A calm person surrounded by nature, symbolising relief, grounding, and emotional balance through anxiety counselling at Self Growth Institute, Melbourne.

Anxiety Counselling

Feeling anxious from time to time is a normal part of life. However, when worry becomes persistent, overwhelming, or interferes with daily activities, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
At Self Growth Institute, our psychologists and counsellors help you understand your anxiety, develop practical coping strategies, and restore calm and balance to your life.

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety can appear as excessive fear, tension, or constant worry about future events.
Unlike occasional stress, anxiety disorders cause distress that can significantly affect work, relationships, and wellbeing.
These conditions are common, treatable, and often linked to a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders

  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations, often without a clear cause.

  • Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness.

  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of judgment or embarrassment in social settings that can lead to avoidance of people or events.

  • Specific Phobias: Intense fear of a particular object or situation (e.g., flying, heights, or animals).

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repetitive thoughts or behaviours aimed at reducing distress, such as constant checking or cleaning.

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Ongoing distress following exposure to a traumatic or life-threatening event.

Common Symptoms

While symptoms vary, common signs of anxiety include:

  • Excessive or uncontrollable worry

  • Restlessness, agitation, or irritability

  • Racing heart, shortness of breath, or muscle tension

  • Difficulty concentrating or sleeping

  • Avoidance of certain places or situations

  • Feeling on edge or constantly alert

  • Nausea, dizziness, or sweating

  • Repetitive thoughts or compulsive behaviours

What Causes Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders often arise from a combination of factors, such as:

  • Chronic stress or traumatic experiences

  • Personality traits like perfectionism or high sensitivity

  • Family history of anxiety or mood disorders

  • Chemical imbalances affecting mood regulation

  • Medical conditions or substance use

  • Prolonged social isolation or major life changes

It’s important to remember that anxiety is not a sign of weakness — it’s a real and treatable condition that improves with the right support.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy offers a safe, supportive environment to explore your triggers, reduce symptoms, and build confidence in managing anxiety.
Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches, including:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with balanced, realistic perspectives.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Learn to stay grounded in the present moment and manage anxious thoughts more calmly.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Encourage acceptance of difficult emotions while building strategies to live a values-driven, fulfilling life.

Lifestyle and Stress-Management Strategies

Guidance around sleep, exercise, nutrition, and relaxation to strengthen resilience and improve wellbeing.

Take the First Step

Anxiety can feel overwhelming — but with the right tools and support, it can be managed effectively.
Our psychologists can help you understand what’s driving your anxiety and develop long-term strategies for calm, clarity, and confidence.

Book a Session