Understanding Social Anxiety 

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based, neuro-affirming therapy for social anxiety in children, adolescents, adults and older adults across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney.

 

Social anxiety involves an intense fear of being judged, criticised, embarrassed, or negatively evaluated in social situations. It can make everyday experiences such as talking with others, going to school or work, meeting new people, or participating in group settings feel overwhelming. Over time, social anxiety can affect friendships, relationships, school or work performance, and a person’s sense of confidence and connection.

 

Signs of Social Anxiety

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Signs of social anxiety may include:

• intense fear of being judged or embarrassed

• worrying about saying the wrong thing or making mistakes

• difficulty starting conversations or speaking in groups

• avoiding social situations or withdrawing from others

• overthinking interactions before or after they happen

• blushing, sweating, shaking, nausea, or a racing heart

• difficulty attending school, work, or social events

• relying on safety behaviours to get through social situations

 

Social Anxiety and Neurodivergence

 

Social anxiety is common among people with ADHD and autism. Sensory overload, communication differences, past social experiences, and fear of social expectations can make social situations feel unpredictable, draining, or difficult to navigate.

 

Therapy for Social Anxiety

 

Therapy for social anxiety focuses on understanding the fears, beliefs and patterns that may be maintaining anxiety in social situations. Counselling can help people recognise avoidance and safety behaviours, develop more helpful ways of responding to social anxiety, and gradually build confidence in situations that feel difficult.

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Sessions may explore fear of judgement, self-critical thinking, physical symptoms of anxiety, and the impact social anxiety has on relationships, school, work, and everyday life.

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Evidence-Based Therapies for Social Anxiety

 

Our clinicians draw on a range of evidence-based therapies for social anxiety, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Mindfulness-Based Therapy

• Emotion Focused Therapy

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)

• Schema Therapy

• RO-DBT

 

Social Anxiety Counselling in Menai and Surrounding Areas

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We provide social anxiety counselling for children, adolescents and adults across the Sutherland Shire, including Menai, Bangor, Illawong, Alfords Point, Barden Ridge, Engadine, Woronora Heights, Sylvania, Kirrawee, Gymea, Miranda, and Caringbah.

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Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice or online across Sydney.

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.