Anxiety Counselling in Central London, London

Photo of Marya Kanwal, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Marya Kanwal
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1V
I work with anyone struggling with depression or anxiety-related disorders such as OCD, PTSD, social anxiety etc. My specialist training is also in treating mental health issues caused by sleep problems, chronic health issues or stressors in your life (relationship problems, work pressures, big changes in your life). I also work with people who do not know what is wrong or what is causing it. Clients I work with typically want to understand what they are going through, what is causing how they feel, to have a confidential space to explore what it means and to learn practical ways to manage it better or overcome it.
I work with anyone struggling with depression or anxiety-related disorders such as OCD, PTSD, social anxiety etc. My specialist training is also in treating mental health issues caused by sleep problems, chronic health issues or stressors in your life (relationship problems, work pressures, big changes in your life). I also work with people who do not know what is wrong or what is causing it. Clients I work with typically want to understand what they are going through, what is causing how they feel, to have a confidential space to explore what it means and to learn practical ways to manage it better or overcome it.
020 7123 8342 View 020 7123 8342
Photo of Dorotea Pospihalj, MSc, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Dorotea Pospihalj
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1V  (Online Only)
In my practice I have been specialising in anxiety and dread. These symptoms can manifest in many ways and, we will experience them in our unique way. Perhaps you are dealing with relational difficulties, sense of inadequacy, or feeling not good enough. Working from home and managing your personal life alongside might be challenging and at times almost unbearable. Internal and external conflicts, personal crisis can also be an opportunity for growth and change if addressed in an empathic way by a non-judgemental other. I will help you transform your symptoms into a meaningful experience and help you alter the self-narrative.
In my practice I have been specialising in anxiety and dread. These symptoms can manifest in many ways and, we will experience them in our unique way. Perhaps you are dealing with relational difficulties, sense of inadequacy, or feeling not good enough. Working from home and managing your personal life alongside might be challenging and at times almost unbearable. Internal and external conflicts, personal crisis can also be an opportunity for growth and change if addressed in an empathic way by a non-judgemental other. I will help you transform your symptoms into a meaningful experience and help you alter the self-narrative.
020 8138 0735 View 020 8138 0735
Photo of Dr Morvwen Duncan, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Morvwen Duncan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1N
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing specialist psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and young people. This includes supporting those who are experiencing low mood, anxiety and challenges in forming or maintaining relationships. ​I specialise in comprehensive neuropsychological assessments to understand a young person's learning strengths and areas of difficulty, and to identify general or specific learning difficulties, such as Dyslexia. I also provide assessment of neurodevelopmental difficulties, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing specialist psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and young people. This includes supporting those who are experiencing low mood, anxiety and challenges in forming or maintaining relationships. ​I specialise in comprehensive neuropsychological assessments to understand a young person's learning strengths and areas of difficulty, and to identify general or specific learning difficulties, such as Dyslexia. I also provide assessment of neurodevelopmental difficulties, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
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Photo of Sharon Bergin, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Bergin
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M
My specialist areas are relational difficulties and trauma. From these areas, we experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, and at times other harmful and/or repetitive behaviours. My focus will be on helping you understand the function they have served for you, where they come from, and how to bring about change I have experience of working with individuals who present with diagnoses such as ADHD, autism, with one or more of the many different personality disorder, and with individuals who experience psychotic states of mind. That said, anyone can engage in therapy at any time, and, for any reason.
My specialist areas are relational difficulties and trauma. From these areas, we experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, and at times other harmful and/or repetitive behaviours. My focus will be on helping you understand the function they have served for you, where they come from, and how to bring about change I have experience of working with individuals who present with diagnoses such as ADHD, autism, with one or more of the many different personality disorder, and with individuals who experience psychotic states of mind. That said, anyone can engage in therapy at any time, and, for any reason.
