener that provides a nonjudgmental space to work through challenges that you may be going through. I specializes in children, youth, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and mood disorders. I have been providing therapeutic services to youth and families since 2009 when I started working in the school system providing therapy to students through there Individual Education Plans, and have expanded to providing individual therapy. .
(562) 512-6794 View (562) 512-6794
Photo of Jonah Oderberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Jonah Oderberg
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I provide a safe space to explore your unique story and difficulties, be they relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling off. Through a tailored therapeutic approach, we'll work together to find relief, growth, and positive change. I welcome adults, families, couples, and adolescents of all backgrounds. My approach considers your life experiences, relationships, and challenges to build goals that fit your needs, all from the comfort of your home.
I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I provide a safe space to explore your unique story and difficulties, be they relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling off. Through a tailored therapeutic approach, we'll work together to find relief, growth, and positive change. I welcome adults, families, couples, and adolescents of all backgrounds. My approach considers your life experiences, relationships, and challenges to build goals that fit your needs, all from the comfort of your home.
(619) 268-6907 View (619) 268-6907
Photo of Cynthia Haynes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Cynthia Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
Hi, my name is Cynthia Haynes, LMFT. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I provide telehealth services at this time using Zoom App. I mostly practice psychoanalysis with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals ages 12 and up. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, and matrimonial challenges to name a few. Most clients enjoy my therapeutic approach and continue on with therapy even after the original challenges have been resolved. I love working with people and helping people. God has blessed with a beautiful talent.
Hi, my name is Cynthia Haynes, LMFT. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I provide telehealth services at this time using Zoom App. I mostly practice psychoanalysis with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with individuals ages 12 and up. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, and matrimonial challenges to name a few. Most clients enjoy my therapeutic approach and continue on with therapy even after the original challenges have been resolved. I love working with people and helping people. God has blessed with a beautiful talent.
(858) 465-4539 View (858) 465-4539
Photo of Lauren Plummer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lauren Plummer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you a woman in your 20’s to 40’s, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and dating issues? Does it seem like as soon as you stop worrying about one thing, your mind finds something else to worry about? Are you tired of feeling hopeless when it comes to dating, and worried that you'll never find a fulfilling relationship? If this resonates with you, then I'm here to offer my support. First of all, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. It's not easy to take that step, but it's a powerful one towards finding the support and guidance you need. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, but I want you to know
Are you a woman in your 20’s to 40’s, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and dating issues? Does it seem like as soon as you stop worrying about one thing, your mind finds something else to worry about? Are you tired of feeling hopeless when it comes to dating, and worried that you'll never find a fulfilling relationship? If this resonates with you, then I'm here to offer my support. First of all, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. It's not easy to take that step, but it's a powerful one towards finding the support and guidance you need. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, but I want you to know
(916) 378-1624 View (916) 378-1624
Photo of Dr. Sara Giglio Patterson, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Sara Giglio Patterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist, PSY26584, specializing in the therapeutic care and psychological treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions using a solution focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Her primary treatment approach focuses on tailoring empirically supported treatments to individuals' needs and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to increase effective coping strategies.
Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist, PSY26584, specializing in the therapeutic care and psychological treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions using a solution focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Her primary treatment approach focuses on tailoring empirically supported treatments to individuals' needs and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to increase effective coping strategies.
(858) 943-2871 View (858) 943-2871
Photo of Shoma Rao, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shoma Rao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92169  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety that goes a step beyond the regular CBT route, utilizing narrative therapy that will help you to feel healed and seen.
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
I specialize in treating anxiety that goes a step beyond the regular CBT route, utilizing narrative therapy that will help you to feel healed and seen.
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
(619) 486-5408 View (619) 486-5408
Photo of Rebecca Rabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Rebecca Rabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
I work with children, teenagers, and young adults who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, low self-confidence, truant behaviors, and ADHD.
