Social anxiety is more than just shyness - it’s a persistent fear of judgment, embarrassment, or rejection in social or performance situations.
Social Anxiety
What is social anxiety?
Even everyday interactions - like making a phone call, speaking in a meeting, or attending a gathering - can feel overwhelming and anxiety-inducing.
For many, social anxiety brings an intense inner critic, constant self-monitoring, and the urge to avoid situations where they might feel exposed or “get it wrong.” This can lead to isolation, self-doubt, and a feeling of being stuck on the outside looking in - even when there's a deep desire to connect with others.
At The Knightsbridge Practice, we understand how painful and limiting social anxiety can be. We offer a compassionate, confidential space to explore the roots of these fears and to gently build the confidence and inner security needed to engage more freely with the world.
Common signs of social anxiety
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Fear of being judged, criticised, or humiliated
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Avoidance of social situations or extreme discomfort during them
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Physical symptoms such as blushing, sweating, trembling, or nausea
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Intense worry before or after social interactions
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Overanalysing conversations or “replaying” events
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Struggling with assertiveness, self-expression, or being seen
How therapy can help
Our approach to social anxiety is warm, collaborative, and designed to support both emotional healing and practical change. Therapy may include:
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Understanding the roots of social fear, including past experiences or patterns of criticism
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Challenging unhelpful thoughts around shame, rejection, or not being “good enough”
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Developing self-compassion and a kinder inner dialogue
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Building social confidence through gradual exposure and tailored strategies
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Exploring identity, boundaries, and belonging in a safe, respectful space