020 3835 3297 View 020 3835 3297
Photo of Amanda Sandeman, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Amanda Sandeman
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London WC1H
In an ideal world, we would feel unconditionally loved and accepted, free to be openly ourselves, able to develop and maintain meaningful relationships and eager to explore the world around us. The reality is that many of us have had challenging experiences in our lives and we carry inner hurts and wounds. You may be experiencing overwhelming anxiety and/or panic attacks. You may feel depressed, stressed, worthless or have suicidal thoughts. Feelings of anger, sadness, grief, tearfulness or loneliness may be unbearable, perhaps due to bereavement, trauma, abuse or family issues. Maybe you struggle with low self-esteem.
In an ideal world, we would feel unconditionally loved and accepted, free to be openly ourselves, able to develop and maintain meaningful relationships and eager to explore the world around us. The reality is that many of us have had challenging experiences in our lives and we carry inner hurts and wounds. You may be experiencing overwhelming anxiety and/or panic attacks. You may feel depressed, stressed, worthless or have suicidal thoughts. Feelings of anger, sadness, grief, tearfulness or loneliness may be unbearable, perhaps due to bereavement, trauma, abuse or family issues. Maybe you struggle with low self-esteem.
020 3994 2205 View 020 3994 2205
Photo of Ana Maria Santos Castro, MSc, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ana Maria Santos Castro
Counsellor, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC3V
I specialize on self-esteem, depression and anxiety, yet I also work with a range of different issues.
Hello & Welcome! If you are looking for support with mental health issues or feelings of increased stress and frustration, I am here to help. Taking the step to seek professional help can be a big step to take, as it requires you to make some changes. By reaching out beyond your immediate circle, you have already shown great courage. It's important to find a qualified, skilled, experienced, and accredited practitioner. Equally important is finding someone you can connect with, who listens with genuine understanding and empathy. Based on my experience, these are the catalysts for change that I offer my clients.
I specialize on self-esteem, depression and anxiety, yet I also work with a range of different issues.
Hello & Welcome! If you are looking for support with mental health issues or feelings of increased stress and frustration, I am here to help. Taking the step to seek professional help can be a big step to take, as it requires you to make some changes. By reaching out beyond your immediate circle, you have already shown great courage. It's important to find a qualified, skilled, experienced, and accredited practitioner. Equally important is finding someone you can connect with, who listens with genuine understanding and empathy. Based on my experience, these are the catalysts for change that I offer my clients.
01234 230364 x0044 View 01234 230364 x0044
Photo of Dr Katie Kalinowski, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Kalinowski
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
My practice focuses on treating eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Most people want to feel good within themselves and within their lives. I don’t think this is too much to ask! If obstacles have previously prevented this, it does not mean the future need be the same. Change is always possible and often we need a helping hand. I am passionate about collaboration as the most empowering route on a therapeutic journey. You have the strength and the answers and together we can make sense of any hurt, obstacle or fear.
My practice focuses on treating eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Most people want to feel good within themselves and within their lives. I don’t think this is too much to ask! If obstacles have previously prevented this, it does not mean the future need be the same. Change is always possible and often we need a helping hand. I am passionate about collaboration as the most empowering route on a therapeutic journey. You have the strength and the answers and together we can make sense of any hurt, obstacle or fear.
01992 927945 View 01992 927945
Photo of Ana Castro, MSc, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ana Castro
Counsellor, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC3V
I specialize on self-esteem, depression and anxiety, yet I also work with a range of different issues.
Hello & Welcome! If you are looking for support with mental health issues or feelings of increased stress and frustration, I am here to help. Taking the step to seek professional help can be a big step to take, as it requires you to make some changes. By reaching out beyond your immediate circle, you have already shown great courage. It's important to find a qualified, skilled, experienced, and accredited practitioner. Equally important is finding someone you can connect with, who listens with genuine understanding and empathy. Based on my experience, these are the catalysts for change that I offer my clients.
I specialize on self-esteem, depression and anxiety, yet I also work with a range of different issues.
Hello & Welcome! If you are looking for support with mental health issues or feelings of increased stress and frustration, I am here to help. Taking the step to seek professional help can be a big step to take, as it requires you to make some changes. By reaching out beyond your immediate circle, you have already shown great courage. It's important to find a qualified, skilled, experienced, and accredited practitioner. Equally important is finding someone you can connect with, who listens with genuine understanding and empathy. Based on my experience, these are the catalysts for change that I offer my clients.
