Social Anxiety Treatment in Naperville.
You are not just shy
What Is It?
More Than Just Shyness.
Social Anxiety is not just about being quiet; it's an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations. At Ascend Therapy in Naperville, we help you challenge the belief that you must perform perfectly to be accepted. Our evidence-based approach helps you quiet the inner critic and step back into connection.
Meet Our Anxiety Specialists.
Compassionate support to help you feel comfortable in your own skin.
Sara Banks, LCSW
Specialties
Specializing in anxiety disorders and building social confidence.
Dr. Jonathan Woodin, PsyD
Specialties
Clinical Psychologist helping you move towards values-based social connection.
Takeisha Rheams, LCPC
Specialties
Using CBT to challenge negative thought patterns around social interactions.
Nagla Mostafa, LMFT
Specialties
Helping individuals advocate for their needs in relationships.
Signs & Symptoms
Common Signs of Social Anxiety.
It often shows up as physical symptoms before you even speak:
- Intense fear of interacting with strangers
- Worrying for days or weeks before an event
- Physical symptoms: Blushing, sweating, trembling, or racing heart
- Avoiding eye contact to become invisible
- Replaying conversations in your head wondering if you "messed up"
- Fear that others will notice that you look anxious
Treatment
How We Treat Social Anxiety.
Avoidance feeds anxiety. We use active therapies to help you engage with life.
Related Services
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions.
While some traits are innate, social anxiety is a pattern of thinking and behaving that can be unlearned. You don't have to be "extroverted" to be free from social anxiety.
Many clients report feeling lower levels of physical anxiety within 8-12 sessions as they learn skills to manage their body's stress response and challenge maladaptive thoughts.
No. We work at your pace using gradual exposure. We identify your "anxiety ladder" and help you climb it one manageable step at a time.
Your new chapter
starts today.
Every transformation begins with a simple outreach. Our clinical team is ready to guide your first steps.