Anxiety disorders

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The term anxiety disorder refers to a group of illnesses including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias. We will empower you to handle these intense feelings of anxiety.

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition marked by excessive worry, fear, or apprehension that is often disproportionate to actual threats.

It includes disorders such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms can be both physical and psychological, including trembling, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. Psychologically, individuals may experience persistent unease, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and restlessness, often feeling on edge or overwhelmed.

These symptoms can severely impact daily functioning, highlighting the importance of seeking appropriate treatment and support.

Causes of anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders are complex conditions caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and biological factors. Genetic predispositions, such as a family history of anxiety, play a significant role, as do life experiences like trauma, chronic stress, or major life changes. Psychological traits, such as perfectionism and low self-esteem, and imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin, also contribute to these disorders.

Diagnosing anxiety disorders

To diagnose an anxiety disorder, we typically begin with a comprehensive clinical interview to understand the patient's symptoms, their onset, duration, and impact on daily life. This interview includes exploring the patient's medical and family history, as well as any significant stressors or life events.

We then assess whether the symptoms align with the criteria for anxiety disorders. It's crucial to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms, including physical health issues, medication effects, or substance use, which might involve additional tests or examinations.

Based on this thorough assessment, we can then diagnose the anxiety disorder and propose an appropriate treatment plan, which could include therapy, medication, or a combination of approaches.

Treatment of anxiety disorders

Treating anxiety disorders involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes, tailored to the individual's specific condition and symptoms.

Medications such as antidepressants and anxiolytics are often used to manage symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly recommended form of psychotherapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Lifestyle adjustments, including regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness, are also important.

Support from family, friends, or support groups can enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

The primary aim is to achieve complete symptom resolution, enabling individuals to live full and satisfying lives.

Your journey

Referral

We accept self referrals although would prefer to receive referrals from your GP or other healthcare provider, outlining relevant clinical background.

Your first assessment

You can choose to meet your doctor in person at our consulting room in Edinburgh's New Town; or by secure video call from the comfort of your own home. Our initial appointments last one hour. This will afford you plenty of time to discuss your current difficulties and your goals for treatment. We will spend the final 15 minutes discussing our formulation and treatment options. You will subsequently receive a copy of your assessment letter and treatment plan (by secure email). If you have multiple or complex issues a further assessment appointment may be required, this will be discussed with you at the start of the appointment.

Follow up

Subsequent 30 minute follow up appointments will usually be carried out by video consultation (face to face is also possible) and will be more focused on medication titration and symptom review.

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Our clinical team

Get in touch to discuss which one of our team of specialists would be the most relevant for you to speak to.

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Dr John Ferguson

EAP Medical Director & Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr. John Ferguson is a highly experienced Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong background in neuroscience, mood disorders, ADHD, and sports psychiatry. He holds a dual degree in Medicine and Neuroscience from the University of Aberdeen, where his fascination with the brain and consciousness first took shape.

Dr. Ferguson commenced his psychiatry training in Edinburgh in the early 2000s, drawn to the field for its emphasis on understanding people's lives and experiences. Over the years, he has worked in both NHS and private settings, providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. Dr. Ferguson continues to serve as an NHS Consultant in East Lothian, where he leads a specialist clinic focused on ADHD.

With a specialist interest in neurodevelopmental conditions and mood disorders, Dr. Ferguson is particularly motivated by personal insight and a deep belief in his patients’ capacity for recovery and growth.

Qualifications:

MBChB – University of Aberdeen

BScMed Sci (Neuroscience) – University of Aberdeen

MRCPsych

Outside of work, he enjoys open water swimming and playing chess. He lives in East Lothian with his family and their two dogs, Maisie and Brodie.

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Dr. David Crocker

Associate Specialist

Dr David Crocker is an experienced psychiatrist with a particular focus on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Although born in the United Kingdom, he spent a significant portion of his childhood in the United States. He graduated in Medicine from King’s College London in 2013 and completed his foundation training in sunny Cornwall. Subsequently, he undertook further training in expedition medicine before relocating to Edinburgh in 2018 to commence core training in psychiatry. In 2022, Dr Crocker was awarded Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and has since dedicated his clinical practice to the assessment and treatment of ADHD and ASD.
Having been diagnosed with ADHD early in his career, Dr Crocker has first-hand insight into the challenges of feeling heard and understood. He prides himself on being an attentive listener and adopts a personalised, non-judgmental approach in his therapeutic work.

Qualifications:

BSc – University of St Andrews (2008)
MBBS – King’s College London (2013)
Diploma in Expedition Medicine – Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (2018)
MRCPsych (2022)
David lives in Edinburgh, where he enjoys playing racquet sports, PC gaming, and spending time with his partner and their loving labradoodle, Winston.

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Jenny O’Shea

Dyslexia and Dyscalculia Assessor and Tutor

Jenny O’Shea is a specialist assessor and tutor with a passion for understanding and supporting neurodivergent learners. After moving from Newcastle to Edinburgh for university, Jenny developed a keen interest in psychology and education. With her extensive background—from primary teaching to advanced studies—she is committed to helping individuals overcome challenges in reading, writing, and working with numbers. Her personalised approach ensures that each learner receives the targeted strategies and support they need to thrive.

