Care for Social Anxiety

Social Anxiety Disorder, sometimes called social phobia, is more than shyness or nervousness—it’s a deeply distressing condition that can make everyday interactions feel overwhelming. People living with social anxiety often experience intense fear of being judged, rejected, or humiliated in social settings. This fear can lead to avoidance of situations like speaking in public, meeting new people, or even eating in front of others.

At Fine Tune Psychiatry we use a trauma-informed approach and recognize that social anxiety may be shaped by past experiences of bullying, rejection, or emotional neglect. These experiences can leave lasting imprints on the nervous system, making social situations feel unsafe or threatening. A trauma-informed approach honors these histories, offering care that is rooted in safety, trust, and empowerment.

Social anxiety often begins in adolescence and may co-occur with other conditions such as depression, substance use disorder, or PTSD. Symptoms can include blushing, trembling, nausea, racing heart, or a blank mind during social interactions. People may worry for weeks before an event, replay conversations afterward, or avoid situations entirely.

Social anxiety is treatable. Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) help individuals reframe anxious thoughts and build confidence. Medications such as SSRIs or beta-blockers may also support symptom relief.

Patients with social anxiety are not alone and healing is possible. We provide care that sees the whole person—not just the diagnosis. With the right support, people with social anxiety can reclaim their voice, reconnect with others, and thrive.

How Common is Social Anxiety Disorder?

About 5–10% of people in the U.S. experience Social Anxiety Disorder. More broadly, roughly 20% of individuals are affected by any anxiety disorder within a 12-month period. Anxiety disorders, including Social Anxiety Disorder, are prevalent both in the U.S. and worldwide.

Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder

People with Social Anxiety may experience physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms in anticipation of or during social situations.

Common signs include:

• Racing heart
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Feeling like you might pass out
• Tremors
• Tunnel vision
• Upset stomach
• Sweating, chills, or hot flashes
• Subjective feelings of intense anxiety
• Avoidance behaviors that interfere with personal, social, academic, or work life

Avoidance is a hallmark symptom and can significantly limit relationships, social activities, and overall functioning.

When Should I Seek an Evaluation for Social Anxiety?

You should schedule a psychiatric evaluation with a physician or nurse practitioner at Fine Tune Psychiatry if you experience:

• Avoidance of social situations due to anxiety
• Interference with academic or work responsibilities
• Difficulty maintaining social relationships
• Anxiety affecting sleep, energy, focus, or appetite
• Persistent feelings of hopelessness or high stress
• Crying episodes or trouble being present with loved ones
• Use of unhealthy coping mechanisms (alcohol, substances, gambling, self-harm)
• Suicidal thoughts — call 911 or 988 immediately

Treatment Options for Social Anxiety Disorder

Treatment for Social Anxiety is personalized; no single approach works for everyone.

Your plan may include:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy to increase functioning and reduce triggers.
• Medication Management: SSRIs, SNRIs, or as-needed medications such as beta blockers to manage anxiety
• Behavioral Modifications: Recommendations for sleep, exercise, diet, activities, and caffeine use to support mental health

Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder

Our clinicians can incorporate therapy into their sessions, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure Therapy
• Supportive Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing
• Accountability for healthy behaviors and routines, such as diet, exercise, avoidance of problematic behaviors and others.

If a patient requires more intensive or focused therapy, our psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners will make recommendations for psychologists and therapists in your area, and will collaborate with them to provide coordinated care. We find that working with a team of specialized providers can result in the best outcomes, and we’re happy to take the time to do so.

Why Choose Fine Tune Psychiatry for Social Anxiety?

Our team combines academic expertise with compassionate care to help individuals manage Social Anxiety Disorder effectively. We offer:

• Appointments typically available within 2–3 weeks
• Highly trained providers from institutions like Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania, & Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
• Academic providers, many of whom are published and maintain academic titles
• Comprehensive, patient-centered care
• Coordination with your other healthcare providers
• Most major commercial insurance plans accepted
• 60-90 minute evaluation sessions and 20 to 30-minute follow-ups