Social Anxiety & Anxiety Therapist in Brooklyn
Everyone feels anxious from time to time. For example, it’s normal to feel nervous preparing for a presentation at work or before having a difficult conversation with a partner. However, if it feels like your anxiety is taking over your life, consider speaking with an anxiety therapist in Brooklyn. Therapy can help you learn how to cope with anxiety in all its forms, including social anxiety.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to work with a professional to treat your anxiety? Anxiety can be tough to manage without help because it affects many domains of existence, from the inner to outer worlds.
In this post, you'll find answers to the following questions:
What types of anxiety can be treated with therapy?
How can therapy help my anxiety?
What can I expect from work with a social anxiety / anxiety therapist?
How do I know what social anxiety / anxiety therapist is the right fit for me?
There are 11 anxiety disorders in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Whether you have been diagnosed with one or more or tend to experience hard-to-manage feelings of anxiety, therapy can help. In this blog post, you'll learn about the 11 anxiety disorders mental health professionals diagnose and treat and what anxiety therapy might look like for you.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an emotional response to a perceived future threat and affects one's thinking processes, body, and behaviors. Common cognitive effects of anxiety include racing thoughts, persistent worry, and distorted perceptions. Associated physical and behavioral responses can include sweating, trouble sleeping, muscle tension, a tendency to avoid certain situations or places, and stomach trouble, to name a few.
Almost everyone has felt anxious at one time or another. However, feeling anxious can be hard to manage, and mental health professionals can help determine whether a person's anxiety symptoms constitute a clinical anxiety disorder.
While many people sometimes feel anxious, anxiety disorders are distinct in that symptoms are experienced persistently and beyond an appropriate time (typically six months or longer). What is deemed "appropriate" depends on an individual's situation, and cultural, medical, and developmental factors should always be considered.
In the following section, we'll break down the 11 diagnosable anxiety disorders.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ANXIETY DISORDERS
For many who suffer from anxiety, receiving a diagnosis can help to understand the problem and get suitable treatment. A diagnosis can help a client and their therapist address the condition in an appropriate manner. And while getting a diagnosis can help align the proper care, it may also spark negative associations or additional fear and worries. A therapist can also help one make sense of their diagnosis and process their feelings and thoughts about it.
Below are the 11 anxiety disorders in the DSM-5, with a brief description. Note that these short synopses touch on some of the features of each diagnosis but give a very limited picture. Therefore, these simplified descriptions shouldn't be used to diagnose. In addition, only a licensed therapist, medical professional, (or supervised trainee) with training in mental health assessment can make a diagnosis.
SEPARATION ANXIETY DISORDER
This disorder can occur in children, adolescents, and adults. It's described as an excessive or inappropriate degree of worry about actual or anticipated separation from one(s) with whom an individual feels an interpersonal attachment. To diagnosed separation anxiety disorder, symptoms must meet several diagnostic criteria. In addition, the disturbance must exist for at least four weeks in children and adolescents and typically six months or longer for adults.
SPECIFIC PHOBIA
Someone with a specific phobia will experience intense or excessive fear about a particular circumstance, person, place, or thing. The severe anxiety one feels in response to actual or imagined exposure often leads to avoidance behaviors, dramatically exceeds the true threat, and impairs functioning in essential areas of life. The DSM5 codifies the following specific phobias: Animal, Natural Environment, Blood-Injection Injury, Situational (airplanes, enclosed spaces, etc.), Other (loud sounds, costumed individuals, situations that could lead to choking, etc.).
PANIC DISORDER
A panic attack can occur during a state of calm or anxiety. Specific symptoms of a panic attack include a racing heartbeat, sweating, nausea, dizziness, physical numbness or tingliness, and more. While experiencing a panic attack, beyond physical symptoms, one might feel a sense of unreality or detachment from themselves. Panic attacks on their own are not a mental disorder and do not indicate a diagnosis of panic disorder, but when coupled with persistent worry about having one, or maladaptive behaviors intended to avoid them, a diagnosis of panic disorder may be indicated.
GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER
This diagnosis may be given when a particular individual finds it hard to control excessive worry about many things more days than not, and the anxiety is out of proportion with how likely, or consequential the situation probably is. A number of physical symptoms must be present to meet the diagnosis, and some that one might experience include trouble concentrating, sleep problems, feeling on edge, and muscle tension. These symptoms negatively affect the inner world of those afflicted and other significant areas of life, such as social and occupational.
