Anxiety Diagnosis and Treatment in Bethesda,Md.
At Washington Family Psychiatry, we understand how overwhelming anxiety can feel—for children, teens, and adults alike.
Whether it’s persistent worry, social fears, panic attacks, or physical symptoms like racing thoughts and sleepless nights, we’re here to help you or your loved one find lasting relief through expert diagnosis and compassionate care.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is more than just occasional stress. When worries become chronic, disproportionate, or interfere with daily life, they may signal an anxiety disorder. Common types include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Excessive worry about everyday events
Social Anxiety Disorder – Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings
Panic Disorder – Sudden, intense episodes of fear or physical panic symptoms
Separation Anxiety – Common in children; fear of being away from caregivers
Specific Phobias – Intense fear of particular objects or situations
Anxiety can impact sleep, school, work, relationships, and physical health—but with the right support, it is treatable.
Our Approach to Diagnosis
Our team provides in-depth, personalized evaluations that explore symptoms, triggers, and patterns of anxiety. We take time to understand the whole picture, including:
- Clinical interviews and symptom inventories
- Developmental and family history
- Identification of co-occurring conditions (such as depression, ADHD, or trauma)
- Collaboration with schools or other providers as needed
We tailor our assessment to each individual, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and a strong foundation for effective treatment.
Personalized Anxiety Treatment Plans
At Washington Family Psychiatry, treatment is never one-size-fits-all. We create a supportive and evidence-based plan that may include:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Proven techniques to reframe anxious thinking and reduce avoidance
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Exposure Therapy – Gradual, supported desensitization for specific fears or phobias
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Medication Management – When appropriate, we prescribe and monitor anti-anxiety medications such as SSRIs or SNRIs
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Training – Tools to reduce physical symptoms of anxiety
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Parent Coaching and Family Support – Especially helpful for anxious children and teens
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Skills-Building and Coping Strategies – For navigating school, work, or social challenges with confidence
We’ll walk with you every step of the way—helping you develop skills to manage anxiety and build a more peaceful, empowered life.