Anxiety Treatment
Board-certified psychiatrist specializing in anxiety & depression offers immediate help, including anxiety treatment and medication.
Board-certified psychiatrist specializing in anxiety & depression offers immediate help,
including anxiety treatment and medication.
‘I know I have anxiety when I can’t start the day because I feel anxious about being anxious.’
Although a small amount of anxiety is necessary to achieve or be accountable for anything, too much anxiety can ruin your health, career, academic performance, relationships, and ultimately your life. When anxiety levels run too high, receiving anxiety treatment is essential for physical health and emotional well-being.
Here at GABA Telepsychiatry, we offer a wide range of anxiety treatments, including therapy, nutrition, hormone evaluation, and medication. Our psychiatrists are committed to helping you find the right anxiety treatment and supporting you through the recovery process.
Here at GABA Telepsychiatry, we offer a wide range of anxiety treatments
Therapy
Hormone
Evaluation
Hormone
Evaluation
Therapy
Nutrition
Medication
Nutrition
Medication
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threats. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.” Anxiety can manifest in many ways, such as:
- Excessive worry
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Social avoidance
The most common types of anxiety disorders include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Excessive worrying about daily activities, making it difficult to navigate day-to-day life.
Panic Disorder
Sudden episodes of strong fear with physical symptoms like shortness of breath and sweating.
Phobias
Irrational fears of objects, places or situations, causing the sufferer to avoid the source of this fear.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Why Seek Anxiety Treatment?
Most people suffering from symptoms of anxiety do not seek help.
Signs that you should receive anxiety treatment include:
- Excessive worrying
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
- Physical symptoms like headache and fatigue
- Symptoms of anxiety are affecting academic performance
- Symptoms of anxiety are affecting social interactions
- Symptoms of anxiety are affecting your career
Seeking anxiety treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and reduce the risk of developing co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as substance abuse or depression.
What are the different types of anxiety treatment?
Anxiety treatment can be divided into immediate symptom relief and preventative treatment. The goal of preventative treatment is to stop symptoms of anxiety from recurring.
Preventative Anxiety Treatment
- Screen for medical causes of anxiety
- Screen for nutritional deficiencies causing anxiety
- Long-acting, nonaddictive medications that prevent symptoms of anxiety
- Treat sleep disturbance
- Address external stressors
- Therapy for anxiety includes supportive therapy, CBT, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy.
- Lifestyle changes such as exercise and sleep hygiene
- Alternative treatments such as yoga, meditation and acupuncture
Immediate symptom relief
Typically, immediate symptom relief includes:
- Breathing exercises.
- Avoiding/walking away from the stressor where possible
- Medication, which can cause rapid relief of anxiety symptoms
- Mindfulness exercises
Anxiety Doctor
Dr. Valeria Serban
Board Certified Anxiety Doctor expert in psychopharmacology
and physiological responses to anxiety.
Dr. Valeria Serban is a Neurologist who is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology With over 20 years of experience specializing in anxiety treatment and other neuropsychiatric conditions. Licensed to practice in 18 states, Dr. Serban has strong expertise in diagnosing and managing anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety-related depression.
As an expereinced anxiety doctor, Dr. Serban takes a compassionate and patient-centered approach to care. She creates a warm and supportive environment where patients feel safe discussing their symptoms. Her treatment philosophy focuses on collaborating with individuals and their families to ensure the best outcomes in anxiety treatment.
Dr. Serban also treats anxiety in elderly patients, patients who have had strokes, migraines, epilepsy, MS, Parkingson’s disease and other Neurological conditions. She is also an expert in treating anxiety in patients suffering from chronic patients and other medical illnesses.
Dr. Serban is highly skilled in treating not only anxiety but also co-occurring conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and PTSD. She tailors her anxiety treatment plans according to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring they receive the most effective care possible.
For those seeking a trusted anxiety doctor, Dr. Serban offers expert anxiety treatment designed to help patients regain control of their mental health and improve their quality of life.
Medical School
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Neurology Residency Training
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Master of Philosophy (M.Ph.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, New York
Internal Medicine Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Neurology Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, City University of New York – Graduate Center
Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Electromyography – American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM)
Neuromuscular Medicine – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Recertification – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Dr. Tony Issac
Board Certified Anxiety Doctor in New York & New Jersey (MD)
Dr. Tony Isaac is an experienced, double-board-certified psychiatrist specializing in anxiety treatment and other mental health conditions. With over nine years of dedicated practice in psychiatry, Dr. Isaac provides compassionate and discreet psychiatric evaluations, ensuring that his patients receive the highest level of care in a supportive and confidential environment.
