Anxiety is more than occasional worry—it’s a persistent emotional state that disrupts how a person thinks, feels, and functions. For individuals with disabilities, anxiety often magnifies existing challenges, interfering with daily routines, relationships, and long-term goals. At Toivoa, we recognize that anxiety affects far more than mood; it impacts identity, independence, and overall quality of life. That’s why we treat anxiety as one of the eight core focus areas of our Octuple Aim. 

According to the CDC, over 17 million adults with disabilities—approximately one in three—experience frequent mental distress. This is nearly five times higher than among adults without disabilities. For many, this distress is driven or intensified by anxiety and compounded by limited access to care, social isolation, chronic health conditions, and financial strain. 

Anxiety can manifest in numerous ways—rumination, panic, irritability, insomnia, avoidance, or racing thoughts. Without support, it can feel overwhelming and lead to cycles of disconnection, exhaustion, and self-doubt. Especially when combined with other stressors, anxiety can deprive individuals of their sense of control, making it harder to live with intention or confidence. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety 

Toivoa uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals identify, understand, and change the thought patterns and behaviors that fuel anxiety. CBT is an evidence-based, structured approach that empowers individuals to take control of how they respond to stress. 
CBT techniques help by: 

• Teaching people to recognize and challenge anxious thoughts 
   

• Reducing avoidant behaviors and promoting active coping 
   

• Reframing catastrophic thinking into balanced self-talk 
   

• Strengthening emotional regulation and self-awareness 
   

• Increasing a sense of control and building resilience 

By helping people shift from “I can’t handle this” to “I can manage this,” CBT provides a framework for long-term change in how anxiety is experienced and managed. 

The Role of Mental Health Coaches 

At Toivoa, our NBHWC-certified coaches provide one-on-one support grounded in CBT principles and tailored to each person’s needs. Anxiety can leave people feeling paralyzed, disconnected from their goals, and uncertain about their future. Coaching creates space for individuals to reconnect with their sense of purpose and take meaningful steps forward. 

Our coaches support individuals by offering: 

• Encouragement and accountability 
   

• Tools to develop calming routines and reduce overwhelm 
   

• Strategies to set and achieve personal goals 
   

• A nonjudgmental space for reflection and growth 

Coaching fosters clarity, consistency, and confidence—key ingredients for managing anxiety over time. With guidance, support, and the right tools, people can regain control and begin living with greater calm and confidence. 

Accessible Support, Anywhere 

At Toivoa, accessibility is at the core of our care model. Our CBT coaching is 100% mobile and remote, allowing people to receive high-quality support from the comfort of their own home—no matter where they are. 

We offer care across eight interconnected focus areas as part of our Octuple Aim: Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Pain, Opioid Use Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Smoking Cessation, Sleep Disorders, and Eating Disorders. This integrated approach allows our coaches to support people navigating complex, overlapping challenges with compassion and expertise. 

Anxiety is a real and valid struggle—but it doesn’t have to define a person’s life. At Toivoa, we’re here to help individuals transform anxiety into strength through evidence-based coaching and care. 

Sources 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, April 8). Many adults with disabilities report frequent mental distress. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/disability-and-health/articles-documents/adults-with-disabilities-mental-distress.html 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, April 2). The Mental Health of people with disabilities. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/disability-and-health/articles-documents/mental-health-of-people-with-disabilities.html 

The Wellness Society (N.D.) Coaching Techniques for Anxiety: The E.A.S.E Method for Anxiety Coaching. https://thewellnesssociety.org/coaching-techniques-for-anxiety-coaching 

Kaczkurkin, A. N., & Foa, E. B. (2015, September). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders: An update on the empirical evidence. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4610618/