Anxiety & Panic - Dr. Kelly Karjoo, PsyD, CMNCS
When you feel anxious, the world can feel unsafe, and even routine tasks may trigger intense apprehension. Common physical symptoms of anxiety include intense fear, persistent worry, racing thoughts, muscle tension, rapid pulse, sweating, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Anxiety can range from mild to severe, affecting your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. It’s a physiological and psychological response to stress, danger, or unfamiliar situations. When anxiety becomes chronic or excessive, it can drastically reduce your quality of life, causing pain, suffering, and isolation.
We’ll work together to explore the roots of your anxiety—whether it's from past experiences, trauma, or learned behaviors. By understanding your triggers, we can develop healthier coping mechanisms that allow you to better manage your reactions to anxiety-provoking situations.
Often, anxiety leads us to avoid situations we believe will provoke it, limiting our lives and isolating us. I help clients gradually increase their tolerance for anxiety-provoking scenarios, confront their fears, and build resilience using the skills developed in therapy.
People with anxiety are also at an increased risk of experiencing panic attacks. These sudden surges of terror can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain. Many people believe they are having a heart attack, often ending up in the emergency room. However, once we explore the triggers and sensations, the root cause of the panic usually becomes clearer.
I view each client as a unique individual with their own history of pain and resilience. I will collaborate with you to create a holistic treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help challenge distorted thought patterns that fuel anxiety. By replacing irrational beliefs with more balanced perspectives, you’ll gain control over your anxious reactions. Additionally, learning mindfulness and relaxation techniques can equip you with tools to better manage symptoms when they arise.
My goal is not just to relieve symptoms but to address the underlying causes of your anxiety, building a foundation for long-term well-being. Relief is possible, and we’ll work together to help you achieve it.