Dr. Issac treats anxiety disorders in individuals suffering from addiction, ADHD, and other concurrent illnesses. He is double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and addiction psychiatry.
Dr. Isaac specializes in medication management, psychotherapy and addiction recovery treatments. He carefully monitors medication dosages and ensures safe titration to minimize side effects while maximizing effectiveness. In addition to anxiety treatment, he treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, and insomnia.
Understanding the complexities of mental health, Dr. Isaac conducts thorough suicide assessments and provides acute stabilization. He also collaborates with family members, employers, and support networks to create a structured care plan that promotes long-term healing and recovery.
For individuals seeking immediate support, Dr. Isaac offers same-day appointments for psychiatric emergencies and is available for weekend consultations. His flexible scheduling ensures that patients receive timely anxiety treatment without unnecessary delays.
Dr. Isaac believes in a holistic, integrative approach to mental health care, combining psychotherapy with medication management to achieve lasting results. If you are looking for an experienced and compassionate anxiety doctor, Dr. Tony Isaac provides expert anxiety treatment to help you achieve peace of mind and emotional stability.
Medical School
St. George’s University: School of Medicine
Psychiatry Residency Training
Richmond University Medical Center: affiliate of Mount Sinai Health Network
Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Psychobiology
Binghamton University – State University of New York
Board Certification
American Board of Preventative Medicine – Addiction Medicine, Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology – Psychiatry, Board Certification
How much does it cost to see an Anxiety Doctor at Gaba Telepsychiatry?
Your first online appointment with one of our psychiatrists will cost $400. The follow-up appointments will be $250. If you have out-of-network benefits, we can submit claims on your behalf.
Schedule an Appointment with one of our Online Psychiatrists
Clinical Services: California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee
Forensic Psychiatry Services: All of the US and Canada
Treatment Plan for Anxiety
Anxiety is treatable, and most individuals experience significant symptom relief with the right approach. While medication can be effective in managing symptoms, a comprehensive and integrative anxiety treatment plan that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, and addressing underlying causes can be more effective in the long term.
Treating Underlying Medical Conditions
Anxiety can often be linked to underlying medical conditions. Identifying and treating these conditions is an essential step in anxiety treatment.
Common medical conditions that can exacerbate anxiety include:
- Thyroid Imbalance (Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism)
- Anemia
- Asthma and Other
- Respiratory Conditions
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Screening for and treating these conditions can improve anxiety symptoms
and prevent unnecessary medication use.
Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to anxiety by affecting neurotransmitter production and brain function. As part of anxiety treatment, screening for deficiencies and incorporating the right nutrients can help manage symptoms.
Common deficiencies linked to anxiety include:
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Impacts energy levels and nervous system function. - Iron Deficiency
Can cause fatigue, heart palpitations, and increased anxiety. - Magnesium Deficiency
Plays a role in muscle relaxation and nervous system stability.
Addressing these deficiencies through diet and supplements can enhance
the effectiveness of the overall anxiety treatment plan.
Evaluating the Need for Psychotherapy
Therapy is one of the most effective and long-term solutions for treating anxiety. Different types of therapy may be recommended depending on the severity and nature of the symptoms.
Common types of psychotherapy include:
- Cognitive Behavioral
- Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic
- Psychotherapy
- Supportive Therapy
- Group Psychotherapy
- Family and Relationship Therapy
An experienced anxiety doctor can recommend
the best therapy approach tailored to the patient’s needs.
Managing Insomnia to Reduce Anxiety
Sleep disturbances are both a cause and symptom of anxiety. Lack of quality sleep can heighten stress responses and worsen anxiety symptoms.
A successful anxiety treatment plan includes:
- Practicing good sleep hygiene
- Avoiding stimulants before bedtime
- Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
- Addressing any underlying sleep disorders,
such as sleep apnea
Treating Co-Occurring Psychiatric Conditions
Anxiety often coexists with other psychiatric disorders, and untreated conditions can make anxiety worse.
A holistic anxiety treatment plan should include evaluation and management of:
- Depression
- Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Bipolar Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A skilled anxiety doctor can create an individualized treatment plan
that addresses all contributing factors.
