Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

6,404 people sought anxiety & depression counseling help at Virginia Beach in the last year

Discover how starting anxiety & depression counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia Medicare Advantage, +22 more
Anger, Coping Skills, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, +3 more
LGBTQIA+, Stress, Women’s Issues, Life Transition

As a queer-identified non-binary person, I am interested in helping you explore how we make meaning of our identities to live a full life.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, +3 more
Stress, Life Transition, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression

As a woman of color I seek to provide a space where all are welcome to be themselves regardless of color or gender identity.

Anthony Vecchio

Hear from Anthony Vecchio, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

View Anthony Vecchio's profile

What is your go-to approach for anxiety therapy? What is your go-to approach for depression therapy?

My go-to approach for treating anxiety is rooted in a holistic and evidence-based approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying factors contributing to anxiety. I prefer this approach because it recognizes that anxiety is complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive treatment plan. I find the best benefit in integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness-based techniques. CBT helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering them to challenge and reframe irrational beliefs and negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety. By learning practical coping skills and relaxation techniques, clients can effectively manage their anxiety symptoms and build resilience in the face of stressors. In addition, mindfulness-based interventions such as mindfulness meditation and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) help clients cultivate present-moment awareness, acceptance of difficult emotions, and a sense of inner calm. These practices provide clients with tools to respond to anxiety-provoking situations with greater clarity, compassion, and equanimity.My go-to approach for treating depression is a multifaceted and client-centered approach that combines evidence-based techniques with compassionate support. I prefer this approach because it acknowledges the complexity of depression and tailors treatment to each individual's unique needs and circumstances. I find the best benefit in integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with elements of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). CBT helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression, while ACT fosters mindfulness and acceptance of difficult emotions, promoting psychological flexibility and values-driven action.In addition to therapeutic techniques, I prioritize creating a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and validated. This safe space allows clients to explore their emotions, gain insight into their experiences, and work towards meaningful change at their own pace. By combining these approaches within a supportive therapeutic relationship, I aim to empower clients to overcome depression and anxiety, cultivate resilience, cultivate a greater sense of peace and well-being, and reclaim a sense of hope and control in their lives.

What tools do you teach in anxiety therapy? What tools do you teach in depression therapy?

I teach the following tools in anxiety therapy:

  • Cognitive restructuring: Helping clients identify and challenge irrational or distorted thoughts that contribute to anxiety. This involves examining evidence for and against anxious thoughts and replacing them with more balanced and realistic perspectives.
  • Relaxation techniques: Teaching clients various relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization to reduce physiological arousal and promote a sense of calmness and relaxation.
  • Mindfulness meditation: Introducing clients to mindfulness practices that cultivate present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. Mindfulness helps clients develop a more compassionate and detached relationship with their anxiety.
  • Exposure therapy: Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations or stimuli in a safe and controlled manner, allowing clients to confront their fears and build confidence in their ability to cope. Exposure therapy helps desensitize clients to anxiety triggers and reduce avoidance behaviors.
  • Coping skills development: Teaching clients adaptive coping strategies to manage anxiety symptoms effectively, such as problem-solving skills, assertiveness training, and emotion regulation techniques. These skills empower clients to respond to stressors and challenges in a proactive and resilient manner.
  • Lifestyle modifications: Providing guidance on lifestyle factors that can impact anxiety, such as sleep hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and stress management techniques. Making healthy lifestyle changes can support overall well-being and reduce vulnerability to anxiety.
I teach the following tools in depression counseling:
  • Cognitive restructuring: Helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, such as self-criticism or hopelessness, that contribute to depression. This involves examining evidence for and against distorted beliefs and replacing them with more balanced and realistic perspectives.
  • Behavioral activation: Encouraging clients to engage in activities that bring them a sense of pleasure, accomplishment, or connection, even when they don't feel motivated. Behavioral activation helps counteract feelings of lethargy and withdrawal often associated with depression by increasing participation in meaningful life activities.
  • Mindfulness practices: Introducing clients to mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based techniques to cultivate present-moment awareness and acceptance of their thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness can help clients disengage from ruminative thinking patterns and reduce emotional reactivity, promoting greater psychological well-being.
  • Gratitude journaling: Encouraging clients to keep a gratitude journal where they write down things they're grateful for each day. Practicing gratitude can shift focus away from negative aspects of life and enhance feelings of positivity and well-being.
  • Social skills training: Providing guidance on effective communication, assertiveness, and interpersonal skills to help clients improve relationships and social support networks. Strengthening social connections can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness often associated with depression.
  • Self-care strategies: Teaching clients practical self-care techniques, such as maintaining a healthy sleep routine, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing relaxation exercises, to support overall well-being and resilience to stress.
By equipping clients with these tools and techniques, I empower them to take an active role in managing their anxiety and depression and building a foundation for long-term emotional resilience and well-being.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in anxiety therapy? How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in depression therapy?

