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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

72 therapists for Anxiety in Canada

Browse 72 therapists specializing in Anxiety. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.

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Sam Srijani

Do you find yourself constantly on edge, overcome with anxiety, work-related stress, low self esteem, or people pleasing? Are you putting yourself on the back burner while you struggle to keep up with the demands of your busy life? Are you stuck in a cycle of setting high expectations and never feeling good enough? If you’re feeling like this you may even be experiencing guilt and shame about these feelings. Maybe you're craving the chance to shed your responsibilities and just be yourself. If you’re nodding along, you're not alone. And you've just taken an amazing step in seeking help. I'm passionate about helping you build your confidence and regain control of your life. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, and ADHD. My therapeutic approach is personalized to meet your unique needs. My LGBTQ+ affirming culturally sensitive approach honours your unique experience, beliefs, and identity. If you're looking for a therapist who you can be real with; who is there with you through both the tears and the laughs, please reach out! I offer a free 15 minute video consultation so we can touch base and see if we're a good fit to work together. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to your best self.

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Olena Guseva

Olena Guseva

Welcome! My aim as your therapist is to create a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can talk about whatever’s on your mind. We’ll work through the ups and downs together, celebrate the wins, and make sense of the moments that leave you wondering. So take a breath, settle in, and let’s start this journey toward healing together. Life changes have been a big part of my own experience, from moving countries to becoming a parent, so I get how messy and emotional transitions can be. Everyone’s story is unique, and I’m here to listen and really understand yours. I take a holistic view in therapy, looking at the mind, body, and spirit as all connected. My goal is to make this a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, no pressure or judgment attached.

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Julie Chang

Julie Chang

Julie has Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Counselling and is currently finishing her doctorate’s degree in clinical psychology. In addition to professional training and experiences in psychotherapy and treatment, clinical counselling, behavioural intervention, and neuropsychological assessments, Julie also has a background in psychological research at the doctoral level and uses the empirical insights gained from previous studies to supplement her current clinical practice, making her unique as a practitioner of both clinical-scientist and scientist-practitioner models. Julie has worked with BC Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (BCSMSSA), Family Services of Greater Vancouver (FSGV), Chimo Community Services, and local medical clinics and healthcare centres. She has provided individual and couple/family therapy, treatments, and assessments to individuals for disorders and issues including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, feeding and eating disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, neurocognitive disorders, affect management, self-regulation, stress management, sexual/physical abuse and violence, crisis intervention and stabilization, couple/marital/parenting conflicts, academic/work stress, identity crisis/exploration, self-introspective needs, loneliness, and relationship difficulties. She identifies as a cisgender female who is open to clients belonging to the LGBTQIA2S+ communities. Julie applies an integrated theoretical framework informed by trauma theory, understanding of behavioral and neuropsychology, and multicultural sensitivity to her eclectic therapeutic approach. As an advocate of positive psychology who understands that mental health is more than the absence of illness, she focuses on building success and helping clients flourish rather than merely reducing distress. Her clinical repertoire includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CASE Approach for Risk/Suicide Assessment, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing/Body Awareness Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Clinical Hypnosis. Owning to her mixed ethnic heritage, she is a native speaker of English, Mandarin, and Hokkien, and has conversational-level skills in Japanese and Cantonese.

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Mamy Kalambay

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, down or anxious? Do you have a hard time accomplishing goals? Do you want to work on your relationships? As a psychotherapist, my role is to assist you in your journey to achieve these goals; together we will figure out strategies and tools that are ideal for you. I have experience working adults on a variety of issues such as anxiety, stress, depression amongst other complexities. My work history is significant for navigating numerous types of interactions, which has further developed my skill set as a mental health professional. I use a client-centered approach and incorporate integrative techniques to psychotherapy, predominantly working from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). The decision to start therapy is not always easy, there is a mixture of stigma, guilt or misinformation involved. That being said, I commend you for looking into a therapist, as it is the first step towards your healing process. If you are having a hard time, please contact me, I look forward to hearing your story.

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Micah Jakobs

Micah Jakobs

My name is Micah, and I identify as a female first-generation immigrant. s a Filipino-Canadian, I am motivated to create a safe space for other people of colour individuals to feel fully seen and heard. Concurrently over the last 16 years, I have spent 5 years working with the elderly community (specifically those with dementia and Alzheimer’s), 5 years in healthcare helping families work through grief and loss, 11 years working with adults with acquired brain injury, and 10 years working under a social service capacity with youth across Bangladesh, Africa, India, and Nepal. In my professional identity thus far, I have gained valuable insights and skills that have contributed to my therapeutic journey. As a result, I have developed a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy that integrates evidence-based, strength-based, mindfulness, and somatic-based practices. I believe this approach best equips me to meet your specific concerns and needs. To me, therapy is a space where we can explore, discover, and tackle distressing thoughts, feelings, or behaviours that may be holding you back. In our sessions, you can expect me to provide you with tangible tools and strategies to foster meaningful change, and to create opportunities to experience vulnerability in a safe space. Our work together will focus on raising awareness in the present moment so that you may accept and live a life full of clarity and authenticity.

