Anxiety Disorder Treatment in Tewksbury & South Portland

Learn how we treat anxiety disorders at our Tewksbury, Massachusetts, and South Portland, Maine facilities.
Pillars Clinical Team

Licensed clinicians & counselors

Shawn Kelly, LMHC
This page was clinically reviewed by Shawn Kelly, LMHC
Clinical Director | Clinical Review Policy

Living with an anxiety disorder can make even everyday tasks feel overwhelming, affecting your relationships, work, school, and overall quality of life. At Pillars Health Group, we provide compassionate, evidence-based anxiety treatment that helps individuals regain control and build healthier coping strategies. Whether you’ve been struggling with persistent worry for years or recently began experiencing symptoms, our experienced team is here to help you take the next step toward lasting recovery.

Treating Anxiety Disorders in Tewksbury & South Portland

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, but they are also highly treatable with the right level of care. While occasional stress is a normal part of life, anxiety disorders involve persistent fear, worry, or panic that interferes with daily functioning.

At Pillars Health Group, we provide comprehensive outpatient treatment for adults experiencing anxiety disorders. Our clinical team develops individualized treatment plans that combine evidence-based therapies, psychiatric care, medication management when appropriate, and ongoing support to address both symptoms and their underlying causes.

Our anxiety treatment program is designed for individuals who:

  • Experience anxiety that interferes with work, school, or relationships
  • Have recurring panic attacks or overwhelming worry
  • Feel trapped by obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors
  • Avoid situations because of fear or anxiety
  • Need more support than weekly therapy alone
  • Are transitioning from inpatient care or seeking an intensive outpatient option

Do You Need Anxiety Treatment?

Many people wait months—or even years—before seeking treatment, often believing they should simply “push through” their symptoms. If anxiety is affecting your ability to enjoy life or function normally, professional treatment can make a significant difference.

You may benefit from anxiety treatment if you experience:

  • Constant or excessive worrying
  • Panic attacks
  • Racing thoughts
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Restlessness or feeling on edge
  • Trouble sleeping due to anxiety
  • Muscle tension
  • Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath
  • Avoidance of social situations or specific places
  • Irritability
  • Fatigue related to chronic stress
  • Anxiety that interferes with work, school, or relationships

If these symptoms persist for several weeks or continue to worsen, it’s time to speak with a mental health professional.

Types of Anxiety Disorders We Treat

Our clinicians treat a wide range of anxiety disorders, including:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves persistent, excessive worry about everyday responsibilities, health, finances, work, or family. Individuals often find it difficult to control their worry, even when there is little reason for concern.

Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder is characterized by unexpected panic attacks that may include chest pain, dizziness, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, or feelings of losing control. Many people begin avoiding situations where previous attacks occurred.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety goes beyond shyness. Individuals experience intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or negatively evaluated in social or performance situations, often leading to isolation and avoidance.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD involves intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. Specialized treatment can help individuals regain control over these symptoms.

Health Anxiety

Health anxiety involves excessive worry about developing or already having a serious medical condition despite reassurance or normal medical evaluations. The constant fear can significantly impact daily life.

Specific Phobias

Specific phobias involve intense fear of particular objects, situations, or activities, such as flying, driving, heights, needles, or certain animals. Treatment helps individuals gradually reduce avoidance and regain confidence.

How Our Anxiety Program Works

Every person’s experience with anxiety is different, which is why treatment begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment.

During your assessment, our team will evaluate:

  • Your symptoms
  • Mental health history
  • Medical history
  • Current functioning
  • Treatment goals
  • Any co-occurring mental health conditions

Based on your assessment, we’ll recommend the outpatient program that best fits your needs.

Some individuals benefit from our Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Program, while others are appropriate for our Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Program. Throughout treatment, your care plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as you make progress.

Our Treatment Approach for Anxiety Disorders

Our multidisciplinary team uses evidence-based practices that address both immediate symptom relief and long-term recovery.

Treatment may include:

Evidence-Based Therapies

Our clinicians utilize therapies that have been extensively researched and proven effective for anxiety disorders, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure-based interventions when appropriate, and mindfulness-based approaches.

Psychiatry

Our psychiatric providers evaluate each individual’s mental health needs and collaborate closely with therapists to provide coordinated care.

Medication Management

Medication can be an effective component of treatment for some individuals. Our psychiatric team carefully evaluates whether medication is appropriate and monitors its effectiveness throughout treatment.

