- Who it is for
- Adults and adolescents
- Format
- In person (Istanbul) · Online
What anxiety is
Anxiety is the mind and body preparing themselves in the face of danger or uncertainty. A faster heartbeat, tense muscles and attention focusing on a possible threat are all part of this preparation. When it is short-lived and suits the situation, anxiety is useful: it makes us study before an exam and prepare before an important meeting.
Sometimes, however, anxiety is felt far beyond the real danger, intensely and for a long time. It can then turn into an exhausting cycle: worrying thoughts increase physical symptoms, physical symptoms lead to new worries, the person starts avoiding certain situations to feel relief, and avoidance strengthens anxiety in the long run.
How anxiety can show itself
Anxiety is experienced differently from person to person. Common experiences include:
- The mind constantly producing “what if” scenarios, being unable to stop the thoughts
- Sudden panic symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating and trembling
- Intense unease about uncertainty and the future
- Fear of negative evaluation in social situations, difficulty expressing yourself
- Sleep difficulties, tension, tiring quickly
- Avoiding situations, places or people that cause anxiety
It should be said that these symptoms on their own do not mean a diagnosis. Assessment is made by looking at the whole of what a person is going through.
How we address anxiety in therapy
My work is based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT is one of the most researched approaches for the treatment of anxiety. The process usually moves through these steps:
- Mapping the anxiety: We look together at the situations in which anxiety appears, the thoughts that go through your mind at that moment, the physical reactions and what you do afterwards.
- Understanding the cycle: We notice the patterns that keep anxiety going, such as constantly seeking reassurance or avoidance.
- Working with thoughts: We work on noticing catastrophising thoughts, or thoughts that make uncertainty hard to tolerate, and on developing more flexible ways of seeing things.
- Facing things step by step: We plan a gradual approach to avoided situations, at a pace the person feels ready for.
- Carrying it into daily life: We plan personalised exercises that support using the skills gained in sessions between sessions.
When to seek support
If anxiety has lasted for weeks, is affecting your sleep, work, school or relationships, has started keeping you away from certain places and situations, or the things you have tried on your own are not enough, talking to a mental health professional can help.
If physical symptoms such as sudden chest pain or shortness of breath are happening for the first time, they should first be assessed by a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is all anxiety a problem?
No. Anxiety is a natural emotion we all feel in the face of uncertainty and danger, and it often prompts us to be prepared. The intensity of anxiety, how long it lasts and how much it restricts daily life are the main criteria that indicate a need for support.
How long does therapy for anxiety take?
This depends on the form the anxiety takes, how long it has lasted and the goals that are set. Goals and progress are reviewed together at regular intervals throughout therapy.
Will I need to take medication?
A clinical psychologist does not prescribe medication. If during assessment it is thought that medication may be helpful, a referral is made to a psychiatrist; where needed, therapy and psychiatric support can be carried out together.
This page is general information and is not a diagnosis, assessment or substitute for therapy. If you or someone else is in danger, call 112 in Türkiye or your local emergency number.