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Social Anxiety

Counselling for Social Anxiety in Bridgend, Cardiff, Carmarthen, Newport, and Porthcawl

Social anxiety is a condition characterised by intense fear or worry about social interactions or situations where a person may feel judged, embarrassed, or scrutinised. This can lead to avoidance of everyday activities such as meeting new people, speaking in public, or attending social events. Social anxiety can significantly affect self-esteem, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Counselling provides a safe, supportive space to understand these feelings, learn coping strategies, and build confidence in social situations.

Symptoms of Social Anxiety

Intense fear of social situations or interactions
Worry about being judged, criticised, or embarrassed
Physical symptoms such as blushing, sweating, shaking, or a racing heart
Overthinking conversations before and after they occur
Avoiding social events, public speaking, or meeting new people
Low confidence or self-esteem

Causes of Social Anxiety

Negative past social experiences or bullying
Low self-esteem or self-confidence
Family or cultural expectations
Long-term stress or pressure to perform
Genetic or biological factors
Perfectionism or fear of failure

Treatments for Social Anxiety

Counselling is one of the most effective ways to treat social anxiety. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), exposure-based techniques, and person-centred counselling help individuals challenge negative thoughts, build social confidence, and reduce avoidance behaviours. Our counsellors create a supportive environment where clients can explore their fears, develop practical coping strategies, and work towards feeling more comfortable and confident in social settings.

A typical counselling treatment plan for social anxiety includes:

An in-depth assessment to identify triggers, symptoms, and personal goals
Cognitive techniques to challenge negative beliefs about social situations
Gradual exposure planning to increase confidence in manageable steps
Developing assertiveness and communication skills
Long-term strategies to manage anxiety and maintain progress

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main symptoms of social anxiety?

Common symptoms include fear of being judged, physical anxiety symptoms during social interactions, avoidance of social situations, and excessive worry before or after conversations.

Can counselling help with social anxiety?

Yes. Counselling is highly effective for social anxiety, helping individuals challenge negative thinking, improve communication skills, and build confidence through structured support.

How long does recovery from social anxiety take?

Many clients experience improvement within 8–12 sessions, though long-term support may be beneficial depending on individual needs and the severity of symptoms.

When should I see a counsellor?

You should seek counselling if social anxiety is affecting your daily life, your relationships, or your confidence in social or work situations.

Why choose iTT for counselling?

At iTT, our experienced counsellors provide compassionate, personalised care using evidence-based techniques. We offer a safe, confidential space to support your emotional wellbeing and help you overcome social anxiety at your own pace.

Help & Support

Do you need more information about any of our treatments or services?

We want to ensure that all of our patients receive the information they need to make an informed decision about their treatment. If you have any questions or if you require assistance with anything, please let us know.

Independent Talking Therapies