Geisinger EHP Logo
Depressed Hispanic Girl With Sad Emotions And Feelings

Why choose Geisinger for anxiety care?

Anxiety is one of the most common behavioral health conditions — and one of the most treatable.

Care starts with understanding who you are. Your team may include psychiatrists, psychologists and licensed therapists who work together to build a treatment plan for your specific needs, schedule and lifestyle. Whether that means regular therapy sessions, medication management or joining a support group, we’ll help you find an approach that fits.

When in-person visits aren’t possible, online telehealth appointments connect you with the same specialists from the comfort of your home — so you can stay consistent with your care without putting the rest of your life on hold.

Social workers and case managers are often a part of your care team, too. They help coordinate across specialties to make sure nothing gets missed and your treatment stays on track.

Conditions we treat

Treatment and services we offer

FAQs

What are common anxiety symptoms?

Anxiety affects people differently, but common symptoms include excessive worry, anticipating the worst, restlessness, irritability, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating and panic attacks. Physical symptoms like nausea, tremors, fatigue, rapid breathing or a rapid heartbeat are also common. When these symptoms affect your daily life, it may be time to find a specialist who can help.

What are the risk factors for anxiety?

Anyone can develop anxiety, but certain factors increase your risk. A personal or family history of behavioral health conditions, trauma, abuse and substance misuse can contribute to anxiety. Ongoing stress and some medical conditions can also play a role. Talking to your doctor is a good first step toward understanding your risk and finding the right support.

How is anxiety treated?

Our psychiatry and behavioral health specialists work with you to find the right combination of treatments for your anxiety disorder. That may include:

  • Therapy: Talk therapy — including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy — helps you develop new ways of thinking and reacting to situations that trigger anxiety. Your care team may also recommend a support group, where you can connect with others having similar experiences.
  • Medication: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants or beta blockers to help manage anxiety symptoms like racing heart, trembling or feelings of depression.

What kind of doctor or specialist treats anxiety?

Anxiety can be treated by several types of providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists and your primary care provider (PCP). You may start with your PCP, who can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a behavioral health specialist if needed. Here, your care team works together so you always have the right support.

When should I see a doctor about anxiety?

It’s worth talking to someone if your worry is becoming hard to control, or if it’s showing up alongside physical symptoms like a racing heart, trouble sleeping or fatigue. You don’t need to be in a crisis to ask for help. Your PCP is a good place to start, and they can refer you to a behavioral health specialist if needed.

How does the behavioral health team test for anxiety?

Diagnosing an anxiety condition usually starts with a conversation. Your PCP will ask about your symptoms and may refer you to a psychologist for a more thorough evaluation. Your doctor may also order a blood test to rule out other conditions, like thyroid issues, which can cause similar symptoms.

Can I get anxiety care through telehealth?

Yes. Geisinger offers online appointments for anxiety evaluations, therapy and medication management, so you can get the care you need where you’re most comfortable.

Anxiety care at Geisinger

Our psychiatry and behavioral health team offers support and services that can help manage your anxiety and get you back to your life. We offer:

  • Coordinated care and treatment: By partnering with your other providers across specialties, we make sure conditions like anxiety and depression don’t get missed. And to make your care as accessible as possible, we have locations in central and northeastern Pennsylvania, as well as telehealth appointments.
  • Geisinger Health Plan member resources: Geisinger Health Plan members can sign into their member portal account anytime to access behavioral health resources and educational information.
  • Telemedicine appointments: When in-person appointments aren't possible, virtual appointments connect you with your behavioral health team from wherever you are.