What to Expect from Anxiety Therapy

Starting anxiety therapy can bring a mix of emotions and questions. This article outlines the key aspects of anxiety therapy, providing insights and answering common questions about the process, outcome, and benefits of treating anxiety through counselling. 

• What is anxiety therapy?

• What is the anxiety therapy process? 

• Why do people seek anxiety therapy? 

• What is a social anxiety therapist?

• What counselling methods are used in anxiety therapy? 

• What is the biggest predictor of success in anxiety therapy? 

• What are the long-term benefits of anxiety therapy?

• Are anxiety therapy sessions possible using online technology, or do we have to meet the therapist in person?

• What does anxiety therapy cost?

• What is the length and frequency of anxiety therapy sessions?

• How can I prepare for anxiety therapy?

• What outcomes can I expect from anxiety therapy?

• What unexpected outcomes may come from anxiety therapy?

• What qualifications do anxiety therapists have?

• Where can I find an anxiety therapist?

• Is there such a thing as online anxiety therapy?

• Do you offer anxiety therapy in Toronto?

• Can I ask a question about anxiety therapy?

• Can I book a free session?
  

What is anxiety therapy?

Anxiety therapy is a highly personalized treatment designed to help individuals manage and alleviate symptoms of anxiety. The goal is not just to relieve immediate distress but also to understand and address the root causes and triggers of anxiety and provide long-term coping strategies and skills to improve overall quality of life. 

Anxiety therapy often discusses strategies to change negative thought patterns and behaviours, promoting positive and realistic thinking, and to support each individual with an understanding of their own anxiety and how it shows up in their life. Mindfulness, with a focus on how to stay present, and stress reduction techniques are also commonly addressed. These sessions are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their feelings, understand their anxiety, and develop effective coping mechanisms. 

What is the anxiety therapy process? 

The typical anxiety therapy process is a collaborative approach to help individuals manage and overcome anxiety. It usually begins with an initial intake session, where the therapist gathers information about the individual's symptoms, history, and specific concerns. 

The intake helps in formulating a personalized treatment plan for each client. A personalized treatment plan will focus on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours, understanding where these thought patterns may have originated, and exploring different ways to engage with these thoughts. Treatment plans may also include exploring, identifying, and testing out different coping strategies, using the therapeutic space to reflect on and learn which strategies are most supportive in managing anxious thoughts.  

Throughout the process, progress is monitored, and the approach is adjusted as needed. Therapy appointments often conclude with a review of progress made and a discussion on maintaining these gains independently. 

Find an anxiety therapist with our therapist collective

Our team of anxiety therapists across Ontario offers a free half-hour consultation via video call or phone if preferred. The consultation session allows you to learn more about our services while getting to know your therapist a little bit. (Call us at 647-296-9235 or click here to book your appointment).

If you do not feel your therapist is a good match after your initial call, you can visit our Meet the Team page to see if other members of our team align with your needs. We always encourage you to meet with more than one therapist to find the best fit for you and your needs. You need to feel the “vibe”.

Our anxiety counselling services provide a personalized approach designed to give you tools to manage and reduce overwhelming feelings. We work together with clients to better understand and change negative thoughts and patterns that contribute to anxiety, incorporating mindfulness techniques to enhance present-moment awareness and calm. We explore ways to improve communication and relationships, thus strengthening the client's support network. We also help clients face discomfort by assisting them in building distress tolerance, taking small steps to confront and overcome fears, building confidence, and reducing anxiety over time.

At our therapist collective, we aim to provide clients with practical ways to handle stress and difficult situations, fostering a sense of control over thoughts and emotions and promoting self-understanding.

For more details, you can visit our Anxiety Therapy webpage.

Why do people seek anxiety therapy? 

Anxiety often has a significant impact on physical, mental, and emotional health. Therapy offers a supportive environment to address these challenges, allowing individuals to manage their symptoms better and improve their quality of life. 

Anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms like heart palpitations, muscle tension, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. Mentally, it can lead to persistent worry, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. It also often results in nervousness, irritability, or a sense of impending doom. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall well-being.

Anxiety can be particularly challenging for children and adolescents, as it can interfere with their social development and academic performance and can lead to a lack of confidence. 

In adults, it might impact job performance and personal relationships and can often coexist with other mental health issues like depression. In elderly individuals, anxiety can also exacerbate physical health problems and contribute to a decreased quality of life.

People seek therapy to learn coping strategies, understand the roots of their anxiety, and mitigate its impacts on their lives. The goal is to regain control over their symptoms, improve their ability to function in daily activities and enhance their overall life satisfaction. 

What is a social anxiety therapist?

A social anxiety therapist is a mental health professional who specializes in treating social anxiety disorder, a condition characterized by intense fear, anxiety, and avoidance of social situations due to feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, and concern about being judged or viewed negatively by others. We have several therapists that can work with you to help with your social anxiety, click here to book a free 30-minute introductory session for social anxiety.

What counselling methods are used in anxiety therapy?

Anxiety therapy incorporates a variety of counselling methods to address the diverse needs of individuals suffering from anxiety across different life stages. Common methods include: 

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focuses on noticing  anxious thoughts without judgment, while continuing to stay present in the moment  and supporting individuals to move towards  actions that align with personal values. This approach is most effective for teens and adults.

• Cognitive-behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought and behaviour patterns  that contribute to anxiety and support individuals in interrupting these thinking cycles. It is effective for a range of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic attacks, and is suitable for all age groups.

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): This method focuses on building skills related to mindfulness, emotion regulation, connecting and recognizing one’s needs and asking for help and managing feelings of distress.   DBT is particularly useful for individuals with intense emotional responses and  benefits both older adolescents and adults. 

• Exposure Therapy: Particularly effective for phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder, this therapy involves gradual exposure to the anxiety source in a controlled setting. It is adaptable for children, teens, and adults, providing a direct approach to confronting fears.

• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): These therapies emphasize present-moment awareness and acceptance, helping to manage generalized anxiety and stress. They are especially beneficial for teens and adults who can engage in mindfulness and meditation practices.

• Play Therapy: Designed for children, play therapy uses play as a means for children to express their feelings and thoughts. It is an effective way to address anxiety in a non-threatening manner, making it easier for children to engage in therapy.

• Family Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process, which is crucial when family dynamics contribute to an individual's anxiety. This is particularly beneficial for children and adolescents but also helpful for adults.

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores underlying psychological roots of anxiety, often linked to past experiences. It is more suited for adults and older teens who can engage in deeper self-reflection.

• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication, helping to alleviate anxiety by resolving social and relational issues. It is particularly effective for adults and adolescents facing anxiety rooted in social and relationship dynamics.

• Art and Music Therapy: Employs creative expression to manage anxiety. These therapies appeal to children, teens, and adults who find traditional talk therapy challenging.

• Solution-Focused Therapy: Concentrates on finding solutions and coping strategies in the present rather than delving into past experiences. This approach can be particularly empowering for teenagers and adults looking for immediate, practical ways to manage anxiety.

Each of these counselling methods addresses different aspects and manifestations of anxiety. The technique(s) used depends on the specific type of anxiety, the individual's age, personal preferences, and the severity of their symptoms. 

What is the biggest predictor of success in anxiety therapy? 

The biggest predictor of success in anxiety therapy is the client's motivation, engagement, and commitment to the therapeutic process. Active participation, which may include practicing and applying strategies outside of session can support and contribute to individual progress.  Success is also impacted by the client's readiness to change and willingness to confront and work through challenging issues and emotions. 

