Anxiety Treatment in Louisville, KY

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting over 40 million adults in the United States. At Smither Psychiatry, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to help you manage anxiety and regain control of your life.

Understanding Anxiety Disorders

While everyone experiences occasional anxiety, anxiety disorders involve persistent, excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. These feelings are difficult to control and are out of proportion to the actual situation.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only about 37% of those affected receive treatment.

Types of Anxiety Disorders We Treat

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Characterized by persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of daily life—work, health, family, money—that is difficult to control. People with GAD often anticipate disaster and may be overly concerned about everyday matters.

Panic Disorder

Involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden periods of intense fear that may include heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, and feelings of impending doom. Many people worry about when the next attack will happen.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Intense fear of social situations where you may be judged, embarrassed, or humiliated. This can significantly impact work performance, school, and relationships. It's more than just shyness—it's a persistent fear that affects daily functioning.

Specific Phobias

Intense, irrational fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights, flying, certain animals, or medical procedures. The fear is out of proportion to the actual danger and can lead to avoidance behaviors.

Common Anxiety Symptoms

Anxiety can manifest both mentally and physically:

Psychological Symptoms

• Excessive worry or fear that's hard to control
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Irritability
• Sense of impending danger or doom
• Avoidance of anxiety-triggering situations

Physical Symptoms

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Sweating or trembling
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle tension
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue
• Gastrointestinal problems

Our Approach to Anxiety Treatment

Morgan Smither, PMHNP, creates individualized treatment plans based on your specific symptoms, severity, and preferences:

Medication Management

Several medication options have proven effective for anxiety disorders:

• SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) - First-line medications for most anxiety disorders
• SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) - Effective alternatives when SSRIs aren't the right fit
• Non-Addictive Anti-Anxiety Medications - Options effective for generalized anxiety without dependence risk
• Beta-blockers - Can help manage physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and trembling

Brief Supportive Psychotherapy

We combine medication management with supportive therapy techniques to help you:

• Identify anxiety triggers and patterns
• Develop healthy coping strategies
• Challenge negative thought patterns
• Build relaxation and grounding skills
• Gradually face feared situations

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your initial evaluation will include:

• A comprehensive psychiatric assessment
• Discussion of your anxiety symptoms and their impact on daily life
• Review of medical history and any previous treatments
• Screening for co-occurring conditions (depression, PTSD)
• Development of a personalized treatment plan

Related Conditions

We also provide treatment for: