Is therapy or medication better for anxiety?

Both can help, and they aren't mutually exclusive. Therapy gives you a longer-term understanding of what drives the anxiety and tools to manage it. Many people use both — your GP can advise on medication if that's something you're considering.

I draw on CBT techniques where they're useful, alongside deeper relational and exploratory work. The mix is tailored to what you find helpful rather than following a fixed manual.

How long until I feel better?

Many people notice some relief within the first few weeks as the anxiety becomes more understandable and less frightening. Lasting change usually unfolds over several months, and we'll review progress together along the way.

Can anxiety therapy help with panic attacks?

Yes. We can work on understanding what triggers panic, calming the body in the moment, and reducing the fear of fear that often keeps panic going. You don't have to face this alone.

Anxiety Therapy

Anxiety Therapy in Richmond

Anxiety is exhausting. The racing thoughts, the body that won't settle, the sense that something bad is about to happen — even when, rationally, you know it isn't. It can affect sleep, relationships, work and the simple pleasure of being in the moment.

Anxiety therapy offers a space to slow down, understand what's driving the worry, and build practical ways to cope. You won't be told to 'just relax' or pushed to face things before you're ready. The work is collaborative and paced around you.

I offer anxiety counselling in Richmond upon Thames and online. Whether your anxiety is recent or something you've lived with for years, you're welcome to arrange a free 15-minute call to talk through what you need.

Forms of anxiety I work with

Generalised anxiety and constant background worry
Panic attacks and health anxiety
Social anxiety and performance anxiety
Work-related stress and burnout
Anxiety around relationships, dating or intimacy
Perfectionism and over-functioning
Intrusive thoughts and compulsive checking
Anxiety linked to a specific life event or transition

Calming the system, then understanding it

Early sessions often focus on practical ways to settle a frightened body and interrupt anxious loops — grounding, breathing, noticing triggers, and reducing avoidance where it keeps the anxiety going.

Alongside this we look at where the anxiety comes from: the patterns, beliefs and earlier experiences that keep it alive. Understanding the 'why' often makes the 'how to cope' more lasting, so relief isn't only about managing symptoms in the moment.

Integrative and evidence-informed

I draw on CBT, mindfulness-based and psychodynamic ideas. CBT can help with unhelpful thought patterns; mindfulness with staying present; psychodynamic work with the deeper roots of why anxiety feels so familiar.

Different parts of the work suit different people, and we'll find the mix that fits you. The aim isn't to eliminate all anxiety — some worry is human — but to reduce its grip on your life.

What a typical session looks like

Sessions are 50 minutes and usually weekly, in person or by secure video. We might talk about what's happened since we last met, explore a particular worry or memory, or practise skills you can use between sessions.

There's no performance expected. Many people find that simply being heard without judgement begins to ease the pressure they've been carrying alone. Evening appointments are sometimes available — please ask when you get in touch.

Arrange a free introductory call

A 15-minute call is a gentle way to ask questions and get a feel for how I work before booking a session. There's no obligation. You can reach me via the contact page or at counsellingrichmond26@gmail.com.

Common questions

Is therapy or medication better for anxiety?: Both can help, and they aren't mutually exclusive. Therapy gives you a longer-term understanding of what drives the anxiety and tools to manage it. Many people use both — your GP can advise on medication if that's something you're considering.
Do you offer CBT?: I draw on CBT techniques where they're useful, alongside deeper relational and exploratory work. The mix is tailored to what you find helpful rather than following a fixed manual.
How long until I feel better?: Many people notice some relief within the first few weeks as the anxiety becomes more understandable and less frightening. Lasting change usually unfolds over several months, and we'll review progress together along the way.
Can anxiety therapy help with panic attacks?: Yes. We can work on understanding what triggers panic, calming the body in the moment, and reducing the fear of fear that often keeps panic going. You don't have to face this alone.

Arrange a free 15-minute call

A no-pressure conversation to see whether we're a good fit before booking.

Get in touch