Anxiety Counselling in East London, London

Photo of Dr Kitty Clark-McGhee, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kitty Clark-McGhee
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E9  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in individual and couples therapy for stress and anxiety, low mood and depression, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, and challenges at times of life transition (for example, severe illness, new parenthood, menopause, retirement).
Each one of us has times in life when we feel uncertain of how to move forward. Perhaps you’ve noticed yourself getting stuck in unhelpful patterns or cycles of behaviour and you’re finding it hard to see a way out? Or you’re experiencing difficult feelings that are getting in the way of living a more fulfilled, contented life? I work collaboratively with clients to make sense of, and work through, the challenges that have brought them to therapy, and I have witnessed profound psychological growth within my clients, as they have engaged in the often-challenging process of therapy.
I specialise in individual and couples therapy for stress and anxiety, low mood and depression, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, and challenges at times of life transition (for example, severe illness, new parenthood, menopause, retirement).
Each one of us has times in life when we feel uncertain of how to move forward. Perhaps you’ve noticed yourself getting stuck in unhelpful patterns or cycles of behaviour and you’re finding it hard to see a way out? Or you’re experiencing difficult feelings that are getting in the way of living a more fulfilled, contented life? I work collaboratively with clients to make sense of, and work through, the challenges that have brought them to therapy, and I have witnessed profound psychological growth within my clients, as they have engaged in the often-challenging process of therapy.
020 3835 2251 View 020 3835 2251
Photo of Sophie Singh, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Sophie Singh
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E18
I work with a variety of issues including self-esteem, anxiety, depression, marital/relationship problems, stress, work related issues, addictions, teen problems and many more.
We all need help from time to time, and you shouldn't be embarrassed for asking for it. I am a down to earth and compassionate person, who understands what it is like to need a boost. In my years I have truly heard it all, and my biggest goal is to empower rather than judge my clients. One of my favourite quotes comes from Marisa Peer who explains that “to be happy you have to make peace with your past, love the present and feel so excited about the future”. No problem is too big to solve and I have witnessed counselling change the lives of so many people and I know I can help change yours too.
I work with a variety of issues including self-esteem, anxiety, depression, marital/relationship problems, stress, work related issues, addictions, teen problems and many more.
We all need help from time to time, and you shouldn't be embarrassed for asking for it. I am a down to earth and compassionate person, who understands what it is like to need a boost. In my years I have truly heard it all, and my biggest goal is to empower rather than judge my clients. One of my favourite quotes comes from Marisa Peer who explains that “to be happy you have to make peace with your past, love the present and feel so excited about the future”. No problem is too big to solve and I have witnessed counselling change the lives of so many people and I know I can help change yours too.
020 4538 2847 View 020 4538 2847
Photo of Sylvia Cowell - Feelings Matter Counselling Service, MBACP, Counsellor
Feelings Matter Counselling Service
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
Do you feel that you can't talk to anyone? Do you feel that your feelings don't matter to those around you? Do you feel that you are tired of pretending you are strong and don't need help? I would love to help you talk about your feelings, get in touch with who you are and what you need from others in your life. I can help you build your inner resilience and learn to be compassionate to yourself. I can help you with your low moods, your anxiety, stress and to have more positive relationships with others.
Do you feel that you can't talk to anyone? Do you feel that your feelings don't matter to those around you? Do you feel that you are tired of pretending you are strong and don't need help? I would love to help you talk about your feelings, get in touch with who you are and what you need from others in your life. I can help you build your inner resilience and learn to be compassionate to yourself. I can help you with your low moods, your anxiety, stress and to have more positive relationships with others.
020 4538 7681 View 020 4538 7681
Photo of Mhonh Bancyr-de-Angeli, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Mhonh Bancyr-de-Angeli
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
I am a Clinical Relational Transactional Analysis Psychotherapist on a final year of training, working toward my MSc in Psychotherapy. I am non-binary practitioner working with any gender, sexuality and identity. I work with individuals, family members, friends facing a difficult moment and couples/romantic relationships. I work with a wide range of issues including trauma or distressing memories, depression, stress, anxiety, shame, anger. I work with personal histories that co-create who you are. I work along you, with what you want and feel you need to address and recognise in yourself.
