Photo of Jodee Virgo, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jodee Virgo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
I specialize in, but am not limited to working with: anxiety, body image issues, work/life balance, difficult family dynamics, break-ups, and pre-marital/couples counseling.
Hi, I'm Jodee. Do you struggle with intimate relationships? Are you highly critical of yourself? Do you have difficulty implementing change in your life? I work with individuals and couples who want to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and shift out of patterns that no longer serve them. I will teach you how to build awareness of your issues, develop new ways of managing your challenges, and support you in creating lasting changes in your life.
I specialize in, but am not limited to working with: anxiety, body image issues, work/life balance, difficult family dynamics, break-ups, and pre-marital/couples counseling.
Hi, I'm Jodee. Do you struggle with intimate relationships? Are you highly critical of yourself? Do you have difficulty implementing change in your life? I work with individuals and couples who want to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and shift out of patterns that no longer serve them. I will teach you how to build awareness of your issues, develop new ways of managing your challenges, and support you in creating lasting changes in your life.
(415) 360-2209 View (415) 360-2209
Photo of Kealy Spring, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kealy Spring
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I work with individuals and couples who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or are struggling with communication challenges, imposter syndrome or perfectionism. Those I work with often appear to have everything together to the outside observer, but feel like they are struggling on the inside. Together we'll find ways to give the issues impacting you less power over you and your relationships. We will help you make positive, meaningful changes that will better serve you moving forward.
I work with individuals and couples who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or are struggling with communication challenges, imposter syndrome or perfectionism. Those I work with often appear to have everything together to the outside observer, but feel like they are struggling on the inside. Together we'll find ways to give the issues impacting you less power over you and your relationships. We will help you make positive, meaningful changes that will better serve you moving forward.
(628) 227-6249 View (628) 227-6249
Photo of Lindsey B Hopkins, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lindsey B Hopkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with >15 yrs experience researching and providing evidence-based treatments. There are a number of highly effective therapies out there, and I focus primarily on those that help people overcome: Traumatic Stress (PTSD); Anxiety Disorders; and Disordered Eating. I also work with many young adults undergoing life transitions, exploring career identities/trajectories, navigating romantic partnerships, etc. An increasing focus of my practice is existential in nature, assisting clients with spiritual growth and exploration.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with >15 yrs experience researching and providing evidence-based treatments. There are a number of highly effective therapies out there, and I focus primarily on those that help people overcome: Traumatic Stress (PTSD); Anxiety Disorders; and Disordered Eating. I also work with many young adults undergoing life transitions, exploring career identities/trajectories, navigating romantic partnerships, etc. An increasing focus of my practice is existential in nature, assisting clients with spiritual growth and exploration.
(510) 901-3446 View (510) 901-3446
Photo of Melissa Louise Craven, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Melissa Louise Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Do you feel caught in self-criticism? Do you feel separate from others- or less than? Self-criticism can affect mood, sleep, relationships, and motivation. You might feel you've lost your sense of purpose- that a good life is out of reach. You are not alone. In this post-pandemic world, so many of us feel anxious and hard on ourselves.
Do you feel caught in self-criticism? Do you feel separate from others- or less than? Self-criticism can affect mood, sleep, relationships, and motivation. You might feel you've lost your sense of purpose- that a good life is out of reach. You are not alone. In this post-pandemic world, so many of us feel anxious and hard on ourselves.
(925) 281-0056 View (925) 281-0056
Photo of Priscille Schwarcz-Besson, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Priscille Schwarcz-Besson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
I work with a diverse population of adults of all ages with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and trauma.
Whether you are facing transitional or deeply rooted challenges, psychotherapy is a powerful way to regain balance, and bring back meaning and a sense of purpose in your life. You might find yourself at a time when you feel stuck, struggling with various difficulties. It is my goal to support you in uncovering patterns that no longer serve you and in fostering new experiences to support your own growth.
I work with a diverse population of adults of all ages with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and trauma.
Whether you are facing transitional or deeply rooted challenges, psychotherapy is a powerful way to regain balance, and bring back meaning and a sense of purpose in your life. You might find yourself at a time when you feel stuck, struggling with various difficulties. It is my goal to support you in uncovering patterns that no longer serve you and in fostering new experiences to support your own growth.
(628) 265-6460 View (628) 265-6460
Photo of Debbie Grace P Lugtu, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Debbie Grace P Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
I have experience working in the county with clients with varying diagnoses from anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, etc.
Are you looking to deep dive with a therapist you feel safe with and collaboratively works with you and encourages you along the way? My ideal client is reflective as I ask questions to deep dive and explore underlying issues and themes to help them gain insight. I work from a narrative therapy approach, believing that every person has a story to share and has the power to re-author their stories or create their own narrative. I am strength-based and use encouraging language in session, while following your lead. In our sessions, you will also learn Mindfulness, CBT and DBT skills to help you manage emotions and stress.
