Understand anxious predictions
CBT helps you identify expectations about how others will react and examine them with more flexibility. Treatment also looks at attention, self-criticism and habits that keep social situations feeling threatening.
Adults, 18 and overIn person in West Hartford
Social anxiety treatment in West Hartford, CT
Conversations, meetings, or everyday errands can feel exhausting when you are worried about being judged. We help adults work toward the situations and relationships that matter to them through in-person care in West Hartford.
In person
Adult care at our West Hartford office
Adults 18 and overCare focused on your needs and goals
Licensed cliniciansTherapy and psychiatric medication care
Coordinated treatmentYour clinicians work together on your plan
A place to beginYou can request an evaluation directly
How we can help
Treatment starts with understanding your experience and choosing a plan together.
Practice at a manageable pace
You and your clinician choose small steps toward situations that matter to you. Practice might involve a conversation, asking a question or participating in a meeting. Progress can mean doing something meaningful even when some anxiety is still present.
Consider medication if needed
Medication may be discussed when symptoms significantly interfere with life. Your prescriber considers your history, other concerns and preferences, and explains benefits, side effects and follow-up.
Your first visit
A conversation about what has been happening and what you would like to change.
What we discuss
You can start by describing one situation that has become difficult. We discuss what you fear, what you avoid and how this affects work, relationships or everyday activities. You do not need to perform socially or arrive with a polished explanation. Goals are chosen around your own life.
Planning the next step
We explain the options, answer your questions and discuss follow-up based on your needs. You can ask about benefits, possible risks and other approaches before making a decision.
All visits are in person at 10 Princeton St, Ste N, West Hartford, CT 06110. We do not offer telehealth.
Understanding social anxiety
An evaluation considers the full picture, including other concerns that may overlap.
Fear of being judged
Social anxiety can involve strong fear of embarrassment, rejection or scrutiny. It may happen in conversations, while eating around others, at work or when speaking to a group. The concern can build well before an event and continue afterward through repeated review of what happened.
When it limits your choices
Being quiet or enjoying time alone does not by itself mean you have a disorder. The question is whether fear and avoidance are keeping you from things you want or need to do. You do not need to become outgoing to benefit from treatment.
Signs you may recognize
These examples can help you describe what you are experiencing. They are not a self-diagnosis.
Common experiences
- Worrying for days before a meeting or social event
- Avoiding phone calls, introductions or speaking in groups
- Blushing, trembling or feeling nauseated around others
- Replaying conversations and assuming you were judged
- Missing opportunities or feeling isolated because of fear
When to reach out
If symptoms are affecting daily life, relationships or your ability to look after yourself, it is reasonable to ask for support. You do not need to be certain about a diagnosis before contacting us.
Notes about when symptoms happen, what makes them better or worse, and what you have already tried can help start the conversation.
Request an appointmentQuestions about social anxiety
Practical answers to help you decide on your next step.
Is social anxiety the same as being shy?
No. Shyness is a personality trait and does not necessarily cause distress or limit daily life. Social anxiety disorder involves fear and avoidance that significantly affect functioning.
Will I be pushed into situations I cannot manage?
Exposure work is planned collaboratively. Your clinician explains the purpose and works with you on steps that are challenging but appropriate. You can discuss concerns and adjust the plan.
Do I need group therapy?
This practice offers individual therapy for adults. An evaluation helps determine what support fits your needs; group treatment is not a requirement for starting here.
What if making the first call is difficult?
You can use the appointment request form on our contact page. A brief description of what you need is enough to begin. The form is not monitored for emergencies.
Are appointments in person or online?
All appointments are in person at our West Hartford office for adults 18 and over. We do not offer telehealth.
Do I need a referral, and how do I check cost?
You can request an appointment directly. Insurance requirements vary, so the office can help check whether your plan requires a referral or authorization and discuss expected costs. Contact us about coverage or self-pay before scheduling.
Related care and information
Explore a service or concern that may be part of your care.
Sources: NIMH: Social anxiety disorder. This page provides general information. Your clinician can help determine what applies to you.
Care starts with a conversation
Contact our West Hartford office to request an in-person visit. You can tell us what has been difficult and ask about the next step.