Professional Anxiety Therapy with Jesse Cynamon, RP
Evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO #10979) specializing in anxiety treatment, I provide compassionate, effective therapy that helps you move from surviving to thriving.
Understanding Your Anxiety: You're Not Alone
Anxiety affects millions of Canadians, with approximately 1 in 4 people experiencing an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. As a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in anxiety treatment, I understand that anxiety isn't just "being worried" – it's a complex experience that affects your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behaviors in profound ways.
Whether you're dealing with generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety, or specific phobias, it's important to know that anxiety is highly treatable. Research consistently shows that psychotherapy, particularly approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can be incredibly effective in helping people develop a healthier relationship with anxiety and reclaim their lives.
Cognitive Symptoms
- ✓ Racing thoughts that won't slow down
- ✓ Catastrophic thinking and "what-if" scenarios
- ✓ Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- ✓ Excessive worry about everyday situations
- ✓ Fear of losing control or "going crazy"
Physical Symptoms
- ✓ Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- ✓ Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
- ✓ Muscle tension and body aches
- ✓ Sweating, trembling, or shaking
- ✓ Digestive issues and nausea
Behavioral Patterns
- ✓ Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety
- ✓ Seeking constant reassurance from others
- ✓ Procrastination and difficulty making decisions
- ✓ Over-preparing or over-checking
- ✓ Social withdrawal and isolation
My Therapeutic Approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
As a Registered Psychotherapist with advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I offer a unique approach to anxiety treatment that differs from traditional methods. Rather than trying to eliminate or control anxiety – which often makes it worse – ACT helps you develop psychological flexibility: the ability to stay present with difficult emotions while taking meaningful action in your life.
ACT is recognized by the American Psychological Association as an evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders. It combines mindfulness strategies with behavior change techniques to help you live a rich, full life even when anxiety is present. This approach is particularly effective because it doesn't require you to "fix" yourself or eliminate anxiety completely – instead, it teaches you how to respond differently to anxious thoughts and feelings.
Core Components of ACT for Anxiety
Mindfulness & Present Moment Awareness
Learn to observe your anxious thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them. Develop the ability to stay grounded in the present moment rather than getting caught up in future worries or past regrets.
Cognitive Defusion
Discover techniques to step back from anxious thoughts and see them for what they are – just thoughts, not facts. This helps reduce the power anxiety has over your decisions and actions.
Values Clarification
Identify what truly matters to you in life – your core values and what gives your life meaning. This becomes your compass for making decisions, rather than letting anxiety be in the driver's seat.
Committed Action
Take concrete steps toward your values and goals, even when anxiety shows up. Build patterns of behavior that align with the life you want to live, not the life anxiety limits you to.
Why ACT Works for Anxiety
Research shows that ACT is as effective as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders, with some studies suggesting better long-term outcomes. What makes ACT particularly powerful is that it:
- Reduces experiential avoidance – the tendency to avoid anxiety-provoking situations that actually maintains anxiety over time
- Increases psychological flexibility – your ability to adapt to situations as they arise
- Helps you build a meaningful life rather than just reducing symptoms
- Provides tools you can use immediately in real-world situations
- Creates lasting change by addressing the root patterns, not just surface symptoms
Your Journey to Anxiety Relief: What to Expect
Every person's experience with anxiety is unique, and your treatment will be tailored to your specific needs, goals, and circumstances. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I follow evidence-based protocols while maintaining the flexibility to adapt our approach based on your progress and feedback. Here's what you can expect when working with me:
Free Initial Consultation (15 minutes)
We'll have a brief phone conversation to discuss what brings you to therapy, answer any questions you have, and determine if we're a good therapeutic fit. This is a no-pressure opportunity to get a feel for my approach and decide if you'd like to move forward.
Comprehensive Assessment (Sessions 1-3)
We'll conduct a thorough assessment of your anxiety symptoms, history, and current life circumstances. This includes understanding your anxiety triggers, coping strategies, and the impact anxiety has on different areas of your life. We'll also begin introducing ACT concepts and start identifying your values.
Skill Development (Sessions 4-8)
You'll learn and practice core ACT skills including mindfulness techniques, cognitive defusion exercises, and acceptance strategies. We'll work on developing your ability to observe anxious thoughts without being controlled by them, and begin taking small steps toward your values even when anxiety is present.
Application & Integration (Sessions 9-12)
We'll focus on applying ACT skills to real-life situations, gradually facing anxiety-provoking scenarios with your new tools. This phase includes behavioral experiments, exposure exercises (at your pace), and building sustainable patterns that support your mental health.
Maintenance & Growth (Ongoing)
As you become more confident in managing anxiety, we'll shift focus to maintaining gains and pursuing meaningful life goals. Sessions may become less frequent as you develop independence in using ACT skills. We'll create a relapse prevention plan and ensure you have strategies for future challenges.