I have experience working in the county with clients with varying diagnoses from anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, etc.
Are you looking to deep dive with a therapist you feel safe with and collaboratively works with you and encourages you along the way? My ideal client is reflective as I ask questions to deep dive and explore underlying issues and themes to help them gain insight. I work from a narrative therapy approach, believing that every person has a story to share and has the power to re-author their stories or create their own narrative. I am strength-based and use encouraging language in session, while following your lead. In our sessions, you will also learn Mindfulness, CBT and DBT skills to help you manage emotions and stress.
(949) 732-0074 View (949) 732-0074
Photo of Lynn R Byk, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lynn R Byk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
Welcome! You might be seeking psychotherapy as a way to improve the quality of your life and gain a greater understanding of the thoughts, feelings, experiences and relationships that are getting in the way of living the life you desire. You might be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression or loss. What I bring to the therapeutic relationship is warmth, compassion and acceptance which will allow you to feel a sense of safety and emotional security. I am an active participant and we will be working together, collaboratively. Through our work together, I can help you on your journey.
Welcome! You might be seeking psychotherapy as a way to improve the quality of your life and gain a greater understanding of the thoughts, feelings, experiences and relationships that are getting in the way of living the life you desire. You might be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression or loss. What I bring to the therapeutic relationship is warmth, compassion and acceptance which will allow you to feel a sense of safety and emotional security. I am an active participant and we will be working together, collaboratively. Through our work together, I can help you on your journey.
(415) 301-4359 View (415) 301-4359
Photo of Beth Jaeger-Skigen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Beth Jaeger-Skigen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Additionally, I treat adults with anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Welcome. Searching for a therapist is a brave first step on the path to healing. If you find yourself not getting what you want out of work, relationships, and personal growth, therapy with me is an effective route to get what you want out of life. I am committed to helping people find more productive ways of overcoming obstacles and self-destructive patterns that interfere with living more satisfying lives. In addition to listening, I am interactive. Clients find me to be warm, empathic and easily approachable. I create a safe environment for my individuals clients, couples and groups.
Additionally, I treat adults with anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Welcome. Searching for a therapist is a brave first step on the path to healing. If you find yourself not getting what you want out of work, relationships, and personal growth, therapy with me is an effective route to get what you want out of life. I am committed to helping people find more productive ways of overcoming obstacles and self-destructive patterns that interfere with living more satisfying lives. In addition to listening, I am interactive. Clients find me to be warm, empathic and easily approachable. I create a safe environment for my individuals clients, couples and groups.
(415) 320-7239 View (415) 320-7239
Photo of Sarita Redalia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sarita Redalia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or grief and have exhausted your resources to cope, there is hope. Relief is in sight and you don’t have to go it alone. As your therapist, my intention is to provide you with the safe place and trusted guidance you need to deal with the issues. Whatever your goals for therapy, my hope is to support you to meet life’s challenges while coming to a deeper understanding and appreciation for yourself. Ultimately, my goal as your therapist is to help you navigate the way to the felt sense of peace and contentment you seek. Feeling better is within your grasp.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or grief and have exhausted your resources to cope, there is hope. Relief is in sight and you don’t have to go it alone. As your therapist, my intention is to provide you with the safe place and trusted guidance you need to deal with the issues. Whatever your goals for therapy, my hope is to support you to meet life’s challenges while coming to a deeper understanding and appreciation for yourself. Ultimately, my goal as your therapist is to help you navigate the way to the felt sense of peace and contentment you seek. Feeling better is within your grasp.
(415) 237-0074 View (415) 237-0074
Photo of Amanda (Frederick) Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Amanda (Frederick) Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Amanda! I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and parents or caregivers. Drawing from my experience as a former school therapist, I possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and support systems necessary for the growth and development of children and teens. My approach includes nurturing coping skills, emotional awareness, and social skills to empower adolescents and foster resilience. I work with individuals seeking support for a range of needs and challenges, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
Hello, I'm Amanda! I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and parents or caregivers. Drawing from my experience as a former school therapist, I possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and support systems necessary for the growth and development of children and teens. My approach includes nurturing coping skills, emotional awareness, and social skills to empower adolescents and foster resilience. I work with individuals seeking support for a range of needs and challenges, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, and eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
(415) 842-1573 View (415) 842-1573
Photo of Jennifer Warburg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Jennifer Warburg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Are you or your teen child feeling overwhelmed by negative feelings, struggling in your day-to-day, or just nagged by a sense that things shouldn't be this hard, and something needs to change? I can help. In my San Francisco practice, I guide young people through anxiety, stress, grief, challenging peer or family dynamics, big transitions and identity questions. My approach integrates depth psychotherapy with solutions-oriented counseling to help clients gain insight, find relief from immediate distress, and build life-skills for emotional health.
