Evidence-Based Anxiety Treatment at Gold Coast Psychology Clinic

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns and can significantly impact daily functioning, relationships, work, study and overall wellbeing. While anxiety is a normal human response to stress, it can become overwhelming when worry, fear or physical symptoms persist or begin to interfere with daily life.

At Gold Coast Psychology Clinic, our psychologists provide evidence-based assessment and treatment for anxiety disorders in adolescents and adults. We work collaboratively with clients to understand the factors contributing to anxiety and develop practical, meaningful strategies to reduce distress and improve quality of life.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety involves excessive worry, fear or apprehension that may occur in response to specific situations or more broadly across many areas of life. It is often accompanied by both emotional and physical symptoms.

Common anxiety presentations include:

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Social Anxiety Disorder

• Panic Disorder

• Specific Phobias

• Health Anxiety

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Trauma-related anxiety and PTSD

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can present differently for each person. Common symptoms include:

• Excessive worry or overthinking

• Racing thoughts

• Restlessness or feeling “on edge”

• Panic attacks

• Difficulty sleeping

• Muscle tension

• Irritability

• Difficulty concentrating

• Avoidance of feared situations

• Physical symptoms such as increased heart rate or shortness of breath

How We Treat Anxiety

Our psychologists use evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual’s needs and presentation. Treatment may include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Helps identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that maintain anxiety.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Focuses on building psychological flexibility and reducing the impact of anxious thoughts on behaviour.

Exposure-Based Therapy

Gradual, supported exposure to feared situations to reduce avoidance and build confidence.

Mindfulness-Based Approaches

Helps increase present-moment awareness and reduce rumination and worry.

How We Help

Our psychologists work collaboratively with clients to:

• Understand the underlying factors contributing to anxiety

• Develop practical coping and emotional regulation strategies

• Reduce avoidance behaviours and build confidence

• Challenge unhelpful thinking patterns

• Improve resilience during stressful life circumstances

• Manage physical symptoms of anxiety and panic

• Build confidence in social, work, and academic settings

• Address perfectionism and self-criticism

• Improve overall wellbeing and quality of life

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anxiety be treated?

Yes. Anxiety is highly treatable with evidence-based psychological therapies such as CBT and ACT.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on the severity and complexity of symptoms. Your psychologist will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required to book an appointment. However, a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP may allow access to Medicare rebates.

Book an Appointment

If anxiety is affecting your daily life, support is available. Our psychologists at Gold Coast Psychology Clinic can help you develop practical strategies to manage anxiety and improve your wellbeing.