Generalized anxiety disorder is more than “being a worrier.”
If worry runs constantly in the background — about everything, even when things are fine — it may be generalized anxiety disorder. It’s treatable, and relief is realistic.
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is marked by persistent, excessive worry about many areas of life — work, health, family, money — that’s difficult to control and lasts for months. The worry feels constant and exhausting, even without a clear trigger.
Wave treats GAD with physician-led care that calms the body and quiets the mind, without relying on habit-forming medications.
You may have GAD if, for six months or more, you’ve experienced:
Emotional
- Constant, uncontrollable worry
- Feeling on edge or unable to relax
- Anticipating the worst outcome
Behavioral
- Difficulty concentrating or “mind going blank”
- Procrastination or avoidance from overwhelm
- Seeking reassurance repeatedly
Physical
- Muscle tension, headaches or jaw clenching
- Restlessness and fatigue
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
How it’s diagnosed at Wave
We evaluate the duration and reach of your worry, its impact on daily life, and rule out medical contributors like thyroid issues or excess caffeine. We also check for co-occurring depression, which is common with GAD.
GAD responds well to a combination approach. Wave offers:
Every plan is individualized — you’ll feel seen, not processed.
Medication Management
Careful prescribing, ongoing monitoring and genetic testing to match you with the right medication at the right dose.
Supportive Psychotherapy
Talk-based support integrated with your medical care, focused on coping skills and steady, measurable progress.
TMS Therapy
Non-invasive magnetic stimulation — FDA-approved for depression and OCD — with no medication and no downtime.
Interventional Psychiatry
Advanced, procedure-based care — TMS, Spravato and ketamine — for symptoms that medication alone hasn’t resolved.
Care led by a triple board-certified physician
Wave Treatment Centers is led by Dr. Jonathan Beatty, a triple board-certified physician in psychiatry & neurology, addiction medicine and pain medicine, and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. With more than 18 years of experience, he treats the cases other practices send onward — including complex and treatment-resistant presentations.
Because Wave combines everyday psychiatric care with advanced, interventional options under one roof, your plan can evolve as you do — from medication management to TMS, Spravato or ketamine — without starting over with a new provider.
Meet Dr. BeattyYour first appointment
Your first visit is a thorough evaluation. You’ll find a welcoming environment where our highly trained staff work to understand your history, your symptoms, and what you’re hoping to change.
While an evaluation is not a guarantee of a prescription, if medication is deemed appropriate, we’ll work closely with you to ensure you understand the risks and benefits. Together we’ll outline a personalized plan and the next steps that fit your life.
Most new patients are seen within one to two weeks — and care is available both in person and through secure, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine across Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder FAQ
What’s the difference between GAD and normal stress?
Stress is usually tied to a specific situation and eases when it resolves. GAD is persistent, excessive worry across many areas that’s hard to control and lasts for months — and it responds to treatment.
Can GAD be cured?
GAD is highly manageable. Many people reach a point where anxiety no longer runs their lives, through a mix of medication, skills and support.
Is TMS used for anxiety?
TMS is FDA-approved for depression and OCD and is sometimes used to help anxiety, particularly when it occurs alongside depression. We’ll discuss whether it fits your case.
Ready when you are.
Reaching out takes courage. Your conversation with us is confidential, compassionate, and pressure-free — schedule whenever you’re ready.