Social anxiety disorder treatment online

Social anxiety disorder causes extreme fear, distress, embarrassment, and avoidance that interferes with functioning in daily life and relationships; it’s more than just being anxious or shy. Triggers can include stress, grief, needing to speak in groups, or even just anticipating needing to interact with others in a social setting.

Yes, you can receive effective treatment for social anxiety online. Talkspace provides online therapy and medication management for social anxiety. Evidence-based treatments can help individuals manage social anxiety symptoms. These might include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and other psychotherapeutic approaches. Medication management is also available online.

Online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for social anxiety disorder. Finding a qualified mental health expert who understands your needs is key for successful treatment.

Most major health insurance plans now cover telehealth services, including virtual visits with mental health providers. Check with your insurer to understand coverage details before starting a therapy or treatment plan. Talkspace online therapy and psychiatry plans accept insurance from Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, Optum, and more.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are commonly used to treat social anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is popular for treating social anxiety disorder. It helps people recognize and address the negative thought patterns and behaviors that lead to anxiousness or fear in certain situations.

‍Exposure therapy is also frequently used alongside CBT to expose people gradually to their fears until they become more comfortable confronting them without feeling overwhelmed by panic or distressful emotions. Other therapeutic techniques, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), may also be beneficial depending on the severity of symptoms and triggers.

Talkspace matches you with licensed therapists experienced in social anxiety disorder. To find a qualified provider, look for a mental health expert with experience working with social anxiety disorder. Ask questions about qualifications during an initial consultation, so you feel confident moving forward knowing what kind of support system will be provided.

Some plans may combine therapy and prescription medication. Providers offer a range of therapy modalities when treating social anxiety, with or without medication. For some people, a combination of therapy and prescription medication is the most effective treatment plan. Note that Talkspace’s online psychiatrists and providers prescribe a variety of medications to treat social anxiety, but do not prescribe any controlled substances such as sedatives or stimulants.

Online treatment provides convenience and flexibility, allowing for easy access to a therapist without taking time off work or leaving home. You can access your online therapist anytime and anywhere through text messaging, video chat, or audio calls on any device with an internet connection.