Personalised and Evidence-Based Social Anxiety Treatment in Melbourne

Solace Psychology is a safe, inclusive, and supportive space to help you overcome social anxiety with the help of experienced psychologists using evidence-based therapies.

Solace Psychology Offers Compassionate Social Anxiety Treatment in Melbourne

For many years, Solace Psychology has been providing social anxiety treatment in Melbourne to help clients suffering from intense social phobia. Social anxiety is an intense fear of being judged, watched, or embarrassed in front of others.

For many people, this fear can be overwhelming to the point that they feel paralysed.

If you live with social anxiety, things like meeting new people, speaking up in a group, or even making a phone call can bring on intense panic. It’s not just uncomfortable; it can interfere with your daily life, relationships, and self-confidence.

Social anxiety is one of the most common anxiety disorders, and while it can feel isolating, it is treatable. Our clinic creates a safe and inclusive space where you can explore these challenges and move towards feeling more confident and connected.

Common Social Anxiety Symptoms

Social anxiety can show up in many ways, some more visible and others internally. While everyone’s experience is different, common symptoms can be:

Overwhelming fear in social situations, especially where you might feel watched or judged.

Avoiding social events, conversations, or situations where attention might be on you.

Anxious thoughts before, during, or after interactions. You might replay what was said or fear that you embarrassed yourself.

Fear of negative evaluation, criticism, or rejection.

Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, shaky hands, or a racing heart.

Panic attacks occur in particularly stressful situations.

What Causes Social Anxiety?

Woman holding her head, experiencing symptoms related to social anxiety treatment in Melbourne

There’s no single cause of social anxiety; it’s often shaped by a mix of life experiences, genetics, and thought patterns. You might have a family history of anxiety disorders, have grown up in a critical or high-pressure environment, or have had past experiences that make social situations feel increasingly stressful.

Unhelpful thought patterns, low self-esteem, or even substance use can also play a role. But it’s important to know that social anxiety isn’t your fault. It doesn’t mean you’re broken or weak, and with the right support in place, it can be treated.

How We Treat Social Anxiety at Solace Psychology

We tailor your treatment to suit your unique experiences, needs, and goals. Our compassionate team of psychologists are trained in evidence-based therapies that help you understand and shift the patterns that fuel social anxiety, so you can start showing up in your life with more confidence and ease.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts that drive social anxiety. These are often assuming others are judging you or expecting the worst in social situations. Through cognitive restructuring, you’ll learn to replace these patterns with more balanced, realistic thinking.

Exposure Therapy

Avoiding social or performance situations may feel safer in the moment, but it can reinforce anxiety over time. Exposure response prevention gently supports you to face feared situations step by step, helping you build confidence and reduce fear through experience and repetition.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT focuses on helping you make space for uncomfortable thoughts or feelings without letting them control your actions. You’ll learn to connect with your values and take meaningful steps forward, even when anxiety shows up.

Schema Therapy

For some, social anxiety is rooted in deeper, long-standing patterns shaped by early life experiences. Schema therapy works to uncover and heal those underlying emotional wounds, fostering self-understanding and long-term change.

Building Confidence & Coping Strategies

Group of people talking outdoors, part of social anxiety treatment in Melbourne to build confidence

Recovery from social anxiety doesn’t mean you’ll never feel nervous again; it means fear no longer holds you back. We focus on helping you build practical skills and confidence to navigate social situations with greater ease.

Together, we explore self-help tools like deep breathing, grounding techniques, and coping strategies that support you in the moment. We also work on social skills, communication, and gently reintroducing social gatherings in ways that feel safe and manageable.

Why Choose Solace Psychology for Social Anxiety Treatment?

Client-Centred Approach

We understand how vulnerable it can feel to seek support for social anxiety. That’s why we’ve created a warm, client-centred space where you’re genuinely heard, respected, and supported.

Experienced Psychologists Using Evidence-Based Therapies

Our psychologists work collaboratively with you, using evidence-based treatments to support real, lasting change. We welcome people from all walks of life and are proud to offer an LGBTQIA+ inclusive, trauma-informed environment.

Accessible and Convenient

With accessible clinics in Melbourne, we make it easier to find support that fits into your life. We are also available for telehealth appointments if you prefer to engage in therapy remotely.

Whether you’re struggling with social phobia, performance anxiety, or the day-to-day impacts of social anxiety disorder, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to overcome this on your own.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

We’ll start with a gentle intake process and spend time understanding how social anxiety is affecting your life.

Your psychologist will get to know you, your history and your goals for therapy. You may also discuss some of the approaches that could be used as treatment for social anxiety.

From there, your psychologist will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Together, you’ll explore ways to:

Manage physical symptoms

Shift unhelpful patterns

Build confidence in social settings

FAQs About Social Anxiety Therapy

Is social anxiety different from other types of anxiety?

Social anxiety centres around a fear of judgment or embarrassment in social or performance situations. Other anxiety types or mental health conditions may focus more on general worry, panic, or specific fears.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the severity of your anxiety and goals for therapy. Some people only need a few sessions, others need up to 10 or more. Your treatment plan is always tailored to your needs.

Take the First Step Towards Healing

Book your appointment today for personalised and experienced social anxiety treatment in Melbourne.

Contact Us

Start Your Journey of Self Development and Healing with Us Today.

Book an Appointment at Solace Psychology

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625 Nicholson Street, Carlton North, VIC 3054

 

16 Harding Street, Coburg, VIC 3058

  • Hours
Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sat: 09:00 am - 5:00 pm

 

Client Support Team is available
Mon - Fri: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
Sat: 09:00 am - 1:00 pm