Anxiety Disorder Specialists in Pasadena

Anxiety disorders aren’t just about “feeling nervous.” For many people, they make everyday life—work, relationships, even leaving the house—feel overwhelming. If you or someone you love is stuck in a constant cycle of worry, panic, or fear, the problem is likely bigger than stress.

In Pasadena, there are professionals who specialize in treating anxiety—but finding the right one can be tricky. Do you need a therapist? A psychiatrist? A full treatment program? This guide will walk you through exactly who to consult when searching for an anxiety disorder specialist near me, and how The Forge Recovery Center can help if you’re looking for comprehensive care.

Understanding Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are more than occasional nerves. They are diagnosable mental health conditions that can make daily functioning extremely difficult. Here are the most common types seen in treatment:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD involves constant, uncontrollable worry about everyday situations — work performance, health, finances, relationships — even when there’s no immediate threat. People with GAD often describe it as a never-ending cycle of “what if” thinking that robs them of peace.

• Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is marked by sudden and intense panic attacks. These episodes come with alarming physical symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations. Many mistake these symptoms for a medical emergency, leading to frequent ER visits.

• Social Anxiety Disorder: Social anxiety is more than just shyness. It’s a deep fear of judgment, embarrassment, or humiliation in social settings, causing people to avoid situations like work meetings, social events, or even one-on-one conversations.

• Specific Phobias: Phobias are intense fears triggered by specific objects or situations, such as heights, flying, driving, or needles. These fears often lead to avoidance behaviors that restrict daily life.

In Pasadena, it’s common for individuals to dismiss anxiety as “part of life” until it becomes unmanageable. Left untreated, anxiety often progresses into depression, substance use as a coping mechanism, or serious physical health issues like insomnia and chronic fatigue.

Recognizing that anxiety is interfering with daily life — trouble focusing, disrupted sleep, avoidance of important situations — is not weakness. It’s a sign that it’s time to seek help.

Types of Anxiety Disorder Specialists in Pasadena

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for anxiety. Depending on your situation, you may need one or more of these specialists:

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They are often consulted when medication is recommended, especially for moderate to severe anxiety. If you’ve tried therapy but still feel stuck, a psychiatrist might be necessary.

Psychologists

Psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders through talk therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are two commonly used approaches that help people reframe anxious thoughts and change behaviors.

Licensed Therapists and Counselors

Therapists provide structured talk therapy without the medical aspect. Many people in Pasadena see therapists for ongoing anxiety support, especially if they don’t need medication. Look for those trained in anxiety-specific methods like exposure therapy or trauma-informed care.

Specialized Anxiety Treatment Centers

Facilities like The Forge Recovery Center offer comprehensive programs combining therapy, medication management, and holistic treatments. Centers are often the right choice if anxiety is paired with other issues like substance abuse or trauma.

Often, people work with multiple specialists. For example, a psychiatrist for medication, a therapist for weekly sessions, and a treatment center for additional support.

How to Choose the Right Anxiety Disorder Specialist Near Pasadena

Finding the right anxiety disorder specialist near you is not as simple as picking the first result you see online. Many specialists may offer therapy or counseling, but anxiety—especially when paired with trauma, depression, or substance use—requires someone who is trained to navigate its unique challenges.

Qualifications to Look For:

The first step is making sure the provider is properly licensed. This could be a Psychiatrist (MD), Psychologist (PhD or PsyD), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Beyond licensing, check if they specialize specifically in anxiety disorders. 

Many therapists offer general mental health services, but you want someone with advanced knowledge of anxiety-focused treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Another critical factor is experience with co-occurring disorders. Anxiety often doesn’t show up alone — it may be linked to substance abuse, depression, or unresolved trauma. Specialists trained in dual-diagnosis treatment are better equipped to handle these overlapping issues without missing important pieces of the puzzle.

Pasadena-Specific Considerations:

Since you’re looking locally, think practically too. Does the provider understand the pressures common in Pasadena, like work-related stress, academic anxiety, or high-functioning anxiety common among professionals? Is their office location accessible via freeways or public transportation? Lastly, confirm if they accept your insurance or offer payment plans, as ongoing care can be a financial commitment.

Red Flags:

• Quick-fix promises like “eliminate anxiety in 2 sessions”

• Lack of anxiety-specific experience

• Ignoring or minimizing co-occurring issues like substance abuse

Pro Tip:

If you or your loved one struggles with both anxiety and substance use, prioritize finding a specialist or treatment center with dual-diagnosis capabilities. Treating both conditions together leads to better, longer-lasting outcomes.

Why The Forge Recovery Center Is Trusted for Anxiety Treatment in Pasadena

At The Forge Recovery Center, we know that anxiety is rarely just about racing thoughts or occasional panic attacks. For many of our clients, anxiety is woven into a larger web of challenges—past trauma, substance use, depression, or chronic stress. Treating anxiety as a stand-alone problem often leads to short-term relief but long-term frustration. That’s why we take a comprehensive, whole-person approach, focusing on what’s beneath the surface, not just the visible symptoms.

Our Approach:

Our team specializes in treating anxiety disorders of all types, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, and anxiety that co-occurs with addiction or trauma. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we create customized treatment plans tailored to each client’s situation, goals, and history.

We utilize evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Therapy, which have all been shown to be highly effective for anxiety. More importantly, our clinicians are trained to integrate these therapies into a broader recovery plan when other issues, like substance use, are present.

Integrated and Flexible Care

Whether you need an intensive program to stabilize severe anxiety or a step-down option for ongoing support, we offer multiple levels of care, including:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for clients needing structured, daily treatment without full hospitalization.

• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for those balancing treatment with everyday life.

• Outpatient Care for those ready for lower-intensity, ongoing support.

Local and Accessible for Pasadena Residents

Located conveniently near Pasadena, The Forge Recovery Center makes it easy for clients to attend treatment consistently. We understand the importance of accessibility, especially for those managing work, school, or family obligations.

A Supportive, Healing Environment

What truly sets us apart is our focus on creating a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Many people come to us after feeling like “traditional therapy” wasn’t enough—they need more than just coping skills; they need a team that helps them uncover and heal the root causes of their anxiety.

At The Forge Recovery Center, you’re not just another client—you’re a person deserving of lasting change, and we’re here to help make that happen.

Getting Started: Taking the Next Step

Anxiety is not something you just “get over.” Without proper help, it often gets worse. Whether you’re searching for help for yourself or someone you love, the right specialist can make all the difference.

At The Forge Recovery Center, we make the process simple. From your first phone call to ongoing support, our team is ready to walk with you through recovery. Don’t wait until anxiety controls every part of life.

Whether you’re looking for a therapist, psychiatrist, or full treatment program, Pasadena has options. If you need care that looks at the full picture—anxiety, addiction, trauma, and more—reach out to The Forge Recovery Center today. You don’t have to go through this alone. Call us today to speak with someone who understands.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

April 17, 2025