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Anxiety Therapists in Canada

Anxiety affects how you think, feel, and move through everyday life. Therapy can help you understand what is driving it, reduce its hold, and build practical tools that work in real situations.

What to look for in an Anxiety therapist on Purple Lotus

  • Experience treating anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety)
  • Use of evidence-based approaches like CBT or exposure therapy
  • Ability to teach practical coping strategies you can use daily
  • A calm, structured approach that helps you feel grounded

71 therapists for Anxiety in Canada

Browse 71 therapists specializing in Anxiety. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.

Cordelia Mejin

Cordelia Mejin

Hi, I’m Cordelia and I’m honoured that you are here. I desire to provide gentle and compassionate care, empathy and a safe place as I believe that we as humans have longings to feel seen, heard, known, understood, felt, accepted, and cared for, especially in difficult moments. The one thing that remained constant throughout my life is that I have always found meaning in connecting with others on an authentic, deep, heart level and in making meaningful impact in the lives of others. A longing to lead a life in alignment with who I am at the core of my being led me to pursue counselling not just as a profession, but as a calling and passion. I love what I do and am honoured that I get to hold space for my clients and see transformation happen in their lives. It makes my heart full to know that I am making a daily difference, one person at a time. I consider it an honour to walk alongside you and to meet you where you are at – be it a time when you are navigating everyday difficulties, a time when you feel lost, a time of grief, loss and transitions, a time when hope feels out of reach, or a time when you find that you are desiring growth and change within yourself and in your relationships. Although I am experienced in my work a generalist, I have specialized training and extensive experience in the area of grief and loss. Additionally, I have special training and extensive experience in various areas of concern. My personal experience of grief and painful loss of my family member’s death led to my deep devotion and passion to people who are grieving a death and/or non-death losses. Through my own journey of integrating grief into my life story, I developed a strong desire to support others in carrying their grief, remembering their person and integrating their grief into their life story. As one who grew up in a multicultural community, I have strong cultural awareness and strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy from a place of cultural humility. I value holding space for your story to be told and acknowledged in a supportive space where your experiences are validated, honoured, processed and integrated into your life story in a way that is fitting for you. In sharing your stories and allowing them to be witnessed in the presence and safety of a therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that what may have once felt unbearable becomes less heavy and eventually more bearable. On A Personal Note As one who is nearing my mid-30s, I have navigated various challenges, including life transitions, chronic pain, endometriosis and grief of all kinds (death and non-death losses). I cherish beautiful moments that unfold in life while also seeing the value of holding space for feelings that emerge from the difficult places of life. It is from my lived experiences and my own human-ness that I draw my compassion for each person I encounter in the therapy room. I live in beautiful British Columbia with my husband whom I have been married to for almost a decade. I treasure spending quality time with my family and friends. I am an avid reader, and am most fulfilled when I am outdoors in nature. I enjoy hiking, biking, playing the piano, listening to music and visiting new places around the world. I look forward to getting to know you and to connecting with you. It is my honour to meet you. Warmly, Cordelia

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Nish Laszczuk

Nish Laszczuk

Are you a highly motivated individual in all aspects of your life, but always feel yourself falling short? Do you find that your pursuit of success often comes at the cost of your own well-being and fulfillment? Do you just want to reconnect with your inner self and body and gain more trust in who you are? I'm here to offer you a safe space to practice letting go—a space where you can navigate the complexities of your demanding life without sacrificing your mental and emotional well-being. My name is Nish and I'm so happy that you're here. I'm a registered social worker with 10 years experience, and I'm here to help you get through high stress, anxiety, self-doubt and burnout. I specialize in helping high-stress professionals struggling with burnout and work-life balance. Using CBT, EFT, and Somatic Attachment Therapy, I provide tools to manage stress, set boundaries, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll work on building resilience and finding balance, so you can thrive both personally and professionally. I have an office in Yaletown and work evenings.

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Shirvin Lee

I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in the beautiful Vancouver, Canada. As someone who grew up with minimal exposure to mental health and living under the pressures of being "perfect," I've learned different ways to reframe, extend compassion, and embrace mistakes. Outside of counselling, I'm also an avid lover of video games, ultimate frisbee, and all things food.

