Learn How to Effectively Reduce Anxiety Using These 5 Therapy Techniques
In this article, we will be discussing five powerful and effective therapy skills that can help you reduce anxiety in high-stress situations. Anxiety is a common emotional response to stress, and it can affect anyone at any time. Whether you’re facing a demanding job, an important presentation, or dealing with personal challenges, these therapy skills can provide you with the tools to navigate through anxiety and regain control of your emotions.
1: Mindfulness & Grounding to Reduce Anxiety
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique that helps you stay present in the moment, without judgment. It involves focusing on your breath and observing your thoughts and feelings without getting entangled in them. By practicing mindfulness, you can ground yourself during high-stress situations, allowing you to remain calm and collected.
To practice mindfulness meditation, find a quiet space and sit or lie down comfortably. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Pay attention to each breath as you inhale and exhale. When thoughts arise, acknowledge them, but gently bring your focus back to your breath. Start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.
2: COgnitive REstructuring to Reduce Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and effective form of therapy to reduce anxiety. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with more positive and realistic ones.
One CBT technique that you can use during high-stress situations to reduce anxiety is called cognitive restructuring. When you notice yourself having negative thoughts or irrational beliefs, pause and question their validity. Ask yourself if there is any evidence to support these thoughts. Often, you’ll find that these thoughts are based on assumptions rather than facts. Replace them with more balanced and constructive thoughts.
3: Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a relaxation technique that involves tensing and then releasing different muscle groups to reduce anxiety, physical tension and promote relaxation. This technique is particularly helpful when anxiety manifests as physical symptoms like muscle tightness or headaches.
To practice PMR, find a quiet and comfortable space. Start by taking a few deep breaths to calm your mind. Then, systematically tense and relax each muscle group in your body, starting from your toes and working your way up to your head. Hold each muscle tension for a few seconds before releasing it. This practice can help you release built-up tension and achieve a sense of relaxation.
4: Guided Imagery to reduce anxiety
Guided imagery is a therapeutic technique that involves using your imagination to create calming and peaceful mental images. It can be particularly helpful in reducing anxiety during high-stress situations by redirecting your focus from the stressor to a more serene and comforting mental space.
To practice guided imagery, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax. Then, visualize yourself in a peaceful and serene location, such as a tranquil beach or a lush forest. Engage your senses by imagining the sights, sounds, and scents of this place. Allow yourself to immerse in this mental landscape, experiencing a profound sense of calm and relaxation.
Reduce Anxiety with Journaling
Journaling is an excellent therapeutic tool for processing emotions and reducing anxiety. Putting your thoughts and feelings down on paper can help you gain clarity and understanding of your emotions, leading to a sense of relief and emotional release.
During high-stress situations, take a moment to write down your thoughts and emotions in a journal. Be honest and non-judgmental with yourself. You can also use your journal to challenge any negative thought patterns and find alternative, positive perspectives.
reduce anxiety one day at a time
In conclusion, these five step-by-step therapy skills can be invaluable tools help you reduce anxiety. Mindfulness meditation helps you stay present and grounded, while Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) enables you to challenge negative thoughts. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) releases physical tension, and guided imagery redirects your focus to peaceful mental images. Lastly, journaling allows for emotional release and self-reflection.
Remember, it’s essential to practice these skills regularly to build resilience and better cope with anxiety. Each individual is unique, so experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. With dedication and practice, you can harness the power of these therapy skills to navigate through life’s challenges with greater ease and tranquility and effectively reduce anxiety.
How do I get started as a new client?
New Clients can reach out to us directly via call, text or email here:
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice in the event that they need to cancel to avoid the 50% cancellation fee. we understand that life happens and do our best to be flexible & reschedule.
Does my insurance cover my visits?
We provide”Courtesy Billing” for clients who are using the Out-of-network insurance benefits.