For over 20 years, I have been working with children, teenagers, and young adults to develop the skills necessary to navigate through life successfully. I assist clients in developing insight into their current life situation, broaden their ability to cope with some of life's greatest challenges, nurture their resiliency and developing effective communication skills. I use a combination of play therapy interventions, Animal Assisted Human Health (therapy dogs) and traditional talk therapy in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach and will collaborate with families and providers to ensure that the best treatment is provided.
I work with children, teenagers, and young adults who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, low self-confidence, truant behaviors, and ADHD.
For over 20 years, I have been working with children, teenagers, and young adults to develop the skills necessary to navigate through life successfully. I assist clients in developing insight into their current life situation, broaden their ability to cope with some of life's greatest challenges, nurture their resiliency and developing effective communication skills. I use a combination of play therapy interventions, Animal Assisted Human Health (therapy dogs) and traditional talk therapy in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach and will collaborate with families and providers to ensure that the best treatment is provided.
(619) 502-9466 View (619) 502-9466
Photo of Antarpreet Dhariwal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Antarpreet Dhariwal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have a special interest in exploring what balance will be like for you while managing many areas of your life-including but not limited to- your career, mental health, and how you show up to loved ones. My experience includes working with clients who have experienced disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety. My background has involved working with people in BIPOC communities.
I have a special interest in exploring what balance will be like for you while managing many areas of your life-including but not limited to- your career, mental health, and how you show up to loved ones. My experience includes working with clients who have experienced disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety. My background has involved working with people in BIPOC communities.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Alexandra Pestereanu- Gere
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I have experience serving various populations in the following areas: Anxiety, Depressive Disorders, Addictive Behaviors and Substance Use Issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Suicidal Self-Harm Behavior, Personality Disorders, Physical Sexual and Emotional Abuse, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and various symptoms of psychosis, Trauma and abuse.
I am particularly zealous about social injustice issues and working with the marginalized population. I am passionate about working with and helping people who are facing: depression, anxiety, traumatic events, racism, relationship conflicts, childhood problems, self-esteem issues, communication problems, and acculturation. I am concerned with the impact of anxiety and depression and improving intervention to support daily functioning and living with anxiety and depression for better emotional, physical, and relationship health.
I have experience serving various populations in the following areas: Anxiety, Depressive Disorders, Addictive Behaviors and Substance Use Issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Suicidal Self-Harm Behavior, Personality Disorders, Physical Sexual and Emotional Abuse, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and various symptoms of psychosis, Trauma and abuse.
I am particularly zealous about social injustice issues and working with the marginalized population. I am passionate about working with and helping people who are facing: depression, anxiety, traumatic events, racism, relationship conflicts, childhood problems, self-esteem issues, communication problems, and acculturation. I am concerned with the impact of anxiety and depression and improving intervention to support daily functioning and living with anxiety and depression for better emotional, physical, and relationship health.
(760) 280-5240 View (760) 280-5240
Photo of Molly Dibsy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Molly Dibsy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck, lacking motivation, and unable to shake those late-night 'what if' worries? I'm here to offer my support. Specializing in addressing feelings of depression, anxiety, and navigating life's significant changes.
Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck, lacking motivation, and unable to shake those late-night 'what if' worries? I'm here to offer my support. Specializing in addressing feelings of depression, anxiety, and navigating life's significant changes.
(619) 492-4834 View (619) 492-4834
Photo of Melinda Masters, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melinda Masters
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
With almost ten years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, and families I approach therapy with a humanistic approach. When you feel something in your life needs to change; be it career, personal, physical, or spiritual I welcome you to share that journey with me. I will meet you where you are and guide you to a safe place, optimizing your potential. You are unique and have challenges that require a personalized approach. Whether you are having relationship problems, trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety, I can help you navigate the path to health and well-being.
