Social Anxiety Disorder

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as social phobia, is an intense fear of social situations where a person may feel judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized by others. This fear can cause individuals to avoid social interactions and/or develop other unhelpful behaviors to manage the anxiety, leading to significant distress and isolation.

Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder

Common symptoms include:

  • Excessive worry about upcoming social situations

  • Fear of being embarrassed or humiliated in front of others

  • Avoiding social events, meetings, or conversations

  • Intense anxiety during interactions with unfamiliar people

  • Physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, blushing, or a racing heart

For individuals with social anxiety, even everyday interactions—such as speaking on the phone, ordering at a restaurant, or meeting new people—can cause overwhelming fear.

Causes of Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety often develops during childhood or adolescence and can be triggered by negative experiences, such as bullying or public embarrassment. Genetics and brain chemistry also play a role in its development. Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders may be more likely to develop social anxiety.

Our Approach to Treating Social Anxiety

At the Mindfulness & Change Group, we use evidence-based therapies to help individuals manage social anxiety and develop the skills they need to engage confidently in social situations.

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
    CBT is the most effective treatment for social anxiety disorder. This therapy helps individuals challenge and reframe the negative thoughts that contribute to their fear of social interactions. Clients learn to identify and change their automatic negative assumptions, such as thinking others are judging them harshly. This allows for a shift in perception, helping reduce anxiety over time.

  2. Social Skills Training
    For many individuals with social anxiety, a lack of confidence in their social skills can intensify their fear. We offer social skills training as part of our treatment plan, helping clients develop effective communication and assertiveness strategies. Practicing these skills in a safe, supportive environment builds confidence for real-world interactions.

  3. Exposure Therapy
    Gradual exposure to feared social situations is another key component of our social anxiety treatment. By slowly and safely introducing clients to the types of interactions that provoke anxiety, they can practice managing their fears in controlled, manageable steps. This approach helps individuals become more comfortable in social situations over time.

  4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
    Social anxiety often leads to physical symptoms like shaking, sweating, or difficulty breathing. Our mindfulness and relaxation practices help clients manage these physical responses, allowing them to stay calm during social interactions. Techniques such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, and meditation can help reduce the intensity of anxiety symptoms.

  5. Group Therapy
    Group therapy provides a safe space for individuals with social anxiety to practice their social skills and gain support from others who share similar experiences. It offers an opportunity to face social fears in a controlled, supportive setting while learning from the successes and challenges of others.

Your Path to Confidence

While social anxiety can feel overwhelming, treatment offers a way forward. Through therapy, individuals can learn to challenge their fears, develop new skills, and approach social situations with confidence. With the right support, you can overcome social anxiety and live a more fulfilling, connected life.

Why Choose Us?

At the Mindfulness & Change Group, we are committed to helping you build the confidence and skills you need to thrive in social settings. Our therapists are experts in treating social anxiety and provide compassionate, personalized care. We offer a range of therapeutic options designed to fit your specific needs and goals, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment possible.

Start Building Your Confidence Today

If social anxiety is holding you back from fully engaging in life, now is the time to make a change. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our treatment options can help you overcome your fears and build lasting confidence. Together, we can create a path toward greater ease in social situations and a more fulfilling social life.