I am a Clinical Relational Transactional Analysis Psychotherapist on a final year of training, working toward my MSc in Psychotherapy. I am non-binary practitioner working with any gender, sexuality and identity. I work with individuals, family members, friends facing a difficult moment and couples/romantic relationships. I work with a wide range of issues including trauma or distressing memories, depression, stress, anxiety, shame, anger. I work with personal histories that co-create who you are. I work along you, with what you want and feel you need to address and recognise in yourself.
020 3640 9490 View 020 3640 9490
Photo of Esther Slattery, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Esther Slattery
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
The constant nagging of “what if”, “why?” or “if only”; knots in your stomach, breath catching in the throat, unable to focus, unable to sleep, feeling like something bad is going to happen any time? Anxiety and depression limit and impact every aspect of your life, leaving you constantly scared and tired. Even when you know that there is nothing to fear, or that the trauma is in the past, this knowledge does not help. This is because our brains have evolved for survival, not for happiness. This means that our brain does not discriminate between real and imaginary dangers; habitually overreacting and overwhelming, stealing hope.
The constant nagging of “what if”, “why?” or “if only”; knots in your stomach, breath catching in the throat, unable to focus, unable to sleep, feeling like something bad is going to happen any time? Anxiety and depression limit and impact every aspect of your life, leaving you constantly scared and tired. Even when you know that there is nothing to fear, or that the trauma is in the past, this knowledge does not help. This is because our brains have evolved for survival, not for happiness. This means that our brain does not discriminate between real and imaginary dangers; habitually overreacting and overwhelming, stealing hope.
020 3835 5509 View 020 3835 5509
Photo of Joanna Firmin, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Joanna Firmin
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E15  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working as a qualified therapist in London for over two decades offering evidence based therapies. My roles within the NHS have been both clinical and managerial and offering both one to one and group therapy. I work with clients presenting with a wide range of difficulties who wish to develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience. For many, these difficulties may appear as a dip in mood, feeling stuck, or an increase in anxiety. For others, they may feel lost, overwhelmed, or experience a lack of purpose.
I have been working as a qualified therapist in London for over two decades offering evidence based therapies. My roles within the NHS have been both clinical and managerial and offering both one to one and group therapy. I work with clients presenting with a wide range of difficulties who wish to develop self awareness, make changes and build resilience. For many, these difficulties may appear as a dip in mood, feeling stuck, or an increase in anxiety. For others, they may feel lost, overwhelmed, or experience a lack of purpose.
020 3856 8559 View 020 3856 8559
Photo of Hagar Lee, MBACP, Counsellor
Hagar Lee
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E8
You might be seeking therapy because you are suffering from depression or anxiety, or you’re feeling stuck and frustrated. Or perhaps you have experienced a painful life event, such as the breakup of a relationship or loss of a job. It can be very confusing and frightening to go through these crises, making us aware of our vulnerabilities and often leaving us feeling lonely in our plight. These crucial periods are where change is inevitable; by considering counselling, you may start developing awareness and the process of healing, allowing yourself the possibility of something new to emerge.
You might be seeking therapy because you are suffering from depression or anxiety, or you’re feeling stuck and frustrated. Or perhaps you have experienced a painful life event, such as the breakup of a relationship or loss of a job. It can be very confusing and frightening to go through these crises, making us aware of our vulnerabilities and often leaving us feeling lonely in our plight. These crucial periods are where change is inevitable; by considering counselling, you may start developing awareness and the process of healing, allowing yourself the possibility of something new to emerge.
020 3879 4704 View 020 3879 4704
Photo of Emma Thatcher, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Emma Thatcher
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
East London, London E17
People start therapy for many different reasons. You may feel dissatisfied, worried or sad, want to explore the past, process difficult events, or achieve goals. By also using art-making, it is possible to explore emotional issues in a different, sometimes deeper way, one that words alone may not allow. You do not need to be an artist to benefit from this, just drawn to the idea of expressing yourself creatively. I have experience of helping with a range of issues, from common life problems, through depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and experiences of unstable mood.
People start therapy for many different reasons. You may feel dissatisfied, worried or sad, want to explore the past, process difficult events, or achieve goals. By also using art-making, it is possible to explore emotional issues in a different, sometimes deeper way, one that words alone may not allow. You do not need to be an artist to benefit from this, just drawn to the idea of expressing yourself creatively. I have experience of helping with a range of issues, from common life problems, through depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and experiences of unstable mood.