Medication for Anxiety Treatment
Medication can be helpful for individuals with moderate to severe anxiety symptoms. However, it should be prescribed with care to avoid dependency or adverse effects. The goal of anxiety treatment medication is to alleviate symptoms while minimizing side effects.
Long-term anxiety treatment should focus on non-addictive medications whenever possible.
Addressing External Stressors
External stressors can play a significant role in triggering or worsening anxiety.
A well-rounded anxiety treatment plan includes strategies to:
- Improve work-life balance
- Manage financial stress
- Address relationship and family issues
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms
Reducing external stressors can significantly improve
the effectiveness of other treatments.
Exercise and Lifestyle Changes for Anxiety Treatment
Regular physical activity can have a profound impact on anxiety. Exercise helps regulate stress hormones, increase serotonin levels, and improve overall mental health.
Recommended activities include:
- Aerobic exercise (e.g., running, cycling, swimming)
- Yoga and deep breathing techniques
- Strength training and resistance exercises
Making small but consistent lifestyle changes can
significantly improve anxiety treatment outcomes.
Alternative Treatments for Anxiety
While traditional therapies and medications remain the primary treatments for anxiety, complementary treatments can also provide relief.
Some evidence-based alternative treatments include:
- Yoga and Meditation
Help regulate stress responses. - Acupuncture
May improve anxiety symptoms by balancing energy flow. - Hypnosis
Can help reframe anxious thought patterns. - Deep Tissue Relaxation
Reduces muscle tension and stress.
Seeking help from a reputable practitioner is essential
when exploring alternative anxiety treatment options.
Supplements for Anxiety Treatment
Certain supplements can help alleviate mild anxiety symptoms, but they should be used with medical supervision to avoid interactions and toxicity.
Common supplements include:
- Ashwagandha
An adaptogen that may help lower stress. - Inositol
Supports serotonin function. - GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
A neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. - L-Theanine
Found in green tea, known for its calming effects.
While supplements can provide temporary relief,
they should not replace professional anxiety treatment.
Anxiety Medication
An anxiety specialist will complete a psychiatric evaluation and assess the following:
- Causes of Anxiety
- The severity of symptoms of anxiety
- Impairment in functioning
- Your personal wishes and feelings about anxiety treatment
Based on the above factors, your anxiety psychiatrist will discuss the need for anxiety medication. Indications for anxiety medication include:
- Chronic symptoms
- Severe symptoms
- Impairment in social, academic and occupational functioning
- Relationship discord
- Difficulty parenting
- Suicidality
- Degree of suffering
Types of anxiety medication include medication for the prevention of anxiety symptoms and medication for acute anxiety.
Medication for anxiety prevention
Medications used for anxiety prevention are typically not addictive and less sedating than acute anxiety medications but take longer to take effect. However, they are a better long-term solution for anxiety. As they work on secondary messenger systems so prevent anxiety from recurring. Unlike acute anxiety medications, which typically last for a few hours, and are potentially addictive, they can cause rebound anxiety tolerance, dependence, and in the long term worsening of anxiety.
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors):
These are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants because they have fewer side effects than older anxiety medication. They work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood.
SNRIs (serotonin and noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors):
These are another commonly prescribed class of anxiety medication. They are used frequently for individuals with chronic pain and are used off-label for ADHD. SNRIs tend to cause less weight gain and sexual side effects than many SSRIs, so they are preferred by many.
Tricyclic Antidepressants:
TCAs were among the first antidepressants developed for depression treatment and are still used when other anxiety medications do not work. Tricyclic antidepressants may be especially effective when treating treatment-resistant depression.
Serotonin modulators:
Serotonin modulators work by blocking or stimulating the serotonin receptors in the brain. An anxiety specialist may prescribe these when patients do not respond well to other anxiety medications such as SSRIs.
Atypical antidepressants:
Atypical antidepressants are highly effective for insomnia and anorexia associated with anxiety. They can cause rapid relief of symptoms and are used in preference to SSRIs for individuals suffering from panic attacks and more acute forms of anxiety.
Dopamine reuptake inhibitors:
Dopamine reuptake inhibitors are used for depression and off-label for ADHD. They have been found in some cases to be useful for anxiety. They are not associated with weight gain or sexual side effects.