01234 419041 x44 View 01234 419041 x44
Photo of Sonja De Martini, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sonja De Martini
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC3V
I work with clients suffering from anxiety and depression, loss and relationship problems.
The fact that you're here suggests a curiosity and a need to find someone to listen and to help you think about your current situation. It takes courage to reach out and connect with someone unknown to talk about feelings and emotions. Therapy offers a safe space to do so where you are met with warmth and empathy. I offer a comfortable non-judgemental confidential space where we can work together to make things better by making sense of your experiences.
I work with clients suffering from anxiety and depression, loss and relationship problems.
The fact that you're here suggests a curiosity and a need to find someone to listen and to help you think about your current situation. It takes courage to reach out and connect with someone unknown to talk about feelings and emotions. Therapy offers a safe space to do so where you are met with warmth and empathy. I offer a comfortable non-judgemental confidential space where we can work together to make things better by making sense of your experiences.
020 3835 6236 View 020 3835 6236
Photo of Dr Jeanette Hennigan, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Jeanette Hennigan
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1N
Are you, or someone you love, finding life difficult? Are anxiety, depression or other psychological, behavioural or relationship issues getting in the way of living life to the full? Are you a parent looking for a qualified and experienced mental health professional to help your teen confidentially, perhaps without necessarily having to take time out of your working week to take them to see someone? Or to avoid them being seen accessing help at in their educational environment - if the thought of doing so is difficult for them?
Are you, or someone you love, finding life difficult? Are anxiety, depression or other psychological, behavioural or relationship issues getting in the way of living life to the full? Are you a parent looking for a qualified and experienced mental health professional to help your teen confidentially, perhaps without necessarily having to take time out of your working week to take them to see someone? Or to avoid them being seen accessing help at in their educational environment - if the thought of doing so is difficult for them?
020 3985 8936 View 020 3985 8936
Photo of Becky Wright Relationships And Work Wellbeing, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Becky Wright Relationships And Work Wellbeing
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
Hello, thank you for popping by to read my profile. If you're experiencing a sense of being stuck, confusion, anxiety, grief or issues in relationships or work, I am here to help you navigate these. We will work together to understand what is happening and how to handle it now and in the future. In our sessions, I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts, behaviours, and emotions. As a therapist, I am empathetic, and supportive yet challenging in helping you achieve greater self-awareness, improved mental health, and enhanced overall quality of life.
Hello, thank you for popping by to read my profile. If you're experiencing a sense of being stuck, confusion, anxiety, grief or issues in relationships or work, I am here to help you navigate these. We will work together to understand what is happening and how to handle it now and in the future. In our sessions, I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts, behaviours, and emotions. As a therapist, I am empathetic, and supportive yet challenging in helping you achieve greater self-awareness, improved mental health, and enhanced overall quality of life.
020 3985 7612 View 020 3985 7612
Photo of Raluca Ursica, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Raluca Ursica
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2V
Whether you're wrestling with depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, stress, career dilemmas, burnout, addiction, grief, or complex emotions, I am here to offer the support you need.
Hello, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting, but please know that it's also a courageous and empowering decision. Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or seeking profound, long-term change, the decision to talk is a transformative experience. My approach as a therapist is rooted in compassion, empathy, and empowerment. I believe in equipping you with the skills to find a profound sense of inner balance, tapping into the rich resources within you—body, spirit, mind, and emotion.
Whether you're wrestling with depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, stress, career dilemmas, burnout, addiction, grief, or complex emotions, I am here to offer the support you need.
Hello, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting, but please know that it's also a courageous and empowering decision. Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or seeking profound, long-term change, the decision to talk is a transformative experience. My approach as a therapist is rooted in compassion, empathy, and empowerment. I believe in equipping you with the skills to find a profound sense of inner balance, tapping into the rich resources within you—body, spirit, mind, and emotion.