020 3826 8051 View 020 3826 8051
Photo of Mary Mulherin, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Mary Mulherin
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East London, London E10
Hi, I'm Mary (she/her), I'm passionate about supporting people with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and relationship issues. Is your mind constantly racing, worrying whether you said or did the right thing? Wondering if people like you? Did you make the right decision? Do you find yourself beating yourself up when you feel like you've got something wrong and find it hard to let go of things. Maybe you find it hard to stand up for yourself. Life can be so overwhelming sometimes we can feel like we don't want to be here. It's exhausting isn't it! I'm guessing you're here because you're fed up and want something to change. I can help you.
Hi, I'm Mary (she/her), I'm passionate about supporting people with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and relationship issues. Is your mind constantly racing, worrying whether you said or did the right thing? Wondering if people like you? Did you make the right decision? Do you find yourself beating yourself up when you feel like you've got something wrong and find it hard to let go of things. Maybe you find it hard to stand up for yourself. Life can be so overwhelming sometimes we can feel like we don't want to be here. It's exhausting isn't it! I'm guessing you're here because you're fed up and want something to change. I can help you.
01245 950493 View 01245 950493
Photo of Nick Anthony Wolstenholme, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Nick Anthony Wolstenholme
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E2
People come to psychotherapy and counselling for many different reasons. Perhaps it is a time of crisis or difficulty when feelings have become overwhelming and difficult to share with people that you might normally. It could be that this is linked to a desire to gain a deeper self-understanding. Simply talking to the right therapist for you can provide relief. I have a wide experience of working with different conditions and situations, in particular depression, anxiety, anger and relationship issues. I work with an emphasis on facilitating your enquiry in a safe and effective way, within a supportive relationship.
People come to psychotherapy and counselling for many different reasons. Perhaps it is a time of crisis or difficulty when feelings have become overwhelming and difficult to share with people that you might normally. It could be that this is linked to a desire to gain a deeper self-understanding. Simply talking to the right therapist for you can provide relief. I have a wide experience of working with different conditions and situations, in particular depression, anxiety, anger and relationship issues. I work with an emphasis on facilitating your enquiry in a safe and effective way, within a supportive relationship.
020 4538 5537 View 020 4538 5537
Photo of Marla Stromberg - Marla Stromberg, CBT Canary Wharf, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Marla Stromberg, CBT Canary Wharf
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E14
The problems I specialise in include: depression, generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, work-related stress, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, assertiveness training.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress? Do you feel stuck and unsure about how to help yourself? Perhaps you have tried everything you know to get yourself out of this rut, or dark hole, and nothing has worked? Cognitive-behavioural therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy. In fact, it is the recommended treatment of choice for depression and anxiety. My typical client is a high achieving, hard-working banker, but I welcome clients from all occupational backgrounds and from all parts of the world.
The problems I specialise in include: depression, generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, work-related stress, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, assertiveness training.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress? Do you feel stuck and unsure about how to help yourself? Perhaps you have tried everything you know to get yourself out of this rut, or dark hole, and nothing has worked? Cognitive-behavioural therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy. In fact, it is the recommended treatment of choice for depression and anxiety. My typical client is a high achieving, hard-working banker, but I welcome clients from all occupational backgrounds and from all parts of the world.
020 3870 2968 View 020 3870 2968
Photo of Shona Laing, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Shona Laing
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E1W  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Shona, a Mindfulness-based Experiential Therapist. I have successfully worked with many people experiencing things we can all face in life: relationship/work struggles, stress, burn-out, rejection, heart-break, fear, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, loss and abuse. The part I am so privileged to play is to accompany and guide my clients on a journey of discovery and healing. I enjoy complexity and recognise that whilst one part of you may desperately want things to change and be trying to change things, other parts of you can remain stuck. At the beginning it may not be clear how or why this is.
Hello! I'm Shona, a Mindfulness-based Experiential Therapist. I have successfully worked with many people experiencing things we can all face in life: relationship/work struggles, stress, burn-out, rejection, heart-break, fear, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, loss and abuse. The part I am so privileged to play is to accompany and guide my clients on a journey of discovery and healing. I enjoy complexity and recognise that whilst one part of you may desperately want things to change and be trying to change things, other parts of you can remain stuck. At the beginning it may not be clear how or why this is.
