Anxiety Therapists in Richmond, VA

Therapy for Anxiety Near Me

If you’re looking for therapy for anxiety in Richmond, VA, our licensed therapists are here to help. Almost all of our therapists offer anxiety treatment in a variety of forms.

At Aspect Counseling and Psychiatry, we have therapists & board-certified nurse practitioners to provide a continuity of care that many therapy practices don’t provide.

Mental health care should never be a one size fits all approach.
  • We’re available for in-person anxiety therapy in Richmond, VA, as well as telehealth sessions throughout Virginia
  • Almost all of our therapists & nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) work with clients struggling with anxiety
  • We never take a one-size-fits-all approach; every client is unique
  • Our PMHNPs work alongside our anxiety therapists to help diagnose conditions, run tests, and prescribe medication, if needed

Living with anxiety can feel overwhelming. The constant racing thoughts, physical tension, and worries about the future can interfere with daily life.

If you’re still curious how an anxiety therapist might be able to help, let’s talk about some of the symptoms of anxiety, what causes it, and the types of therapy we use to treat it.

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is more than occasional stress or nervousness. It’s a persistent mental health condition that can impact your ability to function. Symptoms often include excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, and physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. Left untreated, anxiety can worsen over time, but with the right therapy, healing is possible.

Anxiety Symptoms

Anxiety looks different for everyone, but there are common symptoms that signal when it may be time to seek professional help. These symptoms can affect both the mind and body, making everyday tasks more difficult.

Some of the most common signs of anxiety include:

  • Persistent and excessive worry
  • Feeling restless, tense, or “on edge”
  • Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue and trouble sleeping
  • Physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, or trembling
  • Digestive issues like nausea or stomach pain

If you’ve noticed these symptoms lasting for weeks or months, working with an anxiety therapist can help you find relief and learn tools to manage your condition.

Anxiety Causes

Anxiety can stem from many different factors, and often it’s a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological influences. Understanding the root cause can help guide treatment.

Some common causes of anxiety include:

  • Genetics – A family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions.
  • Brain chemistry – Imbalances in neurotransmitters that regulate mood and stress.
  • Life experiences – Trauma, abuse, or stressful life events.
  • Personality traits – People who are more sensitive to stress may be more prone to anxiety.
  • Medical conditions – Certain health issues, like thyroid problems or chronic illness, can contribute to anxiety.

While the causes may vary, the good news is that anxiety therapy is highly effective at helping people manage symptoms, regardless of their origin.

How Do I Know If I Need Therapy for Anxiety?

If anxiety is interfering with your daily life (causing trouble at work, school, or in relationships), therapy may be the right step. Some signs you might benefit from seeing an anxiety therapist include:

  • Persistent worry that feels uncontrollable
  • Panic attacks or overwhelming fear in certain situations
  • Avoidance of places, people, or activities due to anxiety
  • Difficulty sleeping or constant feelings of restlessness

An experienced anxiety therapist in Richmond can help you understand your triggers and learn practical coping strategies.

How Our Richmond Anxiety Therapists Can Help

Our licensed anxiety therapists provide individualized, evidence-based treatment.

  • We offer a safe, supportive space to share your concerns.
  • We develop personalized therapy plans based on your unique challenges.
  • We use proven methods like CBT, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques.
  • We provide you with tools you can use in your daily life.
  • We support teens, adults, and families.

Here’s a list of our Richmond-based therapists & PMHNPs who work with clients experiencing anxiety:

Allison Ernest, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN

Allison Ernest

PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Amber Zarger, LCSW

Amber Zarger

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDPTSD
Carla Crews, LCSW

Carla Crews

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEMDRERPGender DysphoriaOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Carlie Powers, LMFT, CST, CAADC

Carlie Powers

LMFT, CST, CAADC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossProlonged ExposurePTSDSex TherapySubstance Abuse
Elizabeth Markey, PMHNP-BC, MSN, CNM, PMH-C

Elizabeth Markey

PMHNP-BC, MSN, CNM, PMH-C

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPostpartumPTSDReproductive
Gabby Scalzo, PhD, LCP

Gabby Scalzo

PhD, LCP

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Jennifer Peele, PMHNP, FNP-BC

Jennifer Peele

PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSDSleep
Jonathan Yoder, PMHNP

Jonathan Yoder

PMHNP-BC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Joshua Barefoot, LPC

Josh Barefoot

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionEating DisordersERPFamilyGrief/LossOCDPTSDSubstance Abuse
Kristina Gilbert, LPC

Kristina Gilbert

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Laurie Manns, LPC

Laurie Manns

LPC, CSAC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse
Michelle Kempf, LPC

Michelle Kempf

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPOCDPTSD
Mikeyda Travers, LPC

Mikeyda Travers

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Molly Iracane, LCSW

Molly Iracane

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionGrief/LossIFSPTSD
Paula Connolly, LCSW

