Medication and Therapy – How They Work Together
If you’re currently taking medication for anxiety, it’s still absolutely safe to engage in therapy. In fact, therapy can often be more effective when used alongside medication, especially when your symptoms feel overwhelming.
Before starting BWRT or Hypnotherapy, I’ll need confirmation from your doctor that you’re medically fit to proceed—this is simply a precaution to ensure your safety and wellbeing. If you have any concerns about how therapy and medication interact, please do speak to your GP or prescribing physician.
Does Medication ‘Fix’ Anxiety?
Medication—particularly antidepressants—can be very helpful, especially when someone feels they can’t cope or is experiencing significant issues with sleep or panic. These medications often bring some relief, typically after a settling-in period of 6–8 weeks.
However, in many cases, medication doesn’t address the root cause of anxiety. It may reduce symptoms, but it doesn’t resolve the emotional patterns or subconscious beliefs that created those symptoms in the first place. That’s where therapy comes in.
Medication + Therapy = Better Outcomes
If you’re taking anti-depressants and decide to begin therapy, you may find that the medication actually supports the process. By providing a more stable emotional foundation, medication can allow you to more easily examine, process, and resolve the causes of your anxiety through therapy.
Some research and clinical experience suggest that therapy can be up to 50% more effective when the client is in a calmer state of mind—something medication may help facilitate.
My Personal Perspective
In my experience, most people can overcome anxiety without long-term medication, especially with effective therapies like Hypnoanalysis or BWRT. However, I do not advise stopping any prescribed medication without consulting your doctor.
If you ever feel that medication isn’t working for you or you’re considering coming off it, please speak with your GP. Withdrawal must be managed safely, with a structured plan designed by your medical provider.
Tim Grover - Bedfordshire Therapies 