CBT and EMDR for Social Anxiety

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be effective treatments for social anxiety.

CBT aims to help to identify and modify negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their social anxiety. The therapy also involves exposure exercises that gradually expose the person to social situations they fear, helping them to build confidence and overcome their anxiety.

EMDR, on the other hand, involves using bilateral stimulation such as eye movements, sounds or taps to help the person reprocess traumatic experiences or negative beliefs related to social situations. This can help to reduce the intensity of negative emotions associated with social anxiety.

I always begin with CBT and may move on to EMDR depending on a client’s individual needs and preference.