There are many different ways anxiety manifests itself. People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) often feel excessive worry and anxiety but are unable to attribute their feelings to a specific cause. Those with Social Anxiety Disorder feel discomfort or fear when anticipating or engaging in social situations in which they may be evaluated or judged by others and so may avoid interacting with others and engaging in activities where they may be the center of attention and potentially embarrass themselves. Children of all ages may experience School Anxiety, even to the extent of refusing to go to school. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder in which people have recurring, unwanted thoughts, ideas or sensations (obsessions) that make them feel driven to do something repetitively (compulsions).

 

Anxiety is best addressed by understanding the thoughts and attributions that cause anxious feelings. Dr. Bailey uses CBT to help the patient understand how his or her irrational or unrealistic expectations, fears and beliefs serve as triggers for the anxiety. Dr. Bailey then introduces practical strategies and teaches skills that help the patient actively change those beliefs and reduce feelings of discomfort.

 

Also important is the ability to recognize how family-of-origin plays a part in the development of those beliefs and cognitions. Through talk therapy, Dr. Bailey helps his patients understand not only the origins but also how family traditions and reactions to stress are carried through from one generation to the next.