Anxiety therapy

Managing Anxiety is a b*tch...but what if you made friends with your anxiety?

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Anxiety therapy can help when that overwhelming wave of panic and hopelessness washes over you—your heart is racing, you're sweating, and you can't stop thinking about your job, your children, your partner, your endless to-do list, your body, your parents, everything all at once.

 

 

Anxiety therapy through convenient online sessions means you don't have to carry this weight alone. I'm here to help you find relief, develop real coping strategies, and finally feel like yourself again.

 

Everyone feels a certain amount of anxiety, and it can often be good-a motivator on a test, perhaps. But sometimes anxiety can take over, and make you feel out of control, leading to racing thoughts, physical symptoms, and panic attacks.  This is sometimes referred to as 'generalized anxiety disorder'.  

 

Anxiety can be one of the scariest and overwhelming emotions to deal with. Luckily, individual therapy has been proven to be effective in the treatment of anxiety, alleviating your immediate symptoms and creating long term methods to manage these feelings, and keep your anxiety in check!  Anxiety can become your partner, allowing you to realize that you need to pivot!

 

My favorite approach to managing anxiety involves:

  • Understanding the biology and physiology of anxiety & the "fight or flight" response
  • Befriending anxiety through mindfulness
  • Utilizing a 'relaxation response' when anxiety comes up
  • Daily maintenance of health to assist in keeping anxiety to a minimum 
  • Learning your triggers for anxiety 
  • Heading anxiety off at the pass by anticipating triggers

You'll soon learn that your anxiety isn't an enemy, but a helpful tool.  Can't wait to get started with you!

 

Located in:

New London, CT

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FAQ for women with anxiety:

Many women living with anxiety wonder if their worries are “too much,” why they can’t seem to relax, or whether their anxiety is connected to hormones, stress, or life changes. Below are answers to the most common questions women ask about anxiety—covering symptoms, causes, and effective treatments. Whether you’re struggling with panic attacks, postpartum anxiety, or the constant feeling that your mind won’t turn off, you are not alone. These FAQs are here to help you understand anxiety in women and how support can make a difference.

 

1. What is anxiety, and how is it different from everyday stress?

Stress is a normal response to life’s demands, but anxiety is more than occasional worry. Anxiety in women often shows up as persistent fear, tension, or restlessness that doesn’t go away even when stressors are removed. Unlike temporary stress, anxiety can affect sleep, concentration, relationships, and physical health.


2. What are the signs and symptoms of anxiety in women?

Common symptoms include constant worry, racing thoughts, irritability, difficulty sleeping, muscle tension, stomach upset, and fatigue. Some women also experience panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Anxiety may also appear as perfectionism or the feeling that you’re never doing “enough.”


3. Why are women more likely to experience anxiety than men?

Research shows women are nearly twice as likely to experience anxiety disorders. Biological factors such as hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause play a role. Social factors—like balancing multiple roles, caregiving, trauma, or pressure to meet cultural expectations—can also increase vulnerability.


4. Can hormonal changes trigger anxiety?

Yes! Hormonal fluctuations across the menstrual cycle, postpartum period, and menopause can influence brain chemistry and increase anxiety symptoms. For some women, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) include significant anxiety. Postpartum anxiety is also common, involving excessive worry about the baby’s health or safety.


5. What is postpartum anxiety, and how is it treated?

Postpartum anxiety is a condition many new mothers experience, even though it’s less often discussed than postpartum depression. Symptoms include racing thoughts, trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps, constant worry, and sometimes panic attacks. Treatment options include therapy, support groups, mindfulness strategies, and in some cases, safe medication. Early support makes recovery easier.


6. What types of anxiety disorders affect women?

Women may experience several types of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias. Anxiety can also be linked to trauma (PTSD) or health-related worries. Understanding the specific type of anxiety helps guide the best treatment.


7. When should I seek professional help for anxiety?

If worry or fear feels constant, overwhelming, or starts interfering with work, relationships, or daily functioning, it’s time to seek support. Frequent panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, or avoidance of activities because of fear are also signs professional help could make a big difference.  Reach out now to get started.


8. What treatments are available for anxiety in women?

Anxiety is very treatable. Therapy can help identify thought patterns and develop calming strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based approaches are especially effective. Medication may be helpful for some women, and lifestyle changes—such as exercise, healthy routines, and reducing caffeine—can support long-term relief.


9. Can anxiety go away on its own?

Sometimes mild anxiety improves with stress reduction and self-care, but persistent anxiety usually requires treatment. Without support, anxiety can intensify or lead to other issues such as depression. With therapy and coping tools, many women find lasting relief.


10. How long does it take to feel better once I start treatment?

Many women notice some relief within the first few weeks of therapy, especially as they learn coping skills. If medication is part of the plan, it can take 4–6 weeks to see the full benefit. Consistency and patience are important—healing from anxiety is a gradual process, but it is highly treatable.


11. Can anxiety affect physical health?

Yes. Anxiety can contribute to headaches, digestive issues, muscle pain, and fatigue. Chronic anxiety also puts stress on the body’s nervous system. Addressing anxiety with therapy and healthy coping strategies not only improves mental health but also reduces these physical symptoms.


12. What should I do if my anxiety feels overwhelming?

If anxiety ever feels unbearable or you notice thoughts of harming yourself, it’s important to reach out for immediate help. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or seek urgent care. You deserve support, and help is available 24/7.


13. How can family and friends support someone with anxiety?

 

Loved ones can help by listening without judgment, being patient when plans change due to anxiety, and offering encouragement. Sometimes just having someone sit quietly with you can reduce the sense of isolation. Family members can also learn about anxiety to better understand what you’re experiencing.

peaceful nature QR code Jessica Foley LMHC

Focused on the unique transitions of womanhood, Jessica Foley’s practice provides a dedicated space for navigating the complexities of "matrescence" and the hormonal shifts of perimenopause. As a certified perinatal specialist, she offers expert support for postpartum anxiety, depression, and the exhaustion that often accompanies high-earning careers and family life. Her approach is rooted in the belief that pleasure and self-connection are birthrights, helping women move beyond the "overfunctioning" cycle to find genuine joy and sustainable balance.