Anxiety
Do you often feel anxious or stressed? You can learn to calm your mind and body.
Anxiety
"I have anxiety" is a phrase often heard in relation to simply feeling nervous or stressed, but in using the word so casually we do not appreciate the severity and complexity of the condition.
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If you have been experiencing uncontrollable worry, nervousness, or even panic attacks, you are aware stopping anxiety can feel like stopping a train that has already left the station.
Through counselling, we can explore what anxiety is, understand the unique reasons why you are experiencing anxiety, and build tools so that anxiety no longer runs your life.
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Many people experience the signs or symptoms of anxiety that include, but are not limited to:
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Anxiety attacks
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Avoidance of social situations
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Avoidance of work or school
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Difficulty concentrating
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Difficulty sleeping
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Fear and stress in social situations
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Headaches or stomach aches with no medical explanation
- Irritability with friends or loved ones
- Negative thoughts or fears that you are unable to get out of your head
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Panic attacks
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Procrastination
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Tense muscles/body aches with no medical explanation
How common is Anxiety?
If you are feeling symptoms of anxiety, or have received a formal diagnosis, know that you are not alone:
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According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Anxiety Disorders affect approximately 12% of the Canadian population in any given year.
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Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problem experienced by children and youth in Canada, with an estimated 10-20% of Canadian youth affected.
Women are more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men, with a lifetime prevalence rate of 21% for women and 12% for men.
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In 2020, a survey by the Angus Reid Institute found that 41% of Canadians reported feeling anxious.
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It is important to remember that seeking help for anxiety is a sign of strength, and with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage and overcome anxiety. There are several evidence-based therapies that have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), among others. These therapies aim to help individuals understand and manage their anxiety symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being.
Ready to get started?
First you have to decide if you would like our sessions to be in person at my Abbotsford office, or online through a secure tele-health platform. Once that is decided, we can move to a free consultation or a first session.
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Free Consultation (Optional)
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Complementary 20 minute phone/video sessions are available as a first step. These sessions give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have before starting, and is a chance to determine if we are a good therapeutic fit. Book your free consultation by filling out the new client form here.
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First Session​
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If you are ready to move forward, the next step is to book a first session. For in person sessions book here, and online bookings can be made by email or filling out a new client form.