Health Anxiety
What this specialty means
Health anxiety refers to persistent, distressing worry about having or developing a serious illness, even when tests are normal or symptoms are mild. Someone may scan their body, search online repeatedly, or avoid information and appointments because uncertainty feels overwhelming. Support may include psychotherapy that explores thoughts, feelings, and habits, coaching that builds practical skills and routines, and appropriate medical evaluation for genuine health concerns. Care is tailored to the person’s values and culture. This page describes non‑emergency support and education, not a substitute for diagnosis, medical treatment, or urgent care.
Why people seek support
People may seek help when worries about symptoms or diseases take up significant time, create tension in relationships, or make it hard to work, study, or rest. Examples include checking one’s pulse for long periods, repeatedly asking loved ones or clinicians for reassurance, avoiding activities for fear of contamination, or feeling unable to trust benign test results. Support may also be considered after a personal illness, a family health scare, a recent loss, or major life changes. The aim is to understand patterns and reduce the impact of fear on daily life.
Typical goals
With a qualified professional, individuals might set goals to differentiate appropriate medical attention from anxiety‑driven checking, create balanced routines for self‑care, and practice skills for tolerating uncertainty. Sessions may focus on noticing triggers, reshaping unhelpful thoughts, and gradually reducing reassurance seeking or excessive online research. Some people may explore mindfulness or exposure‑based exercises with a licensed therapist, while coaching could translate insights into daily habits. Plans often include communicating needs to loved ones and preparing compassionate steps for setbacks, so progress can be revisited and adjusted over time.
Trifecta Health educational information. For educational purposes only—not a diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice.
Find a specialty provider
Lisa Caiafa
APRN, FNP-C
Lisa Caiafa, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C, is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered care. With over 14 years of clinical experience in emergency department, urgent care and primary care settings, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her daily practice...
Tiffany Silva
LCSW
Welcome - I'm glad you're here! Thank you for considering me for your counseling needs...
Catherine Geyer
LAPC
Hello! I'm Catherine, and I'm so glad you are here...
Stephanie Sheets
LPC
Hello! Thank you for considering me for your therapy needs...
Takita Pruitt
LMSW
Hello, I'm Takita, a therapist with a passionate commitment to helping children and families meet their goals and achieve healing. Grounded in a comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed care and equipped with the latest therapeutic techniques, I am dedicated to providing a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and work towards positive change...
Dusty Shandy
LPC
I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia with 10+ years of experience working with a variety of clients. I have additional experience in school-based/family counseling, case management for foster children, parental education, resource allocation for vocational rehabilitation, and education and career counseling...
Heather McCreary
LAPC
Thank you for considering me for your counseling needs. My interest in counseling and mental health stems from 25 years of experience in youth ministry and education...
Catelyn Durham
LPC, PMH-C
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified Perinatal Mental Health Specialist in the state of Georgia. I work with adult women who are experiencing issues related to pregnancy, post-partum, or infertility. As a mother of three young children, I understand the emotional complexity and the often isolating nuances of motherhood...
Michelle Gillespie
LPC
Thank you for considering me as part of your counseling journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia...
Jon Hester
LCSW, CCTP-II and Certified Maxwell Leadership Coach
Jon Hester, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker serving adults in Georgia and Florida. With more than 25 years of clinical and executive leadership experience, Jon helps clients navigate anxiety, OCD, trauma, PTSD, stress, major life transitions, and the unique pressures that can come with work, relationships, and leadership responsibilities...