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AT

Arthur Tiojanco

No matter what we may be going through in our lives, we should be able to take the time to slow down and take care of our mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Finding a person who can help guide you through those challenges and give you a sense of safety and support is important as we traverse our healing journeys. As a community minded therapist, I bring years of experience with children and youth within the school system, as well as my own lived-experiences as a second generation Filipino-Canadian. This perspective allows me to see the various facets and life circumstances that make you, you! When working with clients, I remain curious and non-judgmental. With my understanding of attachment and trauma, I hope to bring my clients a different perspective of their lived experience that can help them make improvements in their lives. I draw from various evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of each of my clients, as every individual is unique and requires care that is catered to them. I strive to create a safe and supportive space that is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration where my clients will be heard, empowered, and understood. I hope to join you in your journey and thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me and how I may be able to support you.

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Alana Sheridan

Alana Sheridan

I found early on that my passion in life is to help others work through life's struggles. That, combined with my natural ability to connect in a real way with others, led me to the counselling field over nineteen years ago. I have my Masters of Arts in Counselling and have experience working with individuals, couples, children and teens. During my years as a counsellor, I have helped individuals work through anxiety, depression, low self worth, work stress, grief and loss, to name a few. I have helped couples navigate through issues both to help stay within and working on the relationship, as well as how to amicably separate when the couple feels that is in their best interest. I have many years experience working with families involved with foster care and the protective services forum, and specifically have experience working with parents on achieving a positive, working family. Wondering if counselling is the right next step? Life can be difficult. Let's work through this together.

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Paula Ghelman

Paula Ghelman

Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your relationships, work, or school? Do you feel exhausted, unmotivated, and overwhelmed by everything you need to do, and don't feel good enough? Do you wonder if you'll ever feel like you used to? We often put our needs last, justifying this by telling ourselves we have too much to accomplish first. Not addressing your depression, anxiety, or past trauma can lead to isolation, ruin your self-esteem, and make day-to-day life harder than it needs to be. However, there are ways to navigate these personal burdens and make life hopeful again, and you don't have to do it alone. I believe in a trauma-focused, strength-based approach and utilizing evidence-based practice to help you learn how to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and heal from trauma. By creating a safe space where you are not only heard but truly understood, you can start your transformative path towards a more fulfilling life. Providing individual online psychotherapy and an individualized DBT skills program, you will learn how to change negative self-talk, manage emotions, navigate relationships. Getting started is often the hardest part, and therapy help you create a holistic toolkit to enjoy happier, more fulfilling relationships, prioritize yourself, and feel lighter overall. Book a free consultation to take the first step towards a brighter, hopeful future.

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Lauren Little

Lauren Little

Hi, I’m Lauren (she/her). Sometimes life can be hard, and we can struggle to navigate our current challenges. I know that taking the step into therapy can feel overwhelming, however, remember that you are not alone in this and you and you are capable of doing hard things. Together we can create a safe space where you feel comfortable to share, explore and begin your healing journey. I encourage you to bring all parts of yourself - the hurt, the messy, the unseen - into this process. Honouring each client’s unique story, I work closely with them to meet their specific needs and goals to ensure clients feel validated, understood, and supported. As someone who has lived experience of anxiety and divorce, I understand the importance of practical self-support strategies and the value of a non-judgmental space to discuss vulnerable issues. I believe establishing a positive, empathetic and compassionate environment is essential for fostering personal growth. I guide clients in reconnecting to themselves, rediscovering their authentic self, and living a life that feels genuinely aligned with who they are. I draw on various therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), nervous system regulation, body practices, mindfulness, family systems, attachment and nature-based practices. I have experience supporting individuals, youth, and families in navigating various challenges including anxiety, depression, divorce/separation, grief/loss, self-esteem, relationship challenges, dating and new relationships, deepening intuition, personal growth/emotional awareness, and life transitions. At the moment, I provide online sessions using the secure video platform Jane and offer supports to individuals located in beautiful British Columbia. I have availability Monday - Fridays (day/evenings). I offer a discounted rate to students. I look forward to connecting with you and hearing your story!

