Social Anxiety Therapist in Newbury
Work with a specialist to find lasting relief
Struggling with social anxiety or social phobia in Berkshire? As a qualified social anxiety therapist and counsellor, I provide professional, evidence-based counselling for social anxiety and treatment in Newbury and Thatcham. Learn to overcome fear, build lasting self-confidence, and reclaim your life with expert support.
Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder -You're Not Alone
Social anxiety is more than just shyness. It's a disabling, intense fear that can make everyday situations feel overwhelming – from leaving the house and going to school or work, to shopping or meeting friends for a coffee. This recognised and debilitating mental health condition can significantly impact your daily life, but it doesn't have to.
Who Social Anxiety Affects (and Why Help Matters)
Social anxiety disorder doesn't discriminate. Many people manage to function in work, study, and relationships, yet constantly feel anxious and on edge. Some cope by avoiding social situations, leading to a restricted and often unhappy existence. The good news is, you don't have to navigate this alone.
Common symptoms of social anxiety you may recognise:
Avoiding social situations and social events
Extreme anxiety about being judged by others
Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or feeling sick
Panic attacks in certain social situations
Difficulty with eye contact and social interactions
Self-consciousness and performance anxiety
Social anxiety can develop at any point in our lives. It might be triggered by a traumatic event, childhood experiences, or gradually build over time. The Covid pandemic intensified social phobia for many, as enforced isolation heightened our anxious feelings about being with others.
If these symptoms sound familiar, help is available.
Why Choose Specialist Social Anxiety Treatment?
As a qualified psychotherapist with experience in anxiety disorders, I understand that people with social anxiety need specialised care. Unlike general counselling, my approach specifically targets:
Social phobia and related anxiety symptoms
Post traumatic stress disorder when it co-occurs with social anxiety
Performance anxiety in work and social contexts
Building self confidence in social interactions
Most clients see improvements within a few weeks of starting treatment, with significant progress over a few months.
Serving Newbury, Thatcham & West Berkshire.
Located in central Newbury, I provide social anxiety therapy and counselling to individuals throughout West Berkshire, including Thatcham, Reading, and surrounding areas. Starting with in-person sessions I am flexible to move online after a time.
A Personal Perspective
“Anxiety to me is questions. Questioning every word, every move, every feeling, every thought all the time. It’s extreme uncertainty in the positives, with less uncertainty in the negatives. It’s going out and feeling judged by everyone, and questioning every word, every move. Anxiety wasn’t always with me, but now it’s always there in my mind.”
This reflects how socially anxious individuals often experience constant negative thought patterns and unhelpful thinking that affects everyday activities.
Evidence-Based Treatment for Social Anxiety
The good news is that social anxiety can be effectively addressed, and your life significantly improved. My approach uses evidence-based treatment methods, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) based approaches, to help you manage social anxiety, enhance your quality of life, and regain lasting confidence.
I've seen clients make incredible progress, not just doing more of what they want, but doing it without overwhelming fear.
Imagine:
Young people confidently attending school or university again
Feeling more secure and engaged in your work
Building meaningful relationships with colleagues and acquaintances you've known for years
This genuine progress often creates a virtuous circle: as you take small steps forward and connect with others, your newfound confidence reinforces your recovery, leading to continuous improvement.
My Approach for the Socially Anxious
As a counsellor specialising in anxiety disorders, I use proven therapeutic methods including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) based approaches.
Challenge negative thoughts and anxious thoughts
Develop coping skills and practice social skills
Cognitive restructuring to change negative ways of thinking
Break the self-fulfilling prophecy of anxiety
Graduated Exposure Therapy
Gentle, paced approach to challenging situations
Build confidence in social settings at your own pace
Reduce safety behaviours that maintain anxiety
Develop resilience for social interactions
Holistic Support Methods
Relaxation exercises and stress management
Outdoor therapy sessions in nature
Group support through 'One Small Step’ programme
Skills training in a supportive environment
Your Personalised Journey to Overcoming Social Anxiety
‘Your pathway to managing social anxiety is unique. My approach, ‘MyHill2Climb,’ acknowledges that we all face different challenges. What's important is having the right, personalised support for your journey towards greater comfort and confidence.’
- John Dyson, Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Guide
Initial Sessions
Comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs
Safe space to discuss what's really happening for you
No judgment - just understanding and professional support
Face-to-face sessions in central Newbury
Ongoing Treatment
Regular therapy sessions to build self confidence and self esteem
Practice social skills in a controlled environment
Address root causes and reinforcing factors
Integration with group programmes when appropriate
Long-term Goals
Reduce social anxiety significantly
Improve daily life functioning
Build meaningful relationships with family members and colleagues
Develop lasting coping skills
Related Services:
Specialised Programmes and Treatments
MyHill2Climb (MH2C)
A personalised treatment modality designed to guide you through your unique challenges.
This individualised approach combines proven therapeutic techniques and tailored support, empowering your specific journey towards profound personal growth and lasting change.
One Small Step
A support group where you can experiment with being around other people with no expectations - a gentle way to practice social skills and build confidence.
Outdoor Therapy
Nature-based sessions that are proven to reduce stress and promote healing, offering an alternative supportive environment for those who love the outdoors or find traditional settings challenging.
Start Your Journey - Your Social Anxiety Therapist Awaits
Making initial contact can feel difficult, but it's the smallest first step towards change. Reach out in the way that feels most comfortable for you:
From our very first communication, you'll be met with understanding, respect, and complete confidentiality.
Free Initial Consultation
I offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and explain how therapy can help you feel less anxious and more confident in social situations.
Treatment Options:
In-person sessions in Newbury
Online therapy sessions
Outdoor therapy in natural settings
Combination approaches
