We all, at one time or another, have had experiences with anxiety.  Feelings of anxiousness are normal reactions to stress.

• “Everyone is staring at me.”
• “I think I locked the door but I better check it again.”
• “This room is too small. I have to get out!”

However, when anxiety becomes excessive, it can result in a disabling disorder.  People suffering from anxiety can fall into many different categories including:

• Panic disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and repeated “attacks” of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms that may include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

• OCD: Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts and/or repetitive behaviors or rituals.  Jack Nicholson portrayed this characteristic in the movie “As Good as it Gets."

• PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder can occur when a person has experienced some form of trauma.  Frequent flashbacks or nightmares can cause one to isolate themselves from, and/or avoid social contact. 

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder: This is a disorder characterized by chronic  worry or tension, even though there may be little or nothing to provoke it.  People with generalized anxiety disorder have difficulty casting off these weights.  At times, things may become so difficult that negative physical symptoms are present.

• Social Phobia: This is where a person feels overwhelming anxiety and excessive self-consciousness in everyday social situations.  People with social phobia have a persistent, intense, and chronic fear of being watched and judged by others and being embarrassed or humiliated by their own actions.

Anxiety disorders are treatable and can be alleviated.  They do not have to rule your life.  I will provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to share your innermost feelings, wants, and needs.  Together we will devise and map out a plan of personal recovery.