Is therapy helpful for social anxiety?
Does therapy help with social anxiety? Starting therapy for any reason can be confusing and intimidating, however, starting therapy for social anxiety can be particularly daunting, as it requires someone who fears being judged by others to discuss their fears with a stranger. Although this is entirely understandable and valid, it is possible to find a therapist that you feel comfortable talking to and begin to overcome social anxiety.
Therapy for social anxiety is very effective. It allows individuals to address their fears and work through them in a manner that allows them to build meaningful, sustainable relationships and interact with ease in group settings. If you or someone you know is interested in starting therapy for social anxiety, keep reading to learn how therapy for social anxiety works, how to find a therapist for social anxiety, as well as how to get started with a therapist in Orlando today.
How does Therapy Help with Social Anxiety?
Therapy helps individuals overcome social anxiety by working in four stages:
If asked, “What are your fears surrounding social situations?” you might not know what to say. Many people assume they do not have any specific fears surrounding social situations and they are anxious with no cause. This could not be further from the truth. Anxiety serves to protect us from danger. If you are anxious, your brain is sensing a perceived danger and attempting to prevent you from being harmed. It is important to acknowledge and explore what your brain is sensing. This helps to identify where the social anxiety is stemming from in the first place.
Fears are not inherently negative. As mentioned above, fear and anxiety are instinctual responses to perceived dangers. Your therapist will work with you acknowledge how some of your fears have protected you in the past. You might be surprised to find how small fears become when we stop refusing to acknowledge their existence and process them out loud.
If you are wondering if therapy helps with social anxiety, you are already well aware of the fact that your fears hinder your life in some way. It is important to identify and process the ways in which your fears hinder your ability to engage with life in a meaningful way. Your therapist will not rush you out of your fears, but rather validate you as you begin to fully acknowledge the extent to which the fears that once protected you are now hindering you.
Once you understand what your fears are, how they have helped you, and how they are no longer serving you, you are able to enact change. Humans do not wish to stay stagnant in life. We are every evolving beings that seek growth. With a newfound understanding of what has been holding you back, you can compassionately enact growth and change in the areas of life that you might have been too fearful to engage in before.
How do I find a Therapist who can Help with my Social Anxiety?
In order for therapy for social anxiety to work for you, it is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable talking to and that has experience working with individuals who are battling social anxiety. Take your time researching therapists. Many therapists have personal bios about their life experience, professional history, and their ideal client to work with. As you research what therapists might be a good fit for you, trust your intuition.
Once you find a therapist who you think might be a good fit, reach out to them to learn more. Most therapist offer a free phone consultation, before starting therapy for social anxiety. This is effective so we can answer any questions you may have about the process of counseling. If you are not comfortable talking on the phone, feel free to reach out to the therapist via email. You can schedule a first session or to ask any questions you might have.
Does Therapy Help With Social Anxiety?
Start Therapy for Social Anxiety Today
At High Expectations Counseling, we are proud to provide therapy for social anxiety in Orlando. We acknowledge that starting therapy is an intimidating process. We want to ensure we make the process as simple and straightforward as possible. If you or someone you know is hoping to start therapy for social anxiety, we are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our therapists offer free, 15-minute phone consultations to answer questions and provide you with chance to get to know your therapist, before booking a first session. Feel free to schedule a phone consultation. You can also book your first session online with one of our therapists. Call us at (407) 967-1327.
Written by: Hannah Mayderry, Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern
Contact: hannah@therapyhec,com
