If fear of being judged, watched, or embarrassed makes everyday social situations feel overwhelming, therapy can help you feel more at ease and in control. Social anxiety is one of the most common and most treatable anxiety difficulties, and a structured, evidence-based approach can make a real difference. Tara O’Donoghue, a senior psychotherapist specialising in anxiety disorders, offers CBT-based therapy for social anxiety in London, both in person and online. The following explains what social anxiety is, how it can affect you, and how therapy can help.
What is social anxiety?
Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder characterised by intense fear or anxiety in social situations. People with social anxiety may fear being judged or scrutinised by others and may avoid social situations or endure them with significant distress and unhelpful coping strategies.
What causes social anxiety?
The causes of social anxiety aren’t fully understood, but genetics and life experiences usually both play a part. A family history of anxiety can increase the likelihood, and negative experiences such as bullying, rejection, or other distressing events may also contribute. Importantly, social anxiety is not a flaw or a weakness, and it responds well to the right kind of therapy.
What are the symptoms?
Social anxiety shows up both physically and emotionally. Common signs include:
- Physical: Sweating, trembling, blushing, or a racing heartbeat
- Emotional: Intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated
- Behavioural: Avoiding social situations, public speaking, or eating and drinking in front of others.
Over time these can affect confidence, self-esteem, and mood, and may lead to isolation.
Please contact a specialist social anxiety therapist (offering CBT therapy) to schedule an assessment by clicking here.
How social anxiety can affect daily life?
1. Communication: Difficulty in initiating or maintaining conversations, making phone calls, or sending emails due to fear of judgment or criticism.
2. Work/School: Impaired performance in meetings, presentations, or group projects, leading to decreased productivity and academic achievements.
3. Routine Errands: Avoidance of public places like grocery stores or cafes, making it challenging to complete everyday tasks.
4. Isolation: Withdrawal from social events and gatherings, leading to loneliness and strained relationships.
5. Procrastination: Putting off tasks that involve social interaction, leading to increased stress and deadlines.
Do I have social anxiety?
Many people wonder whether what they’re feeling is “just shyness” or something more. Social anxiety is more persistent and more distressing than ordinary shyness, and it tends to interfere with everyday life. The questionnaire below can give you an initial sense of where you stand. You can use the questionnaire below to offer a notion on whether social anxiety is prevalent alongside measure severity. Click here to access a commonly used symptomatic questionnaire used in treatment by professionals.
Please remember that a psychological assessment is needed to diagnose social anxiety. You can schedule an assessment with a social anxiety therapist by clicking here.
How can a social anxiety therapist in London help?
Cognitive-Behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common, evidence-based treatment for social anxiety and is widely used by many therapists in London. In CBT therapy for social anxiety, a Psychotherapist collaborates with the in-person to identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves and their social interactions. The Psychotherapist may also teach the in-person relaxation techniques and other coping strategies for managing anxiety.
Exposure therapy is a specific type of CBT that is often used to treat social anxiety. In Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, an individual is gradually exposed to social situations that trigger anxiety, starting with less intimidating situations and working up to more challenging ones. Sessions may also use role-playing or other techniques to help the in-person practice social skills and build confidence.
Research has shown that CBT, including exposure therapy, is highly effective for treating social anxiety, particularly when delivered by an experienced CBT therapist. Other treatments, such as Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) can also be utilised to improve levels of self-confidence.
How therapy works: from initial assessment to lasting progress
Getting started is straightforward. After you get in touch, we’ll arrange an initial assessment to understand what you’re experiencing and what you’d like to change. From there, we’ll agree on a clear, personalised plan. The number of sessions varies from person to person, and we’ll review progress together as we go. Sessions are practical and collaborative, working at a pace that feels manageable for you, gradually building confidence and helping you feel more comfortable in the situations you currently find difficult. Sessions are available in-person in London or online, whichever suits you best.
Contact
If you, a friend, or a family member are struggling with social anxiety, I can help.
I’m Tara, a London-based, BABCP-accredited CBT therapist with over 17 years’ experience helping people with anxiety. I support people in building confidence and feeling more comfortable in social situations.
To enquire or book a session, please get in touch via email: info@homebasedtalkingtherapy.com.