Photo of Valerie St. John, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Valerie St. John
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
My treatment helps increase self-awareness and insight while challenging unbalanced thought processes. Enhancing self-worth and self-acceptance is a core theme for my clients. Common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, panic, mild dissociation, perfectionism, people-pleasing, codependency, and performance anxiety. My trauma-informed and integrative approach involves a reflective, person-centered openness, where you can develop introspection, safely release emotions, and discover your true authentic self.
(360) 529-3401 View (360) 529-3401
Photo of Wendy Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Wendy Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
I have a practice specialty of working with adults and seniors with anxiety disorders, stress, relationship and/or family issues and life transitions.
If you are struggling with your mental health, I want you to know you are not alone and it can get better. Reaching out for help isn't always easy, but it will be worth it. Video therapy sessions with me are a safe, supportive and non-judgmental experience. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your situation and to provide you with practical tools to help you manage life in a healthier way.
(253) 265-4959 View (253) 265-4959
Photo of Sheryl Eva Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sheryl Eva Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.
(253) 292-5017 View (253) 292-5017
Photo of Elizabeth M Humes, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Elizabeth M Humes
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
I specialize in Lifespan Integration Therapy with lasting change for those struggling with anxiety, physical issues and trauma.
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
(253) 214-3668 View (253) 214-3668
Photo of Eunice Kim-Setiawan, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Eunice Kim-Setiawan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise includes coping with stress, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, military/aviation families, chronic physical/emotional pain, identity, and family of origin/generational trauma.
Updated April'24. Accepting new clients on wait-list 1-3 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy pup in-training and attends some sessions.
My expertise includes coping with stress, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, military/aviation families, chronic physical/emotional pain, identity, and family of origin/generational trauma.
Updated April'24. Accepting new clients on wait-list 1-3 months. Please message to waitlist. I enjoy working with adults, children/adolescents, and families. I believe that counseling needs to be a safe and brave space to process hard topics. I value choices, respect, culture, education, balance, and curiosity in my work which inclines towards acceptance-commitment, attachment, compassionate, trauma-informed, and brain-based approaches. Trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. DBT certified. Asia Pacific Cultural Center referral resource. Pending VA/medicare credentialing. Fuji is my therapy pup in-training and attends some sessions.
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Photo of Dr. Colleen Rustad, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Dr. Colleen Rustad
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
My specialties include working with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues or relationship problems, as well as academic /career/ or life transition.
I will work collaboratively with you in therapy so you can work through any challenges you may be facing and achieve your goals. Whether you are experiencing a new problem, or have been struggling with something for a while, together we will work to find your inner strengths, overcome past or present challenges, and improve the quality of your life. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who provides a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is for you to feel more hopeful and confident, and to live the life you desire.
(253) 201-2154 View (253) 201-2154
Photo of Lindsey Nickell, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Lindsey Nickell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, YTT200
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Do you find yourself reading the same articles to help with anxiety, depression and/or trauma and feeling like there is more that you would like to uncover? If you are looking for a more layered and meaningful approach to therapy, I may be able to help. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and ADHD and work hard to help you reexamine your situation in ways you might not have used before and find the tools to take control of your life. I also post weekly at Calm Body, Quiet Mind - an all things mental and bodily health newsletter found on Substack. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(253) 243-8791 View (253) 243-8791
Photo of Christine Thurston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Christine Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
Though I am committed to helping people with all manner of personal challenges, I am particularly adept at helping people suffering from depression/anxiety, clients confronting women's issues, and couples therapy.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
(360) 443-5452 View (360) 443-5452
Photo of Sarah Atchison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Sarah Atchison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS, CGE
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
I believe that life transitions are a time to celebrate life and an opportunity for great growth. As director of the BLOOM Maternal and Infant Wellness Program, I specialize in supporting women and their families through the transition to parenthood. A unique and often challenging time punctuated with endings and new beginnings. Women and their families need and deserve to be nurtured and supported during this time. My areas of expertise include: The prevention and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting healthy parent-child attachment, as well as strengthening and “baby-proofing” relationships.
(253) 236-0733 View (253) 236-0733
Photo of Betsy Moore, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Betsy Moore
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My background is in Psychodynamic and Attachment theory but I have recognized the value of many evidence based approaches in addressing trauma, anxiety and depression.