I know a client is making meaningful progress in anxiety therapy when I observe the following indicators:

  • Reduction in symptom severity: The client experiences a decrease in the frequency, intensity, and duration of anxiety symptoms, such as excessive worry, panic attacks, and physical tension.
  • Improved coping skills utilization: The client demonstrates an increased ability to effectively apply coping strategies and relaxation techniques learned in therapy to manage anxiety-provoking situations and regulate their emotions.
  • Increased exposure and risk-taking: The client demonstrates a willingness to gradually confront feared situations or stimuli, engage in exposure exercises, and take healthy risks outside their comfort zone. This indicates a reduction in avoidance behaviors and increased confidence in coping with anxiety.
  • Enhanced self-awareness: The client exhibits greater self-awareness of their anxiety triggers, thought patterns, and bodily sensations, as well as the ability to challenge irrational beliefs and reframe negative thoughts more effectively.
  • Functional improvement: The client reports improvements in their daily functioning and quality of life, such as better sleep, concentration, productivity, and engagement in meaningful activities and relationships.
  • Positive feedback and collaboration: The client expresses satisfaction with their progress in therapy, acknowledges the value of therapeutic interventions, and actively participates in the treatment process. Collaborative goal-setting and problem-solving reflect a sense of empowerment and ownership over their anxiety management journey.
I know a client is making meaningful progress in depression counseling when I observe the following indicators:
  • Improved mood: The client experiences a noticeable reduction in depressive symptoms, such as sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest or pleasure in activities. They may report feeling lighter, more optimistic, and more engaged in life.
  • Increased functioning: The client demonstrates improvements in their ability to perform daily tasks and responsibilities, such as work, school, or household chores. They may express greater motivation, energy, and productivity.
  • Enhanced coping skills: The client exhibits a greater repertoire of coping strategies and techniques to manage stress, regulate emotions, and challenge negative thought patterns associated with depression. They may utilize skills learned in therapy to navigate difficult situations more effectively.
  • Improved relationships: The client reports stronger and more fulfilling relationships with friends, family members, or romantic partners. They may express greater connection, communication, and support within their social support network.
  • Positive changes in behavior: The client engages in activities and hobbies they previously enjoyed or had lost interest in due to depression. They may demonstrate increased participation in social events, self-care practices, and goal-directed behaviors.
  • Enhanced self-awareness: The client exhibits a deeper understanding of their emotions, triggers, and patterns of thinking and behavior. They may recognize early warning signs of depression and proactively implement strategies to prevent relapse.
  • Feedback and reflection: The client provides positive feedback on their therapy experience, acknowledging the value of therapeutic interventions and expressing gratitude for the support received. They may reflect on their progress and express a sense of hope and empowerment for the future.
By monitoring these signs of progress and engaging in ongoing assessment and feedback with the client, I can evaluate the effectiveness of therapy and tailor interventions to support continued growth and recovery from anxiety and depression.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement anxiety therapy? What can clients do in their personal time to supplement depression therapy?

Clients can supplement their time in anxiety therapy with the following activities:

  • Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activities such as walking, jogging, yoga, or swimming can help reduce anxiety levels by promoting the release of endorphins, improving mood, and reducing muscle tension.
  • Mindfulness practices: Incorporating mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation into their daily routine can help clients cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce stress reactivity, and enhance emotional regulation.
  • Journaling: Keeping a journal to record thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to anxiety can provide a sense of clarity and perspective. Clients can use journaling as a tool for self-reflection, problem-solving, and tracking progress in therapy.
  • Healthy lifestyle habits: Prioritizing self-care activities such as getting adequate sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and practicing good sleep hygiene can support overall well-being and resilience to stress.
  • Social support: Seeking support from friends, family members, or support groups can provide a sense of connection, validation, and encouragement during times of anxiety. Building a strong support network can offer emotional support and practical assistance in coping with anxiety.
  • Creative outlets: Engaging in creative activities such as art, music, writing, or gardening can serve as a form of self-expression and stress relief. Creative outlets provide a constructive way to channel anxious energy and promote relaxation and enjoyment.
Clients can supplement their time in depression counseling with the following activities:
  • Daily routine: Establishing a consistent daily routine can provide structure and stability, which can be particularly helpful for managing depressive symptoms. Setting regular wake-up and bedtime routines, meal times, and scheduled activities can promote a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
  • Physical activity: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing, can help alleviate symptoms of depression by releasing endorphins and reducing stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
  • Healthy lifestyle habits: Prioritizing self-care activities such as getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake can support overall well-being and resilience to stress. Making small, manageable changes to daily habits can have a positive impact on mood and energy levels.
  • Mindfulness practices: Practicing mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation techniques can help calm the mind and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Mindfulness practices promote present-moment awareness and acceptance of difficult emotions.
  • Creative outlets: Engaging in creative activities such as painting, writing, gardening, or playing a musical instrument can serve as a form of self-expression and emotional release. Creative outlets provide a constructive way to channel emotions and promote a sense of accomplishment.
  • Social support: Seeking support from friends, family members, or support groups can provide emotional validation, encouragement, and connection during times of depression. Building a strong support network can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Self-help resources: Reading self-help books, listening to podcasts, or participating in online forums related to depression can provide additional insights, coping strategies, and peer support outside of therapy sessions. Exploring resources that resonate with individual interests and preferences can enhance the therapeutic process.
Encouraging clients to integrate these activities into their personal time can complement the work done in therapy sessions and support ongoing progress in managing anxiety and depression.