The quality of the therapeutic relationship (which is called the therapeutic alliance) also plays a critical role in the success of therapy. A strong, positive bond between the client and the therapist enables effective communication, fostering an environment where clients feel safe to express themselves and are more receptive to the therapy process. The therapist's expertise and approach are also important, as the compatibility of the chosen therapy method with the client's needs and preferences greatly influences outcomes. 

Finally, support from family and friends outside of therapy sessions can further bolster the individual's efforts and success in therapy. Together, these factors contribute significantly to the effectiveness and success of anxiety therapy.

What are the long-term benefits of anxiety therapy?

Anxiety therapy offers numerous long-term benefits, positively impacting various aspects of an individual's life. Examples include: 

• Improved Coping Skills: Develops effective strategies for managing stress and anxiety, leading to better handling of future stressors.

• Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Helps in understanding and regulating emotions, leading to more stable and balanced emotional responses.

• Increased Self-Awareness: Promotes a deeper understanding of personal triggers and thought patterns, fostering greater self-awareness and mindfulness.

• Improved Relationships: Enhances communication and interpersonal skills, contributing to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

• Reduced Physical Symptoms: Decreases physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, and tension headaches.

• Boost in Confidence and Self-Esteem: Builds confidence in handling challenging situations, leading to improved self-esteem and self-efficacy.

• Better Quality of Life: Leads to a more relaxed and enjoyable life, with reduced anxiety levels contributing to overall well-being and happiness.

• Increased Productivity and Focus: Improves concentration and productivity, both professionally and personally, by reducing the mental load of anxiety.

• Prevention of Anxiety-Related Disorders: Helps in preventing the escalation of anxiety into more severe mental health issues like depression or panic disorders.

• Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Develops better problem-solving abilities, enabling more effective dealing with life's challenges.

• Resilience Building: Strengthens resilience, empowering individuals to bounce back from setbacks more easily.

• Improved Physical Health: Contributes to overall physical health by reducing stress-related ailments and promoting healthier lifestyle choices.

• Reduction in Avoidance Behaviours: Helps overcome avoidance behaviours, leading to a fuller, less restricted life.

• Greater Enjoyment in Daily Activities: Encourages a return to hobbies and activities previously avoided due to anxiety.

• Social Skills Development: Improves social skills, making social interactions enjoyable and less anxiety-inducing.

• Positive Outlook: Fosters a more optimistic outlook on life, replacing fear and anxiety with positivity.

• Emotional Resilience in Future Challenges: Prepares individuals to face future challenges with greater emotional strength.

• Holistic Improvement in Mental Health: Contributes to overall mental wellness beyond just reducing anxiety symptoms.

These long-term benefits highlight the transformative impact of anxiety therapy, not only in alleviating immediate anxiety symptoms but also in fostering a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Are anxiety therapy sessions possible using online technology, or do we have to meet the therapist in person?

Anxiety therapy sessions can effectively be conducted using online technology, offering flexibility and convenience. This is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues, time constraints, or a preference for remote communication.

At our therapist collective, we offer virtual sessions with anxiety therapists through Jane, a secure platform specific to health practitioners. Meetings via Google Meet are also available if needed.

What does anxiety therapy cost?

The cost of anxiety therapy in Ontario varies widely depending on factors like location, the therapist's qualifications and experience, and the session's length. Provincial health plans or private insurance plans may cover a portion of the costs.

At our clinic, we offer anxiety therapy session rates on a sliding scale based on client need. The fee is $130-$150 per session. Each session is 50 minutes in length with an anxiety therapist.

What is the length and frequency of anxiety therapy sessions?

Typically, anxiety therapy sessions last between 45 to 60 minutes. The frequency of appointments is usually once a week or once every two weeks. Therapy may become less frequent as the individual learns to manage their anxiety more effectively.

Anxiety counselling sessions at our clinic run 50 minutes per session.

How can I prepare for anxiety therapy?

Preparing for anxiety therapy involves several steps to ensure you get the most out of your sessions. Here are tips to help you get ready:

• Reflect on Your Goals: Consider what you want to achieve through therapy. Identifying specific areas of your life affected by anxiety or particular symptoms you wish to address can provide a clear starting point for your sessions.