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Maddie Skidmore

Maddie Skidmore

Hi! I'm Maddie, I'm a Registered Social Worker providing in person and virtual services in the lower mainland. I specialize in supporting women who are seeking to reach their goals, overcome obstacles, and create healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe that every woman has a unique story and possesses the strength, knowledge, and resilience to achieve positive change. My approach to therapy is grounded in trust, compassion, and connection, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where women can explore their experiences and emotions. My work is holistic and integrative, drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, as well as mindfulness techniques to strengthen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I cater my approach to the needs and goals of each client, and I am committed to developing long-lasting relationships with each person I work with. Whether you are new to therapy or seeking a fresh perspective, I am dedicated to supporting women in their journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery.

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Nicole Neufeld

Nicole Neufeld

Hi, I'm Nicole (she/they). You might wonder what therapy can offer you, and that is a fair question. I used to ask the same thing and I remember my first therapy session as a client, I was so nervous I got in a car accident on my way to the appointment. Being vulnerable and sharing a piece of yourself can be so intimidating. It makes sense to feel nervous. Reaching out for support is challenging, and can also be empowering, I commend you for considering it. I am committed to providing as safe a space as is possible to those who would choose to trust me with their story. Part of that includes an understanding of how systemic power and inequity impacts us all. I navigate the world as a white, settler woman. I also have lived experience with chronic illness, and a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis. These, among other pieces of my identity, impact my lived experiences of the world as your identity impacts yours. Because of this, I use an intersectional, systemic approach in my work, leaning on Feminist Theory and utilize AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) and Narrative techniques. I believe you have resources and answers within yourself, and I am honoured to support you as you discover and grow in your own strength. I take a collaborative approach, meaning you get to play an active role in deciding how our time together is spent. Ultimately, I am committed to your healing and will use all of the tools at my disposal to support you on your journey. My hope for you is that you flourish in your life, and are able to feel all of the joy and delight that comes from that.

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Amber Lum

Amber Lum

I’m Amber (she/her); I am an Asian, settler, cisgender woman living and practicing on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. I welcome diverse clients of all cultures, genders, and sexual orientations. I appreciate that we all come with unique stories and histories, and I think it is important to recognize and celebrate how these shape the way that we experience the world. I feel honoured and privileged to walk alongside my resilient clients in their personal healing journeys. I am passionate about EMDR, art therapy, play therapy, and other trauma-informed practices because of their potential to support the transformation and healing of both ourselves and our communities. My role is to hold space for you to come as you are and for your experiences to be met with compassion, curiosity, and tenderness. I believe that we all have the capacity to heal and grow especially in relation to others. Together through our work, we can begin to undo the aloneness that often comes with having negative experiences. I have a deep compassion and respect for the experiences that my clients entrust in me and through a collaborative approach, I hope to honour your lived experiences. Together we will establish a direction in our work that feels supportive of your goals and values. I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, my Bachelor of Education, and my Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology at UBC. I have additional training in the areas of trauma, attachment theory, emotion-focused therapy, and narrative approaches. In addition to counselling, I have also worked as an elementary school teacher in Vancouver. I have a special appreciation for the unique challenges experienced by children, adolescents, and their families. I believe connection, non-judgement, and trust are vital to building a strong therapy relationship.I think every piece of ourselves is important and together we will work with, rather than against, your experiences and emotions. It is important to me that you feel both safe and empowered throughout this entire process. In my spare time you can find me curled up with my dog Yuki watching musicals and reading fantasy novels.

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Lena Orlova

Lena Orlova

I am a first(ish) generation Canadian, originally from western Ukraine. I work primarily with folks who moved to Canada or have family that has moved to Canada from other places. The clients that find me a good fit want somebody who is comfortable with diverse perspectives, and is somebody they can connect with, versus strictly being someone who provides educational resources and exercises. This is what I strive to be as a therapist, to "get" my clients and where they are coming from, so that our work together is anchored in understanding and trust. My practice is highly influenced by attachment theory, relational/interpersonal therapy and family systems theory. This means that we look at struggles you're facing not only on an individual level, but also with the goal of helping you find relationships of care and support in your everyday life. If you're interested in working with me, reach out and I'd be happy to schedule a free consultation call with you.