Everyone has a unique story to tell. Sometimes the story is full of joy and laughter and sometimes it has challenges and heartbreak. For most of us, it falls somewhere in between. By taking the time to share and understand your story, you are given the opportunity to understand how your past shapes your current existence and how past relationships inevitably impact current ones. By understanding and owning your story, you give yourself the opportunity to choose how you want to go forward. One's past does not have to define one's future.
My background is in Psychodynamic and Attachment theory but I have recognized the value of many evidence based approaches in addressing trauma, anxiety and depression.
Everyone has a unique story to tell. Sometimes the story is full of joy and laughter and sometimes it has challenges and heartbreak. For most of us, it falls somewhere in between. By taking the time to share and understand your story, you are given the opportunity to understand how your past shapes your current existence and how past relationships inevitably impact current ones. By understanding and owning your story, you give yourself the opportunity to choose how you want to go forward. One's past does not have to define one's future.
(253) 200-6298 View (253) 200-6298
Photo of Jill Kinney, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Jill Kinney
Psychologist, BSHon, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
I have no ideal client. The best part of this job is getting to know such a wide range of people with so many types of issues. I have 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in community as well as out-patient and in-patient settings . Geographically, I've worked with families and trained workers in Seattle, New York, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've done in-home work in the Bronx, and helped develop policy all over the country. I am now in private practice and address issues that can affect us all, such as, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and most mental health issues.
I have no ideal client. The best part of this job is getting to know such a wide range of people with so many types of issues. I have 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in community as well as out-patient and in-patient settings . Geographically, I've worked with families and trained workers in Seattle, New York, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've done in-home work in the Bronx, and helped develop policy all over the country. I am now in private practice and address issues that can affect us all, such as, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and most mental health issues.
(206) 673-3735 View (206) 673-3735
Photo of Bonny L Snyder, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Bonny L Snyder
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
(253) 264-0859 View (253) 264-0859
Photo of Michelle Middleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Michelle Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
My services include working with PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Stressors, Anger Issues, Grief, Teen Related Issues and Traumatic Experiences.
I am committed to trauma informed, client centered treatment. My focus in my career has been working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic experiences. I hold a safe space for my clients to feel connected during their time with me as their counselor. We work together to find the tools that you need to live the life you envision for yourself.
(360) 641-7724 View (360) 641-7724
Photo of Jonnae Tillman in Gig Harbor, WA
Jonnae Tillman
DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
Tillman has a broad spectrum of experience working with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
Tillman has a broad spectrum of experience working with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
(206) 743-9461 View (206) 743-9461
Photo of Blue Mountain Behavioral Health, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Blue Mountain Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC , MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I work to help clients facing depression and anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship conflict, identity concerns, life transitions, parenting, adulting, and spirituality issues.
I have a passion for helping clients learn new skills for coping, communication, and problem solving. I encourage clients to find their strengths and to help empower them to achieve their therapy goals. I work collaboratively to create client- centered treatment. I have a background working with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with at-risk youth, foster children, and children and teenagers with severe mental illness. I have over a decade of experience working with Active-Duty Service Members with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, and substance use disorders.
I work to help clients facing depression and anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship conflict, identity concerns, life transitions, parenting, adulting, and spirituality issues.
I have a passion for helping clients learn new skills for coping, communication, and problem solving. I encourage clients to find their strengths and to help empower them to achieve their therapy goals. I work collaboratively to create client- centered treatment. I have a background working with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with at-risk youth, foster children, and children and teenagers with severe mental illness. I have over a decade of experience working with Active-Duty Service Members with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, and substance use disorders.
(253) 766-5562 View (253) 766-5562
Photo of Dawn Lindsay, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Dawn Lindsay
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, MHP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Imagine walking by “that place” and not be triggered into a panic attack with the memory attached to it.
You have quietly suffered for too long. You have faced a pain that is so dark and deep you haven’t thought about it in years. You’ve managed to bury the trauma enough to carry on with your life. People look at you and think, “They have got it all together.” But the pain is starting to surface. The past is catching up, and you can’t outrun it this time. You’re ready now. You’re ready to face the darkness and experience true healing. The good news is, you don’t have to face it alone.
