There are many different types of therapists, all with varying degrees, specialties, and approaches. Below are a few of the main types of therapists:

1. Social Worker

2. Psychologist

3. Counselor  

4. Marriage and family therapist

5. Substance abuse therapist

Therapists are trained at the Master’s level in treating people with various of mental health concerns, from anxiety to borderline personality disorder. Their graduate degrees are nearly entirely geared towards therapy.

Therapists cannot prescribe medication but they can work closely with your doctor or psychiatrist to coordinate your care.

Anxiety medication can be a good choice for people who struggle to manage their anxiety symptoms. Medication can help you live your life without the constant burden of anxiety and is most helpful in conjunction with therapy, to address the issues driving your anxiety. 

When searching for a therapist, there are a few questions to ask a therapist about anxiety.

• HOW DO YOU HELP PEOPLE WITH ANXIETY? Therapists come from all different backgrounds. Some therapists use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), while others suggest EMDR. Whatever it is, you should know before you start therapy.

• WHAT'S YOUR BACKGROUND? Learning where the therapist went to school, what types of people they’ve helped in the past, and examples of successes can help you make an informed decision. You should see someone who has experience helping people like you.

It would help if you also asked yourself a few questions after an initial consultation.

• DID I FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH THE ANXIETY THERAPIST? Feeling supported and comfortable is necessary for establishing rapport. 

• DID WE GET ALONG? There should be chemistry between you and the therapist. If there isn’t any chemistry, think twice about seeing them.

• DID I FEEL SAFE? There’s no doubt about it: therapy is vulnerable. If you sensed that the therapist was judging you, it may not be a good fit.

You’ll likely have a sense of whether or not the therapist is right for you. Follow your gut instinct.

When it comes to anxiety, it’s tough to know where to begin and how to talk to a therapist about anxiety. But it’s okay--therapists know what to say and how to start the conversation. The pressure isn’t on you--therapy is a space where you can be open, and trust that your therapist knows how to help.

Within these types, therapists have different approaches, like cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and more. We recommend seeing a licensed therapist who specializes in anxiety disorders. Our therapists take a holistic and mindful approach and use EMDR, DBT, CBT and ACT to work through trauma and teach new skills in order to create behavior change.

Anxiety symptoms can lessen and be managed through behavior change but we are hardwired for anxiety.  Our goal in therapy is to manage and treat your anxiety, so you don’t have to struggle with it anymore. Although we cannot guarantee any particular results, we will try our absolute best together.

We will come up with coping mechanisms so you can live as unhindered as possible. Therapy is hugely helpful for people living with anxiety. Identifying triggers, sharing things without judgment, and learning ways to manage anxiety in your day-to-day life makes therapy one of the most effective ways to calm your anxiety.