The evaluation process
Adult anxiety covers several distinct diagnoses — generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias — each with its own treatment response pattern. Before choosing a medication, it matters to know which kind of anxiety is actually present, whether depression is traveling alongside it, and whether past trauma is driving a significant share of the symptoms.
What a first visit covers:
- A comprehensive evaluation that differentiates GAD, panic, social anxiety, and PTSD — they respond differently
- GAD-7 (generalized anxiety), PCL-5 (PTSD screen), PHQ-9 (co-occurring depression)
- Review of any prior sedative use and dependence concerns
- Therapy referral — CBT and exposure therapy have strong evidence in anxiety and often belong in the plan alongside medication
A treatment plan is discussed before you leave. When medication is the right next step and there are no contraindications, a prescription may be sent that day; in many cases we prefer to start after labs, a records review, or a brief focused follow-up.
Medication options
Medication choice is matched to symptom profile, medical history, prior trials, and patient preference. Where therapy belongs alongside medication, we say so and help coordinate the referral.
- First-line SSRIs/SNRIs: Escitalopram, sertraline, venlafaxine XR, duloxetine — the evidence-based durable first-line options for most anxiety disorders.
- Non-sedating adjuncts: Buspirone, hydroxyzine, gabapentin, propranolol (for performance anxiety) — useful bridges or stand-alone options.
- Other options: Mirtazapine, quetiapine low-dose, prazosin for trauma-related nightmares.
Serving Salem and Marion County
Our Salem office at 401 Ratcliff Drive SE, Suite 110 serves Keizer, Independence, Monmouth, Silverton, Dallas, Turner, Stayton, and Woodburn, with secure-video telehealth available to patients throughout Oregon.
Salem's professional base — state employees during legislative sessions, hospital staff working rotating shifts, attorneys in the Oregon Judicial Department, and small-business owners — frequently carries generalized anxiety that's gone under-treated for years amid demanding schedules. Part of what we do at the Salem office is build durable, sustainable, non-habit-forming treatment plans that hold up under real-world pressure.
Insurance & self-pay
In-network with ten major plans: Moda, PacificSource, Regence BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna / Evernorth, Aetna, Providence, Multiplan / Claritev, First Health, First Choice, and Optum. Most patients pay a specialist copay.
Medicaid / Oregon Health Plan (OHP) is not accepted. Self-pay rates are available by phone. Superbills available for out-of-network reimbursement. Good Faith Estimates provided before your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find an anxiety psychiatrist in Salem, Oregon?
MindHealth Psychiatry at 401 Ratcliff Drive SE, Suite 110 sees adults for anxiety disorders. Typical new-patient wait is about two weeks.
How do you approach anxiety medication?
Durable first-line treatment is an SSRI or SNRI combined with non-sedating adjuncts and CBT skills. We focus on sustainable, non-habit-forming options and do not offer maintenance sedative therapy. We'll always explain the options and trade-offs before starting anything.
Is therapy better than medication for anxiety?
CBT has equivalent or superior evidence to medication for many anxiety disorders, and combined CBT-plus-medication often outperforms either alone. We coordinate with local therapists and help you understand which approach makes sense for your situation.
Can anxiety treatment be done by telehealth in Oregon?
Yes. Most anxiety medications are non-controlled and fully prescribable by telehealth.