Anxiety can be overwhelming, affecting your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. If you’re struggling with persistent worry, panic attacks, or stress, seeking professional help is a powerful step toward healing. But with so many different types of therapists and treatment approaches, how do you know which therapist is right for you?
At My Denver Therapy, we specialize in anxiety treatment and understand the importance of finding the right therapists for your unique needs. This guide will walk you through the different types of therapists who treat anxiety, their approaches, and how to determine the best fit for you.
1. Licensed Therapists (LPC, LCSW, LMFT)
Who They Are:
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) are all trained mental health professionals who provide talk therapy and emotional support. While their titles may differ slightly based on their training focus or licensure, all three can treat anxiety effectively using a wide range of evidence-based approaches.
How They Treat Anxiety:
Licensed therapists often use modalities such as:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change anxious thought patterns.
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Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Teaches grounding techniques to reduce stress.
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Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to anxiety triggers to build resilience.
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Couples and Family Therapy: Addresses anxiety that stems from or affects interpersonal relationships.
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Gottman Method & Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Strengthens communication and emotional regulation.
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Stress Management: Helps individuals and families develop effective coping strategies.
Who Should See a Licensed Therapist for Anxiety?
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Individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, or stress.
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Those who prefer talk therapy and structured coping strategies.
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Clients whose anxiety is impacted by relationship dynamics.
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Parents seeking support around their child’s anxiety.
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People looking for either short-term tools or long-term therapeutic support.
2. Psychologists (PhD or PsyD)
Who They Are:
- Psychologists hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and are trained in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
- They do not prescribe medication but specialize in advanced psychological testing and therapy techniques.
How They Treat Anxiety:
Psychologists often use:
- CBT and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help manage anxiety.
- Psychological assessments to diagnose anxiety disorders and related conditions.
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for conditions like OCD and panic disorder.
Who Should See a Psychologist for Anxiety?
- Individuals who need formal psychological testing for anxiety or other mental health concerns.
- Those looking for long-term therapy with deeper exploration of thought patterns and behaviors.
- Clients with complex anxiety disorders, including OCD or PTSD.
3. Psychiatrist (MD or DO)
Who They Are:
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication.
- They focus on the biological aspects of anxiety, including brain chemistry and medication management.
How They Treat Anxiety:
- Medication Management: Prescribing anti-anxiety medications like SSRIs or benzodiazepines.
- Combination Treatment: Some psychiatrists offer therapy alongside medication.
- Medical Evaluations: Assessing physical factors contributing to anxiety (such as thyroid imbalances).
Who Should See a Psychiatrist for Anxiety?
- Individuals with severe anxiety that significantly disrupts daily life.
- Those who have tried therapy alone but need additional support through medication.
- Clients with co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or panic disorder.
At My Denver Therapy, we offer medication management through a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works alongside our Denver therapists to create a personalized treatment plan.
4. Trauma Therapists (EMDR & Somatic Therapists)
Who They Are:
- Some therapists specialize in trauma-based approaches like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Therapy to treat anxiety linked to past experiences.
How They Treat Anxiety:
- EMDR Therapy: Helps process traumatic memories that contribute to anxiety.
- Somatic Therapy: Uses body-based techniques to release stored anxiety and tension.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS): Works with different “parts” of the self to reduce anxiety.
Who Should See a Trauma Therapist for Anxiety?
- Individuals whose anxiety is linked to past trauma or PTSD.
- Those who have tried traditional talk therapy but need a deeper healing approach.
- Clients who experience body-based symptoms of anxiety, such as chronic tension or panic attacks.
At My Denver Therapy, our trauma-trained therapists use EMDR and Somatic Therapy to help clients heal from anxiety caused by past experiences.
How to Choose the Right Therapist for Anxiety
Finding the right therapist depends on:
- Your Symptoms: If your anxiety is mild to moderate, a Licensed Therapists (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) may be a great fit. For severe cases, a psychiatrist or psychologist may be best.
- Your Treatment Preferences: Do you prefer talk therapy, medication, or a combination?
- Your Therapy Goals: Do you want short-term coping strategies or deeper, long-term healing?
At My Denver Therapy, we match clients with the right therapist based on their unique needs. Our licensed therapists specialize in anxiety treatment using a variety of approaches, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering what type of therapist you should see for anxiety, the answer depends on your individual needs, severity of symptoms, and personal therapy preferences. Whether you choose CBT, EMDR, medication, or family therapy, the most important step is reaching out for help.
At My Denver Therapy, our team of compassionate, highly trained therapists offers personalized anxiety treatment to help you regain control of your life.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation today and start your journey toward calm, confidence, and relief.