Are you or your teen child feeling overwhelmed by negative feelings, struggling in your day-to-day, or just nagged by a sense that things shouldn't be this hard, and something needs to change? I can help. In my San Francisco practice, I guide young people through anxiety, stress, grief, challenging peer or family dynamics, big transitions and identity questions. My approach integrates depth psychotherapy with solutions-oriented counseling to help clients gain insight, find relief from immediate distress, and build life-skills for emotional health.
(415) 936-0258 View (415) 936-0258
Photo of Alexis Warrington, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alexis Warrington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I offer a holistic approach to overcoming depression, anxiety, relational issues, and the effects of childhood trauma.
Everyone wants to feel that they are good enough. The reality though, is that most of us struggle to feel that we are acceptable and lovable just as we are. If you resonate with this, you're not alone. These beliefs tend to operate in the background of your mind, subconsciously influencing your self-esteem, limiting the way you show up in relationships, work and leisure, and creating painful cycles of depression and anxiety. Therapy with me is a safe space to challenge patterns, expand limiting beliefs, heal your inner child, and develop a wise, confident, and secure authentic self to guide you through the ups and downs of life.
I offer a holistic approach to overcoming depression, anxiety, relational issues, and the effects of childhood trauma.
Everyone wants to feel that they are good enough. The reality though, is that most of us struggle to feel that we are acceptable and lovable just as we are. If you resonate with this, you're not alone. These beliefs tend to operate in the background of your mind, subconsciously influencing your self-esteem, limiting the way you show up in relationships, work and leisure, and creating painful cycles of depression and anxiety. Therapy with me is a safe space to challenge patterns, expand limiting beliefs, heal your inner child, and develop a wise, confident, and secure authentic self to guide you through the ups and downs of life.
(760) 965-7152 View (760) 965-7152
Photo of Jane Paul, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jane Paul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Common challenges I help people address include ADHD challenges, compassion fatigue, substance abuse, chronic worry, lack of satisfaction in their couple and family relationships, conflicts in parenting/co-parenting responsibilities, executive functioning, academic success, and out-of-control children/adolescents.
Jane Paul (she/her), LMFT 25754. I believe it's a tremendous gift to witness people healing as they implement changes in their lives that bring satisfaction, serenity, and growth. I utilize a recovery model based on spiritual principles integrated with coping skills informed by mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and dependency recovery, family recovery, codependency, and personal transformation.
Common challenges I help people address include ADHD challenges, compassion fatigue, substance abuse, chronic worry, lack of satisfaction in their couple and family relationships, conflicts in parenting/co-parenting responsibilities, executive functioning, academic success, and out-of-control children/adolescents.
Jane Paul (she/her), LMFT 25754. I believe it's a tremendous gift to witness people healing as they implement changes in their lives that bring satisfaction, serenity, and growth. I utilize a recovery model based on spiritual principles integrated with coping skills informed by mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and dependency recovery, family recovery, codependency, and personal transformation.
(415) 417-2189 View (415) 417-2189
Photo of Amelia Stillinger, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Amelia Stillinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Therapy helps you craft a healthy relationship with yourself and others, and supports meaningful life choices. My clients struggle with issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loneliness, relationship challenges, questions around life direction, and personal identity. Often they report feeling "stuck," frustrated in their ability to change or move forward in their lives. As a therapist, I like to work collaboratively with clients to support and strengthen what is already working and to bring insight to areas that need more attention. With compassion and kindness, my aim is to help my clients gain coping skills that foster greater well-being and help manage difficult feelings.
Therapy helps you craft a healthy relationship with yourself and others, and supports meaningful life choices. My clients struggle with issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loneliness, relationship challenges, questions around life direction, and personal identity. Often they report feeling "stuck," frustrated in their ability to change or move forward in their lives. As a therapist, I like to work collaboratively with clients to support and strengthen what is already working and to bring insight to areas that need more attention. With compassion and kindness, my aim is to help my clients gain coping skills that foster greater well-being and help manage difficult feelings.
(707) 388-3133 View (707) 388-3133
Photo of Private Practice of Saloomeh Nakh Saz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Private Practice of Saloomeh Nakh Saz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I specialize in dissecting the complexities of anxiety, unraveling the intricate patterns of relational dynamics, and healing the scars of past traumas.
Welcome to a journey of transformation and empowerment. I am a seasoned therapist committed to guiding professionals and couples through the intricate maze of anxiety, the nuances of relationship dynamics, and the shadows of past traumas. With a profound blend of deep empathy and strategic insight, I create a sanctuary for healing—a space where personal growth and resilience are not just goals but tangible realities. My practice is rooted in cultural sensitivity and grounded in evidence-based methodologies. This approach ensures that every individual who walks through my doors feels deeply understood and immensely valued.
