As a licensed psychologist based in Pasadena, I’ve had the privilege of helping adults navigate the overwhelming and often isolating experience of anxiety. Whether you’re constantly on edge, feeling stuck in overthinking, or find it hard to breathe when life feels out of control, you’re not alone, and there is help. Through a personalized, evidence-based approach, I work with you to understand the root of your anxiety and guide you toward long-term relief.
Anxiety doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t have to dictate how you live. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can gain insight, build practical tools, and ultimately reclaim your peace of mind.
Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Adult Anxiety
Anxiety can show up in different ways for different people. Some symptoms are easy to spot, while others can be more subtle or internal. Here are some common indicators that anxiety may be affecting your daily life:
- Persistent feelings of worry, fear, or dread
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally “foggy”
- Restlessness or irritability
- Muscle tension or frequent headaches
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Racing thoughts that are hard to control
- Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety
- Physical symptoms such as nausea, rapid heartbeat, or sweating
Why Addressing Anxiety is Essential to Your Well-Being
Anxiety isn’t just about feeling nervous or stressed from time to time; it can become a chronic condition that disrupts your ability to enjoy life, maintain relationships, and perform at work or school. Left untreated, anxiety can take a toll on your physical health, leading to fatigue, weakened immunity, and even chronic illnesses over time. Mental health is healthcare, and anxiety is a condition that deserves attention, compassion, and evidence-based care.
Many adults wait years before seeking support, believing they should be able to “handle it” on their own. But anxiety isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s often the mind’s way of signaling that something needs to change. Therapy allows us to understand those signals, uncover the deeper causes behind your distress, and create a healthier relationship with your thoughts and emotions. For healthcare providers, addressing anxiety in patients is key to improving overall outcomes, reducing medication dependency, and enhancing quality of life. This is why early, thoughtful intervention matters, not just for symptom relief, but for long-term well-being.
My Approach to Anxiety Treatment: What to Expect
When you come to me for anxiety treatment, I take a collaborative, tailored approach to ensure your care reflects your unique needs and life experiences. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
Initial Consultation: We begin with a comprehensive intake session to explore your history, current concerns, and therapy goals. This is a judgment-free space where you can share openly at your own pace.
Personalized Treatment Planning: Based on our initial conversations, I’ll design a custom treatment plan. I often integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and insight-oriented therapy, depending on what aligns with your needs.
Skill-Building and Coping Strategies: We’ll work together to identify and challenge thought patterns that fuel anxiety. I’ll also help you develop practical tools to calm your nervous system, manage triggers, and respond to stress more effectively.
Ongoing Progress Monitoring: Throughout therapy, I continually assess progress and make adjustments as necessary. Your feedback is essential; we work as a team.
Transition and Maintenance: As your symptoms improve, we’ll shift toward maintaining progress and preventing relapse. You’ll leave therapy with a toolkit of resources to support you long after our sessions end.
Preventing Anxiety from Taking Control
While anxiety may not always be preventable, some strategies significantly reduce the risk of chronic anxiety and promote emotional resilience. Creating a balanced lifestyle, one that includes sufficient sleep, healthy nutrition, and physical activity, plays a vital role in emotional regulation. Regular social connection and open communication with trusted people can also act as a buffer against stress. Practicing mindfulness or meditation has been shown to reduce the brain’s reactivity to stressors and improve overall emotional well-being.
Another key component is learning to recognize the early signs of anxiety. When you catch these signs early, it’s easier to manage them before they escalate. Additionally, setting realistic expectations for yourself and establishing boundaries in your work and personal life can help reduce overwhelm. Most importantly, don’t ignore your mental health. Seeking support early on—whether through therapy, support groups, or education can make all the difference in how anxiety develops over time.
A Life Beyond Anxiety
The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable, especially when addressed through professional therapy. Most clients I work with begin to notice improvements within a few months. While healing isn’t always linear, the therapeutic process helps you build inner strength and self-awareness that continues to grow over time. Clients often report better sleep, improved focus, deeper relationships, and a stronger sense of self.
Long-term, therapy offers more than just symptom relief; it gives you the tools to understand and manage emotions in a healthy, empowered way. My goal isn’t just to help you cope; it’s to help you thrive. Whether your anxiety is tied to work, relationships, trauma, or life transitions, we’ll work together to uncover the root and build a more peaceful, fulfilling future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my anxiety is severe enough to seek help?
If your anxiety is interfering with daily functioning—whether at work, home, or in relationships—it’s worth seeking professional support.
2. What type of therapy do you use for anxiety?
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) along with mindfulness-based strategies and psychodynamic approaches, tailored to your specific needs.
3. How long does therapy for anxiety typically last?
Treatment varies by individual, but many clients begin to feel better within 8 to 12 sessions, depending on the severity and duration of their symptoms.
4. Can therapy really help without medication?
Yes, many people experience significant improvement through therapy alone. If needed, I can also collaborate with your physician or psychiatrist regarding medication options.
5. Do you offer virtual sessions for anxiety therapy?
Yes, I offer both in-person and secure virtual sessions for clients located in California, including Pasadena and surrounding areas.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Relief?
If you’re struggling with anxiety, I want you to know that help is available and healing is possible. You’re not expected to navigate this on your own, and there’s no shame in seeking support. Therapy can be the bridge between where you are now and the calmer, more confident life you deserve.
If you’re ready to explore therapy for anxiety, I invite you to reach out today. I’m here to answer your questions and schedule your first appointment. Let’s take the next step, together.