Our Insurance Page shares a small blurb about Why We Left Insurance Panels
Do you offer traditional talk therapy?
of course! though we have some unconventional therapy approaches, we are rooted in evidenced based practices. Talk therapy is a major player in the therapy room! See What we Treat and Integrative Services for more information
Is Online Therapy As Effective As In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy is essentially face-to-face counseling, just conducted remotely. Studies show that teletherapy is as effective as traditional counseling. Professional organizations and state governments recognize its benefits and have set regulations for it. However, like any therapy, its success in achieving your goals isn’t guaranteed. It’s important to discuss with your therapist whether teletherapy is working for you.
Can I Change Therapists If I'm Not Happy?
Yes, you can switch therapists to another provider within the practice, or we can provide you a referral if preferred. We want to ensure that your time and effort are well spent, and that you are getting the relief you need, that’s why we work collaboratively with each other in the practice, as well as outside therapists who we know and trust.
How Do I Know If Therapy Is Helping?
You should feel like you’re making progress. Signs it’s working include:
Feeling comfortable talking to your therapist
Your therapist respects boundaries
You’re moving towards your goals
You feel listened to
You’re doing better in life
Your self-esteem is getting better
Is Online Therapy Easy to Use for Non-Tech-Savvy People?
Yes, it’s pretty simple to access sessions. You’ll need basic internet skills, such as opening and visiting the patient link sent to you via email. It’s similar to video chatting like Facetime or Zoom. We can also walk you through it on the phone the first time to ensure a strong connection
What Questions Should I Ask My New Therapist?
Feel free to ask anything. Some good questions are:
- How often will we meet?
- What do you specialize in?
- What experience do you have with my issue?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- How will I know I’m progressing?
- How long do you usually work with clients?
- How will we set my treatment goals?
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Showing up is all that you need to do! But if you really want to get the most out of session, it could help to take some time to think about what you want from therapy. It helps to write down your goals, questions you have or things that you feel are important to share.
What is the difference between associate therapists & fully licensed therapists?
Our Qualifications:
Our founder, Rebecca Sidoti, is a highly qualified, state-licensed therapist and supervisor with extensive training in anxiety related disorders and innovative treatment such as Ketamine Therapy. Mind by Design Counseling adheres to standards set by the our governing counseling boards.
To see each providers credentials, training and licenses, visit our “Meet the Therapists” Page to learn more.
- LAC/LSW are therapists who may practice clinical work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist.
- LPC/LCSW are therapists who have completed the necessary clinical hours post-graduation under supervision and can practice clinical work independently.
What Geographic Areas Are Served?
Currently, we serve clients in New Jersey and are expanding to other states as telehealth laws evolve. While telehealth offers the convenience of attending sessions from anywhere, state laws require clients to be in-state during their session.
Is Virtual Counseling Suitable for Everyone?
Online therapy might not be as effective for individuals with chronic suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, significant mental health history, or those recently in intensive care. Such cases often benefit more from traditional, in-person counseling. We’ll help you decide if our online services are right for you during your intake and evaluation.
What Equipment is Needed for Online Therapy?
To join a session, log in using the credentials we provide. No downloads are needed. Our platform, compatible with both individual and group sessions, requires:
A computer or mobile device with a webcam and internet access.
We’ll help you test your setup before your first appointment to ensure a reliable connection. iOS users should use the Safari browser for mobile and tablet sessions.
What Questions Will Therapists Ask Me?
It depends on your goals. Expect questions about your thoughts, feelings, relationships, work, school, and health. They’ll ask to understand your therapy goals.
How Do You Keep Client Information Secure?
Security and Confidentiality of Sessions:
Your privacy is crucial to us. We use TherapyNotes, a HIPAA-compliant platform, ensuring secure and confidential teletherapy sessions. This platform’s security features include encrypted video connections, secure data transfers, and encrypted databases, ensuring your information is safe at all times.
What is VRT used for?
we use VRT to support Exposure Therapy, a long standing traditional therapy modality to treat phobias, anxiety and stress. we send a headset directly to your home so you can access VRT from anywhere.
VRT not only helps with exposure therapy for phobias, but is great for ADHD, mindfulness, PTSD and social anxiety.