Mental Health Conditions Explained: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and More Treatment Options

Compassionate, Evidence-Based Mental Health Care in Longmont, CO

At Longmont Psychology in Longmont, Colorado, we are dedicated to helping individuals better understand and manage mental health conditions. Led by Dr. Brian Carl, we provide compassionate, personalized care designed to support your emotional well-being and improve your quality of life.

Mental health challenges are common—but they are also highly treatable with the right support. Whether you’re experiencing persistent anxiety, depression, or trauma-related distress, our goal is to help you regain balance and thrive. Below, we explore some of the most prevalent mental health conditions we work with at Longmont Psychology.


1. Anxiety Disorders: More Than Just Worry

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but when it becomes overwhelming or persistent, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. These conditions are the most common mental health concern in the U.S., affecting millions each year. Symptoms may include:

  • Constant worry or fear
  • Racing thoughts or feeling “on edge”
  • Physical symptoms like a pounding heart, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
  • Avoiding certain situations out of fear or apprehension

Common anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and specific phobias.

At Longmont Psychology, Dr. Brian Carl uses evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage and reduce anxiety. Through therapy, you can develop healthier coping skills, regain a sense of calm, and rebuild confidence in everyday life.


2. Depression: More Than Just Feeling Sad

Depression goes beyond temporary sadness—it can affect nearly every area of your life. Symptoms often include:

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression is treatable. At Longmont Psychology, we use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) to help uncover the underlying causes of depression and build strategies for recovery.

Dr. Carl takes a compassionate, individualized approach—helping you understand your symptoms, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and rediscover a sense of purpose and joy.


3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Healing from Trauma

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as an accident, assault, or natural disaster. Symptoms may include:

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories
  • Nightmares and sleep disturbances
  • Hypervigilance or feeling constantly on edge
  • Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
  • Emotional numbness or disconnection

PTSD can deeply impact relationships, work, and self-worth—but healing is possible. Dr. Carl integrates evidence-based trauma therapies such as Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help individuals process trauma, reduce symptoms, and reclaim a sense of safety and control.


4. Other Common Conditions We Treat

In addition to anxiety, depression, and PTSD, Longmont Psychology provides assessment and treatment for a range of other mental health concerns, including:

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
  • Bipolar Disorder: Marked by mood swings between depressive and manic episodes.
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Involving inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity.
  • Eating Disorders: Including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.
  • Substance Use Disorders: Addressing the root causes of addiction and supporting long-term recovery.

Compassionate, Collaborative Care at Longmont Psychology

If you’re struggling with emotional distress or uncertainty about where to begin, Dr. Brian Carl and the team at Longmont Psychology are here to help. We provide thorough assessments and personalized, evidence-based treatment plans designed to promote healing and resilience.

Our approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel heard, validated, and supported as you work toward a more fulfilling life.


Schedule an Appointment

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting—but it’s also an act of courage. Longmont Psychology offers both in-person and telehealth appointments for residents in Longmont and surrounding Colorado communities.

If you’re ready to begin your journey toward better mental health, contact Longmont Psychology today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel grounded, capable, and empowered.