Stress, PTSD and Anxiety Therapists in Sycamore, IL.

Anxiety takes on a variety of different forms; therefore, Karen’s initial approach is to find out the underlying cause(s) of the anxiety. Anxiety disorders differ considerably, and as a result, therapy is tailored to the specific symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy (ET) have been shown to be effective in treating individuals suffering from the various forms of anxiety, and these are Karen’s preferred methods of treatment. Worries and fears do not need to be constants in an individual’s life, so Karen and the client will work together to find ways of looking at situations differently, develop coping skills, and consider new ways of problem solving.

I specialize in the treatment of Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Worry), Panic Disorder with or without Agoraphobia, Health Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I would describe my therapeutic approach to be cognitive behavioral (CBT), with an emphasis on the behavioral. I also like to integrate other third wave mindfulness-based CBT approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy when indicated.

At times, we all think negatively; however, we are empowered because we can change the way we think in order to feel less anxiety and stress. In order to pursue optimal psychological health, one way to start is to begin to monitor our thinking regularly. The next step is to examine or question our thoughts and ask ourselves things like: Are our thoughts in proportion to what has happened? Is there any evidence that our beliefs are true? Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment approach for anxiety and stress especially if part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Anxiety, worries, fears and stress are actually common experiences in life, but I will teach you ways to feel more competent and confident in dealing with them. Then when you are beginning to fear or worry, you will quickly know what to do to take care of yourself and either prevent or overcome any potential negative effects these feelings could pose in your life and work.

Anxiety and fear comes in many forms yet stems from living a life in the future not the present. Walking through what the fear might be helps the client become strong face what life in the present has in store for them. Focusing not he here and now eliminates many fears and anxieties. Understanding if brain chemistry is playing a significant role in the intense sometimes out of control emotions will need to be determined before effective psychotherapy can be utilized.