Anxiety is one of the most common reasons people seek therapy. When worry becomes constant, your mind races with “what ifs,” or physical symptoms like tension, restlessness, or a racing heart take over, it’s hard to feel present in your own life.
At Blue Rock Psychology, we help clients understand their anxiety, develop effective coping strategies, and address the deeper patterns that keep anxiety in place.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is your nervous system’s response to a perceived threat. While some anxiety is protective and helps us prepare for challenges, chronic anxiety can feel overwhelming and exhausting.
Common signs of anxiety include:
- Persistent worry that’s hard to control
- Feeling on edge, restless, or keyed up
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Muscle tension, headaches, or physical discomfort
- Sleep difficulties (trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or restless sleep)
- Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety
- Panic attacks (sudden, intense fear with physical symptoms)
- Irritability or feeling easily overwhelmed
How We Treat Anxiety
Our therapists use evidence-based approaches to help you manage anxiety effectively:
Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)
Anxiety often has roots in attachment and relationship patterns. EFIT helps you understand what’s driving your anxiety at a deeper level.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps you change your relationship with anxious thoughts. Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety (which often backfires), you learn to make space for difficult feelings while taking action aligned with your values.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that fuel anxiety. You’ll develop practical skills for managing worry and reducing avoidance.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS views anxiety as coming from protective “parts” of yourself. By understanding what these parts are trying to protect you from, you can reduce their intensity and find more inner calm.
What Therapy For Anxiety Looks Like
In sessions, we’ll work together to:
- Understand your unique anxiety patterns and triggers
- Explore the underlying emotions and needs connected to your anxiety
- Develop practical strategies for managing symptoms
- Address any past experiences that contribute to present anxiety
- Build confidence in your ability to handle difficult situations
Our Therapists Who Work With Anxiety
- Jodie Purnell, Registered Psychologist
- Megan Stefanich, Registered Provisional Psychologist
- Carolyn Kesler, Registered Provisional Psychologist
- Adela Aguilar, Canadian Certified Counsellor