Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) Treatment in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Do you avoid social situations because of intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected? You may be experiencing Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)—a deeply distressing condition that goes far beyond simple shyness. It can affect your ability to form relationships, speak up at work or school, or even enjoy everyday interactions.
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we offer compassionate, specialized care for individuals struggling with social anxiety. With the right treatment, you can build self-confidence, reduce fear, and experience social connections with greater ease.
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
SAD sometimes referred to as social phobia is a type of anxiety disorder where everyday interactions trigger overwhelming anxiety. It’s driven by a fear of being judged or humiliated in social or performance situations. This fear can become so intense that it leads to avoidance, isolation, and emotional exhaustion.
Common triggers include:
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Meeting new people
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Speaking in meetings, classrooms, or group settings
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Being the center of attention (e.g., giving a presentation)
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Attending social events or gatherings
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Eating or drinking in public
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Answering questions in class or interviews
When left untreated, SAD can lead to loneliness, missed opportunities, and reduced quality of life. But treatment can make a meaningful difference.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
Excessive Fear of Social Situations: The hallmark symptom of social anxiety disorder is an overwhelming, often irrational fear of social scenarios where individuals fear being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated.
Heightened Self-Consciousness: People with social anxiety disorder struggle with excessive self-awareness. They are deeply concerned about how others perceive them and worry intensely about being judged negatively.
Avoidance of Social Settings: To cope with their anxiety, individuals often avoid situations such as eating in public, speaking with strangers, or attending social gatherings, which can greatly restrict their personal and professional life.
Intense Fear During Social Interactions: When they do engage in social activities, they experience extreme fear and anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, or a racing heart.
Post-Event Rumination: After social interactions, individuals with social anxiety frequently dwell on perceived mistakes or negative aspects, replaying the event in their mind. This rumination can exacerbate their anxiety over time.
How We Diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we provide a thorough mental health evaluation to accurately diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder. We consider:
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The intensity and duration of your fear
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The degree to which symptoms interfere with work, relationships, or daily life
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Your history of social avoidance and emotional distress
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Whether symptoms are linked to another condition or medication side effects
A correct diagnosis helps guide your personalized treatment plan—built specifically for your goals, lifestyle, and symptom severity.
Psychiatry Practices
For managing SAD, it's often advisable to combine medication with therapy. Our team ensures a personalized treatment strategy aligning with your unique symptoms and requirements. Continuous monitoring of your progress and symptoms is an integral part of this treatment, allowing us to fine-tune medication doses and frequency for optimal results.
Therapies
Also known as Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy), talk therapy is an effective option for a number of different symptoms and conditions, including SAD. Talk therapy can take many different forms, so you and your therapist can work to find the best option for your specific situation, condition, and symptoms. Talk therapy can be used in combination with medication and other forms of treatment, if needed.
Treatment Options for Social Anxiety
Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health in Maryland & D.C.
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, our licensed providers are here to help — both in-person in Frederick, MD and via telehealth across Maryland and Washington, D.C. From psychiatric evaluations and medication management to individual therapy and ADHD testing, we’re committed to delivering personalized care that fits your life.
Now accepting new patients — schedule your appointment today and start your path to healing.