What should someone do to prepare for starting anxiety therapy?

To prepare for your first anxiety therapy or depression counseling session, you can take the following steps:

  • Reflect on your symptoms: Take some time to reflect on your anxiety symptoms, including the specific triggers, physical sensations, and thoughts associated with your anxiety. For depression counseling, consider the specific symptoms you've been experiencing, their severity, and how they're impacting your daily life. This can help you articulate your concerns and goals more effectively during your session.
  • Identify your goals: Clarify what you hope to achieve through anxiety therapy or depression counseling. Whether it's reducing the frequency of panic attacks, improving coping skills, gaining insight into your anxiety triggers, reducing the frequency or intensity of depressive symptoms, or addressing underlying issues contributing to your depression, having clear goals can guide the direction of your therapy.
  • Compile relevant information: Gather any relevant information or documentation related to your anxiety or depression, such as previous therapy records, medical history, or medication lists. This information can provide valuable context for your therapist and inform your treatment plan.
  • Prepare questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have about anxiety or depression therapy or the therapeutic process. This can help alleviate any anxiety about the first session, provide valuable context for your therapist, and inform your treatment plan.
  • Establish logistics: Familiarize yourself with the logistics of therapy, including session scheduling, payment arrangements, and confidentiality policies. Clarify any questions or concerns with your therapist prior to your first session.
  • Practice self-care: Engage in self-care activities leading up to your first session, such as getting adequate sleep, eating well-balanced meals, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being can help you feel more prepared and grounded for therapy.
By taking these proactive steps, you can feel more prepared and empowered as you embark on your journey in anxiety therapy or depression counseling.

Starting Anxiety & depression counseling

What is Anxiety & depression counseling?

Anxiety & depression counseling from our therapists at Thriveworks in Virginia Beach, VA can help people better understand and manage their symptoms. If you are struggling with regular anxious and/or depressive thoughts and feelings that are affecting your day-to-day life or you suspect that you have an anxiety or depressive disorder, you should seek professional help. The therapists at Thriveworks can develop a treatment plan that will help you better manage your anxiety and/or depression.

How does Anxiety & depression counseling work?

Anxiety & depression counseling from our therapists in Virginia Beach involves talking to a therapist about symptoms, potential causes, and more. Your therapist will then work with you to determine where your anxiety and/or depression might stem from and teach you effective coping mechanisms.

Is Anxiety & depression counseling conducted in person or online?

Anxiety & depression counseling at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does Anxiety & depression counseling last?

Anxiety & depression counseling from Thriveworks Virginia Beach therapists can last for a few weeks, months ,or longer, dependent on the severity of one's anxiety as well as their needs and preferences.

Need more help deciding?

Depression and Anxiety Therapy – Counselors, Therapists, and Psychologists in Virginia Beach

Some of the common signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety are emotions that many people experience on a daily basis. However, in a depressed or anxious individual, the emotions are accentuated to very high intensities and experienced over much longer periods. It is quite common to feel that the emotions are completely random and have no direct link to everyday events. Some of the physical symptoms include restlessness, lack of sleep, lethargy and heart palpitations.

Treatment

Treating depression and anxiety disorders to put them into remission can often be a complex procedure. For many sufferers the first changes to be made include lifestyle interventions such as nutritional and exercise modifications.

But whilst these may be effective at reducing the symptoms, they often do not treat the root cause. In that respect medical interventions such as antidepressant therapies are very similar – they will often completely suppress the symptoms the patient experiences.

The third arm of treatment plans are talking-based therapy sessions such as the counseling services that Thriveworks Virginia Beach provides. Our experienced counselors, therapists, and psychologists will guide a patient through a process to identify the root cause of his or her disorder.

