How We Treat Social Anxiety: A Look Through CBT and ACT
If you struggle with social anxiety, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common anxiety disorders, affecting millions of people around the world. Whether it's the fear of public speaking, meeting new people, or being judged by others, social anxiety can make everyday interactions feel overwhelming.
The good news? Social anxiety is treatable. At our practice, we offer evidence-based therapy for social anxiety, drawing from two powerful approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These methods help clients not just manage anxiety symptoms but build a more flexible and empowered relationship with their thoughts and emotions.
🧠 What Is Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia) goes beyond occasional shyness. It involves intense fear or anxiety in social situations, often accompanied by:
Racing heart or sweating
Fear of embarrassment or being judged
Avoidance of social settings
Negative self-talk and rumination
Left untreated, social anxiety can lead to isolation, low self-esteem, and even depression.
✅ How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Helps Social Anxiety
CBT for social anxiety focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful thinking patterns that fuel anxiety. Many people with social anxiety fall into common thought traps, like:
“Everyone is watching me.”
“If I say something wrong, I’ll embarrass myself.”
“People will think I’m stupid.”
In therapy, we help clients:
Recognize these negative automatic thoughts
Evaluate the evidence behind them
Replace them with more balanced, realistic thinking
We also use exposure therapy, a CBT-based strategy that involves gradually facing feared social situations. Over time, clients learn that they can tolerate discomfort and that their feared outcomes rarely (if ever) happen.
🌿 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Social Anxiety
ACT therapy for social anxiety takes a different but complementary approach. Instead of trying to eliminate anxious thoughts, ACT helps you change your relationship with them.
Key elements of ACT include:
Mindfulness skills to notice anxiety without getting swept away
Acceptance of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings
Values-based action: Choosing behaviors that align with what matters to you, even in the presence of fear
For example, if you deeply value connection but avoid social situations because of anxiety, ACT will help you move toward that connection—even if your anxiety shows up along the way.
⚖️ CBT vs. ACT: Which Is Better for Social Anxiety?
Both ACT and CBT are backed by research as effective treatments for social anxiety. In many cases, we blend elements from both therapies, tailored to your goals and personality. While CBT helps with cognitive restructuring and skill-building, ACT focuses on psychological flexibility and values-driven living.
Together, they provide a well-rounded path toward freedom from the grip of social anxiety.
🧘♀️ What to Expect in Therapy
Your therapy journey will be collaborative and paced at your comfort level. We may explore:
Cognitive restructuring (CBT)
Values clarification (ACT)
Role-playing or social exposure exercises
Mindfulness and grounding techniques for anxiety
Self-compassion practices
Homework that supports growth between sessions
You don’t have to navigate social anxiety alone. Whether you're ready to dive in or just exploring your options, we’re here to help.
📍 Ready to Start? Get Help for Social Anxiety Today
If you're searching for social anxiety therapy near me or wondering if CBT or ACT therapy is right for you, we invite you to reach out. Our team of experienced therapists offers anxiety counseling both in person and through online therapy for anxiety.
We also specialize in natural anxiety treatment options, breathing exercises for anxiety, and personalized care plans designed to help you move forward—without being held back by fear.
📞 Contact Us
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward feeling more confident, connected, and at ease in your social life.
