Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is a disorder that is characterized by sentiments of fear and anxiety in social situations, causing considerable distress and impairing ability to function in at least some aspects of daily life. We can also experience anxiety related to socialization which lead to feelings that range from awkwardness to distress in social spaces, and challenges with navigating social situations & starting & maintaining friendships. 

Emotional & Mental Symptoms:

• Intense fear of being judged, criticized, or embarrassed in social situations

• Excessive worry days or weeks before a social event

• Fear of talking to strangers or being the center of attention

• Overanalyzing your performance after a social interaction (e.g., “Did I sound stupid?”)

• Expecting the worst outcome in social settings

Physical Symptoms:

• Blushing, sweating, or trembling

• Rapid heartbeat or chest tightness

• Shaky voice or dry mouth

• Nausea or stomach discomfort

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Muscle tension

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Avoiding social situations (parties, public speaking, eating in front of others, etc.)

• Leaving events early or “shutting down” during interactions

• Using alcohol or substances to cope with social situations

• Having trouble making eye contact or speaking up

• Relying on safe zones or people for comfort

Social anxiety is more than just being shy — it’s a deep fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations. It can affect your relationships, making it hard to connect with others or speak up in groups. You might avoid social events, school, or work situations out of fear, which can lead to isolation and missed opportunities. Everyday tasks like making a phone call or asking a question can feel overwhelming. Over time, this avoidance can lower your confidence and make the anxiety worse. The good news is that social anxiety is treatable with the right support. Therapy, mindset tools, and small steps forward can help you feel more comfortable and confident over time.

IFS psychotherapy and Parent Coaching creates connections between the now and then-exploring how past experiences shape our ways of coping with social anxiety, and creating a space of openness to learning new ways that serve us now.  

You will learn about yourself and have opportunities to practice and integrate new approaches that will increase your self-awareness, relationships and readiness to take on new challenges.