Mood stabilizers as an adjunct to anxiety medication
Mood stabilizers affect neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and glutamate to enhance mood regulation. While traditional antidepressants tend to focus more on serotonin and dopamine, mood stabilizers also work on glutamate receptors. Mood stabilizers also regulate ion channels such as calcium, sodium, and magnesium, which regulate signal transmission in the neurons.
Although not traditionally classed as anxiety medication, mood stabilizers help prevent fluctuations in mood, anxiety, irritability, and angry outbursts, as well as having an antidepressant effect.
Mood stabilizers are commonly used for disruptive mood regulation disorder treatment, premenstrual depression treatment, and treatment-resistant depression treatment.
Antipsychotics as anxiety medication
Low doses of atypical antipsychotics are prescribed for anxiety treatment, especially when first-line treatments like SSRIs are ineffective. These medications reduce neuronal activity and promote relaxation.
Anxiolytics as an adjunct to anxiety medication
Anxiolytics reduce the symptoms of excessive anxiety, agitation and nervousness. These are often used as adjuncts to primary anxiety treatments like SSRIs. These medications provide rapid relief and reduce chronic anxiety.
Our board-certified psychiatrist provide expert care in the comfort of your home to help you overcome anxiety and regain control of your life.
Acute Anxiety Medications
Several types of medication can treat the symptoms of acute anxiety. These medications primarily target neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and norepinephrine to reduce excessive neuronal activity and promote relaxation. SSRIs and SNRIs are commonly used for long-term anxiety management.
Benzodiazepines enhance GABA activity, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that leads to rapid anxiolytic and sedative effects. These medicines can be addictive and cause dependency so they should only be used for situational anxiety such as public speaking, workplace presentations and other sporadic events.
Mood stabilizers can produce a rapid reduction in anxiety symptoms within hours of treatment
Second-generation antipsychotics can also be effective in less than an hour. Many of these medications are powerful anxiolytics, even at low doses. They also do not have addictive potential like benzodiazepines.
SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin modulators, and atypical antidepressants are preferred for long-term management of anxiety, including social anxiety disorder. All these medications are used in situations that require immediate symptom relief, such as panic attacks or short-term stress management.
Medication for Panic Attacks
Several types of medications can treat the symptoms of panic attacks by targeting neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin and norepinephrine to reduce excessive neuronal activity and promote relaxation. The doses of these medications depend on the frequency and severity of the panic attacks.
For less frequent panic attacks:
Benzodiazepines can be used for panic attacks if they occur only once or twice a month. These medications enhance GABA activity and provide rapid relief.
For more frequent panic attacks:
Benzodiazepines can cause addiction in cases of more frequent panic attacks. Therefore, alternative medications like dopamine blockers, atypical antipsychotics and mood stabilizers are used for effective treatment.
For chronic anxiety and panic disorder prevention:
SSRIs, SNRIs, serotonin modulators, tricylic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants and mood stabilizers are often used for long-term anxiety management. These medications prevent recurrent panic attacks and reduce overall anxiety symptoms.
Medication for Social Anxiety
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is characterized by intense fear and avoidance of social situations. It can be treated by medications that regulate serotonin, norepinephrine and GABA to reduce fear and physical symptoms.
Benzodiazepines can be used for occasional anxiety to get rapid relief but should be used sparingly due to addiction risk. SSRIs, SNRIs, serotonin modulators and atypical antidepressants can be used for long-term relief in more frequent and severe cases.
These medications can be combined with therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for the most effective long-term management of social anxiety disorder.
Managing Insomnia to Reduce Anxiety
Sleep disturbances are both a cause and symptom of anxiety. Lack of quality sleep can heighten stress responses and worsen anxiety symptoms.
A successful anxiety treatment plan includes:
- Practicing good sleep hygiene
- Avoiding stimulants before bedtime
- Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
- Addressing any underlying sleep disorders,
such as sleep apnea
Medication for Generalized Anxiety
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition characterized by excessive and persistent worry. The medications used for GAD help regulate neurotransmitter activity and provide sustained anxiety relief.
SSRIs and SNRIs are the mainstay of GAD treatment as they help stabilize serotonin and norepinephrine levels and reduce excessive worry over time. Serotonin modulators, tricyclic antidepressants and atypical antidepressants may also help in long-term management.
Benzodiazepines are generally avoided in GAD due to their short duration of action and high potential for dependence. Low-dose atypical antipsychotics or mood stabilizers may provide additional benefits in resistant cases.
