As a therapist who specializes in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, I believe that our thoughts and our body act and react to each other. CBT helps us become more aware of unhealthy patterns of thinking and cognitive distortions so that we can begin responding to ourselves and others in healthier, more balanced ways — rather than reacting from old patterns or emotional triggers.

Mindfulness works alongside CBT by helping you slow down, tune into the present moment, and develop a greater awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without judgment. Together, these approaches help interrupt the cycle of anxiety by creating space between a thought or feeling and your response to it.

To decrease the anxiety symptoms that interfere with your life — the cycle must be stopped. Whether the thought comes first or the body reaction comes first, it really doesn't matter — because like the chicken and the egg, both occur because of the other… they are connected.

What I can help you with is stopping the cycle that prevents you from living your life. Sometimes learning and utilizing new techniques along with having the support of therapy will work by themselves. At other times, Therapy and the techniques work well in combination with medication.

However, before doing either, I believe it is important to see your doctor and have a complete work-up and check-up to make sure there aren't any medical reasons for the increased anxiety — since it is clear there are many medical reasons, such as hyperthyroidism, heart problems, hormonal irregularities, medication or drug abuse, or other causes for your anxiety. Once medical causes have been ruled out, please reach out to Dr. Melody to discuss how we can work together to help you create the life you want to live.