Imagine walking by “that place” and not be triggered into a panic attack with the memory attached to it.
You have quietly suffered for too long. You have faced a pain that is so dark and deep you haven’t thought about it in years. You’ve managed to bury the trauma enough to carry on with your life. People look at you and think, “They have got it all together.” But the pain is starting to surface. The past is catching up, and you can’t outrun it this time. You’re ready now. You’re ready to face the darkness and experience true healing. The good news is, you don’t have to face it alone.
(253) 300-0905 View (253) 300-0905
Photo of Deborah A Williams, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Deborah A Williams
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Barriers I work with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues and anger problems.
Oftentimes we seek out therapy because components in our lives are causing us significant distress and disrupt our ability to function effectively and feel happiness. I ask clients who come into therapy to bring with them an open attitude, a willingness to explore their life perspectives and their relationships with others, that they may experience true change and healing. This journey towards emotional maturity often involves a certain amount of discomfort and pain before the healing and change can occur. I provide a warm, trusting, safe space to assist people so that they may continue that journey.
Barriers I work with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues and anger problems.
Oftentimes we seek out therapy because components in our lives are causing us significant distress and disrupt our ability to function effectively and feel happiness. I ask clients who come into therapy to bring with them an open attitude, a willingness to explore their life perspectives and their relationships with others, that they may experience true change and healing. This journey towards emotional maturity often involves a certain amount of discomfort and pain before the healing and change can occur. I provide a warm, trusting, safe space to assist people so that they may continue that journey.
(253) 262-0501 View (253) 262-0501
Photo of Katy Hebel, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Katy Hebel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I work from a trauma-informed lens utilizing a person-centered approach to therapy to help clients explore issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, and life transitions.
I believe change occurs in the context of connection, compassion, and self-discovery wherein your whole authentic self can be nurtured and fully understood. To support you in your healing and growth, I bring a warm and collaborative approach, valuing the relationship and working together towards a path of healing and change.
I work from a trauma-informed lens utilizing a person-centered approach to therapy to help clients explore issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, and life transitions.
I believe change occurs in the context of connection, compassion, and self-discovery wherein your whole authentic self can be nurtured and fully understood. To support you in your healing and growth, I bring a warm and collaborative approach, valuing the relationship and working together towards a path of healing and change.
(253) 259-3483 View (253) 259-3483
Photo of Jennifer Hogge, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Jennifer Hogge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone needs support and help, especially during difficult times.It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you. So if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, strained parent-child relationships let's find tools/solutions to have the life you desire. I provide individual and family therapy for those 13 and older. I do not provide couples therapy at this time. Therapy can provide a safe space to be heard, validated, explore solutions, identify new perspectives and tools for continued growth well after therapy is finished.
Everyone needs support and help, especially during difficult times.It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you. So if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, strained parent-child relationships let's find tools/solutions to have the life you desire. I provide individual and family therapy for those 13 and older. I do not provide couples therapy at this time. Therapy can provide a safe space to be heard, validated, explore solutions, identify new perspectives and tools for continued growth well after therapy is finished.
(253) 367-3114 View (253) 367-3114
Photo of Juanita C Beard, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Juanita C Beard
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCTP, CCM
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335  (Online Only)
Help is here. You've made it to the right place! I work with those struggling with depression & anxiety. My niche is women of color processing racial trauma, workplace micro aggressions, and struggles navigating being a person of color living in a predominantly homogenous community. The weight that BIPOC folks feel is often too heavy to lift alone. Having a therapist who looks like you, and understands your cultural lens, is paramount to partnering with you to achieve wellness and recovery. Racial trauma looks like subtle slights + stress from internalized pain of tolerating intolerable systemic stressors based in a toxic culture.
Help is here. You've made it to the right place! I work with those struggling with depression & anxiety. My niche is women of color processing racial trauma, workplace micro aggressions, and struggles navigating being a person of color living in a predominantly homogenous community. The weight that BIPOC folks feel is often too heavy to lift alone. Having a therapist who looks like you, and understands your cultural lens, is paramount to partnering with you to achieve wellness and recovery. Racial trauma looks like subtle slights + stress from internalized pain of tolerating intolerable systemic stressors based in a toxic culture.
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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.