Types of Anxiety I Treat
As a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in anxiety disorders, I have extensive experience treating various forms of anxiety. Each type requires a nuanced approach, and I tailor ACT interventions to address your specific anxiety presentation:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Persistent, excessive worry about multiple areas of life including work, health, relationships, and daily responsibilities. If you find yourself constantly anticipating disaster or unable to control your worry, ACT can help you develop a different relationship with uncertainty and learn to tolerate not knowing.
Panic Disorder
Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and fear of having more attacks. ACT helps you learn to observe panic sensations without adding fear on top of fear, breaking the panic cycle. We'll work on accepting physical sensations while continuing to engage in meaningful activities.
Social Anxiety
Intense fear of social situations and being judged or embarrassed. Through ACT, you'll learn to hold self-critical thoughts lightly, connect with your values around relationships, and gradually engage in social situations that matter to you.
Health Anxiety
Excessive worry about having or developing serious illness. ACT helps you recognize the difference between helpful health behaviors and anxiety-driven checking or avoidance, allowing you to live fully even with uncertainty about health.
Performance Anxiety
Fear of performing in front of others, whether at work, school, or in creative pursuits. We'll work on accepting performance-related sensations, connecting with your values around achievement, and performing with anxiety present rather than waiting for it to disappear.
Specific Phobias
Intense fear of specific objects or situations (flying, heights, animals, medical procedures). Using ACT-enhanced exposure therapy, we'll help you face feared situations gradually while staying connected to what matters most to you.
Virtual Therapy: Professional Support from Anywhere in Ontario
All therapy sessions are conducted virtually through a secure, PIPEDA-compliant video platform. Virtual therapy has been shown to be as effective as in-person therapy for anxiety treatment, with the added benefits of convenience, accessibility, and comfort. You can receive professional support from the privacy of your own home, office, or any quiet space where you feel comfortable.
Benefits of Virtual Therapy
- No commute time or travel stress
- Access from anywhere in Ontario
- Flexibility for busy schedules
- Comfort of familiar environment
- Reduced anxiety about attending therapy
- Continuity of care during travel or relocation
What You'll Need
- Stable internet connection
- Computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera
- Private, quiet space for sessions
- Headphones (optional but recommended)
- Commitment to showing up authentically
Investment in Your Mental Health
Session Fee
$175 per 50-minute session
This fee reflects the specialized training, ongoing professional development, and quality of care you receive as a client. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and includes between-session support as needed.
Insurance Coverage
Most extended health insurance plans in Ontario cover Registered Psychotherapists. Coverage typically ranges from $500 to $5000 per year. I provide detailed receipts with all required information for insurance reimbursement, including my CRPO registration number (#10979).
Payment Options
Payment is accepted via e-transfer or credit card. Payment is due at the time of service. I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots for those experiencing financial hardship – please inquire during your consultation if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Therapy
How long does anxiety therapy typically take?
The duration of therapy varies depending on the severity of symptoms, your goals, and engagement with the process. Many clients experience noticeable improvement within 8-12 sessions, though some benefit from longer-term support. We'll regularly review your progress and adjust our approach as needed.
Will therapy cure my anxiety completely?
The goal of ACT isn't to eliminate anxiety entirely – some anxiety is normal and even helpful. Instead, we focus on changing your relationship with anxiety so it no longer controls your life. You'll learn to experience anxiety without being overwhelmed by it, allowing you to pursue what matters most to you.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, you don't need a referral to see a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario. You can book directly with me. However, if you're using insurance, check your specific plan requirements as some may require a physician's referral for reimbursement.
Can you prescribe medication for anxiety?
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I cannot prescribe medication. However, I can work collaboratively with your family doctor or psychiatrist if you're considering or currently taking anxiety medication. Many clients find therapy alone is sufficient, while others benefit from a combination of therapy and medication.
What if I have a panic attack during our session?
If you experience a panic attack during our session, we'll work through it together. I'm trained to help you navigate intense anxiety safely. These moments can actually be valuable therapeutic opportunities to practice new coping skills in a supportive environment.
Is everything I share confidential?
Yes, our sessions are confidential within the limits of Ontario law. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I'm bound by strict confidentiality guidelines set by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I'll explain the limits of confidentiality during our first session, which include situations involving imminent risk of harm to yourself or others.
Ready to Take the First Step?
You don't have to let anxiety control your life any longer. As a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in anxiety treatment, I'm here to support you on your journey to a calmer, more fulfilling life.
Book Your Free 15-Minute ConsultationBook Your Free Consultation
Get Started Today
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, especially when you're dealing with anxiety. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you determine if we're a good therapeutic fit. This is a no-pressure conversation where you can ask questions and get a feel for my approach.
jesse@nextsteptherapy.ca
Response within 24 hours during business days
💻 Virtual Sessions
Available throughout Ontario
Secure, PIPEDA-compliant platform
🕐 Availability
Daytime, evening, and weekend appointments
Flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs