New York City is known for its hustle and bustle, fast-paced lifestyle, and crowded streets. While living in the Big Apple can be exciting, it can also be stressful and anxiety-inducing for some.
There Are Many Options for Anxiety Therapy in NYC
Thankfully, New Yorkers have access to a variety of anxiety therapy options to help them find calm amidst the chaos. Our therapists at the New York City Psychotherapy Collective are here to help you understand what’s what with anxiety management and therapy techniques, especially the ones we focus on in our practice.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
One of the most widely used and effective anxiety therapies is called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a talk therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It is traditionally a short-term therapy that typically lasts between 12 and 20 sessions. Further, it has been shown to be effective in treating a range of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Many therapists, however, do not use the 12-20 session model but rather integrate elements of CBT into their broader psychotherapy practices, which is what we do here at New York City Psychotherapy Collective.
Identifying Negative Thought Patterns
Many therapists at our practice integrate CBT practices into their work with clients to help ease their sense of anxiety. During CBT, the therapist will work with the client to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their anxiety. Then they will help them rewire those patterns to develop new, more positive ways of thinking and behaving.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy Techniques
Another anxiety therapy option available to help you manage the non-stop nature of NYC is mindfulness-based therapy. There are a variety of techniques used in mindfulness practices. However, as a whole, these therapies focus on bringing awareness to the present moment and developing an accepting and non-judgmental attitude toward one's thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness-based therapies can include meditation, yoga, and breathing techniques, amongst other mindfulness practices.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
One popular and particularly effective mindfulness-based therapy is mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). MBSR is a targeted eight-week program that teaches participants how to use mindfulness to reduce stress and anxiety. The program includes guided meditation, gentle yoga, and group discussion. The program has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Another mindfulness-based therapy is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT is a talk therapy that uses mindfulness and acceptance to help individuals develop psychological flexibility. This therapy encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or avoid them. The therapy also helps individuals identify their values and take action toward them, even in the presence of uncomfortable thoughts and emotions.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is another anxiety therapy option available in NYC that people find extremely helpful and has a unique way of allowing participants to feel seen amongst a group of like-minded individuals. Group therapy provides you with a safe and supportive environment to share your experiences and feelings with others who are going through similar struggles.
A Community Who Understands Your Struggles
There’s nothing quite like finding a community of other people who understand exactly what you’re going through, without feeling judged or lonely in the process. Group therapy can be particularly beneficial for people who are struggling with social anxiety. Group Therapy provides them with an opportunity to practice social skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Oftentimes, therapy groups will integrate some of the other anxiety management practices we mentioned earlier.
Here Are Some Group Therapy Specializations:
CBT-Based Groups
Mindfulness-Based Groups
Support Groups
An Affordable Option
One of the benefits of group therapy is that it is often more affordable than individual therapy. It can also provide individuals with a sense of community and connection, which can be particularly helpful for those who are feeling isolated or alone in their struggles with anxiety.
Self-Care Practices
In addition to these therapy options, there are also several self-care practices that individuals can use to manage their anxiety.
These practices include:
exercise
healthy eating
getting enough sleep
engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and relaxation
If you’re struggling to do these things, regardless of the knowledge that they will help you feel better, therapy might be a great way to find the drive and motivation to accomplish these goals.
Ready to overcome anxiety and build the life you want?
Reach out to us at the New York City Psychotherapy Collective to be set up with a therapist who can help you conquer your anxious thoughts, stay present at the moment, and help you feel supported as you go through the non-stop day-to-day life of living in NYC.
Follow the steps below to get started:
Click here to share some information about you so that we can match you with the perfect therapist for your needs.
Have a low-pressure, 20-minute call with your therapist to make sure they are the right fit.
Schedule your first session and start on your journey to feeling better right away.
We offer specialized services for related issues like Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ Affirming Therapy, and Therapy Specifically for Young Adults. We can help you feel less overwhelmed, more relaxed, and more like the self you want to be.