Group Therapy

Group sessions provide opportunities to develop coping skills, practice healthy communication, learn from others with similar experiences, and build meaningful support.

Family Support

When appropriate, family members may be involved in the treatment process through education and support services that strengthen communication and promote recovery.

Other Clinical Services

Depending on your individual needs, treatment may also include psychoeducation, relapse prevention planning, stress management, emotional regulation skills, and coordination with outside providers.

Our Levels of Care for Anxiety Treatment

Pillars Health Group provides flexible outpatient treatment options that allow individuals to receive intensive support while continuing to live at home. Our admissions team will help determine which level of care is most appropriate during your assessment.

Full-Day Outpatient Treatment (PHP)

Our Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Program—commonly known as a partial hospitalization program (PHP)—offers structured treatment several hours each day, up to five days per week. This level of care is ideal for individuals who need intensive support without inpatient hospitalization.

Example of Full-Day Schedule for Anxiety Treatment

Time Activity
09:00 am Check-In and Goal Setting
09:45 am Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
10:45 am Group Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
12:30 pm Lunch Break
01:00 pm Journaling
01:30 pm Psychoeducation, Clinical Skills Development
02:45 pm Wrap-Up
03:30 pm Check-Out

Half-Day Outpatient Treatment (IOP)

Our Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Program—commonly known as an intensive outpatient program (IOP)—provides several hours of treatment per day while allowing participants greater flexibility to maintain work, school, or family responsibilities. Half-Day Treatment takes place between three-to-five days a week, depending on each clients unique needs.

Example of Half-Day Schedule for Anxiety Treatment

Morning Program

Time Activity
09:00 am Check-In and Goal Setting
09:45 am Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
10:45 am Group Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
12:30 pm Check-Out

Evening Program

Time Activity
05:30 pm Check-In and Goal Setting
06:30 pm Group Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
07:30 pm Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
09:00 pm Check-Out

What to Expect During Outpatient Anxiety Treatment

Beginning treatment can feel intimidating, but our goal is to make the process as comfortable as possible.

When you arrive:

  • You don’t need to bring anything special with you.
  • We’ll guide you through the intake process.
  • You’ll meet with members of your treatment team.
  • Your schedule and individualized treatment plan will be reviewed.

The length of treatment varies based on each person’s progress, goals, and clinical needs. Some individuals complete treatment in several weeks, while others benefit from additional support before transitioning to traditional outpatient therapy.

We also offer free insurance verification before admission so you can better understand your coverage and any potential costs before beginning treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Pillars Health Group for Anxiety Treatment?

Choosing the right treatment provider is an important decision. At Pillars Health Group, we combine clinical excellence with compassionate, individualized care.

Patients choose us because of our:

  • Experienced multidisciplinary team of licensed mental health professionals
  • Specialized outpatient programs designed for adults with anxiety and related conditions
  • Individualized treatment plans based on comprehensive clinical assessments
  • Collaborative approach that integrates therapy, psychiatry, and medication management when appropriate
  • Strong emphasis on evidence-based treatment methods
  • Supportive group environment that promotes healing and connection
  • Commitment to treating the whole person—not just the diagnosis
  • Accredited programs that meet high standards for quality and patient care

Our goal isn’t simply to reduce anxiety symptoms—it’s to help individuals build resilience, develop lasting coping skills, and return to living meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Get Anxiety Treatment in Tewksbury & South Portland

If anxiety has begun to interfere with your daily life, you don’t have to face it alone. The experienced team at Pillars Health Group is here to help you understand your options and find the level of care that’s right for you.

Take the first step today by calling our team at 855-828-0575 to speak with a caring specialist. We offer a free insurance verification check to help you sort out coverage.

Get treatment in either of our outpatient treatment facilities:

Recovery from anxiety is possible, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Reach out to our admissions team today — no pressure, just answers.

Pillars Clinical Team

Licensed clinicians & counselors

Our clinical team includes licensed therapists, counselors, and prescribers with decades of combined experience in outpatient mental health and addiction care.