020 3828 7708 View 020 3828 7708
Photo of Josephine Basedow, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Josephine Basedow
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E9  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Josephine. I offer Relational - Traumatophilic - Psychotherapy online - I work with people facing a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, low mood & depression, disordered eating, OCD presentations, bereavement, loss, suicidality, identity-related issues (sexual, gender, race), relationship difficulties, shame, anger, childhood and other trauma (including relational/attachment trauma, C-PTSD, transgenerational trauma, sexual abuse, neglect, homelessness, torture/war/loss of home, loss of status/family, major life transitions, move from one country to another/culture to another)
Hello my name is Josephine. I offer Relational - Traumatophilic - Psychotherapy online - I work with people facing a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, low mood & depression, disordered eating, OCD presentations, bereavement, loss, suicidality, identity-related issues (sexual, gender, race), relationship difficulties, shame, anger, childhood and other trauma (including relational/attachment trauma, C-PTSD, transgenerational trauma, sexual abuse, neglect, homelessness, torture/war/loss of home, loss of status/family, major life transitions, move from one country to another/culture to another)
01303 765417 View 01303 765417
Photo of Jenn Zhang - Clinical Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Jenn Zhang - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E18
I am experienced in working with a range of issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, worries about health, pain, relationships, and difficult emotions. In my NHS work, I specialise in working with people who live with physical health conditions, e.g. heart conditions. Living with chronic conditions or stressful events can make you feel down, limited, worried, or it might make other aspects of your life harder. I aim to help you understand yourself better, develop ways of coping with difficulties, take steps toward goals and live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
I am experienced in working with a range of issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, worries about health, pain, relationships, and difficult emotions. In my NHS work, I specialise in working with people who live with physical health conditions, e.g. heart conditions. Living with chronic conditions or stressful events can make you feel down, limited, worried, or it might make other aspects of your life harder. I aim to help you understand yourself better, develop ways of coping with difficulties, take steps toward goals and live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
020 4538 8362 View 020 4538 8362
Photo of Dr Eleanor Johnston, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Eleanor Johnston
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
East London, London E1  (Online Only)
I have chosen to specialize in the following: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Phobias, PTSD, and Trauma (historic childhood sexual / physical / emotional abuse & adult domestic abuse).
I am a Chartered Psychologist (DClinPsy) with over 18 years of experience. Within my now exclusively online practice, I offer an approach that is warm, flexible and non-judgemental with an emphasis on collaboration. I adhere to strict ethical standards regarding therapy including those held by the BPS, the HCPC, and the french equivalent. My goal, in our work together, is for us to work together to identify your goals (where you are now, where you want to be?) and work together towards change that is meaningful for you.
I have chosen to specialize in the following: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Phobias, PTSD, and Trauma (historic childhood sexual / physical / emotional abuse & adult domestic abuse).
I am a Chartered Psychologist (DClinPsy) with over 18 years of experience. Within my now exclusively online practice, I offer an approach that is warm, flexible and non-judgemental with an emphasis on collaboration. I adhere to strict ethical standards regarding therapy including those held by the BPS, the HCPC, and the french equivalent. My goal, in our work together, is for us to work together to identify your goals (where you are now, where you want to be?) and work together towards change that is meaningful for you.
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Photo of Anthony Mack - Anthony Mack Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Anthony Mack Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E18
ANXIETY ISSUES.
I am an integrative psychotherapist With qualifications in psychodynamic psychoanalytic counselling. C.B.T EMDR and also a senior qualified accredited hypnotherapist . MY practice is easily reached only a few minutes from south woodford station ( central line ) i offer evening and afternoon appointments i also offer a full range of remote online appointments
ANXIETY ISSUES.
I am an integrative psychotherapist With qualifications in psychodynamic psychoanalytic counselling. C.B.T EMDR and also a senior qualified accredited hypnotherapist . MY practice is easily reached only a few minutes from south woodford station ( central line ) i offer evening and afternoon appointments i also offer a full range of remote online appointments
020 3879 4781 View 020 3879 4781
Photo of Hannah Morgan, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Hannah Morgan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E2
I can support individuals and families with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, bereavement, conflict, fears, low mood, sleep problems, relationship or behavioural difficulties, among others.
Hello, I'm a clinical psychologist specialising in working with adults, children, young people and their families. I have 13+ years experience working in the NHS across a number of services including with adults, looked-after children and for a young people's drug and alcohol service. I also have experience working with parents over the perinatal period, with mothers and babies, and parents and toddlers. Experience has taught me that the most important factor in successful therapy is the relationship between therapist and client; therefore, I strive to provide a warm, accepting, engaging space for young people and parents alike.
