Anxiety Therapists in Washington, DC

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Patricia Gershefski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I have worked with individuals ages 4-85 with problems ranging from psychosis to mild anxiety .
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
I have worked with individuals ages 4-85 with problems ranging from psychosis to mild anxiety .
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
(240) 813-4351 View (240) 813-4351
Photo of Lottena Wolters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lottena Wolters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I enjoy providing counseling to those with change-of-life concerns including relationship difficulties, and stress-provoked anxiety and depression.
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
I enjoy providing counseling to those with change-of-life concerns including relationship difficulties, and stress-provoked anxiety and depression.
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
(202) 978-1413 View (202) 978-1413
Photo of Ana Maria Orduz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Ana Maria Orduz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Difficult life events, building yourself from scratch after a painful divorce, or being in a new country can stir up painful feelings and anxiety .
I love working with Latinas living in South Florida who are struggling to cope with with major life transitions. Perhaps you may be new to the U.S. and are having a hard time adjusting to a new life, facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Or you are going through life changes such as menopause, divorce, parenting teenagers, or are facing the challenges of being an empty nester, grieving your role as a mother, and trying to figure out your new purpose and identity. Going through all these complex processes and changes can lead you to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression robbing you from your ability to feel joy.
Difficult life events, building yourself from scratch after a painful divorce, or being in a new country can stir up painful feelings and anxiety .
I love working with Latinas living in South Florida who are struggling to cope with with major life transitions. Perhaps you may be new to the U.S. and are having a hard time adjusting to a new life, facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Or you are going through life changes such as menopause, divorce, parenting teenagers, or are facing the challenges of being an empty nester, grieving your role as a mother, and trying to figure out your new purpose and identity. Going through all these complex processes and changes can lead you to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression robbing you from your ability to feel joy.
(202) 933-7622 View (202) 933-7622
Photo of Adair Fox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Adair Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My practice is devoted to providing psychotherapy for older adolescents and adults from diverse walks of life. I treat clients who suffer from anxiety , depression, unresolved trauma, loss, grief, and other sources of seemingly unmanageable distress. I also help clients navigate specific life transitions -- for example, to a new school, job, relationship, or parenthood. Finally, I welcome clients who are experiencing relatively diffuse, general discontent and searching for greater fulfillment with respect to their health, relationships, education, job career, or creative endeavors.
My practice is devoted to providing psychotherapy for older adolescents and adults from diverse walks of life. I treat clients who suffer from anxiety , depression, unresolved trauma, loss, grief, and other sources of seemingly unmanageable distress. I also help clients navigate specific life transitions -- for example, to a new school, job, relationship, or parenthood. Finally, I welcome clients who are experiencing relatively diffuse, general discontent and searching for greater fulfillment with respect to their health, relationships, education, job career, or creative endeavors.
(202) 559-0306 View (202) 559-0306
Photo of Dallas Williams-Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have successfully treated anxiety disorders, mood disorders, those who have experienced traumatic events, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I have successfully treated anxiety disorders, mood disorders, those who have experienced traumatic events, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(202) 556-3451 View (202) 556-3451
Photo of Tamara D Jackson, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Tamara D Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I specialize in treating eating and body image issues, depression, anxiety , and difficulties associated with adjusting to life changes and transitions.
I approach therapy in a direct yet compassionate manner believing that long-term sustained change can only happen when growth occurs on the inside and flows outward. My goal is to help my clients walk their own individual path from self-judgment to self-transformation. I use a cognitive behavioral approach which guides you to understand how your thoughts/beliefs, feelings, and behaviors work together to determine your life experiences. Together, we will identify self-destructive patterns that stop you from getting what you want in life and replace them with constructive and goal-achieving ways of thinking and behaving.
I specialize in treating eating and body image issues, depression, anxiety , and difficulties associated with adjusting to life changes and transitions.
I approach therapy in a direct yet compassionate manner believing that long-term sustained change can only happen when growth occurs on the inside and flows outward. My goal is to help my clients walk their own individual path from self-judgment to self-transformation. I use a cognitive behavioral approach which guides you to understand how your thoughts/beliefs, feelings, and behaviors work together to determine your life experiences. Together, we will identify self-destructive patterns that stop you from getting what you want in life and replace them with constructive and goal-achieving ways of thinking and behaving.
