If you’re like me (and sometimes even the smoothest of networkers in the DMV), you’ve at least experienced some anxiety when around people. Being socially anxious now and then is perfectly natural.

Social anxiety is too much when it turns into a strong fear of being judged, embarrassed, or avoiding everyday social situations. Men with social anxiety often opt out of meeting people in person for parties, dates or social events.

Social anxiety is quite common and affects about 1 in 8 guys at some point in their life. Social anxiety is most common for adults between the ages of 18-29.

In an area like Washington, DC that runs on social connections, ambition, and appearances, socially anxious thoughts can start to wear you down—hurting your confidence, your work, and your ability to just be yourself around others.

“I freeze up every time I meet new people—whether it’s at a networking event or grabbing drinks with friends—I never know what to say and end up feeling awkward and boring.”

“I showed up to a happy hour in a tie and immediately regretted it. Everyone else looked the same, and I felt like I didn’t fit into the DC scene.”

I approach social anxiety by using CBT and ACT, two therapies that have the most research support.

I will work with you to gradually and systematically confront feared social situations. Therapy will also show you that feared consequences are unlikely to come true and that anxiety naturally decreases. I’ll also teach you what causes and maintains social anxiety, and work with you to reframe unhelpful thoughts.

I have extensive experience working with men in their twenties and thirties with social anxiety. I’ve received years of training and supervision from experts in generalized anxiety disorders in Arlington, Virginia and the DC area.