Support Group for Anxiety in San Jose & Santa Cruz

Is This Group Right for You?

This is a support group, not a therapy group — a nominal level of familiarity with cognitive-behavioral methods and some initial progress in recovery is usually required before joining. This can be accomplished by working with one of our therapists at Anxiety Treatment Services, another cognitive-behavioral therapist, or by using the Therapy Tools available on this website.

In our support group, you'll feel like you belong. Being with others who understand and share your experiences produces a sense of safety and well-being that builds confidence and enhances recovery.

Fieldwork Assistance

Gradual exposure, or in-vivo desensitization, is a very effective approach to overcoming phobic avoidance of places or activities — driving on freeways, talking to people, giving a presentation, going into stores, riding in elevators, going too far from home, or in more severe cases, just leaving the house at all.

It may seem scary and overwhelming to think about accomplishing these feared activities. However, through individual psychotherapy, Self Help Tools, and group support, you'll learn to relax, stop the negative thinking and fearful anticipation, create positive self-talk, and begin building confidence using guided visualization and mental rehearsal.

By the time you take the first small step in real life, it will be relatively easy. It's often helpful to have an experienced guide with you as you practice exposure — someone who can remind you to use your coping skills in the moment, and motivate you to push the boundaries while making sure you're doing it comfortably.