Psychotherapy
for social anxiety in New York.
Understanding social anxiety and how psychotherapy can help you.
about social anxiety.
If you struggle with social anxiety, you probably spend a lot of time reflecting on yourself, your experiences, and how you come across to others. that kind of insight is valuable (and crucial for psychotherapy). but it can also become a problem when your self-awareness leads to paralyzing self-criticism and isolation.
Those who are held back by social anxiety are often capable of building the relationships they want. it just seems unrealistic without the right direction.
psychotherapy helps to overcome social anxiety by addressing the unhelpful patterns that keep you stuck in self-doubt.
Intense fear of scrutiny. Your thoughts often fixate on others’ judgments of you, whether real or imagined.
Excessive worrying. You know your fears are “irrational,” but they persist and are difficult to act against.
Avoidance of social situations. You turn down opportunities because the anxiety feels too overwhelming.
Impaired or limited relationships. Your anxiety interferes with getting close to others and forming new relationships.
Physical discomfort. Your anxiety becomes physical when socializing—racing heart, sweating, stuttering, shaking.
Excessive self-judgment. You criticize yourself harshly over mistakes and imperfections, whether big or small.
Poor self-image. Your thoughts often fixate on perceived flaws but overlook your commendable qualities.
overcoming social anxiety.
Here’s good news—social anxiety is completely manageable. Psychotherapy gives you an hour (or more) every week to better understand what’s holding you back and practice taking action.
Psychotherapy also doesn’t have to be complicated. You might even prefer an approach that is straightforward, informative, and practical.
In this type of psychotherapy, you’ll reach outcomes that help manage your social anxiety. Here are a few.
Distance from unhelpful thoughts. You prevent yourself from getting “wrapped up” in worry—even when self-doubt and anxiety pop up.
Increased socializing. You gradually build comfort in social situations by exposing yourself to them in structured ways.
Social and relationship skills. You practice new ways to engage in conversation and connect with others.
Stronger relationships. You maintain regular contact with your peers without letting anxiety getting in the way.
Coping skills. You have a simple, reliable, and effective set of tools for times when anxiety is too intense and intrusive.
Self-assurance. You gain a realistic sense of yourself, noticing both strengths and areas of improvement without self-judgment.
Clarity about yourself and the rest of the world. After building positive experiences while practicing socializing and self-acceptance, you accept yourself and open yourself to the kindness of others.