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Jackie Dodd

Jackie Dodd

Hello! I'm glad you're here. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (#11949) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (#11249171) and am able to support clients who reside in within Canada. My aim in any therapy session is to support you in a way that you find helpful, while holding a safe enough space to challenge beliefs and behaviours you deem unhelpful. I have varied work experience in the field of mental health, including several years working alongside individuals who live with the lasting impacts of trauma, substance use, mental health diagnoses, poverty, and homelessness. I am Canadian born and Indian, and part of my work is rooted in my lived experience existing between cultures to support clients who face similar struggles. My Masters of Counselling Psychology degree is supplemented by additional postgraduate training in cognitive behaviour therapy, mindful self-compassion, anti-oppressive psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and strengths-based listening. I incorporate an intersectional feminist lens in my work, and am continually learning to be a more effective ally to multiple communities (including Black, Indigenous, people with racialized identities, and LGBTQ2SIA+). Outside of Counselling work, I enjoy spending time with friends, animals, and my niece and nephews. I see clients in person or virtually at my Vancouver office on Monday evenings and Fridays, and offer virtual only sessions on Thursday evenings. If you would like to know more about how we could work together or know more about what the counselling process could look like in general, I invite you to book a free 20-minute consultation session (virtual or over the phone). My hope is that I can offer support that is helpful to you! Areas of Practice: - Depression - Anxiety - Stress Management -Identity and Cultural Concerns - Mental Health Diagnoses - Difficult Life Transitions - Grief and Loss - Trauma - Substance use Approaches Used: - Strengths based listening - CBT - Mindful Self-Compassion - Anti-Oppression Psychotherapy - Narrative Therapy - Dialectical Behavioural Therapy -Intersectional Feminist Lens The land I work, live and play on is the unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and the Stó:lō Nations.

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Jess Tang

Jess Tang

You deserve to be seen and heard, not just for what you achieve, but for who you are. I specialize in supporting athletes, high achievers, and Asian and racialized individuals navigating anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, identity, cultural expectations, and performance-related stress. Much of my work focuses on helping clients untangle their relationship with achievement, productivity, and self-worth while building a more grounded and secure sense of identity. Many of my clients are capable, driven, and deeply responsible. On the outside, they appear high-functioning. Internally, they may be carrying pressure, self-doubt, anxiety, burnout, or a quiet sense that their worth is conditional on success. Despite their accomplishments, they often feel overwhelmed by the pressure to perform, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of who they are outside of achievement and productivity. I also work closely with athletes and teams across club, varsity, and national team sport environments. My work in mental performance focuses on confidence, emotional regulation, resilience, pressure management, performance anxiety, fear of failure, burnout, motivation, focus, injury recovery, and identity outside of sport. I support athletes through both performance enhancement and the mental health challenges that can emerge within competitive environments. As an Asian-Canadian and second-generation immigrant myself, my lived experiences deeply shape how I approach therapy and mental health. I understand how difficult it can feel to navigate multiple cultural worlds while balancing expectations around success, responsibility, achievement, and emotional expression. Many of the clients I work with carry invisible pressure — pressure to succeed, pressure to make others proud, pressure to not disappoint others, or pressure to struggle silently while appearing “fine” on the outside. I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, understood, and supported. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. Together, we work to better understand the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck while helping you build a healthier and more sustainable relationship with yourself, your emotions, and your goals. In addition to my counselling work, I have over 11 years of experience coaching wrestling and have held leadership positions at both the Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) and National Sport Organization (NSO) levels. I have also worked with Canadian Women & Sport for the past three years. These experiences continue to shape my understanding of performance culture, athlete development, and the systemic pressures that many individuals face within high-performance environments. My approach to counselling is strengths-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and grounded in evidence-informed practices. I believe therapy should feel tailored to you and your unique experiences rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. If you’re looking for a therapist who understands the nuances of Asian mental health, the internal world of high achievers, or the mental demands of athletics, I would be honoured to walk alongside you. I offer a culturally attuned space to unpack these experiences, without shame or blame, so you can move toward a more integrated sense of self.