ANXIETY DISORDER DUE TO ANOTHER MEDICAL CONDITION
Somewhat like substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder, this condition can appear like a number of anxiety disorders. But, through careful assessment of one's history, physical examination, and laboratory findings, the diagnosing professional has determined that they are due to a medical condition.
SELECTIVE MUTISM
Selective mutism is a rare disorder affecting 0.03-1.0% of school-aged children, depending on the setting of various studies, and is even less prevalent in adolescents and adults. For most who are afflicted with selective mutism, symptoms begin before the age of five but may not be recognized or diagnosed until later in a child's life. Children with selective mutism refuse to speak in school or social settings but will do so at home, though they may also avoid speaking in front of relatives who live outside the home and friends.
SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER (SOCIAL PHOBIA)
Those who experience symptoms this mental health disorder fear the potential judgment or evaluation by others. For some, the intense fear of scrutiny applies to general social settings, while for others, it's limited to situations in which they are performing, such as public speaking. Therefore, a critical factor in diagnosing social anxiety is avoiding social settings or bearing through them with intense fear.
AGORAPHOBIA
Agoraphobia is essentially the fear of enclosed or open spaces, on public transportation, or public spaces outside of where one resides, and either profoundly fearing or avoiding these circumstances in response to thoughts of possible panic symptoms or being unable to escape from a situation. A person may believe these situations to be difficult or impossible to escape and experience "panic-like" symptoms while anticipating or being in their presence.
SUBSTANCE/MEDICATION-INDUCED ANXIETY DISORDER
The predominant presentation features of substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder are persistent fear, anxiety, or panic attacks that directly result from a substance. That substance may be prescribed medication, a drug not prescribed, alcohol, or toxin. Symptoms of this diagnosis can appear like other anxiety disorders; however, through careful assessment, the diagnosing professional has determined they are due to a substance or medication.
OTHER SPECIFIED ANXIETY DISORDER
When someone experiences symptoms of an anxiety disorder and resulting impairment to their functioning but does not meet the full diagnostic criteria, other specified anxiety disorder may be diagnosed. This diagnosis is used when the clinician chooses to provide a specific reason another anxiety disorder is not fully met, such as the duration of anxiety symptoms.
UNSPECIFIED ANXIETY DISORDER
Unspecified anxiety disorder is given when the clinician is unable (such as lack of information in an emergency room setting) or chooses not to detail why a specific anxiety disorder was not given, however the individual exhibits numerous symptoms of one or more anxiety disorders.
When to consider working with a therapist for anxiety
Occasional anxiety is common, but for some, the intensity, frequency, or duration of these feelings can indicate a need or desire to seek professional help.
Seeking help with anxiety from a mental health professional can have immediate, long-term, or lifelong benefits. Still, beginning treatment isn't always an easy decision, and there are risks involved that are worth considering. Some of the areas to think about when exploring options include the following:
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The cost of therapy can range from a modest sum to several hundred dollars per session. The therapist's setting, location, specialties, and experience can play a role in these figures. Therefore, it's imperative to look at a particular therapist's level of expertise, as rates alone don't indicate a therapist's education, training, or years of experience. In addition, your insurance provider may offer out-of-network benefits that you can use to help pay for therapists who are out of network.
TIME COMMITMENT
Outpatient therapy sessions are most commonly held once a week on the same day and time. In severe cases, a therapist may recommend meeting more than once a week. For most, though, once a week is a good starting place. The treatment process requires consistent meetings and may include homework or activities on the client's part outside the session. For therapy to work, a client must be willing and able to commit to consistent therapy sessions during the treatment process.
CONFIDENTIALITY
One might wonder if their secrets are safe with their therapist. It's common to fear sharing personal, private, or embarrassing information during therapy. However, privacy and confidentiality are part of the ethics codes of all professional therapists and counselors. In most cases, they are also required by law (HIPAA).