020 3319 6334 View 020 3319 6334
Photo of Nicola Birago - Nicola Birago Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Nicola Birago Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC4R  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with a range of mental health issues and day to day issues that everyone experiences for example, feelings of 'stuck-ness', guilt,shame unfulfillment and anxiety.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? Do you find it hard to express yourself or do you feel no one understands you? I am passionate about supporting client to have a voice, to be heard and to feel valued. I am passionate about supporting clients to develop confidence and self esteem which in turn promotes self care. I also have a passion for supporting clients within "helping/caring professions" i.e social workers, teachers, nurses, doctors, foster carers etc and working with young/single mothers and exploring career/ life options.
I work with a range of mental health issues and day to day issues that everyone experiences for example, feelings of 'stuck-ness', guilt,shame unfulfillment and anxiety.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? Do you find it hard to express yourself or do you feel no one understands you? I am passionate about supporting client to have a voice, to be heard and to feel valued. I am passionate about supporting clients to develop confidence and self esteem which in turn promotes self care. I also have a passion for supporting clients within "helping/caring professions" i.e social workers, teachers, nurses, doctors, foster carers etc and working with young/single mothers and exploring career/ life options.
07480 779853 View 07480 779853
Photo of Martin Bartlett, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Martin Bartlett
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central London, London WC1X
Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming feelings? Maybe you are unable to go on as you have, or recent events make it hard to move on? You don't have to face this alone, understanding and support can make all the difference. I’m Martin, an accredited therapist who supports people as they navigate difficulties, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, bereavement, loneliness, addiction, low self-esteem, ADHD and more. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I am here to help you, every step of the way.
Are you struggling with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming feelings? Maybe you are unable to go on as you have, or recent events make it hard to move on? You don't have to face this alone, understanding and support can make all the difference. I’m Martin, an accredited therapist who supports people as they navigate difficulties, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, bereavement, loneliness, addiction, low self-esteem, ADHD and more. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I am here to help you, every step of the way.
020 3376 6130 View 020 3376 6130
Photo of Rebecca Stevenson, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Rebecca Stevenson
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1V
I have over 15 years experience working with teenagers as well as families and adults. The types of issues that I treat include: anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, anger management, self-injurious behaviour, low self-esteem, trauma, grief and life transitions. I believe that people are best able to make sense of how their experiences impact their present lives when they feel seen and heard within a respectful therapeutic relationship. I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space in which you can explore your emotional difficulties, identify any patterns, and draw on your strengths to move forward with your life.
I have over 15 years experience working with teenagers as well as families and adults. The types of issues that I treat include: anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, anger management, self-injurious behaviour, low self-esteem, trauma, grief and life transitions. I believe that people are best able to make sense of how their experiences impact their present lives when they feel seen and heard within a respectful therapeutic relationship. I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space in which you can explore your emotional difficulties, identify any patterns, and draw on your strengths to move forward with your life.
020 7123 8466 View 020 7123 8466
Anna Maria Magdalena Wybraniec
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
Whether you want to recover from a specific psychological difficulty or whether you just want to talk, or if you do not know what is wrong but feel that something is not right- I will make sure that you receive the help you need. I have worked in the UK mental health since the 1990s in a variety of NHS and private settings. Over the years I have developed a very successful way of treatment of often very difficult problems related to past trauma, phobia, panic attacks, anxiety and others. I would like everybody to know that complete recovery from such problems is possible and this is what you should expect from your therapist.
Whether you want to recover from a specific psychological difficulty or whether you just want to talk, or if you do not know what is wrong but feel that something is not right- I will make sure that you receive the help you need. I have worked in the UK mental health since the 1990s in a variety of NHS and private settings. Over the years I have developed a very successful way of treatment of often very difficult problems related to past trauma, phobia, panic attacks, anxiety and others. I would like everybody to know that complete recovery from such problems is possible and this is what you should expect from your therapist.
020 3675 1908 View 020 3675 1908
Photo of Martyn Bignold, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Martyn Bignold
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC3V
As a doctor of psychology, I provide a safe space where you can explore what is troubling you and start to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. I offer short-term and long-term therapy, using psychological models with a proven track record, to address anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, workplace stresses, addictions, trauma and grief. Ultimately, our goal may be for you to become your own therapist. After all, you know the client better than anyone.
