Find a Mental Health Professional for Health Anxiety & Phobias

About Health Anxiety & Phobias support

Health anxiety involves an intense, ongoing fear about having or developing a serious illness, even when medical tests come back clear. People experiencing health anxiety may spend a great deal of time checking their body for symptoms, seeking reassurance from doctors, or avoiding medical settings altogether. Specific phobias, such as fear of needles, vomiting, or particular animals, involve a strong and persistent fear of a specific object or situation that often leads to avoidance. Both health anxiety and phobias respond well to evidence-based psychological treatment. CBT, particularly exposure-based approaches, helps people gradually face feared situations in a safe and supported way, reducing the power those fears hold over daily life. A skilled therapist will tailor the pace and approach to the individual rather than pushing anyone to move faster than feels manageable. Medicare rebates are available through a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP, making sessions with a registered psychologist or mental health professional more affordable. For those who find it difficult to attend in person due to the nature of their phobia, telehealth sessions can be an accessible and effective alternative.