Social Anxiety Disorder is more than just shyness—it’s an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social or performance situations. You might worry about saying the “wrong thing,” looking anxious, or being noticed in a negative way. Even everyday situations—like eating in public, speaking up in meetings, or starting a conversation—can feel overwhelming.
Social anxiety can lead you to avoid people, situations, or opportunities that matter to you. Over time, this avoidance can make you feel isolated, stuck, or disconnected from the life you want to live.
What are Common Symptoms of Social Anxiety?
- Fear of being watched, judged, or criticized
- Avoiding social or performance situations
- Intense worry before, during, or after social interactions
- Blushing, sweating, trembling, or a racing heart in social settings
- Overanalyzing conversations afterward
- Low self-esteem or feeling like you're “not good enough”
How Therapy Can Help Social Anxiety
We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify the anxious thoughts that fuel social fears—like assuming others are judging you harshly—and gradually build confidence through small, supportive exposure to feared situations.
We also draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you step back from self-judgment, stop avoiding what matters most, and take meaningful action toward your goals—even when anxiety, distractions, or frustration show up. Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety completely, ACT helps you build self-compassion and the courage to move forward in its presence.
With the right support, social anxiety becomes something you can face—not something that defines you. You don’t have to “fix” who you are. You just need support in understanding your brain, owning your strengths, and finding ways to thrive.