As a doctor of psychology, I provide a safe space where you can explore what is troubling you and start to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. I offer short-term and long-term therapy, using psychological models with a proven track record, to address anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, workplace stresses, addictions, trauma and grief. Ultimately, our goal may be for you to become your own therapist. After all, you know the client better than anyone.
020 3984 7533 View 020 3984 7533
Photo of Dr. Jason Chan, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr. Jason Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
Depression breeds inactivity, rumination, hopelessness, self-loathing, loneliness and addiction; anxiety problems compel us to run reactively for safety, only our escapes often further entrench our fear, worries and cause panic.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
Depression breeds inactivity, rumination, hopelessness, self-loathing, loneliness and addiction; anxiety problems compel us to run reactively for safety, only our escapes often further entrench our fear, worries and cause panic.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
020 3962 0919 View 020 3962 0919
Photo of Giuseppe Scalese, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Giuseppe Scalese
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC4N
I provide therapy to individuals and I have experience of working in areas such as stress and anxiety, relationship issues with self and others, sexual identity and sexuality, masculine embodiment issues, depression, sadness, loss and grief, life crises, finding meaning in the problems experienced, low self-esteem, compulsive behaviours.
My approach is Integrative Transpersonal which means I draw on various models including Jungian, Humanistic, Existential, Developmental, body, Gestalt, archetypal psychologies as well as psychodynamic theory and neuroscience. The transpersonal includes working with myth and story, poems, the imagination, drawings, dreams and imagery and spiritual dimensions. My way of working is relational. This means the relationship between clients and me is key for the work - what emerges between us is fundamental for the work itself. The soulful approach is a way to respect clients’ sufferings and I aim to support clients to work through them.
I provide therapy to individuals and I have experience of working in areas such as stress and anxiety, relationship issues with self and others, sexual identity and sexuality, masculine embodiment issues, depression, sadness, loss and grief, life crises, finding meaning in the problems experienced, low self-esteem, compulsive behaviours.
My approach is Integrative Transpersonal which means I draw on various models including Jungian, Humanistic, Existential, Developmental, body, Gestalt, archetypal psychologies as well as psychodynamic theory and neuroscience. The transpersonal includes working with myth and story, poems, the imagination, drawings, dreams and imagery and spiritual dimensions. My way of working is relational. This means the relationship between clients and me is key for the work - what emerges between us is fundamental for the work itself. The soulful approach is a way to respect clients’ sufferings and I aim to support clients to work through them.
020 8016 4583 View 020 8016 4583
Photo of Angelica Attard, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Angelica Attard
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1A  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with people who experience self-criticism, stress, burnout, loss of meaning, disconnection from themselves, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-confidence, perfectionism, loss, and traumatic memories.
Life can feel hard and complicated for many of us as we struggle with painful emotions, stress, physical pain, worries, and unhelpful behaviours. I am here to help you make sense of your difficulties and understand your body and mind, so that you can meet your unmet needs. Together we uncover your values and the resources that you have within you already. We develop skills to support you to cope more effectively, manage your thoughts and emotions, regulate your body, and change unhelpful habits, so that you can live with greater wisdom, ease and satisfaction, even as you continue to navigate through the challenges in your life.
I have extensive experience working with people who experience self-criticism, stress, burnout, loss of meaning, disconnection from themselves, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-confidence, perfectionism, loss, and traumatic memories.
Life can feel hard and complicated for many of us as we struggle with painful emotions, stress, physical pain, worries, and unhelpful behaviours. I am here to help you make sense of your difficulties and understand your body and mind, so that you can meet your unmet needs. Together we uncover your values and the resources that you have within you already. We develop skills to support you to cope more effectively, manage your thoughts and emotions, regulate your body, and change unhelpful habits, so that you can live with greater wisdom, ease and satisfaction, even as you continue to navigate through the challenges in your life.
07481 342504 View 07481 342504

See more therapy options for Central London, London

Anxiety Counsellors

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other 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 Behavioural 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.