(202) 618-9651 View (202) 618-9651
Photo of Devyn Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Devyn Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
With that may come symptoms of depression, anxiety , and/or grief.
Welcome to H-Town Therapy Services. I am the owner and a Houston (H-Town) Native who currently resides in Washington, DC. My educational background includes a BS in Psychology and an MA in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years with diverse ages/populations. In addition to my private practice, I currently work with youth at local schools and adults in the District of Columbia.
With that may come symptoms of depression, anxiety , and/or grief.
Welcome to H-Town Therapy Services. I am the owner and a Houston (H-Town) Native who currently resides in Washington, DC. My educational background includes a BS in Psychology and an MA in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years with diverse ages/populations. In addition to my private practice, I currently work with youth at local schools and adults in the District of Columbia.
(202) 804-0022 View (202) 804-0022
Photo of Meredith Hanback, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Meredith Hanback
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety , grief/loss, eating and body image concerns, and trauma.
People often seek therapy when emotions become too distressing, relationship or life circumstances are unsatisfying, and support and new strategies are needed to help the person feel and behave differently. Working with a therapist can enhance your ability to tolerate difficult situations, and make the process of personal growth and change more productive. Therapy is most effective when a collaborative relationship develops between therapist and client. I aim to create an empathetic and supportive environment, where exploring difficult issues will feel safe. Together, we will identify what has created negative emotions or life dissatisfaction, and work actively towards positive change.
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety , grief/loss, eating and body image concerns, and trauma.
People often seek therapy when emotions become too distressing, relationship or life circumstances are unsatisfying, and support and new strategies are needed to help the person feel and behave differently. Working with a therapist can enhance your ability to tolerate difficult situations, and make the process of personal growth and change more productive. Therapy is most effective when a collaborative relationship develops between therapist and client. I aim to create an empathetic and supportive environment, where exploring difficult issues will feel safe. Together, we will identify what has created negative emotions or life dissatisfaction, and work actively towards positive change.
(202) 601-3486 View (202) 601-3486
Photo of Laurie A. Ferreri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Laurie A. Ferreri
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MAC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My clients will learn the essential skills needed to navigate through life's challenges: Communication skills for better relationships, stress management and coping skills for regulating anxiety and stress, increasing strengths to face problems and emotional balancing techniques for more harmony in one's feeling states.
My approach focuses on strengths and what's working in one's life, while also assisting in practical problem solving. Those who want to establish a mind/body/spirit connection and have more joy in their lives will benefit the most by working with me. My excitement for counseling and coaching comes from helping people create wellness and balance, while going through life's transitions: college, marriage, parenting, divorce, aging, adjusting to losses and dealing with health issues. I'm also a cancer survivor interested in helping others on their healing journey.
My clients will learn the essential skills needed to navigate through life's challenges: Communication skills for better relationships, stress management and coping skills for regulating anxiety and stress, increasing strengths to face problems and emotional balancing techniques for more harmony in one's feeling states.
My approach focuses on strengths and what's working in one's life, while also assisting in practical problem solving. Those who want to establish a mind/body/spirit connection and have more joy in their lives will benefit the most by working with me. My excitement for counseling and coaching comes from helping people create wellness and balance, while going through life's transitions: college, marriage, parenting, divorce, aging, adjusting to losses and dealing with health issues. I'm also a cancer survivor interested in helping others on their healing journey.
(202) 643-4938 View (202) 643-4938
Photo of Anna Rieper, Counselor in Washington, DC
Anna Rieper
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I work mainly with individuals and couples on issues related to depression, anxiety , relationships, and major life transitions.
I work mainly with individuals and couples on issues related to depression, anxiety , relationships, and major life transitions.
(202) 410-6463 View (202) 410-6463
Photo of Sean Penny, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Sean Penny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel anxious, sad, lonely, or isolated? Do you struggle with pain connected to racism, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or one of the many ways we can be made to feel less than or not ourselves? Whatever the reason, your decision to seek out therapy is courageous because it is filled with significant emotional risk. As we build a relationship together, your thoughts, feelings, experiences, fears , and fantasies will be heard and treated with respect, curiosity, and care. You’ll find a gentle, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where we can better understand what brought you here and how you might move forward.
