Therapy for Anxiety and Worry
Welcome to book a call where we can talk through what you would like help with.
I am a licensed psychologist and meet with clients for talk therapy. I offer in-depth conversations (individual therapy) where you gain more understanding of yourself, perspective and change. You can get help with anxiety and other challenges. We book conversations at the practice in Östermalm in central Stockholm or online.
Understanding Anxiety and Worry
Anxiety and worry often appear as a persistent concern that something might go wrong – in relationships, work, self-image, or everyday life. Worries can range from vague unease to constant rumination about what to do, or to self-blame for things gone wrong. Beneath it often lies a sense of inner tension, restlessness, sleep difficulties, or a racing heartbeat.
Anxiety is a common reason for seeking therapy. The symptoms may have developed gradually or been part of life for a long time.
How Anxiety Shows Up
In our conversations, we explore what type of anxiety you experience and what tends to trigger it. Often there is a recurring theme – such as fear of failure, saying the wrong thing, being abandoned, or not being loved for who you are.
Some people worry about what they should do; others fear not caring enough or being criticized. Many hesitate and struggle to make decisions, despite longing for presence and direction in life. We also talk about what brings you calm – and how anxiety differs from your emotions and needs.
When Anxiety Persists Over Time
Lasting anxiety often affects both psychological and physical health, energy, and engagement with life. It can lead to withdrawal from relationships, leisure, or work – even though these are the things one longs for most. Memory, concentration, and motivation are also affected.
Anxiety is often part of depression and can reinforce self-critical thoughts. Understanding these effects is essential in recognizing when professional help is needed.
How Therapy Can Help
The purpose of therapy is to support meaningful change toward greater well-being. It is less about controlling anxiety and more about moving closer to what you truly wish for and need – without avoiding it.
In the early stages, worry may feel manageable, but as anxiety decreases, self-critical thoughts often become more visible. Many describe this phase as opening into a new kind of freedom and inner calm – along with a renewed belief that it is possible to feel better from within.
What Change May Bring
When anxiety eases, life often opens up in new ways:
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Deeper and more genuine relationships
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Improved physical health
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Greater creativity and productivity
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Increased trust in yourself
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Enhanced ability to take initiative and solve problems
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More courage to live fully
Working with Anxiety in Affect-Focused Therapy
In affect-focused therapy, we talk about what you want to change while paying attention to the inner worries and emotions you have avoided. We distinguish between anxiety and emotion – feelings can bring calm, direction, and clarity about what you want and need.
Many who describe “a lot of emotions” are actually referring to an overflow of thoughts. By approaching your feelings more directly, anxiety tends to diminish, and a sense of agency and presence grows stronger. Read more about therapy at about therapy and about me.
Examples of How Anxiety Can Feel
Many people live with a sense of inadequacy that shows up as self-criticism or fear of rejection. This can lead to overachievement or withdrawal from relationships. In anxiety – and often in depression – the criticism is frequently directed inward.
Some experience anxiety as pressure or pain in the chest, others more subtly through overthinking, catastrophic scenarios, or worrying without clear physical signs. They often analyze alone, far from what they feel or need. Closeness may be sought through thoughts about others, but rarely in mutual connection. Self-esteem and confidence in action tend to suffer as a result.
Anxiety - Speaking with a Psychologist
I am a licensed psychologist with extensive experience, offering therapy in my private practice in central Stockholm and through online sessions.
In therapy, we look at what feels most helpful for you right now and explore ways to support change and relief over time.