THERAPIES

CBT for anxiety disorders

Structured therapy for generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety and phobias, often including gradual exposure.

How it works

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps a person notice anxious thinking patterns, test them against reality and gradually approach avoided situations. Protocols differ by disorder—panic, social anxiety and phobias each have specific versions.

What the evidence says, use by use

Evidence is specific to the condition, population and—for devices—the exact product. One label never covers everything.

Anxiety: Treating generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder

Established
Who was studied / who it’s for: Adults (and adapted versions for children and teens)What this label means: Strong research and/or authoritative clinical guidelines support this specific use.

Guidelines recommend CBT (individual or guided self-help as a first step) for generalized anxiety and panic disorder.

Sources: NICE (UK) · NIMH

Who usually provides it

A psychologist, licensed therapist or counselor trained in CBT; also available as guided self-help and digital programs.

Cautions & things to know

  • Avoidance usually feels protective in the short term; CBT works by gently reducing it.

Questions for a clinician

Conversation prompts, not a treatment plan.

  • Which CBT protocol fits this type of anxiety?
  • How many sessions do people usually need?
  • Would guided self-help be a reasonable first step?

Educational, not medical advice. NeuroCoach is an educational and care-navigation resource, not a medical provider. Information about medications, supplements, therapies, devices, clinical trials and community experiences is provided for education and exploration and is not a recommendation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Evidence varies substantially among interventions. Decisions about medical or mental-health treatment should be made with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop or change medication, supplements or treatment based solely on information found here.

Sources

Sources checked October 5, 2026. Links support this page; they don’t imply endorsement of NeuroCoach.

  1. Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults (CG113) NICE (UK)
  2. Anxiety Disorders NIMH