Do you feel anxious, sad, lonely, or isolated? Do you struggle with pain connected to racism, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or one of the many ways we can be made to feel less than or not ourselves? Whatever the reason, your decision to seek out therapy is courageous because it is filled with significant emotional risk. As we build a relationship together, your thoughts, feelings, experiences, fears , and fantasies will be heard and treated with respect, curiosity, and care. You’ll find a gentle, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where we can better understand what brought you here and how you might move forward.
(202) 759-4803 View (202) 759-4803
Photo of Emma Nowicki, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Emma Nowicki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
We all go through difficult times in life when we feel stressed or unfulfilled. Sometimes we are able to manage challenges on our own and other times it can be beneficial to talk to a professional. It takes courage to reach out for support. You may be struggling with anxiety , perfectionism, or low self-esteem. Therapy can help you manage intense emotions, feel more confident, foster deeper connections in relationships, and thrive in your professional pursuits. With a non-judgmental and caring listener, you can overcome obstacles and accomplish the changes you want to see.
We all go through difficult times in life when we feel stressed or unfulfilled. Sometimes we are able to manage challenges on our own and other times it can be beneficial to talk to a professional. It takes courage to reach out for support. You may be struggling with anxiety , perfectionism, or low self-esteem. Therapy can help you manage intense emotions, feel more confident, foster deeper connections in relationships, and thrive in your professional pursuits. With a non-judgmental and caring listener, you can overcome obstacles and accomplish the changes you want to see.
(202) 933-9163 View (202) 933-9163
Photo of Jasalynne Northcross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jasalynne Northcross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified
Washington, DC 20011
Whether you're grappling with issues related to intimacy, communication, sexual identity, or desire, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for your exploration and growth. From couples grappling with communication breakdowns to individuals struggling with sexual performance anxiety or concerns about their sexual orientation or gender identity, every situation is unique. The goals of my clients are as diverse as their backgrounds. Still, they all share a common thread: the desire for a more fulfilling, authentic, and healthy relationship with themselves and their partners.
Whether you're grappling with issues related to intimacy, communication, sexual identity, or desire, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for your exploration and growth. From couples grappling with communication breakdowns to individuals struggling with sexual performance anxiety or concerns about their sexual orientation or gender identity, every situation is unique. The goals of my clients are as diverse as their backgrounds. Still, they all share a common thread: the desire for a more fulfilling, authentic, and healthy relationship with themselves and their partners.
(202) 968-3618 View (202) 968-3618
Photo of Jean S Gearon, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jean S Gearon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering individual and couples psychotherapy. I have been working in the field as a clinician, teacher and researcher for 25+ years. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression and anxiety . I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process and tailor my approach to meet individual needs. I strive to be active, flexible, genuine and attentive. To inform my work, I draw from cognitive-behavioral theory (skills based), attachment theory (insight based) and neuroscience research (psychoeducation re: the mind/body connection).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering individual and couples psychotherapy. I have been working in the field as a clinician, teacher and researcher for 25+ years. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression and anxiety . I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process and tailor my approach to meet individual needs. I strive to be active, flexible, genuine and attentive. To inform my work, I draw from cognitive-behavioral theory (skills based), attachment theory (insight based) and neuroscience research (psychoeducation re: the mind/body connection).
(202) 800-1240 View (202) 800-1240
Photo of Wellness Restoration Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Wellness Restoration Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing difficulty in adapting to life changes or challenging situations? Are you currently experiencing anxiety due to life changes such as, graduating college and going into the workforce? Do you feel as though you have imposter syndrome in your new job? Are you doubtful of entering a new relationship? Are you experiencing anxiety because of a relationship? Are you currently pregnant, a new mom/dad, or adapting to a second child? Have you noticed that all of these life changes have affected all aspects of your life... mental, emotional, behavioral, and physical? Our therapists are here to help!
