Anxiety Treatment in Massachusetts
Care for worry, panic and constant tension by secure video, with the same psychiatric nurse practitioner every visit.
Questions first? Call 617-858-8276. Booking and intake run through our secure, HIPAA-compliant patient portal.
Clinically reviewed by Joseph Lavoie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC · Last reviewed
The short answer
Anxiety treatment in Massachusetts usually means therapy, medication or both, chosen after a full evaluation. At Journey Psychiatric Care, you see the same board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner by video at every visit, from anywhere in the state.
When worry becomes more than worry
Everyone feels anxious sometimes. An anxiety disorder is different. The worry or fear sticks around, feels out of proportion, and starts to shape your choices. You skip things, lie awake, or spend hours bracing for problems that may never come.
Your care is with Joseph Lavoie, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is not a physician. He evaluates, treats and prescribes, and he also offers psychotherapy, so talk therapy and medication can come from one person who knows your history.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the United States, and they respond well to treatment. Many people feel better within a few months.
You do not need to know your exact diagnosis before you book. Part of the first visit is figuring out what kind of anxiety you have, what sets it off, and whether something else, like poor sleep or OCD, is part of it.
Generalized anxiety
Constant worry about work, health, money or family that is hard to switch off, often with tension and poor sleep.
Panic attacks
Sudden waves of fear with a racing heart, shortness of breath or dizziness, and the dread of the next one.
Social anxiety
Intense fear of being judged or embarrassed that makes meetings, calls or social plans feel impossible.
Signs of an anxiety disorder
The National Institute of Mental Health lists these among the common signs. Most people with anxiety have several, most days:
- Feeling restless, wound up or on edge
- Getting tired easily
- Trouble concentrating or your mind going blank
- Irritability
- Muscle tension, headaches or stomach problems
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
Physical symptoms can also come from thyroid problems, caffeine, some medications or heart conditions. Part of your evaluation is ruling those out with you or your primary care provider. Not sure if what you had was a panic attack? Read anxiety attack vs. panic attack.
Treatment options
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has strong research support for anxiety. It teaches you to spot anxious thinking patterns and to face feared situations step by step instead of avoiding them.
Medication can also help. Certain antidepressants are often used first for anxiety disorders, and other options exist. Joseph explains what each one does, how long it takes to work and what side effects to expect before you decide. Some people do best with therapy alone, some with medication, and many with both. Read therapy vs. medication to compare.
How care works
- Book a new-patient evaluation. Pick a time online through the secure booking page. The website itself never asks for health details.
- Your first video visit. Joseph asks about your symptoms, history, medications, sleep, stress and what you want to change.
- A plan you understand. You leave knowing the working diagnosis, the options, and why one is suggested over another.
- Follow-ups with the same clinician. Joseph sees you at every visit, so the plan builds on what you already told him.
Related care
Insurance
Journey Psychiatric Care is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, Oscar Health, Oxford, Point32Health and UnitedHealthcare. Out-of-network invoices are available. Contact us for current self-pay rates.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my anxiety needs treatment?
If worry or fear is affecting your sleep, work, relationships or the things you are willing to do, it is worth an evaluation. You do not need to wait until it is severe. Earlier treatment is usually easier.
Do I have to take medication for anxiety?
No. Therapy alone works well for many people. Medication is one option, and Joseph will explain the pros and cons so you can decide. You can also start with therapy and add medication later if you need it.
How long does anxiety medication take to work?
It depends on the medication. Antidepressants used for anxiety usually take several weeks to show their full effect, and the first weeks can bring mild side effects that often fade. Joseph will tell you what to expect for the specific option you choose.
Can anxiety be treated over video?
Yes. Evaluation, therapy and medication follow-up all work well by video for most people with anxiety. Many patients find it easier to open up from home than in an office.
Can you see me if I already have a therapist?
Yes. Many patients keep their therapist and see Joseph for evaluation and medication. With your permission, he can coordinate with your therapist so you are not getting mixed messages.
Is anxiety treatment covered by insurance?
Mental health care is covered by most commercial plans. Journey Psychiatric Care is in-network with seven Massachusetts insurers. Check yours on the insurance page.
Will I have to talk about things I am not ready to share?
No. You set the pace. Joseph will ask questions to understand what is going on, but you can say when you are not ready to go into something. Trust usually builds over the first few visits.
What should I do during a panic attack?
Slow your breathing, remind yourself that panic peaks and passes, and stay where you are if you can. If you have chest pain or are unsure whether it is a medical emergency, call 911.
Take the next step in your journey.
Same clinician every visit. Telehealth anywhere in Massachusetts.
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