I specialize in dissecting the complexities of anxiety, unraveling the intricate patterns of relational dynamics, and healing the scars of past traumas.
Welcome to a journey of transformation and empowerment. I am a seasoned therapist committed to guiding professionals and couples through the intricate maze of anxiety, the nuances of relationship dynamics, and the shadows of past traumas. With a profound blend of deep empathy and strategic insight, I create a sanctuary for healing—a space where personal growth and resilience are not just goals but tangible realities. My practice is rooted in cultural sensitivity and grounded in evidence-based methodologies. This approach ensures that every individual who walks through my doors feels deeply understood and immensely valued.
(415) 802-0286 View (415) 802-0286
Photo of Christina Papanestor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Papanestor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I specialize in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that offers you the opportunity to look more deeply at longstanding fears and hopes, so that lasting change is possible.
Many of us hold on to what is familiar, routine and predictable, even when what we cling to is no longer serving us. Letting go of what is known is one of the hardest parts of growth. Change and growth are possible when a sense of security, safety, and genuine understanding is present. I provide individualized, culturally-attuned and effective psychotherapy. You might have tried psychotherapy before, and perhaps it brought you through a stormy time, but ultimately left you to find yourself repeating well-worn patterns and feeling the same insecurities that led you to seek help initially.
I specialize in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that offers you the opportunity to look more deeply at longstanding fears and hopes, so that lasting change is possible.
Many of us hold on to what is familiar, routine and predictable, even when what we cling to is no longer serving us. Letting go of what is known is one of the hardest parts of growth. Change and growth are possible when a sense of security, safety, and genuine understanding is present. I provide individualized, culturally-attuned and effective psychotherapy. You might have tried psychotherapy before, and perhaps it brought you through a stormy time, but ultimately left you to find yourself repeating well-worn patterns and feeling the same insecurities that led you to seek help initially.
(415) 295-1561 View (415) 295-1561
Photo of Rebecca Wrangham, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Wrangham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Life can feel so stressful and challenging, and therapy can really help with that. As an Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, I help couples uncover negative relational patterns as well as their underlying longings and needs so they can feel much closer and more connected for a lifetime of love. My approach is non-pathologizing, collaborative and effective. I also work with individuals looking to feel better, whether it's anxiety, depression or any kind of relationship issue that's causing distress. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral interventions and psychodynamic approach in my work, as well as a sense of humor.
Life can feel so stressful and challenging, and therapy can really help with that. As an Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, I help couples uncover negative relational patterns as well as their underlying longings and needs so they can feel much closer and more connected for a lifetime of love. My approach is non-pathologizing, collaborative and effective. I also work with individuals looking to feel better, whether it's anxiety, depression or any kind of relationship issue that's causing distress. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral interventions and psychodynamic approach in my work, as well as a sense of humor.
(415) 682-6188 View (415) 682-6188
Photo of Laura Joiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Laura Joiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
(415) 237-2225 View (415) 237-2225
Photo of Chay Tanchanco, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Chay Tanchanco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94132  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious about your relationship or dating? Do you struggle with putting everyone else's needs ahead of your own? Are you afraid your partner will leave or cheat? I help women who are feeling anxious, stop feeling overwhelmed with emotion so their relationships don’t suffer, and they can feel like themselves again. I get it. Relationships can hard and confusing. We care and want so much it can make us doubt ourselves.
Do you feel anxious about your relationship or dating? Do you struggle with putting everyone else's needs ahead of your own? Are you afraid your partner will leave or cheat? I help women who are feeling anxious, stop feeling overwhelmed with emotion so their relationships don’t suffer, and they can feel like themselves again. I get it. Relationships can hard and confusing. We care and want so much it can make us doubt ourselves.
(415) 985-1073 View (415) 985-1073
Photo of Caitlin Wicks, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Caitlin Wicks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am here to tell you, you are not broken, even if your mind may tell you so. When we are anxious or in despair, we can’t think straight or engage our usual survival strategies. It can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. We can't make sense of the distorted thoughts alone. We need a therapist to help guide us. I often help young women who are feeling shy, anxious, obsessive, depressed, struggling with perfectionism or life transitions. I enjoy helping girls and women achieve developmentally appropriate social-emotional, verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
I am here to tell you, you are not broken, even if your mind may tell you so. When we are anxious or in despair, we can’t think straight or engage our usual survival strategies. It can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. We can't make sense of the distorted thoughts alone. We need a therapist to help guide us. I often help young women who are feeling shy, anxious, obsessive, depressed, struggling with perfectionism or life transitions. I enjoy helping girls and women achieve developmentally appropriate social-emotional, verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
(415) 649-5373 View (415) 649-5373

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.