Anxiety Specialist
Dr. Gundu Reddy
Board Certified Anxiety specialist
with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a board-certified anxiety disorder specialist with over fifteen years of experience in clinical psychiatry and a decade of expertise in forensic psychiatry. She specializes in anxiety treatment, addressing conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and anxiety during pregnancy.
Dr. Reddy’s approach to anxiety treatment is integrative and personalized. She believes that multiple factors—genetics, developmental history, medical conditions, nutrition, hormonal balance, and environmental influences—must be considered when diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders. By conducting thorough evaluations, she ensures her patients receive comprehensive and effective care.
Many individuals struggle with anxiety due to suboptimal treatment or incomplete evaluation. As a skilled anxiety specialist, Dr. Reddy emphasizes the importance of an integrative approach to achieve the best clinical outcomes. She offers evidence-based treatments, including medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Dr. Reddy believes that the decision to take psychiatric medication for anxiety should be made with careful consideration. Her expertise in anxiety disorder medication management ensures that patients receive the right treatment at the right dosage, minimizing side effects while maximizing relief. She prioritizes gentle titration and close monitoring to provide safe and effective results.
With a strong belief that most psychiatric illnesses, including anxiety disorders, are treatable, Dr. Reddy is dedicated to helping patients regain control over their lives. Her goal is to deliver high-quality, personalized anxiety treatment through telepsychiatry, offering the same standard of care as in-person visits.
If you are looking for an experienced anxiety disorder specialist, schedule an online appointment with Dr. Gundu Reddy today and take the first step toward lasting relief from anxiety.
Medical School
The United Medical Dental Schools of Guys Kings and St Thomas’ at King’s College London
Psychiatry Residency Training
Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Training
NYU Psychoanalytic Institute
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
Childhood Anxiety Specialist
Dr. Beena Saad
Triple Board Certified Childhood Anxiety Specialist
with Multiple State Licenses (MD)
Dr. Beena Saad is a triple-board-certified childhood anxiety specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. With fellowships in child psychosomatic medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Saad is an expert in providing specialized anxiety treatment catering to the unique emotional and developmental needs of young patients.
Dr. Saad is deeply passionate about helping children struggling with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorders, health anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She also treats childhood mood disorders, including childhood depression and childhood bipolar disorder, and addresses conditions that commonly co-occur with anxiety, such as ADHD, ASD, tic disorders, PTSD, and sleep disorders.
As a highly experienced childhood anxiety specialist, Dr. Saad understands the complexities of anxiety treatment in children. She considers environmental influences, family dynamics, developmental history, and genetic predispositions when formulating individualized treatment plans. Her approach integrates psychotherapy, medication management, and behavioral interventions to help children manage anxiety effectively.
Dr. Saad is proficient in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, supportive psychotherapy, and childhood therapy, ensuring that children receive the best possible care. She collaborates closely with families, providing guidance and education to create a supportive home environment that fosters emotional resilience.
With years of dedicated experience, Dr. Saad has helped countless children overcome anxiety disorders and regain confidence in their daily lives. Her compassionate approach, combined with evidence-based anxiety treatment, allows children to develop coping strategies, manage stress, and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Languages Dr. Saad speaks:
English, Urdu and Sindhi
Medical Education:
M.B.B.S. – Sind Medical College, Pakistan
Postgraduate Training:
Child Psychiatry Fellowship – University of New Mexico
Child Psychosomatic Medicine Fellowship – Albert Einstein School of Medicine
Integrative Anxiety Specialist
Dr. Cathleen Gomez
Board Certified Integrative Anxiety Specialist
with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Cathleen Jane Gomez is a board-certified integrative anxiety specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders through a holistic, patient-centered approach. She specializes in integrative anxiety treatment, combining traditional psychiatry with innovative, evidence-based therapies to address the root causes of anxiety.
Dr. Gomez emphasizes the importance of biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors in managing anxiety. Her treatment approach includes medication management, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to promote long-term mental well-being.
She believes that successful anxiety treatment requires a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s unique needs and challenges.
As an integrative anxiety specialist, Dr. Gomez helps patients struggling with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and health anxiety. She customizes anxiety treatment plans that may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, supportive therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dr. Gomez also specializes in treatment-resistant anxiety and works with patients who have not responded well to conventional treatments. She utilizes advanced therapeutic methods, including nutritional psychiatry, stress management strategies, and hormone regulation, to optimize mental health.