• Educate Yourself About Anxiety: Understanding the basics of anxiety, its symptoms, and common treatment approaches can make you feel more at ease and informed about what to expect from therapy.

• Keep a Symptom Journal: Before starting therapy, begin documenting your anxiety symptoms, triggers, and any coping strategies you have tried. This record can be a valuable tool for your therapist to understand your experience.

• Prepare to Be Open and Honest: Therapy works best when you are honest about your feelings and experiences. While this might be challenging, remember that therapy is a confidential and safe space.

• Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that progress in therapy is gradual. It is essential to have patience with the process and with yourself.

• Plan Logistical Details: Consider travel time and logistics if you're attending in-person sessions. For online therapy, ensure you have a private, quiet space and a reliable internet connection.

• Create a List of Questions: You might have questions about the therapy process, treatment methods, or what you can expect. Writing these down can ensure you remember to ask them during your initial session.

• Be Ready to Discuss Your History: Be prepared to discuss your personal history and relevant experiences. This information can help your therapist tailor the treatment to your needs.

• Consider Your Support System: Think about who in your life can support you during this process. Letting friends or family members know you are starting therapy can provide additional support.

• Practice Self Care: Engage in self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being, like exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating, both before and during therapy.

• Stay Open-Minded and Flexible: Be open to trying different therapeutic techniques and be willing to adjust your approach based on your progress and feedback from your therapist.

By taking these steps, you can prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and logistically for anxiety therapy, creating a solid foundation for your therapeutic journey.

What outcomes can I expect from anxiety therapy?

Anxiety therapy aims to alleviate the symptoms and impacts of anxiety, with both short-term and long-term outcomes that enhance an individual's quality of life. These changes not only reduce immediate distress but also foster a sustained enhancement of overall well-being, resilience, and satisfaction.

Short-Term Outcomes:

• Symptom Relief: Initially, many individuals experience a reduction in the intensity and frequency of anxiety symptoms, such as decreased panic attacks or lessened worrying.

• Improved Coping Skills: Early in therapy, clients often learn practical coping strategies to manage anxiety, like relaxation techniques or breathing exercises.

• Increased Awareness: Short-term therapy helps in identifying triggers and understanding the patterns of anxiety, fostering greater self-awareness.

• Stabilization: There is often a sense of gaining control over one's emotions and reactions through therapy, leading to a more stable daily experience.

• Enhanced Communication: Skills like assertiveness and expressing emotions are often developed, improving interpersonal interactions.

• Immediate Stress Reduction: Techniques learned can offer immediate relief in stressful situations, providing a toolkit for handling acute anxiety episodes.
  

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Sustainable Emotional Management: Over time, individuals learn to effectively regulate their emotions, leading to a more balanced and resilient emotional state.

• Deep-rooted Behavioural Change: Long-term therapy can result in fundamental changes in thought and behaviour patterns, leading to a lasting reduction in anxiety symptoms.

• Improved Relationship Dynamics: As therapy progresses, improved communication and emotional understanding can significantly enhance personal and professional relationships.

• Greater Self-Esteem and Confidence: Long-term therapy often boosts self-esteem, with individuals feeling more capable and confident in handling life's challenges.

• Enhanced Life Satisfaction: With reduced anxiety, individuals often find greater enjoyment in daily activities, hobbies, and social interactions.

• Reduced Relapse Risk: Long-term therapy equips individuals with tools and strategies to maintain progress and prevent relapses.

• Physical Health Improvements: Chronic anxiety can have physical health implications; long-term therapy can contribute to better overall physical health.

• Career and Academic Enhancements: As anxiety diminishes, concentration and productivity often improve, positively impacting professional and academic pursuits.

• Holistic Mental Health Improvement: Beyond just managing anxiety, long-term therapy often contributes to overall mental wellness, including addressing co-occurring issues like depression.