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KB

Katelyn Bonetti

I have a Masters degree in Counselling (MC) and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in the province of British Columbia offering online sessions. I have specialized training in trauma and AEDP therapy. As someone who has struggled with overwhelming emotions, self-confidence and anxiety in the past, I know that change happens when we are in the presence of empathetic and emotionally present other. Whatever life challenges you are navigating, my hope is to create a safe and non-judgemental space to experience the parts of you that want to be seen. I will always put your best interest in the forefront of my work. I base my approach on evidence-based, trauma-informed, and collaborative practice. My therapeutic orientation is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), incorporating concepts from mindfulness-based, body-based, and internal parts work theories. I use an empathetic stance to understand my clients and work with them to develop perspective, resilience, healing, and skill development that can be utilized long after therapy is complete. Walking alongside another human to witness their deepest joys and sorrows is a privilege that I do not take lightly. I am honoured each time an individual chooses to develop a trusted relationship with me.

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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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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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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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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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Ellen Lu

Ellen Lu

It takes courage to heal and create change within yourself. By being here, you have already taken a significant step towards transforming your life. As your counsellor, I am committed to working alongside you in collaborative exploration to cultivate your natural intuition and strengths, empowering you to feel embodied in your true self. My therapeutic approach is rooted in cultural humility, compassion, and curiosity. As a proud Taiwanese-Canadian woman and second-generation immigrant, I bring a deep understanding of the cultural and intergenerational challenges that many bicultural individuals face. This perspective allows me to help clients expand their cultural narratives and harness their unique strengths and insights to foster growth and resilience. With over a decade of experience as a strength coach, Olympic weightlifting coach, and Registered Kinesiologist, I possess an understanding of the intricate connection between physical and mental health. My passion lies in supporting youth and teen athletes, helping them navigate issues such as performance anxiety, perfectionism, and belonging. Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting adults who are facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, imposterism, and cultural identity. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and grounded clinician who understands the importance of giving voice to your experiences. I hold space for you to show up as you are and firmly believe in your internal wisdom and capacity for growth. Through our work together, I aim to help you cultivate a more compassionate and accepting relationship with yourself, embracing all parts of you. When I’m not seeing clients, I enjoy lifting weights and spending time with my family and friends over a good meal. I love to reconnect with myself through nature walks with my dog, listening to music, and karaoke!

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Hayley Barlow

Hayley Barlow

Do you have anxiety, depression or low self esteem issues that are interfering with your ability to live a life that feels authentic to you? Have you gone through a traumatic event that is leaving deep imprints on both your mind and body? Are you experiencing thoughts or behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected from yourself or your relationships with others? If any of the above resonates with you, please know that you have the ability to reclaim your power, rewrite the narrative of your life, and live a life that feels inherently meaningful. It is so hard to be human sometimes, I get it. Fortunately, you don't have to go through any of these challenges alone. My name is Hayley and I am a counsellor who works with both teens and young adults experiencing a wide range of issues. I offer a warm, validating and nonjudgmental environment that helps individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are creating imbalance or emotional uncertainty in their lives. I am a firm believer that there is nothing to be "fixed", because there is nothing inherently wrong with you. You have simply been responding to what has happened to you in life. And you have the capacity to not only heal, but rediscover the relationship you have with yourself and others. I am simply here to walk alongside you as you embark on your journey towards healing and transformation. During our sessions, I take a holistic approach that incorporates various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that ultimately focus on the mind-body connection. I often use principles and interventions from both CBT and somatic therapy to help individuals overcome their challenges, realign with the lost parts of themselves, and learn to cope with difficult thoughts or emotions. If you are ready to begin your journey towards healing and are interested in setting up a complimentary 15 minute consultation, please feel free to contact me. I would love to help you get there.

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Chris Ho

Chris Ho

If you find yourself navigating through the complexities of life, know that seeking counselling is a courageous and empowering choice. People seek counselling for a myriad of reasons, each journey as unique as the individual taking the first step. You might be facing the pressure of anxiety, the shadows of depression, or the echoes of past traumas. Life's challenges can be multifaceted, stemming from personal relationships, work-related stress, existential questioning, or unforeseen transitions. As a couple, you may be experiencing the severance of disconnection, rupture of infidelity, or the growing pains of change. I combine a tapestry of approaches to support you on your transformative journey. Mindfulness techniques provide a grounding anchor to the present, while Adlerian therapy delves into understanding the influence of your past on your current self. For couples therapy, I incorporate the Gottman method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to rebuild your foundations. Culturally sensitive and trauma-informed, my practice is a safe haven for individuals of all backgrounds and identities. No matter what brings you to therapy, we can cultivate resilience, uncover your inner wisdom, and empower you to live authentically and aligned with your values. With warmth, I am looking forward to connecting with you.

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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

*** Now Accepting New Clients *** 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?

Browse therapists in Canada who specialize in anxiety. Filter by location, fee, and session format to find the right fit.