Excellent rating
Based on 325 reviews
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So far by experience has been good! Talking to Liz has made me feel less alone and I can’t wait to start coming in to do the work. I highly recommend this place and Liz!
Chantal Ravenelle profile picture
Chantal Ravenelle
2 days ago
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My experience with this practice has been truly life-changing. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed, heard, and supported in a compassionate and judgment-free environment. The guidance, expertise, and genuine care I received throughout my mental health journey helped me gain valuable insight, build resilience, and develop meaningful tools for personal growth. What stood out most was the team's commitment to creating a safe space where healing and self-discovery could take place. Every interaction reflected professionalism, empathy, and a sincere dedication to helping clients achieve their goals. This journey has been both enlightening and empowering, providing me with a greater understanding of myself and a renewed sense of confidence and well-being. I am incredibly grateful for the support I received and would highly recommend their services to anyone seeking compassionate, knowledgeable, and effective mental health care. The positive impact they have had on my life is something I will always appreciate.
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Scott Jesky
2 days ago
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Pioneer provides excellent care for people struggling with substance abuse and mental health. The staff truly care about your recovery and wellbeing and strive for a comprehensive treatment. There is a sense of community and commonality in all the groups. Pioneer has been an essential part of treatment being a step down from residential treatment, still providing a nurturing environment to continue to grow and reintegrate into everyday life
Ryan Duggan profile picture
Ryan Duggan
3 days ago
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Liz has been so unbelievably helpful. She is responsive, thorough, and so easy to talk to. She has made the admission process so easy and I can’t wait to start working with this team if the rest of it is anything like her! (:
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Samantha Hampton
3 days ago
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This Friday, I graduate from Pillars IOP, and honestly, I’m emotional thinking about how far away this moment once felt. When I started this program, anxiety and OCD had taken over so much of my life. My world had gotten smaller. I was afraid of my thoughts, my emotions, physical sensations, and uncertainty. There were days when simply getting through the day felt like an accomplishment. There were moments when I wondered if I would ever feel like myself again. This journey has not been perfect. There have been good days, really hard days, setbacks, panic attacks, tears, and moments of doubt. But Pillars taught me that recovery isn't about never feeling anxious again. It’s about learning that I can feel anxious, uncomfortable, or uncertain and still keep living my life. I learned that I don't have to solve every thought, explain every sensation, or have 100% certainty before moving forward. I learned that setbacks don't erase progress, and that I am capable of handling hard moments. To the incredible team at Pillars: thank you for challenging me, supporting me, believing in me, and helping me find my way back to myself. You gave me tools I will carry with me long after I graduate. And to anyone struggling right now: Please don't give up on yourself simply because you can't see the other side yet. You don't have to take the whole journey today. Just take the next step. Take it scared. Take it uncertain. Take it with tears in your eyes—but keep going. There was a time when I couldn't imagine getting here. This Friday, I graduate. Not because I will never struggle again, but because I now know I can struggle and still keep going. Thank you, Pillars, for helping me believe in myself again. ❤️‍🩹
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Kelley Hartman
10 days ago
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I don’t always show it in group but the staff here has really helped me in ways I can’t explain in words
Reese Blanchard profile picture
Reese Blanchard
24 days ago
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I started at Pillar Health during a really difficult time in my life. From day one, the team treated me like a person, not a case number. The intake was thorough but never judgmental, and the group sessions actually gave me tools I could use right away. What stands out most is how the staff follows through and I can’t say enough about how caring they were about my situation. That kind of care is rare. If you’re struggling with mental health, substance abuse or just need someone in your corner, go to Pillar Health. They genuinely want you to get better.
Andrew F profile picture
Andrew F
38 days ago
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Outstanding clinicians and phenomenal mental health care. I was hesitant to join but am beyond happy and eternally grateful for every group and one-on-one session I experienced. A very well rounded program that has created such a safe and comfortable space to build connections with others in recovery and to develop skills and healthy ways to navigate anxiety, stress, triggers, and unhealthy urges. I wish I could give more than 5 stars. A highly recommended program.
Becky profile picture
Becky
38 days ago
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I am so glad to give Pillars Health in Tewksbury the best review. I came into the IOP hesitant, but hopeful . The staff were engaged and encouraging. I came out of that hesitancy with a positive mental and physical outlook. The Check in and Check out were expertly handled with both in-person and virtually, making time to make each voice heard with helpful suggestions on how to keep moving forward to a positive, and , educated perspective!
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Thembekile Mazibuko
40 days ago
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Absolutely an exceptional treatment center. Their staff are A+ and are incredibly dedicated to helping their clients. They provide a tremendous amount of support to their clients' family members. I can't say enough about this program! Highly recommended!
Jean McCarthy profile picture
Jean McCarthy
40 days ago
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