GOOD FIT
Before committing to the treatment process, finding a therapist with whom one feels reasonably comfortable and confident in their ability to help is crucial. Trust and rapport can take time to build, but it is important to work with a therapist with whom one has confidence.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM WORKING WITH A BROOKLYN ANXIETY THERAPIST AT OUR PRACTICE
Once you have decided to work with a therapist on anxiety, you may wonder what it's like to be an anxiety therapy client. In addition, you may be curious about what's reasonable to expect from your therapist, the process, and the outcomes. The following section will present more information on what to expect from anxiety treatment.
Our approach as therapists specializing in anxiety
As licensed therapists specialized in treating anxiety, we aim to help our clients develop coping skills to use in their everyday life to manage emotionally challenging circumstances, learn from the past, overcome the tendency to become overwhelmed, and live to their highest potential.
We work with adult individuals, particularly entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators. We also work with adults going through a life transition or change and understand the unique challenges that present themselves when one is forging a new road.
Julia Baum Therapy is a boutique practice, intentionally kept small to give our attention to each client and an individualized experience. It's key to your therapeutic outcomes that you have our full attention during each session.
We value personal growth as much as professional growth and regularly participate in professional development training and workshops to build our therapeutic skills. In addition, we make work part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle to avoid burnout and be emotionally present during each therapy session.
We provide therapy entirely online. Our clients attend sessions from the comfort of home, the ease of the office, or sometimes the woods! Working with a therapist online increases the consistency of appointments and makes the commitment easier, leading to better treatment outcomes. Before and during the pandemic, research has shown online cognitive behavioral therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. In addition, we've heard from our clients that online therapy allows them to attend sessions more regularly and see results faster..
Our treatment methods
Once you start exploring therapy options, you will soon recognize that therapists may employ myriad treatment modalities. We're trained in several therapy approaches, and below you will find a brief description of the methods we utilize most.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPIES (CBT TREATMENT)
CBT is an evidence-based psychotherapy that pays particular attention to the interplay of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and aims to help clients change those that defeat their goals. CBT came about in three waves and includes numerous specific modalities, including cognitive therapy (CT), rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). CBT therapists view the therapeutic relationship as collaborative; both client and therapist are expected to work together to reach established goals. Some of the many areas that set CBT apart is that clients are encouraged to learn skills they can use to help themselves as their own therapist, and there is often homework involved.
RATIONAL EMOTIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (REBT)
REBT is a philosophy and method of therapy that falls under the umbrella of CBT. It focuses on identifying and changing thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors to solve emotional and practical problems. REBT helps clients learn to recognize when they are thinking or acting in self-defeating ways and resolve the tendency to do so. REBT is a constructivist theory that operates with the understanding that human beings have free will and make choices that impact their lives and mental health. As such, it is also an existential therapy.
EXISTENTIAL & HUMANISTIC THERAPY
Existential therapy, like CBT, is an umbrella term under which many specific existential therapies fall. It has been said that there are as many existential therapies as existential therapists. The existential therapist recognizes that every individual is unique and there are no set instructions or guidelines for a "good life" that will apply to all. This philosophy respects and honors the freedom and responsibility of every individual to make choices that affect their life. The existential therapist presents in the therapeutic relationship as a guide and partner, not a teacher or guru. (7)
Humanistic therapy honors the uniqueness of an individual, and the humanistic-minded therapist makes all efforts to approach the client with a sense of un-knowing and avoids making assumptions about a person based on general knowledge. Instead, they aim to see into the client's world, look through the client's eyes, and discover strengths and growth areas. The humanistic therapist presents authentically and transparently and avoids the role of expert or authority.
OTHER MODALITIES
Depending on the therapist you work with through our practice, you may have the opportunity to explore Creative Arts Therapy or other modalities depending on your needs and the therapist's training.
Benefits of working with a therapist for social anxiety
Whether you have clinical social anxiety or feel nervous or uncomfortable in any social or performative setting, working with a therapist can significantly aid in feeling comfortable, confident, and less anxious about social events.
LEARN SELF-HELPING SKILLS
A therapist will likely help you develop therapeutic techniques to reduce your anxiety about social situations. These may include specific types of deep breathing, physical activity, replacing negative thoughts with realistic thoughts, relaxation techniques, and more.
OVERCOME YOUR FEARS
The best indicator of progress is a behavior change. When starting therapy, you may already have specific goals or clarify them in discussion with your therapist. It's helpful to identify how you want to think, feel, and act differently to help direct the work and recognize your progress.