Dedicated to improving patient outcomes, Dr. Gomez is committed to providing compassionate care and helping individuals achieve emotional stability, resilience, and long-term relief from anxiety.
Medical School
Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica
Psychiatry Residency Training
Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York
Integrative Psychiatry Training
Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Boulder, Colorado
Board Certification
Psychiatry Board Eligible
Colorado State Medical License
Florida State Medical License
New York State Medical License
Therapy for Anxiety
Therapy treatment for anxiety addresses thoughts, feelings, triggers, sensations, and psychodynamic conflict along with behavioral changes such as compulsive behavior and things affecting day-to-day life for a persistent period. This means you are having Anxiety Disorder.
Experiencing anxiety is common and can occur daily. However, if the situation persists longer than a few weeks, you must visit your counselor or therapist to seek help.
Benefits of Therapy
- Symptom Relief:
Therapy helps in alleviating the persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, which makes it easy to manage daily tasks. - Improved Coping Mechanisms:
Therapy helps individuals learn healthy ways to manage stress, process emotions, and confront negative thought patterns. - Enhanced Self-Awareness:
Therapy encourages self-reflection, which helps individuals understand the underlying factors contributing to their depression. - Better Relationships:
Therapy helps individuals get more comfortable, leading to improved communication and stronger connections with loved ones. - Reduction in Recurrence:
There are certain evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) which can reduce the likelihood of future depressive episodes and aid in depression treatment. - Increased Emotional Resilience:
Therapy boosts emotional strength, enabling individuals to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and strength. - Personalized Treatment:
Therapy can be tailored depending on the severity of the condition, ensuring that the approach is specific and effective for depression treatment. - Support in Medication Management:
Some individuals require medication where therapy can complement pharmacological treatment and help in progress analysis.
We specialize in treating anxiety with personalized care and offer a high success rate and lasting relief.
Types of Therapy for Anxiety
Anxiety treatment can be divided into immediate symptom relief and preventative treatment. The goal of preventative treatment is to stop symptoms of anxiety from recurring.
CBT for Anxiety
CBT is highly effective for acute anxiety, which involves intense episodes of anxiety. It helps identify negative thoughts, address conflicts, and reframe thought patterns. One of the key reasons CBT is so popular is that it focuses on the connection between the conflict that triggers fear or worry and the negative emotions linked to it.
By challenging irrational negative thoughts and replacing them with more balanced, positive ones, CBT helps restructure the way we think. What makes CBT the most effective therapy for anxiety is its structured, practical, and goal-oriented approach.
It focuses on:
- Behavioral Activation
When feeling low, you might withdraw from activities that usually keep you engaged. Over time, this makes you feel even worse. CBT helps break this cycle by gradually increasing activity levels and encouraging engagement in meaningful activities. - Cognitive Restructuring
It targets intrusive and fearful thoughts, helping to shift thought patterns in a way that eventually improves emotional well-being.
CBT is a short-term, time-limited therapy, generally lasting about 10–20 sessions. It is highly effective in identifying and challenging negative thinking patterns, making it a powerful tool for managing anxiety.
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Anxiety
Psychodynamic psychotherapy follows Freud’s principle and is based on the structural theory of the mind. Conflict between the ego, the id, and the superego, can be developmental or stem from trauma and adult experiences. Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on unveiling unconscious thoughts and how the past influences current thoughts and behaviors. The unconscious mind and interpersonal reactivity can be a cause or factor exacerbating anxiety.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is useful in treating subacute anxiety. However, it is not the preferred method for a person suffering from frequent panic attacks or acute debilitating anxiety. Psychodynamic psychotherapy focuses on dwelling on the past for a deeper understanding of the origin of anxiety and is a longer-term treatment for anxiety. While many believe psychodynamic psychotherapy is the most effective long-term treatment for anxiety, it takes time and commitment. It is also hard to find a well-trained and experienced analytic therapist. Therefore, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy remains the first line and most common type of therapy for acute anxiety.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for Anxiety
Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Anxiety
Supportive Psychotherapy for anxiety
It is helpful to address and handle anxiety at an initial phase. The therapy focuses on providing positive affirmation and strong effective emotional conditioning. The therapy stresses validating emotions. Supportive psychotherapy helps with understanding the conflict and how to resolve it during the initial stages. Supportive psychotherapy is most effective when used in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety in the short term and in combination with psychodynamic psychotherapy for anxiety in the long term.
