Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a normal human response to stress, but when it becomes persistent, overwhelming, or disruptive, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health concerns, affecting individuals across the lifespan. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help clients manage anxiety, regain control, and improve quality of life.

 

We understand that anxiety can affect every aspect of daily functioning—from work, school, and relationships to sleep, concentration, and physical health. Our clinicians work collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs, experiences, and goals.

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Understanding Anxiety Disorders

 

Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. While everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, anxiety disorders are more intense, persistent, and often accompanied by physical symptoms.

 

Common lived experiences of anxiety include:

 

• Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating

• Feeling tense, restless, or on edge

• Avoiding situations due to fear or worry

• Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, or stomach upset

• Sleep difficulties or fatigue

• Irritability, self-doubt, or feeling “stuck” in worry loops​

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Types of Anxiety Disorders

 

Anxiety disorders can present in many forms. At CHI, we provide assessment and treatment for a range of anxiety disorders, including:

 

 

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

 

• Persistent, excessive worry about everyday events or responsibilities

• Difficulty controlling worry or calming racing thoughts

• Physical symptoms: muscle tension, headaches, stomach discomfort

• Lived experience: Feeling “on edge” constantly, second-guessing decisions

 

Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)

 

• Intense fear of social situations or being judged by others

• Avoidance of public speaking, social gatherings, or new relationships

• Lived experience: Feeling extreme self-conscious, experiencing panic in social interactions

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Panic Disorder

 

• Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden surges of intense fear

• Physical symptoms: heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness

• Lived experience: Feeling like you are “losing control” or having a medical emergency during an attack

 

Specific Phobias

 

• Intense fear of specific objects or situations (heights, animals, medical procedures)

• Avoidance behavior that interferes with daily life

• Lived experience: Feeling paralyzed by fear even when you know it is unlikely to cause harm

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Separation Anxiety Disorder

 

• Excessive fear of being apart from loved ones

• Worry about safety or wellbeing of caregivers

• Lived experience: Difficulty leaving home, school, or routines due to fear of separation

 

 

Selective Mutism (in children and adolescents)

 

• Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations despite speaking in other settings

• Often linked to social anxiety or extreme fear of embarrassment

 

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How Anxiety Is Treated at CHI

 

At Compassionate Healing Institute, we provide evidence-based, individualized treatment to help clients manage anxiety and build resilience. Treatment may include:

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• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Gradual, guided exposure to feared situations

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Developing values-based coping strategies

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Supporting emotional regulation

• Skills-based interventions: Improving problem-solving, organization, and coping skills

• Family and caregiver support (for children and adolescents)

• Collaboration with medical providers when medication may support treatment

 

Our approach is personalized, flexible, and designed to meet each client where they are—whether anxiety has been present for years or has recently emerged.

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Our Commitment at Compassionate Healing Institute

 

Our clinicians provide compassionate, personalized care for children, teens, and adults. We focus on helping clients:

 

• Understand the roots and patterns of anxiety

• Develop coping skills and emotional regulation strategies

• Build confidence and resilience

• Improve relationships, school, work, and daily functioning

 

We empower clients to regain control, reduce distress, and live meaningful lives aligned with their values.

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Begin Anxiety Treatment at CHI

 

If anxiety is affecting your life or your child’s daily functioning, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact Compassionate Healing Institute to schedule an initial evaluation and learn how our evidence-based, individualized treatment can support lasting change.

 

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