Anxiety
Minor, transient anxiety is a normal part of the human condition like getting anxious before a test or worrying about an important decision. With an Anxiety Disorder, however, the worry or fear does not go away and can become distressing, almost debilitating, such as with a phobia. Anxiety can affect children, adolescents, and adults. Symptoms can interfere with basic functioning or impact one’s quality of life.
Anxiety can manifest in different ways and may require professional intervention. PC&A psychologists frequently employ visual imagery, breathing exercises, and relaxation training to address a wide range of anxiety-based problems.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder – This disorder is characterized by excessive worry or anxiety for the majority of the time for at least 6 months. Individuals often complain of irritability, tension, or feeling keyed up. Concentration and energy levels can be affected. This level of anxiety can affect several areas of someone’s life. The competent, caring staff at PC&A can assist you in understanding the condition and provide you with the skills necessary to reduce anxiety and improve the quality of your life.
Panic Disorder – This disorder is characterized by repeated, abrupt periods of intense fear or anxiety that can include shortness of breath, heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, chest pain, etc. These periods are extremely distressing and can cause changes in behavior or routine in order to avoid another attack. PC&A staff understand the impact this disorder has on life in general and can help you reduce the number, frequency, and severity of panic attacks. PC&A staff are willing to work with your physician if pharmacological intervention, along with therapy, is indicated.
Social Anxiety Disorder – Social anxiety is marked anxiety or fear in social situations when there is a possibility of scrutiny by others. Situations could include meeting unfamiliar people, being observed by others, or having to perform in some way, i.e. giving a speech. Someone with Social Anxiety Disorder will avoid situations due to the anxiety. Social anxiety is persistent and must be present for 6 months or more for diagnosis. PC&A staff can help to reduce the anxiety, improve self-confidence, and help you to reach your potential.
Separation Anxiety Disorder – This condition is characterized as excessive anxiety or fear of separation from a loved one. Persistent fears or concerns about the loved one are common. Although typically diagnosed in childhood, individuals of any age can demonstrate symptoms of this disorder. Symptoms must be present for 4 weeks in children, as opposed to 6 months in adults. PC&A can assist in reducing the anxiety and improving one’s sense of personal independence.