While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety remains the most easily accessible and popular initial approach, every individual is different. Personal preference comes into play and there are many types of therapy for anxiety.
Supplements For Anxiety
Some supplements have been found to be useful for anxiety. Typically, they are most useful when there is an obvious deficiency or when used in conjunction with therapy or medication.
Are supplements for anxiety safe?
Although supplements for anxiety can usually be purchased over the counter, higher than usual doses are needed to treat anxiety. Generally, it is better to seek medical supervision when taking supplements for anxiety.
- Some supplements for anxiety can cause tolerance and even dependence.
- Some supplements for anxiety can cause toxicity when taken in overdose or if there is an underlying medical condition.
- Some supplements for anxiety can interact with prescription medication.
Supplements for anxiety can help alleviate and prevent relapse of symptoms after discontinuing medication. They are usually safe when taken under medical supervision.
Some of the common supplements used for anxiety treatment include:
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B6
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Lavender
- Passion flower
- Ashwagandha
- GABA
- Rhodiola
Magnesium supplement for anxiety treatment
Low magnesium levels may lead to anxiety and stress due to dysregulation in neurotransmitters. Magnesium supplements can improve relaxation and decrease the symptoms of anxiety.
Zinc supplement for anxiety treatment
Vitamin D supplement for anxiety treatment
Vitamin D deficiency may lead to anxiety and depression symptoms. Vitamin D supplements help in improving symptoms of anxiety by influencing serotonin production.
Vitamin B6 supplement for anxiety treatment
Omega-3 fatty acids supplement for anxiety treatment
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats and the body cannot produce them. Its supplement helps reduce inflammation in the brain and increases serotonin levels.
Lavender supplement for anxiety treatment
Lavender is well known for its calming and stress-reducing effects. Supplements of lavender and essential oils help alleviate symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Passion flower supplement for anxiety treatment
Passion flower is widely accepted as a natural remedy to manage anxiety symptoms. Its supplement promotes relaxation and reduces nervousness. It also helps in improving sleep quality.
Ashwagandha supplement for anxiety treatment
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps in alleviating symptoms of anxiety. Its supplements significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and lower stress levels.
GABA supplement for anxiety treatment
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) inhibits excessive brain activity and leads to a calming effect. Low levels of GABA are known to be associated with increased anxiety and stress.
Rhodiola supplement for anxiety treatment
Rhodiola is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress and reduce fatigue. Its supplements help improve mood, increase mental resilience and reduce symptoms of anxiety.
Symptoms of Anxiety
The symptoms of anxiety are not just “all in the mind.” As per research, anxiety has a biological basis, emerging from changes in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Anxiety also emerges from dysregulation in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. These areas of the brain are responsible for processing fear and rational thinking.
Over time, untreated anxiety can lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, digestive issues, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances. Anxiety attacks individuals in different ways, meaning that one person may experience frequent panic attacks while another may suffer from chronic worry and muscle tension.
Symptoms of anxiety can be categorized into physical, cognitive and dissociative symptoms. Anxiety sufferers may also demonstrate certain anxiety-related behaviors that may be considered as symptoms of anxiety.
Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety activates the fight-or-flight response of the body, which is a survival mechanism designed to protect against danger. When anxiety becomes chronic, such a response can be triggered inappropriately, which leads to ongoing physical symptoms of anxiety.
- Cardiovascular Symptoms: Increased heart rate (palpitations), increased blood pressure and chest tightness caused by high adrenaline levels. If left untreated, anxiety may also contribute to heart disease.
- Respiratory Symptoms: Hyperventilation or rapid breathing, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, panic attacks, etc. In some cases, individuals may also experience a choking sensation.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Anxiety is closely linked to gut health, causing gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach cramps, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, etc.
- Pain and Muscle Tension: If chronic, anxiety may lead to stiffness in muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders, jaw or back. Anxiety may also cause migraines or tension headaches.
- Sweating and Temperature Changes: Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), temperature dysregulation occurring as hot and cold flashes along with shivering or trembling.
- Sleep Disturbances and Fatigue: Restless sleep, insomnia, waking up unrefreshed, etc.
Cognitive Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety usually affects the thought patterns of an individual. It leads to overthinking, excessive worry and distorted perceptions of reality.
- Excessive Fear and Rumination: Continuous worrying about past event, also called rumination, or expecting worst-case scenarios, also called catastrophizing.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Anxiety makes it hard for an individual to focus, commonly known as “brain fog”. It may also impair memory and decision-making capabilities.