With almost ten years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, and families I approach therapy with a humanistic approach. When you feel something in your life needs to change; be it career, personal, physical, or spiritual I welcome you to share that journey with me. I will meet you where you are and guide you to a safe place, optimizing your potential. You are unique and have challenges that require a personalized approach. Whether you are having relationship problems, trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety, I can help you navigate the path to health and well-being.
(415) 853-5326 View (415) 853-5326
Photo of Ellen M Greenfield, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Ellen M Greenfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
I assist people with a variety of issues including: anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, eating disorders, grief/loss, divorce, and workplace difficulties.
My primary goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with 15 years experience in private practice. My office is conveniently located just west of the 15 freeway and Miramar Road. For more detailed information about my services, please visit my website at Cognitivebehaviortherapy.net
I assist people with a variety of issues including: anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, eating disorders, grief/loss, divorce, and workplace difficulties.
My primary goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with 15 years experience in private practice. My office is conveniently located just west of the 15 freeway and Miramar Road. For more detailed information about my services, please visit my website at Cognitivebehaviortherapy.net
(619) 822-1692 View (619) 822-1692
Photo of Debra Berl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Debra Berl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
(858) 758-3514 View (858) 758-3514
Photo of Trishala Bijoy Khandheria, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Trishala Bijoy Khandheria
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT , MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I have specialized experience working with patients and families living with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa (AN).
“Treat the patient, not just the disease.” This mantra has always been an inspiration for my practice, as I truly believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my patients. If you are living with an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or have family and/or marital issues, life might feel complicated and overwhelming. You may need a safe space to heal, explore yourself, and feel heard. My education & experience as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the tools to help empower people like you to create positive change and work towards achieving a state of well-being.
I have specialized experience working with patients and families living with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa (AN).
“Treat the patient, not just the disease.” This mantra has always been an inspiration for my practice, as I truly believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my patients. If you are living with an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or have family and/or marital issues, life might feel complicated and overwhelming. You may need a safe space to heal, explore yourself, and feel heard. My education & experience as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the tools to help empower people like you to create positive change and work towards achieving a state of well-being.
(858) 251-6862 View (858) 251-6862
Photo of Jessica A. Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Jessica A. Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver and hope restorer. As a Native American woman and a transplant to San Diego, I bring a unique perspective to my work, rooted in my belief that we are capable of change. If you are grappling with anxiety or depression related to work, relationships, or your adult relationship with your parents, I'm here to support you. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself and in your relationships.
Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver and hope restorer. As a Native American woman and a transplant to San Diego, I bring a unique perspective to my work, rooted in my belief that we are capable of change. If you are grappling with anxiety or depression related to work, relationships, or your adult relationship with your parents, I'm here to support you. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself and in your relationships.
(619) 378-4692 View (619) 378-4692
Photo of San Diego Kids First, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
San Diego Kids First
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
We provide comprehensive evaluations and multi-modal therapies for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, mood/anxiety, emotional regulation, & trauma.
Every child is unique. To help children overcome social, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and/or academic challenges, we can't be preoccupied with simply signing labels. Rather, we need to identify a child's individual strengths as well as their weaknesses in order to design effective strategies that suit their needs. We work closely with parents, schools, and other professionals to establish a comprehensive picture of the whole child. It's from this highly individualized approach along with the collaboration with those that know the child/teen well, that we are able to create the most significant and dramatic change!
We provide comprehensive evaluations and multi-modal therapies for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, mood/anxiety, emotional regulation, & trauma.
Every child is unique. To help children overcome social, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and/or academic challenges, we can't be preoccupied with simply signing labels. Rather, we need to identify a child's individual strengths as well as their weaknesses in order to design effective strategies that suit their needs. We work closely with parents, schools, and other professionals to establish a comprehensive picture of the whole child. It's from this highly individualized approach along with the collaboration with those that know the child/teen well, that we are able to create the most significant and dramatic change!