Paula Connolly

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionGender DysphoriaGrief/LossPTSD
Rachel Salinas, LPC

Rachel Salinas

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionGrief/LossPTSD
Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers, LCSW

Robyn D’Reaux-Rodgers

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse
Ryan Ernest, PMHNP-BC

Ryan Ernest

PMHNP-BC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Shenika Whitaker-Carlos, LCSW

Shenika Whitaker-Carlos

LCSW, CSOTP

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEMDRERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse

Anxiety Treatment Near You

Different approaches can be used in psychotherapy for anxiety. Our Richmond-based therapists at Aspect Counseling and Psychiatry offer all of the most common treatments for anxiety, including, but not limited to:

CBT for Anxiety

CBT for anxiety focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with healthier, realistic thoughts. Our CBT specialists in Richmond, VA teach strategies to manage worry, challenge irrational fears, and change the behaviors that fuel anxiety.

How Psychiatrists Help to Treat Anxiety

While therapy is highly effective on its own, some individuals benefit from medication as part of their anxiety treatment. Psychiatrists can prescribe and monitor medications that ease symptoms, while our therapists provide the coping skills and emotional support needed for long-term improvement.

Our board-certified PMHNPs work directly with our therapists to create a comprehensive treatment, tailored to you.

Anxiety & Depression

How Are They Linked?

Anxiety and depression often occur together. Both involve negative thought patterns and can significantly impact mood, energy, and motivation. In fact, nearly half of people with depression also experience an anxiety disorder. Understanding this connection helps our therapists create comprehensive treatment plans that address both conditions for more effective results.

Similarities & Differences

While anxiety and depression share some symptoms, they manifest differently:

Anxiety…

is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and physical tension.

Depression…

is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and lack of motivation.

Our anxiety counselors in Richmond carefully evaluate your symptoms to ensure you receive the right type of therapy that fits your specific situation.

Social Anxiety & How Therapy Can Help

Social anxiety is a specific type of anxiety disorder that causes intense fear in social or performance situations. People with social anxiety may worry excessively about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected, which can lead them to avoid everyday activities like meeting new people, speaking in public, or even attending social gatherings.

Common signs of social anxiety include:

  • Avoiding social interactions due to fear or discomfort
  • Extreme self-consciousness in front of others
  • Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, or shaking when speaking
  • Difficulty making eye contact or starting conversations

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a proven method of treatment for social anxiety, along with other evidence-based therapies, like exposure therapy. Both focus on building confidence and reducing fear in various social situations.

With the help of one of our social anxiety therapists, our clients learn coping strategies, practice social skills in a safe environment, and gradually reduce the power that anxiety holds over their daily lives.

Expectations During a Therapy Session

Here’s what you can expect during a therapy session if you’re being treated for anxiety:

  1. We’ll ask about your symptoms, history, and goals
  2. We’ll explain the therapy methods that may be most effective for you
  3. We’ll create a plan that fits your lifestyle and comfort level
  4. We’ll begin teaching coping strategies to manage symptoms between sessions

From there, ongoing sessions focus on building new skills, practicing them, and working through the challenges of daily life.

Common Questions Regarding Anxiety Therapy

You might find these answers helpful if you’re just getting started and want to learn more about therapy for anxiety at our office in Richmond.

How long does anxiety therapy take?

The length of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the type of therapy used. Many clients notice improvement in 10–20 sessions of CBT, while others may benefit from longer-term support. Consistency is key. Weekly sessions often provide the best results.

Can therapy help with social anxiety?

Yes. A social anxiety therapist can help you build confidence, practice exposure techniques, and manage fears around social interactions.

Do you offer therapy for teens with anxiety?

Yes. Many teens struggle with social anxiety, test anxiety, or generalized anxiety. Our anxiety specialists in Richmond, VA provide age-appropriate therapy and coping tools for young people, while also supporting parents in the process.

Do I need both therapy & medication?

Not always. Many people benefit from therapy alone, but combining treatment with medication can be very effective for moderate to severe cases.

Is anxiety therapy covered by insurance?

Yes. Our office accepts many forms of insurance, including medicare. Check our insurance page for a complete list of insurance providers.

Our Therapy Office

Our therapy office is located in the heart of West End Richmond, in the Innsbrook business complex—at the crossroads of I-64, I-295, Hwy 288, and West Broad St. We share the Liberty Plaza I building with several law offices, financial services companies, and other Richmond-area businesses, at the corner of Cox Rd. & North Park Dr.

4801 Cox Road, Suite 205
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Directions →

Aspect Counseling and Psychiatry, Richmond office entrance
The front entrance to our therapy & counseling office in Innsbrook, in Richmond’s West End.

Start Therapy for Anxiety in Richmond, VA Today

Whether you or your child are struggling with general anxiety, social anxiety, or anxiety linked with depression, we provide compassionate, effective care tailored to you.

Call us today or use the button below to schedule a session and take the first step toward relief.