I can support individuals and families with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, bereavement, conflict, fears, low mood, sleep problems, relationship or behavioural difficulties, among others.
Hello, I'm a clinical psychologist specialising in working with adults, children, young people and their families. I have 13+ years experience working in the NHS across a number of services including with adults, looked-after children and for a young people's drug and alcohol service. I also have experience working with parents over the perinatal period, with mothers and babies, and parents and toddlers. Experience has taught me that the most important factor in successful therapy is the relationship between therapist and client; therefore, I strive to provide a warm, accepting, engaging space for young people and parents alike.
020 4538 4029 View 020 4538 4029
Photo of Holly Allen, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Holly Allen
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E9
I am a Psychotherapist & EMDR therapist. I feel passionately about the power of therapy to provide healing and transformation. Therapy is a collaborative journey and with kindness and curiosity I will be by your side as you navigate your way back to a ‘fullness of being’ that is there inside of you waiting to be discovered. There are many reasons for seeking therapy. You may want to feel at peace in your body and mind to allow you the space to access your innate potential for growth and fulfilment. You may wish to feel safe enough to be more authentically you in relationships, or caught in worry, fear, self-doubt and feeling stuck.
I am a Psychotherapist & EMDR therapist. I feel passionately about the power of therapy to provide healing and transformation. Therapy is a collaborative journey and with kindness and curiosity I will be by your side as you navigate your way back to a ‘fullness of being’ that is there inside of you waiting to be discovered. There are many reasons for seeking therapy. You may want to feel at peace in your body and mind to allow you the space to access your innate potential for growth and fulfilment. You may wish to feel safe enough to be more authentically you in relationships, or caught in worry, fear, self-doubt and feeling stuck.
020 3871 0603 View 020 3871 0603
Photo of Sartu Sabrina Badasso, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Sartu Sabrina Badasso
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
I understand that this may cause some anxiety, because how do you know I’m the right counsellor/therapist for you.
Hi, I’m a relationship and trauma informed therapist. Your life may feel like a ‘hot mess’ at the moment, you may have tried google, read self help books or watched mental health videos. You have realised that nothing is helping. This may feel ‘alien’ to you, perhaps you’re the person that people call ‘strong’, no-one can comprehend that you may be struggling. So imagine, that you are not overthinking, irritable and frustrated with yourself or others. In therapy, you will have time ‘for you’, to learn to manage your symptoms and to ultimately heal. As you continue to heal, you will start to implement changes to make your life better
I understand that this may cause some anxiety, because how do you know I’m the right counsellor/therapist for you.
Hi, I’m a relationship and trauma informed therapist. Your life may feel like a ‘hot mess’ at the moment, you may have tried google, read self help books or watched mental health videos. You have realised that nothing is helping. This may feel ‘alien’ to you, perhaps you’re the person that people call ‘strong’, no-one can comprehend that you may be struggling. So imagine, that you are not overthinking, irritable and frustrated with yourself or others. In therapy, you will have time ‘for you’, to learn to manage your symptoms and to ultimately heal. As you continue to heal, you will start to implement changes to make your life better
020 3763 8273 View 020 3763 8273
Photo of Dr Madeleine Mason Roantree, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Madeleine Mason Roantree
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E2  (Online Only)
Something's not right and you want answers, a strategy; to heal, to overcome, process or grow. Maybe it feels embarrassing and you don’t want to make a big deal out of it, or you feel stuck and unsure of what to do. It's ok. You have come to the right place. I'm a psychologist, in a part-time NHS complex mental health service. I'm also a dating and relationship specialist helping people work through all aspects of romance and intimacy, including friendships and family dynamics. Relationship, dating, psychosexual issues, life crisis, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, overwhelm, trauma, OCD, PTSD, low self esteem, not sure? It's ok.
Something's not right and you want answers, a strategy; to heal, to overcome, process or grow. Maybe it feels embarrassing and you don’t want to make a big deal out of it, or you feel stuck and unsure of what to do. It's ok. You have come to the right place. I'm a psychologist, in a part-time NHS complex mental health service. I'm also a dating and relationship specialist helping people work through all aspects of romance and intimacy, including friendships and family dynamics. Relationship, dating, psychosexual issues, life crisis, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, overwhelm, trauma, OCD, PTSD, low self esteem, not sure? It's ok.
020 4524 5472 View 020 4524 5472

See more therapy options for East 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.