Anxiety Treatment

Psychotherapy for anxiety can be an effective and impactful way to address and manage the overwhelming symptoms that present when one is feeling anxious. There are many approaches that can be effective, and what works best can vary from person to person. Here are a few common types of therapy used for anxiety:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and correcting negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It also involves developing coping strategies and problem-solving skills.

Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy involves slow and gradual exposure to the sources of anxiety in a systematic manner. The goal is to reduce the fear response over time by helping the person become desensitized to what they’re fearful of and/or avoiding.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings as a feature of life rather than resisting them. It also emphasizes commitment to actions that align with one’s values, despite the presence of fear or anxiety.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills
DBT skills can be helpful for anxiety as well. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies and focuses on balancing acceptance and change while also utilizing healthier coping strategies.

Sources of Anxiety


Anxiety can arise from many different sources, and its causes are often complex. Some sources of anxiety include:

  • Genes:
    Family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders can increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety. Genetics can influence how a person responds to stress and their overall vulnerability to anxiety.

  • Personality Traits:
    Certain personality traits, such as high levels of neuroticism or a tendency toward perfectionism, can make individuals more prone to anxiety.

  • Stressful Life Events:
    Major life changes, such as moving, starting a new job, or experiencing trauma (e.g., abuse, accident, or loss), can trigger or exacerbate anxiety.

  • Chronic Stress:
    Ongoing stress from work, relationships, or financial issues can contribute to the development of anxiety.

  • Trauma and PTSD:
    Past traumatic experiences, such as abuse or witnessing violence, can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other anxiety disorders.

  • Cognitive Factors:
    Negative thinking patterns, such as catastrophizing or overgeneralizing, can contribute to the development and persistence of anxiety.

  • Environmental Factors:
    Growing up in an environment where there is high conflict, lack of support, or high levels of unpredictability can influence the development of anxiety.

  • Developmental Factors:
    Experiences during childhood and adolescence, such as overprotective parenting or bullying, can impact how a person manages anxiety later in life.

Understanding the specific causes or contributing factors of anxiety in an individual can be crucial for effective treatment. Often, it’s a combination of these factors rather than a single cause that contributes to your anxiety. If you’re hoping to address your anxiety, book a consultation now!