Qualifications:

Level 5 OCN Dyscalculia and Mathematical Learning Difficulties: Identification and Intervention (ongoing)

MEd Languages, Literacies and Dyslexia (AMBDA Enhanced) with Distinction – University of Birmingham

Additional Support for Learning (SpLDs) PGCert with Distinction – University of Edinburgh

PGDE Primary – University of Edinburgh

MA in Psychology and Philosophy – University of Edinburgh

Outside of work, Jenny loves spending time with her family outdoors, reading, and watching films at the cinema.

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Oana Oancea

Registered Dietitian

Oana Oancea is a highly experienced Registered Dietitian with over 10 years of expertise in mental health and eating disorders across both NHS and private sectors. As the Lead Clinical Eating Disorder Dietitian for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, she has a special interest in women’s health and neurodiversity, including how nutrition impacts ADHD.

Oana takes a compassionate, practical approach, helping clients build a healthier relationship with food by challenging unhelpful patterns, debunking nutrition myths, and overcoming limiting beliefs. 

Qualifications:

Honours Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics

Passionate about education, she writes for magazines, hosts webinars for dietetic students at Queen Margaret University, and has recently completed a book on supportive strategies for parents of fussy eaters.

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Dr Claire Watt

Occupational Therapist

Claire Watt is an experienced Occupational Therapist with over 15 years working across NHS Scotland and private care, specialising in both hospital and community mental health. Claire takes a holistic, strengths-based approach, supporting individuals with ADHD, autism, and other conditions to overcome everyday challenges and build meaningful, fulfilling routines.

Claire offers a range of practical services including Workplace Needs Assessments, Occupational Therapy Assessments, and Access to Work application support, all tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

Qualifications:

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy – Robert Gordon University (2009)

Outside of work, Claire enjoys walking, jogging, CrossFit, and quality time with her husband and two young daughters.

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Dr. Rebecca Hammersley

Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr. Rebecca Hammersley is an experienced Consultant Psychiatrist with specialist expertise in addiction psychiatry, general adult mental health, and neurodevelopmental conditions. She graduated in medicine from the University of Edinburgh in 2012 and completed her postgraduate psychiatry training in Edinburgh, becoming a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in 2017.

Dr. Hammersley has a subspecialty endorsement in Addiction Psychiatry and spent a year working with the perinatal psychiatry service in 2022. During her training, she also gained extensive experience in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) assessments.

Since 2022, she has worked as a Consultant Addiction Psychiatrist and is the clinical lead for an NHS community addiction service. Known for her empathetic, non-judgemental, and holistic approach, she specialises in treating co-occurring mental health and substance misuse issues.

Qualifications:

MB ChB – University of Edinburgh (2012)

MRCPsych – 2017

Based near the sea with her husband and young family, Rebecca enjoys paddleboarding and playing the piano in her spare time.

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Dr. Amy Martin

Consultant Psychiatrist

Dr. Amy Martin is a compassionate and dedicated Consultant Psychiatrist with specialist expertise in adult mental health, addictions, and neurodevelopmental conditions. Since 2022, she has led an NHS community addictions service, providing high-quality, stigma-free care to individuals with complex needs.

After graduating with honours in medicine from the University of Aberdeen in 2013, Dr. Martin moved to Edinburgh in 2016 to complete her psychiatry training and postgraduate exams, becoming a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in 2018.

Amy has a strong interest in the assessment and treatment of conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. She believes in listening deeply, valuing individual strengths, and tailoring care to each person’s unique needs.

Qualifications:

MB ChB (Hons) – University of Aberdeen (2013)

MRCPsych – 2018

Based in Lothian, Amy enjoys powerlifting competitions and spending time outdoors when not at work.

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Jess Sweet

Neurodivergent Coach

Jess Sweet is a compassionate coach who specialises in supporting autistic adults. With both professional expertise and lived experience of neurodiversity, Jess offers personalised coaching focused on mental health, emotional resilience, and life skills.

Previously an Autism Specialist at the University of Edinburgh, she has extensive experience providing tailored individual and group support. Jess draws on her background in psychology, counselling, and coaching to help clients build confidence, develop self-advocacy skills, and create meaningful change.

She offers support in areas such as social interaction, sensory management, career exploration, time management, and self-esteem.

Qualifications:

MSc in Psychology – University of Edinburgh (2020)

SCOTACS Diploma in Individual & Group Counselling (CBT Approach) – Centre of Therapy & Counselling Studies, Glasgow (2023)

COSCA Certificate in Person-Centred Counselling – Grounded Learning, LLC (2021)

Originally from Miami Beach, Florida, Jess began her career as a professional opera singer before transitioning into mental health. Outside of coaching, she enjoys dance, movement, and spending time with animals—especially dogs! 

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Fees

Consultant:

1hr General Assessment - £375

30-min video review - £180

30-min face-to-face review - £200

Private prescription - £25

Private controlled drug prescription - £30

 

All payments must be made at the time of booking by card payment.

 

Cancellation Policy

We operate a strict cancellation policy for appointments. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will be charged the full rate. Failure to attend appointments will also be charged the full rate. Cancellations can be made by emailing admin@edinburghadultpsychiatry.co.uk or phoning 0131 364 4758