Do you find yourself constantly caught in a cycle of worry, feeling anxious and on edge almost all the time? Do you try to calm your mind but struggle to turn off the flood of thoughts? Maybe you’ve experienced panic attacks or have certain fears that make daily life feel overwhelming. If you’re searching for help to manage your anxiety, know that you’re in the right place, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Anxiety is a natural human emotion, but when it becomes excessive—marked by chronic worry, fear, apprehension, or even panic—it may be pointing to an anxiety disorder. You’re not alone; anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting over 40 million people. Yet, with the right support, it’s possible to regain control of your life.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety manifests in many ways, and it can take a toll on both your mind and body. Some common signs include:
- Persistent feelings of nervousness, tension, or fear
- Inability to shift focus away from worries, causing difficulty in concentrating
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep due to racing thoughts
- Repetitive, obsessive thoughts or behaviors that seem impossible to shake
- Phobias that interfere with daily life
- Experiencing panic attacks marked by intense feelings of fear or dread
- Physical symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, nausea, chest pain, or tingling sensations
Anxiety can also stem from traumatic experiences, leading to heightened vigilance and avoidance behaviors, as seen in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety shows up in different forms, each with its unique challenges. Some common types of anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) : This is one of the most prevalent forms of anxiety. If you struggle with constant, excessive worry about everyday situations or events, you may have GAD. Symptoms often include restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, and trouble sleeping.
- Panic Disorder : Panic disorder involves sudden, intense waves of fear that can escalate quickly and feel overwhelming. These panic attacks may be triggered by stressful events, but they can also strike without any clear cause. During an attack, you might experience alarming physical symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath. While these sensations can be frightening, they are manageable with the right support and strategies.
- Social Anxiety Disorder : Social anxiety goes beyond shyness or occasional nervousness in social situations. It’s a persistent fear of being judged or humiliated in social interactions, leading to isolation and difficulty participating in daily activities.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) : OCD is characterized by obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors that are difficult to resist. Obsessions involve persistent and distressing ideas, thoughts, impulses, or images. Compulsions involve repetitive behaviors that only temporarily reduce anxiety.
- Phobias : Specific phobias, whether related to social situations, heights, flying, or driving, are intense, irrational fears that can limit your daily life. These fears may feel overpowering, but therapy can help you reclaim your freedom.
Video Courtesy of Psych Hub
“I started seeing Rachele after I hit a wall in my career and personal life. I've never seen a counselor before—but it was exactly what I needed. Every week we set goals, talked through every step to achieve those goals, and most importantly, dissected any anxious thoughts I had through each process. One misconception I had was that counseling was really expensive—it's definitely not, and it's so worth it, especially with Rachele. I will be singing her praises forever.”
Former Client
Compassionate Therapy Approaches for Anxiety
Therapy helps guide you toward lasting relief. While some approaches may provide temporary comfort by addressing the surface-level feelings, counseling focuses on the deeper causes of anxiety, leading to meaningful and lasting change.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR Therapy , both of which are highly effective approaches to treating anxiety. In our sessions, you’ll gain tools to manage anxious thoughts and feelings in the moment while also addressing the deeper issues that drive your anxiety. Together, we’ll challenge negative thinking patterns, process underlying causes, and cultivate a sense of calm and safety within yourself.
You deserve to live free from the constant burden of anxiety, to wake up feeling at peace, and to step into your life with confidence. Therapy can make that possible.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Change
If anxiety is keeping you from living the life you desire, there’s hope for change. I offer compassionate, effective therapy for anxiety right here in Fort Myers. Reach out to schedule a free consultation today. Let’s work together to help you reclaim your sense of calm, safety, and inner peace.