A SAFE PLACE FOR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Social anxiety tends to be primarily related to anticipated judgment, ridicule, or rejection.Therapists are trained to view their clients with unconditional acceptance. When you trust your therapist, the relationship can be a great place to take risks and explore potential areas for change.
FAQs about working with a therapist for anxiety
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Sometimes referred to as an "intake," the first session is an opportunity to meet your therapist. They will provide a comprehensive assessment of your mental health needs, and may ask about previously diagnosed mental illnesses, cultural matters, physical health factors, and more. Together, you'll address any concerns or questions regarding treatment and identify a plan to move forward with. If, for any reason, you or your therapist don't believe that working together is the best fit for you, the therapist will offer referrals based on your needs and preferences.
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Some therapies are designed with long-term work in mind while others can be short-term. During your initial consultation call and first session, a timeframe that makes sense for your needs is often discussed.
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In one way or another, yes. The only way to overcome a fear is to face it. Many exposure therapy methods can be utilized, from the most gentle approaches, such as imaginal exposure, to encountering fear in real life. Exposure therapy can be slow and gradual or more intense with a quicker outcome, depending on how the client and therapist decided to work.
How do I know which anxiety therapist is right for me?
Thankfully, there are many good therapists out there, and there is great variety in terms of therapeutic style, personality, identity, etc. At the same time, having so many options can make it tough to choose a therapist and feel confident that you have considered the most critical factors. Here are some points to consider:
TRAINING AND EXPERTISE
Educate yourself on the level of experience a particular therapist has and if they are fully licensed or working towards licensure and hold a permit. You have a right to inquire about a therapist's education, professional training, and therapy approach to ensure it aligns with your expectations and beliefs.
TREATMENT STYLE
Various treatment modalities will look distinctly different in therapy. Some require a more passive role from the client, and others need a more collaborative or active role from both parties. Some methods focus on the past, while others look more through a present-day lens. Some therapy approaches are intended to be long-term and others short-term, and some can be either. It is essential to believe in the model of therapy that you're doing.
IDENTITY
Some of the factors that clients may consider when looking for the right therapist are age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender-identity, cultural background, religion, and spirituality. There are no right or wrong preferences; what matters most is that you feel confident in the therapist you choose.
HOW CAN I GET THE MOST OUT OF WORKING WITH A SOCIAL ANXIETY THERAPIST
The best outcomes from therapy happen when there is mutual trust and respect in the therapeutic relationship, treatment goals and style are clear, and full commitment from both sides to consistently meet and work together.
To maximize the benefit of therapy, consider your options carefully before booking the first session. We recommend having a consultation call to see if it feels like a good fit before getting started.
Push yourself outside of your comfort zone by using the tools and insights as you gain them in therapy. The maximum benefits come when stretching beyond old patterns.
Regain a sense of calm with the help of a Brooklyn anxiety therapist
Therapy can help you overcome the anxiety that has gotten in your way of feeling good and being who you want to be. With the help of a supportive, professional therapist, you can feel better and do more with greater ease. Therapy can help you find new pathways of responding to specific or general situations that have been sticking points in your life.
It's important to remember that you don't have to have an anxiety disorder to benefit from therapy. If you find that your stress or anxiety has gotten in the way, know that therapy can help. We aim to help clients feel better and engage meaningfully in their lives without the encumbrance of debilitating anxiety. We offer free consultations and invite you to request one to see if working together is a good fit for you.
Our Therapists
JULIA BAUM
MSED, BFA, LMHC (SHE/HER)
My path to psychotherapy developed organically from an unexpected place. Before I got here, my career was in the arts. I focused mostly on portraiture and planned on having a long career as a photographer. Eventually, though, I realized that my camera was actually getting in the way of my favorite part of the job—connecting with my subjects. What I loved most was getting to know each person and guiding them through a genuine expression of themselves.
EMILY HUGHES
LCAT, ATR-BC (SHE/HER)
I am a licensed creative arts therapist specializing in treating anxiety, low self-esteem, and adjustment challenges in young adults through creative art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and use talk therapy and creative practices to help my clients explore their experiences in a safe space with a focus on developing coping skills and resiliency.