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Thenujaa Thirumalalagan

Thenujaa Thirumalalagan

My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion and an understanding that many people come in feeling pulled in different directions or unsure of where they’re headed. In our work together, I aim to offer a supportive space where you can show up just as you are and explore what clarity, healing, and support might look like for you. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Master of Arts student in Counselling Psychology, providing therapy under clinical supervision. I work with individuals navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem concerns, identity exploration, and relationship challenges. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, viewing clients as whole people rather than a set of symptoms, and value curiosity, reflection, and moving at a pace that feels right. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Together, we may explore patterns in thoughts and emotions, reflect on the stories you hold about yourself, and build on your existing strengths to support meaningful and lasting change. My work is especially attuned to first-generation and bicultural experiences, where transitions often carry added layers of cultural expectations, family responsibility, and identity negotiation. I support individuals who may feel caught between worlds, navigating who they are becoming while staying connected to where they’ve come from. You don’t have to sort this out alone. Growing up in an immigrant household shaped my awareness of how culture, family roles, and unspoken expectations can influence emotional well-being. These experiences deepened my sensitivity to identity, belonging, and the quiet ways people carry their struggles, and they continue to inform my commitment to culturally responsive and compassionate care. I strive to offer a space that honours the fullness of your story, without asking you to simplify any part of it. All parts of you are welcome here.

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Fiona Del Rio

Fiona Del Rio

I support individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship concerns. No matter what brings you to therapy, I aim to help you deepen self-awareness and develop practical strategies that help build resilience and promote healing. As a therapist, my approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for your lived experience. I offer client-centered care that draws from strengths-based and trauma-informed modalities, working with you to build a therapy plan that reflects your values, goals, and vision of wellness. My priority is to foster a space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered to be your authentic self. My educational background includes a Masters in Counselling Psychology, Masters in Anthropology, and Bachelors in Psychology and Cinema. I possess additional training in several evidence-based and trauma-focused therapeutic modalities. Together, we will design an approach that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences, and one that delivers meaningful results. I worked in public, private, and creative sectors before transitioning to counselling, where I gained experience as a crisis responder and in employment and career advising. My diverse professional experiences along with my own mental wellness journey help me to provide well-rounded support that is grounded in continuous self-reflection.

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Suzanne Paszkowski

Suzanne Paszkowski

Maybe you have tried therapy before and it has helped you work through certain feelings or get through a specific crisis. But maybe you still find yourself repeating the same behaviors in subtle ways—perhaps until they become not so subtle and you find yourself back in therapy, in the midst of another crisis, one that eerily echoes your past experiences. You want not just to work through present issues, but also to delve deeper into your personality and life experiences to come to a better understanding of who you are, where you come from, and what your values are—with the goal of becoming the person you want and are able to be. Together, we will explore your past and present, thoughts and feelings, in order to help you gain a more holistic understanding of yourself and your potential. My background is in ancient philosophy and I am training to become a psychoanalyst because I believe that talk therapy can lead to genuine connection and enable self-discovery and self-understanding. If any of the above sounds intriguing, please feel free to contact me. I am open to new clients, especially those looking to dig deeper. Therapy can be truly transformative; sometimes it just takes finding the right person to connect with.

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Stephanie Markowitz

Stephanie Markowitz

I am a Registered Psychotherapist trained in a range of evidence-based modalities, which I will customize to meet your particular needs and goals. I will work with you, at your own pace, to process the difficulties you are facing and equip you with knowledge and tools for growth and healing.

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Kayla Migrino

Kayla Migrino

Hi, I’m Kayla, I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and I work to support autistic adults and other neurodivergent experiences. I’ve spent a big part of my career in the disability sector, especially supporting autistic folks. I’ve worn a lot of different hats along the way and these precious experiences are what shape and inspire my work as a counsellor today. My practice is grounded in a judgement free, neurodivergent-affirming, collaborative space. I provide counselling for adults who want clarity, a sense of direction and guidance. We can work to understand you, make sense of your experiences, and identify meaningful changes that align with who you are and who you are becoming. Many of my clients are young adults with autism navigating the current phases of their life. For some this includes transitional periods, for others this means settling in. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore who you are, and work to build a clear sense of direction and identity within you.