(858) 215-1923 View (858) 215-1923
Photo of Victoria Buttery, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Victoria Buttery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Resilience is often described as adapting to difficulties in a way that leads to personal growth. If you are in a difficult season or struggling, therapy may help you tap into your inner resilience. Please visit my website to learn more about my therapy practice and expertise, and how I may be able to support you on your journey into resilience. I offer mental health support using evidence-based techniques for a variety of concerns (e.g., relationship struggles, anxiety, stress); evidence-based PTSD treatments (CPT, PE, EMDR); and faith-informed care for Christian clients that want to incorporate their faith into therapy.
Resilience is often described as adapting to difficulties in a way that leads to personal growth. If you are in a difficult season or struggling, therapy may help you tap into your inner resilience. Please visit my website to learn more about my therapy practice and expertise, and how I may be able to support you on your journey into resilience. I offer mental health support using evidence-based techniques for a variety of concerns (e.g., relationship struggles, anxiety, stress); evidence-based PTSD treatments (CPT, PE, EMDR); and faith-informed care for Christian clients that want to incorporate their faith into therapy.
(619) 943-3148 View (619) 943-3148
Photo of Kristin Mcdonald, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kristin Mcdonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
She has ample experience working with children and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional disturbance, PTSD, parent-child conflict and at-risk behaviors.
Kristin Mcdonald treats patients starting at 5 year old. Kristin McDonald is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2010 and was licensed in 2014. Kristin has more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. Kristin began her career in bereavement counseling with San Diego Hospice. Within this setting, she provided individual, couples, family and group therapy for clients experiencing pre- and post-bereavement.
She has ample experience working with children and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional disturbance, PTSD, parent-child conflict and at-risk behaviors.
Kristin Mcdonald treats patients starting at 5 year old. Kristin McDonald is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2010 and was licensed in 2014. Kristin has more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. Kristin began her career in bereavement counseling with San Diego Hospice. Within this setting, she provided individual, couples, family and group therapy for clients experiencing pre- and post-bereavement.
(858) 213-0301 View (858) 213-0301
Photo of Thi ('tee') Wlodarski ('wool-Dar-Skee'), Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Thi ('tee') Wlodarski ('wool-Dar-Skee')
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in private practice since 2017, specializing solely with clients struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias and trauma. I work with adults and children. Prior to private practice, I have worked at an outpatient psychiatry, within high school and elementary school systems, and a community counseling center.
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in private practice since 2017, specializing solely with clients struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias and trauma. I work with adults and children. Prior to private practice, I have worked at an outpatient psychiatry, within high school and elementary school systems, and a community counseling center.
(619) 383-2951 View (619) 383-2951
Photo of Elizabeth Anne Deig, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth Anne Deig
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience supporting individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, the impacts of trauma, relationship distress, adjustment issues relating to family life transitions, as well as specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and supporting individuals and couples as they transition to parenthood.
Our life experiences and social influences inform the ways that we cope, sometimes leading us in directions we do not desire and into ways of being in relationships that can be destructive. My belief is that at the heart of each and every human there are strengths and preferred narratives to be discovered and there is an innate ability to cultivate self-compassion, to heal from the past, to learn to communicate our needs and desires, and ultimately to create healthy relationships. I am passionate about supporting you in achieving lasting connection, joy, and fulfillment in your relationships.
I have experience supporting individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, the impacts of trauma, relationship distress, adjustment issues relating to family life transitions, as well as specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and supporting individuals and couples as they transition to parenthood.
Our life experiences and social influences inform the ways that we cope, sometimes leading us in directions we do not desire and into ways of being in relationships that can be destructive. My belief is that at the heart of each and every human there are strengths and preferred narratives to be discovered and there is an innate ability to cultivate self-compassion, to heal from the past, to learn to communicate our needs and desires, and ultimately to create healthy relationships. I am passionate about supporting you in achieving lasting connection, joy, and fulfillment in your relationships.
(619) 821-2450 View (619) 821-2450
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.