What is Anxiety?
Anxiety symptoms look different in different people but there are a few common signs. Anxiety frequently includes a combination of physical and mental health symptoms. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and phobias are specific types of anxiety.
Common Anxiety Symptoms
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Stress Migraines
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Feeling nervous
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People pleasing
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Perfectionism
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Procrastination
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Panic attacks / anxiety attacks
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Excessive worry and self-doubt
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Indecisiveness
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Concentration problems
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Dermatitis
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Addictions
How does anxiety impact your health?
Persistent stress triggers the release of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, which can lead to various physical symptoms. These symptoms may include headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues, affecting one's overall well-being. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness and infections. Furthermore, it can contribute to cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Understanding these physiological effects underscores the importance of managing stress effectively through mental health interventions tailored to your needs.
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If you are having physical symptoms you should reach out for a consultation with your primary care doctor or health care professional. I work closely with your team of health care professionals if there are related physical health conditions to ensure we are providing holistic care.
How can counseling help anxiety?
Many people find relief by having a dedicated safe space to talk about their challenges with a trained therapist. Traditional talk therapy can help raise insight into unhealthy patterns and somatic therapy can help release stress from the body. Therapy is also a space to learn mindfulness strategies which have been proven to be successful in decreasing anxiety symptoms.
My Approach to Anxiety Counseling
I have completed extensive training in traditional talk therapy, somatic therapies, mindfulness interventions, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In early therapy sessions I work collaboratively with you to tailor treatment to your unique needs. An emphasis is always placed on making sure that patients feel safe and heard in the therapeutic relationship.
My favorite therapy expression is, “What’s Shareable Is Bearable.” I place a premium on making sure you feel comfortable to share whatever it is that may be keeping you stuck.
Talk Therapy For Anxiety
Traditional talk therapy, led by experienced anxiety psychotherapists, is highly effective for managing anxiety. Through open dialogue, clients explore root causes without judgment. I offer practical coping strategies to alleviate symptoms. With guidance, individuals develop resilience and healthier thought patterns.
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Another favorite therapy expression of mine is, “If you can name it, you can tame it.” Traditional talk therapy can help raise awareness into thoughts and feelings that may be underneath your anxiety symptoms. When we can name the root cause of an issue, we often find that it becomes less overwhelming and more manageable.
Somatic Therapy For Anxiety
Somatic psychotherapy offers effective relief for anxiety. By addressing bodily sensations and movements, it helps individuals understand and regulate their emotions. Through gentle exercises and mindfulness techniques, somatic therapy cultivates a deeper connection between mind and body. By releasing tension held in the body, it can alleviate symptoms of anxiety. This therapeutic approach empowers individuals to manage stress more effectively in their daily lives. Overall, somatic psychotherapy provides a holistic pathway to peace and emotional well-being.
Is anxiety a challenge in your life? I can help.
I am a licensed board certified psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in providing therapy for anxiety. Over the years I have helped many people reduce discomfort and build a calmer and stronger sense of self. I use evidence-based interventions designed for anxiety treatment that are targeted at bringing relief to your immediate day-to-day symptoms while building an understanding of the root of these emotions. We will learn to calm anxiety symptoms and decrease tension in your body and in your life.