There are approximately 10 million people living in Los Angeles, an estimated 16% of this population is experiencing anxiety. This percentage is mirroring national trends on this mental health problem. This number is not an abstract fact that describes some distant reality, it is the story our families, friends, coworkers and neighbours. What is anxiety? Is it a necessary part of life? Is it the result of our fast-paced, success-oriented society? Is it a malfunction of our synapses or a wound in our souls?

In my work as a spiritual psychotherapist, I can see the immense pain anxiety is causing to my clients; I can see how it becomes an obstacle in day to day life, how it erodes relationships and gradually takes you away from the life path you were destined to walk on. Anxiety is no laughing matter, even in low levels it should be treated with the same gravity we would apply a physical illness. If you experience anxiety on a regular basis and you do nothing about it, it becomes your way of life, your personality. Perceiving “tigers” are chasing you perpetually is how people get trapped in the vicious cycle of extreme anxiety and fear. This is what anxiety is: Fear. Some argue that a small dose of anxiety is motivational, as our brains laser focus and we can create miracles. Others claim that it is a result of our contemporary lifestyle, being exposed to a lot of new information on a daily basis, being stuck on our smartphones as well as the result of unhealthy diets and sitting on our desks all day long.

There are nuggets of truth in all these theories, but what is unequivocally true is that people who are experiencing anxiety are in pain. Pain can result from unresolved trauma especially from childhood as we have no filters to judge what is right-wrong or ways to protect ourselves from harm. Some people are more prone to anxiety than others: a combination of genetics, childhood trauma and stressful life events can make them crumble and feel hopeless. This is when intervention by a professional is necessary. In my three decades of clinical practice, I’ve helped a lot of individuals who were experiencing high levels of stress, sometimes in combination with depression, OCD or ADHD. In fact, it is quite common for more than one diagnoses to exist simultaneously. Anxiety can drain your energy, it can deplete your brain from all the happy hormones and chemicals and eventually crush your spirit.

Psychotherapy in combination with shamanic journeys can be immensely helpful in the pursue of a happy, content, peaceful life, as you get to shift your energy and experience life from a different perspective. How does it work? Reframing your emotions about your past, understanding that you are no longer 5 years old and helpless; but you have resources to protect yourself, reconnecting with your soul’s power will bring a sense of tranquility. Incorporating different modalities in your healing process can make the journey faster and more enjoyable.

On the other side of your healing journey you will find not only peace of mind, but also a new profound sense of spirituality; a deeper connection to life as well as trust in your powers and the goodness of life. Life’s challenges are always going to be present, as they are the best curriculum in life. Anxiety may arise but psychotherapy can equip you with the tools to take control of any situation you are faced with. If you or a loved one is currently struggling with anxiety feel free to contact me, my unique approach of spiritual psychotherapy can help you find your inner peace. You deserve it!

Take care,

Maria