Why anxiety is worth taking seriously
Many people wait a long time before asking for help with anxiety. They tell themselves it is just stress, or that everyone worries. Sometimes that is true. But when worry starts to shape your days, your sleep, your work or your relationships, it deserves real attention. Anxiety is common, and you do not need to be at a breaking point to reach out.
What anxiety can look like
- Worry that jumps from one thing to the next and is hard to put down
- Panic: a racing heart, short breath, or a sudden sense that something is very wrong
- Tension, restlessness, poor sleep or a stomach that never quite settles
- Avoiding people, places or tasks because of how they make you feel
- Going over conversations again and again, or needing to feel certain before you can relax
You might recognize a few of these, or none of them exactly. You do not need a diagnosis to book a call.
How we work on anxiety together
First, we try to understand your anxiety: when it shows up, what sets it off, what it may be protecting you from, and what you have already tried. From there, we work on practical ways to steady yourself in the moments when it rises, and on the patterns underneath, such as avoidance, overthinking or a harsh inner voice.
We go at your pace. You set the goals, and we check together, regularly, whether the work is helping. If something is not working, we change it.
My training includes Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for trauma and Motivational Interviewing, and I am a Certified EMDR Clinician. These are tools in service of the work. We choose what fits you, not the other way around.
Who this is for
This is for people in Ontario who are living with ongoing worry, panic, stress or anxiety that is getting in the way of daily life. You may have tried therapy before, or this may be your first time.
It may not be the right fit if you are in active crisis or at immediate risk to your safety. That needs same-day care, not a booking calendar. If you are not sure whether this is the right place for you, book the free call anyway. I would rather point you somewhere useful than have you wait.
How sessions work
- 1A free 15-minute call. We talk briefly about what is going on and whether I am the right fit. If I am not, I will help you find someone who is.
- 2Your first session. We go deeper into your story and what you want to be different, at your pace, and set a direction together.
- 3Ongoing sessions. Sessions are 50 minutes, by secure video or in person in Maple. Most people start weekly and space sessions out as things steady.
Questions about anxiety therapy
Do I need a diagnosis or a referral?
No. You do not need a diagnosis or a doctor's referral to book a free call or to start therapy.
Can therapy help with panic attacks?
Panic is one of the things I work with. In therapy, we look at what happens in your body and mind during panic, and practise ways to respond that do not feed the fear. Everyone is different, so I cannot promise a particular result, but we will keep checking whether the work is helping.
Does online therapy work for anxiety?
For many people, yes. Research has generally found that therapy by video can work about as well as in-person therapy for common concerns such as anxiety. Some people find it easier to start from home, especially when anxiety makes travel or waiting rooms hard. If you would rather sit in a room, I also see people in person in Maple.
Is it confidential?
Yes. As a Registered Social Worker I follow strict confidentiality rules. The limits, such as safety and the law, are explained at the start.
If you are in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 any time, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
Ali Raza Hasan Ali, MSW, RSW. Registered Social Worker, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, #849046. This page is general information, not clinical advice.