Going to Therapy for Anxiety.

Written by Sofie Charron, RP of Charron Psychotherapy Services - Serving Orleans, Ottawa, and across Ontario through virtual and in-person psychotherapy.

Anxiety is one of the most common reasons children, teens and adults seek psychotherapy.

Some describe racing thoughts or constant worry; others feel it more physically - a tight chest, upset stomach, or difficulty relaxing. No matter how it shows up, anxiety often leaves people feeling disconnected from the life they want to live. Therapy offers a space to slow down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and learn new ways to cope and respond.

Not All Anxiety Looks the Same

Anxiety isn’t a single experience; it’s a broad term that can describe many different patterns:

1. Anxiety Disorders

For some, anxiety becomes a frequent visitor that overstays its welcome. This can include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, or phobias. These experiences are often intense and persistent, making daily life feel exhausting.

2. Attachment-Based Anxiety

Others experience anxiety in relationships - worrying about rejection, abandonment, or closeness. This is known as attachment-related anxiety, and it can show up in friendships, romantic partnerships, or even at work. Therapy helps uncover the early patterns that shaped these fears and offers new ways of relating that feel safer and more secure.

3. Anxiety as a Symptom of Something Else

Sometimes anxiety isn’t the “main problem,” but rather a sign of something deeper, like unresolved grief, trauma, burnout, or chronic stress. In these cases, anxiety acts as a signal from the body and mind that something needs care and attention.

Common Therapy Goals for People Living with Anxiety

While every client’s experience is unique, many share similar hopes for what they want to get out of therapy.

1. Understanding Triggers and Patterns

The first step in therapy is often awareness: Noticing what tends to set off anxiety, and how thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations interact. When you can name the pattern, you can begin to shift it.

2. Building Tools for Calm

Therapy offers evidence-based strategies for managing anxiety, such as grounding techniques, cognitive reframing, or mindfulness practices. Over time, these tools help you feel more capable of responding rather than reacting to stress.

3. Strengthening Self-Compassion

Anxiety often comes with self-criticism: “Why can’t I just relax?” or “Other people seem to handle this fine.” A major part of therapy is learning to approach yourself with understanding and kindness, instead of judgment.

4. Restoring Balance and Confidence

Many people begin therapy hoping to “get rid of anxiety,” but the real transformation comes from learning to live fully even when anxiety shows up. Clients often describe feeling more grounded, more confident, and more connected to what matters most.

If anxiety has been taking up too much space in your life, therapy can help you take some of that space back - one step, one breath, one conversation at a time.

At Charron Psychotherapy Services, we offer individual therapy for kids, teens, and adults experiencing all forms of anxiety. Our team provides in-person sessions in Orleans as well as secure online therapy across Ottawa and Ontario - flexible, confidential, and supportive spaces to help you rediscover calm and clarity. To find out more, email info@charrontherapy.com.