Understanding Social Anxiety
Most people feel nervous before a presentation, meeting new people, or walking into a crowded room but for some, that anxiety runs much deeper.
If you find yourself constantly worrying about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected, or if social situations leave you feeling panicked or drained, you may be experiencing Social Anxiety (also known as Social Anxiety Disorder).
Social anxiety is not about being shy or introverted it is about living with an underlying fear of being negatively evaluated or humiliated. This fear can make everyday interactions feel overwhelming, even when part of you knows you have nothing to fear.
You may spend hours replaying conversations in your mind, avoiding situations that trigger anxiety, or feeling intense physical symptoms when you cannot escape. It is exhausting and you do not have to face it alone.
Common Symptoms of Social Anxiety
Social anxiety can affect people in different ways, but common experiences include:
• Intense fear of being judged and criticised in social or performance situations.
• Avoid social gatherings, meetings, or situations where attention might be on you.
• Overthinking interactions, replaying conversations, focusing on perceived mistakes.
• Physical symptoms such as blushing, shaking, sweating, or a racing heart.
• Difficulty speaking up, even when you have something important to say.
• Feeling isolated or lonely, yet also fearful of connecting with others.
• Low self-esteem or harsh self-criticism, believing others see you negatively.
Many people with social anxiety appear confident on the outside but are constantly battling self-doubt and inner tension. Over time, this can affect relationships, work, and overall wellbeing.
How Therapy Can Help
We understand how painful and limiting social anxiety can feel and we know that recovery is absolutely possible. Therapy offers a safe, understanding space where you can explore your fears without judgment and begin to build new patterns of confidence and connection.
Our approach may include:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – helping you understand the link between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and gradually challenge the beliefs that fuel social anxiety.
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Schema Therapy – exploring early experiences that may have shaped a deep fear of rejection, criticism, or shame, and building healthier emotional patterns.
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Exposure-Based Techniques– supporting you to gently and safely face feared situations, helping your mind and body learn that social interactions can be safe.
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Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices – reducing self-criticism and helping you feel more grounded in social settings.
Therapy does not aim to “get rid” of anxiety overnight, instead, it helps you develop resilience, self-acceptance, and a calm confidence that grows over time.
You Deserve to Feel at Ease Around Others
Social anxiety can make it feel like you’re trapped behind an invisible wall wanting connection, but fearing it at the same time. The truth is, you are not broken or weak; you have simply learned to protect yourself from the possibility of rejection.
With the right support, you can learn to feel safe in your own skin again, to speak freely, and to connect with others in ways that feel authentic and empowering.
We provide a warm, supportive environment where you can explore these challenges at your own pace. Together, we’ll help you build the confidence and self-trust needed to live more fully and freely.
Reach out today to book an appointment or learn more about how therapy can support you in overcoming social anxiety. Taking that first step is often the hardest but it is also the start of feeling truly free.