• Resilience to Future Stressors: Individuals often emerge from long-term therapy with a strengthened ability to handle future stresses and adapt to changes more effectively.

The outcomes of anxiety therapy can be profoundly transformative, with short-term benefits laying the groundwork for deeper, long-term improvements. However, results can vary widely from person to person and often depend on the approach, mindset, and commitment toward counselling.

What unexpected outcomes may come from anxiety therapy?

Anxiety therapy can lead to a range of unexpected outcomes, often extending beyond the primary goal of anxiety reduction. Below are surprising ways in which anxiety therapy can positively transform various aspects of an individual's life: 

• Discovery of Underlying Issues: Uncovering deeper emotional or psychological issues that may be contributing to anxiety.

• Shift in Life Perspectives: Developing new viewpoints or insights that significantly alter life choices and priorities.

• Changes in Relationships: Improved self-awareness and communication skills can lead to shifts in personal and professional relationships. 

• Career Reevaluation: Therapy might prompt a reevaluation of job satisfaction or career path, leading to significant changes in professional life.

• Enhanced Creativity: Reduced anxiety can unlock new levels of creativity and interest in hobbies or activities.

• Increased Physical Activity: As anxiety diminishes, individuals may find new motivation for physical fitness and health.

• Heightened Emotional Sensitivity: Becoming more in tune with one's emotions and those of others, leading to a deeper sense of empathy.

• Altered Social Dynamics: Changes in social behaviour, such as increased assertiveness or a shift in social circles.

• Unexpected Joy in Small Things: Finding greater appreciation and joy in everyday moments and simple pleasures.

What qualifications do anxiety therapists have?

Anxiety therapists are typically registered psychotherapists with a degree in psychology or a related field. They also often have specialized training in anxiety-related techniques and methods. 

In Ontario, psychotherapists must be registered with CRPO, which you can learn more about here: CRPO.ca. We always recommend checking CRPO to ensure your anxiety therapist is registered and in good standing in Ontario. Please note: This does not mean they are registered to provide strictly anxiety therapy. It just means they are registered in Ontario to provide the controlled act of psychotherapy. 

Anxiety therapy sessions tend to be the most effective when a therapist has specialized training or experience in counselling clients with anxiety. Experience in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or other evidence-based approaches like mindfulness-based therapy is helpful. Understanding the types and symptoms of anxiety and how they present in different age groups is vital. 

Where can I find an anxiety therapist?

Our therapist collective can provide anxiety therapy to Ontario residents, serving all the major cities - like Toronto and Ottawa - and all communities with postal codes in the province. If you are outside Ontario, try checking for listings at Psychology Today.

We offer virtual counselling sessions on JaneApp or other secure HIPPA compliant platforms or similar technologies. We also provide in-person anxiety therapy where available in select cities. If you’re unable to connect or would prefer to do so, we also offer therapy sessions via phone call.

Do you offer online anxiety therapy?

Yes, we offer online anxiety therapy using virtual video meeting technology that you can use to attend the session from the comfort of your home. Learn more here.

Do you offer anxiety therapy in Toronto?

Yes, we offer anxiety therapy in person in Toronto. That said, our virtual therapy sessions are available to our clients anywhere in Ontario, including Toronto, Durham, Guelph, London, Peterborough and Aurora. We also offer in-person sessions where available, including in Toronto, Peterborough and Aurora. Click here to book a free initial anxiety therapy consultation.

Can I ask a question about anxiety therapy?

Yes, our team is here to answer any questions you may have about anxiety therapy. Inquiries can be submitted via email to info@thebeachpsychotherapy.com or by phone at 647-296-9235. You can also learn more on our anxiety therapy webpage.

Can I book a free session?

Yes, we offer a free 30-minute consultation for anxiety therapy services. To book an appointment, call us at 647-296-9235 or click here to find an available appointment.