Anxiety

You already know your anxiety doesn’t always make sense.

You can logically tell yourself everything is okay, yet your body reacts as if something is about to go wrong. You replay conversations, expect the worst, overthink decisions, and stay on high alert even when there isn’t an immediate threat.

At Anchored Counseling, Karen P. Ware, LPC helps adults and first responders understand why these patterns developed—and, more importantly, how to change them. Therapy focuses on more than coping with anxiety. Together, we’ll work to address the experiences and beliefs that continue to fuel it.

Why Anxiety Keeps Coming Back

Many people come to therapy saying, “I know why I’m anxious, but I still can’t stop it.” That frustration is completely valid. Anxiety isn’t just a thinking problem; it often becomes a pattern within the nervous system. While learning new coping skills can be helpful, insight alone may not be enough if your brain continues to respond as though you’re in danger.

How EMDR Helps

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is different from traditional talk therapy. Instead of repeatedly discussing painful experiences, EMDR helps your brain reprocess memories and beliefs that continue to trigger anxiety. As these experiences become less emotionally charged, many people find they spend less time stuck in worry, avoidance, or constant alertness.

Anxiety & Stress Management Image 2

What Therapy May Help You Do

Walk into work or social situations without your mind immediately expecting the worst.
Sleep without replaying every conversation from the day.
Make decisions without hours of second-guessing.
Say no without carrying guilt for days.
Feel calmer in your body instead of constantly bracing for something to happen.

Payment Information

Karen P. Ware, LPC, provides therapy in Suffolk, Virginia, as well as through telehealth across Virginia.

Sessions are self-pay, though many clients use HSA or FSA funds. Superbills are available for eligible out-of-network reimbursement. Anchored Counseling also accepts Sentara Health Plans, Anthem, and UnitedHealthcare where applicable.

Anxiety & Stress Management Image 3

Frequently asked questions

(01) How do I know if my anxiety is severe enough for therapy?
If anxiety is interfering with work, relationships, sleep, or your quality of life, therapy can help.
(02) Does EMDR work for anxiety?
Yes. EMDR can help when anxiety is connected to distressing experiences or deeply held negative beliefs.
(03) I've tried therapy before and it didn't help. Why would this be different?
Many clients have gained insight before. Treatment here focuses on changing the underlying patterns, not only discussing them.
(04) Do you offer online therapy in Virginia?
Yes. Secure telehealth is available throughout Virginia.
(05) Do you take insurance?
Sessions are primarily self-pay. HSA/FSA funds are accepted, superbills are available, and Sentara Health Plans, Anthem, and United Healthcare are accepted where applicable.