Health Anxiety Therapy
Health Anxiety Therapy in NYC: How Therapy Can Help You Take Control
Are you constantly worried about your health – even when your doctor says you’re fine? If you’re searching for answers and feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many people in NYC struggle with health anxiety, also known as hypochondria – but the good news is that effective therapy is available and can truly help.
You might constantly check yourself in the mirror, looking for lumps, sores, strange moles and rashes. Or you may look for signs of pain or tingling and spend countless hours on the internet researching symptoms.
Does this sound like you?
Of course, you should always address any medical concerns with your physician, but if you continuously fear that you have a serious health issue, despite medical findings to the contrary, it’s likely that you have health anxiety. Before you start stressing about this possibility, know that therapy can help you conquer these fears about your health and take back control of your life.
The Unique Stressors of Living in NYC
Living in New York City can intensify health anxiety. The constant stimulation, crowded environments, and exposure to health-related news can make it harder to distinguish between real symptoms and anxiety-driven worry. In a city where everything moves fast, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind on your health if you’re not constantly checking, researching, or worrying. As a therapist based in NYC, I understand how the city’s pace and pressure can amplify your fears — and I tailor my approach to help you navigate these challenges in a realistic, grounded way.
Ready to take the first step?
What Is Health Anxiety / Hypochondriasis
Health anxiety is a belief that you have a disease or medical condition based on your misinterpreting your body’s sensations or that you excessively worry about getting an illness – even though a doctor has reassured you that you are fine. The symptoms that are felt by those suffering from health anxiety are often real – but actually may be the result of stress or minor health issues and not from their imagined diseases or illnesses.
There are some general triggers for people suffering from health anxiety, both internal and external, such as:
• Headache
• Stomach ache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Increased heart rate
• Lumps
• Rash
• Itchy skin
• Hearing of someone who is sick
• Seeing a news story
• Reading a magazine article
Signs You are Suffering from Health Anxiety
• Believing or worrying that you have a serious medical condition or illness, even in light of evidence that says otherwise
• Excessive doctor visits
• Frequently switching doctors because you don’t believe they are qualified
• Tirelessly searching the internet about your symptoms
• Seeking reassurance by repeatedly telling others about your symptoms
• Constantly monitoring your body’s sensations and functions
• Avoiding social activities because of your health concerns
• Staying away from medical buildings, hospitals, ill people, or even medical television shows
Don’t let your anxiety run your life!
What the Science Says: Evidence-Based Treatment
Health anxiety is not “just in your head” — it’s a recognized condition known as Illness Anxiety Disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Research consistently shows that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) combined with Insight Therapy is the most effective treatment for health anxiety. CBT helps individuals identify and reframe distorted thinking patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs and reduce compulsive checking and reassurance-seeking.
Why Work With Me
My approach uses evidence based strategies. They include mindfulness practices, Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Insight Therapy to help you learn better responses to your thoughts and body sensations that constantly intrude. in your life. You gain control and focus. The result is a more satisfying and less anxious life. I have used these techniques successfully for over thirty years and have treated many patients.
I will help you address the causes of your health anxiety and teach you techniques to manage it. Over time, you will be able to face your fears, focus better at work and feel more relaxed socially.
In a diverse city like NYC, health beliefs and concerns often reflect cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and family values. I approach therapy respecting your unique perspective while gently challenging patterns that contribute to health anxiety. Whether your fears stem from a traumatic medical event or family health history, therapy is a safe space to explore those experiences and move toward healing.
What to expect during your first therapy / counseling session
During the first therapy session, you can expect to find an experienced, certified and well trained therapist who will provide a supportive and safe setting. All sessions are absolutely confidential. We’ll explore your specific fears, health history, and triggers and you’ll leave the first session with tools to begin managing your anxiety.