Social anxiety is an anxiety disorder that describes the intense and overwhelming anxiety you might experience in social situations. Often the person who is affected by social anxiety excessively worries about how they are perceived, scrutinised or evaluated by others in a social context. Some examples of social situation that might trigger social anxiety include, group gatherings, giving a presentation, performing in front of others, starting, or having conversations with others, eating or drinking in front of others.
Most common social anxiety symptoms include:
Social anxiety symptoms
- Excessive worry about everyday social activities (for example, work presentations, shopping, speaking on the phone, meeting people, group gatherings, etc.)
- Excessive worry about doing something that you perceive as embarrassing (for example, sweating, blushing, or appearing weak, etc.)
- Fear of you being criticised, scrutinised, or being humiliated by others
- Avoidance or endurance of social situations with intense fear or anxiety
- The fear, anxiety, or avoidance causes you significant distress in social and occupational contexts
- Panic attacks in which you have an overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety
- Feelings of sickness, sweating, dizziness, shaking or trembling in social situations
My approach
I am a highly trained and experienced Psychologist with more than 10 years in clinical practice, offering evidence based psychological treatment tailored to your unique needs. My approach allows me to draw from different therapeutic models and skills to offer a thoughtful therapeutic service and the best psychological care.
My qualifications
I am a Chartered Psychologist HCPC, BPS and BACP registered with more 10 years of experience in the NHS, third sector and private practice. I am a highly trained and experienced practitioner psychologist providing evidence based psychological services to individuals and couples. I apply my clinical expertise in a wide range of psychological and emotional difficulties offering a psychological service tailored to your unique needs. I aim to help you develop insight into your difficulties, acquire healthy coping strategies in order to lead a meaningful life and build meaningful relationships.