Our therapists provide anxiety therapy in McKinney, TX

My go-to approach for treating anxiety is based in understanding the purpose behind the behavior. I find the best benefit in the internal family systems (IFS) style of treatment for this, because often it is the shame we attach to anxious behaviors that keep us “stuck” in repeating those behaviors and unable to move on from maladaptive behaviors.

I teach the following tools in anxiety therapy:

• Cognitive restructuring: Helping the patient identify and challenge irrational thoughts contributing to anxiety.
• Behavioral experiments: Encouraging patients to test the validity of their fears through structured activities.
• Relaxation techniques: Teaching relaxation methods such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery to reduce physiological arousal.
• Exposure therapy: Gradually exposing the patient to feared situations or objects to reduce anxiety over time.
• Homework assignments: Assigning tasks between sessions to practice coping skills and reinforce learning.
• Mindfulness meditation: Teaching mindfulness techniques to increase awareness of thoughts and feelings without judgment.
• Psychoeducation: Providing information about anxiety and its symptoms to increase understanding and awareness.
• Stress management skills: Teaching practical skills for managing stressors in daily life.
• Problem-solving techniques: Assisting patients in identifying and addressing practical problems contributing to anxiety.
• Assertiveness training: Teaching patients to communicate their needs and set boundaries effectively, reducing stressors related to interpersonal relationships.

I know a client is making meaningful progress in anxiety therapy when there is a(n):

• Decreased frequency or intensity of anxiety symptoms.
• Improved ability to cope with anxiety-provoking situations.
• Increased awareness and utilization of coping strategies.
• Enhanced understanding and challenge of irrational thoughts.
• Greater engagement in functional activities previously avoided due to anxiety.

Clients can supplement their time in anxiety therapy by:

• Practicing relaxation techniques regularly.
• Challenging irrational thoughts using thought records.
• Engaging in exposure exercises to confront feared situations.
• Implementing coping strategies in daily life.
• Completing homework assignments to reinforce skills learned in therapy.

To prepare for your first anxiety therapy session, you can expect to:

• Collaboratively set treatment goals and develop a structured treatment plan.
• Identify and challenge negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety.
• Learn practical coping skills to manage anxiety symptoms.
• Engage in exposure exercises to gradually confront feared situations.
• Receive ongoing support and guidance to implement techniques outside of therapy sessions.
• Work towards symptom reduction and improved quality of life through evidence-based interventions.