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Diana Ben

Diana Ben

Hi, I’m Diana! As a first‑generation African Canadian, I understand the complexity of navigating cultural identity, family expectations, people‑pleasing, autonomy, and the stigma surrounding mental health. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by unprocessed trauma, anxiety, and the pressure to hold everything together. They often feel alone in their experiences, struggle with confidence, and second‑guess their decisions and experiences. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental, compassionate, culturally sensitive space where you feel heard, respected, and supported. I help you understand the roots of your thoughts, emotions, and patterns so you can shift them with intention. My work focuses on identity, self‑awareness, and healing from trauma and anxiety in a space that feels grounding and supportive. My approach blends insight, compassion, and practical tools to help you create real, sustainable change! Therapy with me is about understanding yourself more deeply so you can move through life with clarity and confidence. I believe insight is a powerful tool for healing; it helps us break old cycles and create new possibilities by moving beyond the feeling of “I don’t know why.” If you’re ready to explore your inner world with support, I’m here to help!

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Peter Reid

Peter Reid

I work with LGBTQ2S+ adults who are tired of being "hooked" by their own minds—that loop of anxiety, the "not good enough" narrative, or that "stuck" feeling. Whether you’re navigating a life transition or just feeling "flat," I help you get your hands back on the steering wheel of your life.

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What is Anxiety?

Anxiety isn't always loud or visible. It can feel like a steady undercurrent in your day, a mind that won't quite switch off, a body that stays on edge even when nothing is happening. You might overthink small decisions, replay conversations, or feel a constant sense of urgency without a clear reason. Over time, this can affect sleep, focus, relationships, and how present you feel in your own life. If you're looking for help with anxiety or exploring therapy, it often begins with recognizing how much of your energy is going into managing these patterns.

Working with a therapist can help you understand what's driving your anxiety and give you tools to manage it. Some people come to therapy with a specific diagnosis like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, or panic disorder. Others simply know that worry and tension are getting in the way, even if they've never had a formal assessment. Both are valid starting points.

Therapy for anxiety often involves identifying what triggers your anxious patterns, building practical regulation skills, and gradually reducing the avoidance behaviors that keep anxiety going. The pace and approach depend on the therapist and what is most relevant to your situation.

Who this approach may help

Persistent worry across many areas

People who find themselves anxious about work, health, relationships, or finances all at once, often feeling unable to turn off the worry even when circumstances are stable.

Social anxiety and fear of judgment

People who feel intense self-consciousness in social situations, avoid speaking up, or spend significant time after interactions replaying what was said.

Panic attacks or physical anxiety symptoms

People who experience sudden surges of intense fear accompanied by physical sensations like a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a feeling of unreality.

Anxiety connected to health or the body

People who frequently worry about their physical health, catastrophize symptoms, or feel preoccupied with the possibility of becoming seriously ill.

Anxiety linked to transitions, burnout, or sustained stress

People whose anxiety has increased during a major life change such as a career shift, relationship ending, loss, or a prolonged period of pressure at work or home.

What happens in a session?

  1. 1

    Map your anxiety patterns

    The therapist asks about what triggers your anxiety, how it shows up in your thoughts, body, and behavior, and what situations tend to make it better or worse.

  2. 2

    Understand the cycle

    Together you identify the patterns that maintain anxiety, including avoidance, reassurance-seeking, and overestimating threat, and begin to see how those patterns keep it going.

  3. 3

    Build regulation tools

    You learn practical techniques to manage anxiety symptoms in real situations, such as grounding exercises, breathing approaches, or ways to interrupt anxious thought spirals.

  4. 4

    Work through avoidance

    The therapist helps you gradually approach situations or thoughts that anxiety has pushed you to avoid, in a structured and manageable way that builds confidence over time.

  5. 5

    Consolidate and maintain progress

    As anxiety decreases, sessions shift toward recognizing triggers early, applying skills independently, and building resilience for future stressors.