Are you experiencing difficulty in adapting to life changes or challenging situations? Are you currently experiencing anxiety due to life changes such as, graduating college and going into the workforce? Do you feel as though you have imposter syndrome in your new job? Are you doubtful of entering a new relationship? Are you experiencing anxiety because of a relationship? Are you currently pregnant, a new mom/dad, or adapting to a second child? Have you noticed that all of these life changes have affected all aspects of your life... mental, emotional, behavioral, and physical? Our therapists are here to help!
(202) 410-5871 View (202) 410-5871
Photo of Active Psychotherapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Active Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I feel that anxiety underlies most of our behaviors and life decisions.
I have an extensive and unique clinical experience with more than 15 years in inpatient and outpatients settings. I have helped many individuals with assorted emotional problems, including PTSD, mood and adjustment disorders, grief, anger, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. I also serve as a mental health consultant for childhood and early childhood programs in Fairfax where I provide play therapy for young children with emotional and behavioral problems and parents' consultations.
I feel that anxiety underlies most of our behaviors and life decisions.
I have an extensive and unique clinical experience with more than 15 years in inpatient and outpatients settings. I have helped many individuals with assorted emotional problems, including PTSD, mood and adjustment disorders, grief, anger, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. I also serve as a mental health consultant for childhood and early childhood programs in Fairfax where I provide play therapy for young children with emotional and behavioral problems and parents' consultations.
(202) 796-5839 View (202) 796-5839
Photo of Gwyneth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gwyneth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified
Washington, DC 20012
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety / panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety / panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
(202) 800-1905 View (202) 800-1905
Photo of David Pennington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
David Pennington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified
Washington, DC 20011
I work with adults experiencing anxiety or depression, the effects of past trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions. I also work with clients who want to work through experiences of grief or are looking to strengthen their personal identities. Therapy can help you get unstuck in any of these areas, support you in creating your own life story, and assist you in feeling better and more in control.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety or depression, the effects of past trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions. I also work with clients who want to work through experiences of grief or are looking to strengthen their personal identities. Therapy can help you get unstuck in any of these areas, support you in creating your own life story, and assist you in feeling better and more in control.
(202) 851-2670 View (202) 851-2670
Photo of Abigail Middleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Abigail Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I specialize in relational conflict, anxiety , depression, adjustment to illness, grief/bereavement, and trauma recovery.
I've worked with a variety of populations including adults, elderly, and children, and presenting issues including depression, bipolar disorder, severe mental illness, and trauma. My experience includes inpatient, community-based, school, and outpatient settings. I believe each individual has the power to change, and it is my privilege to work through life's challenges together with you.
I specialize in relational conflict, anxiety , depression, adjustment to illness, grief/bereavement, and trauma recovery.
I've worked with a variety of populations including adults, elderly, and children, and presenting issues including depression, bipolar disorder, severe mental illness, and trauma. My experience includes inpatient, community-based, school, and outpatient settings. I believe each individual has the power to change, and it is my privilege to work through life's challenges together with you.
(202) 779-1828 View (202) 779-1828
Photo of Josephine A Bulkley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Josephine A Bulkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW
Verified
Washington, DC 20016
People seek psychotherapy feeling unhappy or helpless to bring about change in their life or fulfill their dreams. Patients are overcome with symptoms of depression, anxiety , eating disorders, substance abuse or other problems, which in reality are unconscious defenses, blocking repressed feelings about something that went wrong, often in childhood, which is not yet resolved. These defenses once were adaptive, by protecting and helping them survive, but are no longer effective. I help people work through their underlying grief and face their feelings (sadness, anger, disappointment, yearning, powerlessness) surrounding trauma or loss, enabling them to engage in more free, authentic, satisfying lives.
People seek psychotherapy feeling unhappy or helpless to bring about change in their life or fulfill their dreams. Patients are overcome with symptoms of depression, anxiety , eating disorders, substance abuse or other problems, which in reality are unconscious defenses, blocking repressed feelings about something that went wrong, often in childhood, which is not yet resolved. These defenses once were adaptive, by protecting and helping them survive, but are no longer effective. I help people work through their underlying grief and face their feelings (sadness, anger, disappointment, yearning, powerlessness) surrounding trauma or loss, enabling them to engage in more free, authentic, satisfying lives.
(202) 883-4551 View (202) 883-4551

See more therapy options for Washington

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.