Laura L. Smith - Anxiety For Dummies

One other therapy you may hear about is called cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which essentially represents a combination of CT and BT. We write about these specific types of therapies to inform our readers about what research has found to be successful. In general, all these approaches seem to work. Many of the techniques in each therapy are similar and overlap. That fact may explain why outcome studies have not demonstrated clear superiority for one of these approaches over the others.

Treatments that work share similar strategies. Therefore, we select some of the best elements from each type of therapy for dealing with common symptoms of anxiety, as seen in Part 2.

In addition to knowing the right therapy, you need to know whom to look for. Start by making sure that the therapist you seek is licensed to provide mental health services, whether as a counselor, psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse, psychologist, or social worker. Sources for finding one of these licensed practitioners include local professional associations (such as state psychology associations, state counselor associations, and so forth), your primary healthcare provider, your insurance company, or trusted friends and family who can recommend someone.

After you’ve found a professional who seems to fit the bill, be sure to ask the following questions:

What are your charges for services, and does my insurance cover them?

What are your hours?

How soon can you see me?

What is your experience in treating anxiety disorders?

What therapy approach do you take in treating anxiety?

Are you willing to collaborate with my doctor?

You should feel comfortable talking with your therapist. After a few sessions, you should feel listened to and understood and sense that your therapist has legitimate empathy and concern for your well-being. Don’t hesitate to inquire about the nature of your treatment plan — that plan should make sense to you. Most therapists take a few weeks getting to know you before they formulate an entire plan. If you’re uncomfortable for any reason, by all means seek a second opinion from another therapist. Research shows that how you feel about the relationship with your therapist makes a big difference in how well the therapy goes.

Part 2

IN THIS PART …

Recognize the difference between thoughts and feelings.

Figure out how to rethink anxious thoughts.

Dig into assumptions that make you anxious.

Learn to welcome anxious feelings.

Explore the pluses and minuses of medication.

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