How it compares to other approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is one of the most widely used approaches for anxiety. It focuses on identifying unhelpful thought patterns and changing behaviors that maintain anxiety. Most structured anxiety therapy draws on CBT principles.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Rather than challenging anxious thoughts directly, ACT focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to actions aligned with your values. Some people find this more useful when anxiety is tied to identity or meaning.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy explores how early relationships and past experiences contribute to current anxiety. It tends to be less structured and longer-term than CBT, and may suit people whose anxiety has deep roots in personal history.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT was developed for emotional dysregulation, but its distress tolerance and mindfulness skills are sometimes used for anxiety. It may be a good fit when anxiety is part of a broader pattern of intense, difficult-to-manage emotions.

EMDR

EMDR is primarily a trauma-focused therapy but is sometimes used for anxiety when panic, phobias, or anxious responses are linked to specific distressing experiences. It is more specialized and not a first-line treatment for general anxiety.

How to choose an Anxiety therapist

Questions to ask before booking:

  1. 1

    Ask about their experience with your specific type of anxiety. General anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and health anxiety can all be addressed through therapy, but an experienced therapist will explain how their approach applies to your particular pattern.

  2. 2

    Ask what approach or modality they use and how it typically works for anxiety. If they use CBT, ask what that looks like in practice. If they use something different, ask how it addresses the patterns you are describing.

  3. 3

    Ask how long therapy tends to take for someone in a similar situation. Some anxiety concerns respond well to shorter-term work of eight to sixteen sessions, while others benefit from longer support.

  4. 4

    Ask what progress looks like and how you will know it is working. A good therapist can describe what changes tend to happen over the course of treatment, even if timelines vary.

  5. 5

    Ask whether they assign work between sessions. Many anxiety approaches include exercises, tracking, or gradual exposure tasks you practice outside of sessions. Knowing this in advance helps set expectations.

  6. 6

    If your anxiety is accompanied by other concerns like depression, trauma, or substance use, ask how they work with multiple presenting issues at once or whether they recommend addressing one area first.

When this may not be the right fit

If your anxiety is accompanied by significant depression, thoughts of self-harm, or difficulty functioning day to day, a higher level of support may be appropriate before or alongside outpatient therapy. Speak with your physician or a mental health professional about the right level of care.

Some physical conditions can produce symptoms that resemble anxiety, including thyroid issues, heart conditions, and hormonal changes. If your physical symptoms are prominent and you have not had a recent medical check-up, it is worth discussing them with a doctor.

When anxiety is closely tied to past trauma, a trauma-focused approach like EMDR or trauma-informed therapy may be more effective than general anxiety treatment. A good therapist will be able to identify this and adjust accordingly.

If substance use has become a way of managing anxiety, it can be difficult to address the anxiety directly until that is also being supported. Many therapists can work with both, but some prefer to address one before the other.

Related specialties

Frequently asked questions

What type of therapist is best for anxiety?

Many licensed counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, and social workers support anxiety. The best fit is usually someone with experience treating your specific anxiety concerns and an approach that matches how you like to work.

How long does anxiety therapy take?

Some people notice useful changes within a few sessions, especially when therapy is skills-focused. Others work longer term when anxiety is connected to trauma, relationships, burnout, or longstanding patterns.

Can online therapy help with anxiety?

Yes. Online therapy can be effective for many anxiety concerns, especially when sessions include practical tools, reflection, and exercises you can use in daily situations.

What is the difference between generalized anxiety and panic disorder?

Generalized anxiety involves persistent worry across many areas of life. Panic disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear often accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart or shortness of breath. Both are treatable with therapy.

Do I need a diagnosis before starting anxiety therapy?

No. You do not need a formal diagnosis to start therapy. Many people seek support for anxiety symptoms without ever receiving a clinical label, and a good therapist will work with your experience rather than requiring a diagnosis first.

What is exposure therapy and is it used for anxiety?

Exposure therapy is a structured technique where you gradually face feared situations or thoughts in a controlled, manageable way. It is commonly used within CBT for anxiety disorders, particularly panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias. A therapist guides the pace to keep it manageable.

Can anxiety be treated without medication?

Many people manage anxiety effectively through therapy alone, particularly with structured approaches like CBT or ACT. Others benefit from a combination of therapy and medication. Whether medication is right for you is a conversation to have with your physician or psychiatrist based on the severity and type of anxiety you are experiencing.

Looking for an Anxiety therapist?

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