Then, the patient and the counselor can work together towards finding a lasting respite for the condition. If you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression, why not get in touch with Thriveworks VA Beach to arrange your first session?

You can begin by giving us a call or going online to get started today—work with a counselor at Thriveworks Virginia Beach.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Virginia Beach therapists and counselors accept 25 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • First Health Network

  • Humana Exchange

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Self-pay costs at Virginia Beach
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.7 Thriveworks Virginia Beach reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
I have been seeing Sharyn Ingrum for a couple months now, she is very kind and welcoming and has helped me so much. I have seen great improvement in myself since seeing her. 10/10 recommend her, she makes therapy engaging and you can feel that she truly cares about her patients.
Read more I have been seeing Sharyn Ingrum for a couple months now, she is very kind and welcoming and has helped me so much. I have seen great improvement in myself since seeing her. 10/10 recommend her, she makes therapy engaging and you can feel that she truly cares about her patients.
Virginia Beach Dec 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’ve known John McAnulty for a few years, and I have to say he’s the most compassionate counselor I’ve encountered so far! He helped my husband and I through a very rough time and I’m eternally grateful. His skills and empathy for his clients is evident!
Read more I’ve known John McAnulty for a few years, and I have to say he’s the most compassionate counselor I’ve encountered so far! He helped my husband and I through a very rough time and I’m eternally grateful. His skills and empathy for his clients is evident!
Virginia Beach Oct 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I would definitely recommend Thriveworks. Rarely can you reach for a counselor online and be able to take practical and progressive steps to work toward personal goals, growth and healing. John McAnulty Is a consummate professional, lending compassionate attention and assistance to clients as they navigate the path to well-being. I could not be more appreciative of his service.
Read more I would definitely recommend Thriveworks. Rarely can you reach for a counselor online and be able to take practical and progressive steps to work toward personal goals, growth and healing. John McAnulty Is a consummate professional, lending compassionate attention and assistance to clients as they navigate the path to well-being. I could not be more appreciative of his service.
Virginia Beach Sep 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Nikol is top tier when it comes to professional counselors. She has the ability to connect with individuals while providing sound therapy. I have interacted with Nikol personally and professionally, and would most definitely trust my loved ones and friends in her care.
Read more Nikol is top tier when it comes to professional counselors. She has the ability to connect with individuals while providing sound therapy. I have interacted with Nikol personally and professionally, and would most definitely trust my loved ones and friends in her care.
Virginia Beach Jun 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Don is an incredible human being who is right where he needs to be helping people regain balance in their lives. I lost mine. My husband lost his. We lost our marital balance. Don helped us face hard truths and taught us how to acknowledge our negative communications and replace it with the knowledge of how to break the cycle. We learned how to healthfully detach, accept & grow. We are forever thankful to Don for his guidance.
Read more Don is an incredible human being who is right where he needs to be helping people regain balance in their lives. I lost mine. My husband lost his. We lost our marital balance. Don helped us face hard truths and taught us how to acknowledge our negative communications and replace it with the knowledge of how to break the cycle. We learned how to healthfully detach, accept & grow. We are forever thankful to Don for his guidance.
Virginia Beach Sep 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Great session,fair priced and mr. Costigan is very friendly and knowledgable. Great help
Virginia Beach May 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
This is a review for Mandy Donnelly at the Virginia Beach location. I worked with Mandy for more than one year in community mental health and she is the real deal. Mandy was able to build strong relationships with her clients and had a great impact with with children, adolescents, and adults. Mandy is also highly ethical and respectful. I would strongly recommend Mandy and would take my own children to her.
Read more This is a review for Mandy Donnelly at the Virginia Beach location. I worked with Mandy for more than one year in community mental health and she is the real deal. Mandy was able to build strong relationships with her clients and had a great impact with with children, adolescents, and adults. Mandy is also highly ethical and respectful. I would strongly recommend Mandy and would take my own children to her.
Virginia Beach Apr 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I started seeing Don in Feb. of this year. I have several behaviors I am currently dealing with. Don is compassionate, knowledgeable, sympathetic and easy to talk to. He is like a friend and has helped me with so many things I'm currently dealing with.
Read more I started seeing Don in Feb. of this year. I have several behaviors I am currently dealing with. Don is compassionate, knowledgeable, sympathetic and easy to talk to. He is like a friend and has helped me with so many things I'm currently dealing with.
Virginia Beach Sep 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach is located off of S Independence Blvd, in a shopping center right by Lake Trashmore. As you enter this shopping center, you’ll pass Making a Difference Foundation, Inc. on your right. We currently share a building with Interm Healthcare of Virginia Beach, VA, and Bug-Masters.

Phone number

(757) 520-0827

Languages spoken by VA providers

  • English
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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