- Intrusive Thoughts: Anxiety triggers unwanted and repetitive thoughts, mostly observed in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Perfectionism and Indecisiveness: An individual may overanalyze their choices or be afraid of failure.
Dissociative Symptoms of Anxiety
Dissociative symptoms of anxiety can make it even more important to receive timely anxiety treatment, as they may trigger higher degrees of distress. Severe anxiety may cause derealization and depersonalization, which can affect one’s perception of themselves and their reality.
- Depersonalization: Feeling detached from oneself, as if watching oneself from outside of one’s body.
- Derealization: the external world may appear distant, surreal or dreamlike.
- Emotional Numbness: Experiencing difficulty in acknowledging emotions, causing detachment and a sense of emptiness.
- Time Distortion: A perception that time is slowing down or speeding up, often observed during panic attacks.
Anxiety Related Behaviors
Anxiety may also lead to compensatory behaviors aimed at reducing distress. However, such behaviors may trigger anxiety patterns, such as:
- Anxiety eating or binge eating
- Excessive Drinking
- Use of recreational drugs
- Shouting, fighting
- Sabotaging career and relationships
Take the first step toward peace of mind with our expert anxiety treatment and compassionate care. Start your journey to an anxiety-free life today.
Causes of Anxiety
Anxiety is usually caused by an imbalance of chemical messengers or neurotransmitters in the brain, our brain’s response to experiences, trauma, and environmental stressors.
There is usually more than one cause of anxiety. Most people seeking anxiety treatment state that they have always lived with some anxiety, but one or multiple stressors have recently exacerbated their anxiety symptoms, to the point that they can no longer manage them.
In order to avoid or treat anxiety effectively, it is important to try to identify and treat the underlying causes:
- Congenital or idiopathic (no known cause)
- Genetic (family history)
- Developmental
- Trauma: history of physical, sexual or emotional abuse, assault
- Chronic / Acute Medical illness (eg. Anemia)
- Prolonged poverty, basic needs such as food and shelter not being met
- psychodynamic: relationship patterns, communication styles, and interaction with other
- Academic stress (eg. undiagnosed ADHD)
- Hormone imbalance, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, polycystic ovaries, thyroid disease
- Sleep disturbance: insomnia, narcolepsy, sleep apnoea
- Situational anxiety – economic instability, moving, sick child or parent
- Workplace stress
- Nutritional deficiencies (eg. Magnesium, b12)
- Heavy Metal Poisoning
Medical illnesses are common causes of anxiety
Just about any acute or chronic illness can cause anxiety. There are several mechanisms by which medical illness can cause anxiety
- Primary, for example, thyroid, sex hormone or cortisol imbalance can cause anxiety without apparent cause.
- Side effects of treatment, for example, asthma medication, chronic pain can cause anxiety. Anxiety is common after cardiac surgery.
- Learning about diagnosis and worrying about complications can cause anxiety, for example, chronic conditions such as diabetes.
- Illnesses that are potentially terminal or require chemotherapy, such as cancer diagnosis, can cause significant anxiety.
FAQ
Do I need Medication for Anxiety?
Most individuals suffering from anxiety are unaware that their anxiety is treatable, believe their symptoms are ‘normal,’ or are too anxious to receive treatment.
You may need medication for anxiety if symptoms are:
- Interfering with your day-to-day life.
- Interfering with your relationships.
- Interfering with your academic performance.
- Interfering with your health.
- Interfering with your career or career progression.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider for close monitoring during the early stages of treatment. If you are having suicidal thoughts, seek immediate medical attention to evaluate and adjust your treatment. Certain medications like mood stabilizers and anxiolytics can used as a first line for individuals with suicidal thoughts to rapidly alleviate suicidal thoughts.
Are supplements for anxiety effective?
Are supplements for anxiety safe?
Although supplements for anxiety can usually be purchased over the counter, higher than usual doses are needed to treat anxiety. Generally, it is better to seek medical supervision when taking supplements for anxiety.
- Some supplements for anxiety can cause tolerance and even dependence.
- Some supplements for anxiety can cause toxicity when taken in overdose or if there is an underlying medical condition.
- Some supplements for anxiety can interact with prescription medication.
Supplements for anxiety can help alleviate and prevent relapse of symptoms after discontinuing medication. They are usually safe when taken under medical supervision.
