Anxiety can be a crippling disorder. It interferes with one’s ability to think clearly, speak in front of others, or socialize. It prevents the sufferer from expressing other emotions, such as love or enthusiasm. For some people, full blown panic attacks can seriously affect their ability to engage in particular social activities. The subjective experience of anxiety is in itself painful and difficult. Anxiety is sometimes thought of as a variation on depression.
There are several treatment methods for alleviating anxiety. These treatment methods include psychotherapy, medication, behavior therapy, life style changes, faith and meditation. However, many people who are finally able to overcome their anxiety acknowledge that it was the psychotherapy (the talking cure) that gave them much better control over their illness.
Scott Stossel, in his book My Age of Anxiety, credits Dr. W, his long standing psychotherapist with helping him understand and cope with his anxiety. He had tried many other forms of treatment and medications with mixed success. Stossel selected Dr. W. because he liked how he appeared in a photograph and once he began therapy, he responded to Dr. W in a personal way. Dr W made sense. The relationship between doctor and patient is the intangible ingredient that can make all the difference for a successful outcome. Therefore, we recommend that you select a therapist with whom you think you might be able to collaborate. He or she should impress you as experienced and friendly. Then meet him or her, and make your decision.
No ethical psychologist will ever promise a cure, and psychotherapy alone is not for everyone. Sometimes medication or life style changes are recommended to help control the anxiety. However, the best way that we can help you to determine what is best for you is to meet with one of us for a consultation. We will discuss your situation. What you learn is likely to be interesting and informative, and should help you plan the next step in your treatment.