190 Harwood Avenue S, Ajax, ON L1S 2H6

4 Types of Therapies for Dealing with Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues faced by Canadians today, with approximately 12% of the population experiencing a clinically significant anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. These disorders can manifest in many forms, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias. Despite their prevalence, anxiety disorders are often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. However, therapy has proven to be an effective treatment option for many individuals struggling with these debilitating conditions.

Today, we will explore the various therapeutic approaches available and the benefits they can offer in overcoming anxiety disorders:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and well-researched therapies for anxiety disorders. CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, as well as modifying problematic behaviours. By addressing the underlying beliefs and thought processes that contribute to anxiety, CBT can help individuals reduce their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

That said, CBT is typically conducted in individual or group settings and is often combined with other therapeutic techniques, such as exposure therapy and relaxation training. In Canada, CBT is available through private practice therapists, as well as mental health clinics and some hospitals. Many provincial healthcare plans cover the cost of CBT, and there are numerous online resources and self-help materials available for those interested in exploring this type of therapy.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a relatively newer form of psychotherapy that has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders, particularly Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR involves the use of bilateral stimulation, typically through eye movements, to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories and reduce anxiety symptoms.

As for how it is conducted, the therapy is done in several phases, including assessment, preparation, desensitization, and reprocessing. During the desensitization phase, the therapist guides the client's eye movements while they focus on traumatic memories, helping them to reprocess the information and reduce its emotional impact.

3. Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on understanding and addressing the different parts within an individual. This approach is based on the belief that each person has various internal parts that may be in conflict or harmony with one another and that these parts have their own unique roles, feelings, and perspectives.

Technique-wise, some common techniques used in IFS therapy include guided imagery, journaling, and role-playing, which help individuals to access and communicate with their various internal parts. Regardless of the technique, however, IFS therapy aims to help individuals explore their internal systems, understand the factors that contributed to parts developing anxiety and help them resolve and process these concerns.

4. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Lastly, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), also known as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), is a type of psychotherapy that emphasizes the identification and development of solutions rather than focusing on problems and their causes. This approach is based on the belief that individuals already possess the necessary skills and resources to overcome their issues, and the therapist's role is to help clients identify and utilize these strengths.

Techniques used in SFBT include goal-setting, exploring exceptions (times when the problem was not present or less severe), and looking for "small" signs of progress and change. Therapists also use scaling questions to help clients assess their progress and the severity of their problems. Overall, the general focus of the therapy is on building solutions, fostering optimism, and empowering clients to take control of their lives.

Conclusion

Therapy is an essential component of treatment for anxiety disorders, offering individuals the tools and support they need to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Canadians have access to a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, many of which are covered by provincial healthcare plans. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, consider reaching out to a mental health professional to explore the benefits of therapy in overcoming this common and treatable condition!

If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, or life overall, don't hesitate to contact us! At In Time Counselling and Consulting Services, we provide both in-person and virtual assistance in the Durham Region and throughout Ontario. If you are looking for anxiety therapy, contact us today!

Change your life in time with

In Time Counselling & Consulting Services

Helping you address burnout, live your values & achieve work-life balance

Explore


HOURS


Tuesday: 8 AM – 6:30 PM

Wednesday: 8 AM – 6:30 PM

Thursday: 8 AM – 6:30 PM

Contact


Address: Unit 9 - 190 Harwood Avenue S,

Ajax, Ontario, L1S 2H6


I’m located in the Work Hub. Please sign in as a visitor on the tablet at reception and I will come get you at your appointment time.


Phone: (289) 536-4995

Email: info@intimecounselling.com



There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-11


©2024 In Time Counselling and Consulting Services | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Cookie Policy