Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment in Culver City

If you’ve ever skipped a job interview, ghosted a party, or avoided eye contact at the grocery store because the anxiety felt unbearable—you’re not alone. Social anxiety disorder isn’t just “being shy” or “introverted.” It’s a real, often overwhelming fear of judgment, embarrassment, or rejection that can keep you from living your life. The good news? It’s treatable, and you don’t have to keep managing it on your own. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what social anxiety really is, the types of treatment that work, and how to find the right care for you here in Culver City.

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder goes beyond nerves or occasional awkwardness. It’s the intense fear that kicks in when you have to speak in a meeting, order food at a restaurant, or even answer a phone call. Your heart races, your mind blanks, and you start imagining every worst-case scenario—like saying something wrong or being judged.

If this sounds like your day-to-day, it’s not something to brush off. Left untreated, social anxiety can lead to isolation, depression, or even using alcohol or substances just to feel “normal” in social settings.

But here’s the truth: social anxiety is treatable. It’s not a personality flaw—it’s a challenge you can overcome with the right help.

Why Social Anxiety Often Coexists with Addiction and Other Mental Health Issues

When social situations feel unbearable, it’s not uncommon to reach for something—alcohol, weed, a Xanax—just to take the edge off. At first, it might seem like it helps. You feel a little calmer, a little less trapped in your head. But over time, that temporary relief can turn into a crutch—and then into a dependency you didn’t see coming.

Social anxiety often goes hand-in-hand with substance use and other mental health challenges like depression or panic disorders. That’s why The Forge Recovery Center takes a dual-diagnosis approach, treating both your anxiety and any co-occurring addiction at the same time. We don’t just treat symptoms—we help you heal the root causes.

Types of Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment Available in Culver City

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating social anxiety—but there are proven methods that work, especially when they’re tailored to your specific needs. If you're exploring social anxiety disorder treatment in Culver City, here's what you can expect:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective ways to treat social anxiety. It helps you recognize the negative thought patterns that fuel your fear (like “everyone thinks I sound stupid”) and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts. Over time, CBT helps you feel more in control rather than overwhelmed in social settings.

• Group therapy might sound intimidating—after all, social anxiety is often triggered by groups. But that’s exactly why it works. A well-run therapy group becomes a safe space to practice being seen and heard without fear of judgment. You learn that you're not alone, and you build confidence in real-time with others who understand what you're going through.

• Exposure therapy is another powerful tool. It involves gradually and safely facing the social situations that trigger your anxiety—starting small and building up. This helps desensitize your brain’s fear response and gives you evidence that you can handle what once felt impossible.

• Medication can also be helpful in some cases, especially when anxiety is severe or interfering with daily functioning. Medications like SSRIs or beta-blockers are sometimes used alongside therapy to reduce physical symptoms like racing heart or panic.

At The Forge Recovery Center, we combine all these tools into a personalized treatment plan built around you. Whether your anxiety is rooted in past trauma, co-occurs with substance use, or has just gotten worse over time, we’re here to help you move forward with a plan that fits your life—not just your diagnosis.

What to Look for When Searching for Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment Near Me

Googling “social anxiety disorder treatment near me” might give you a long list of therapists and clinics—but not all treatment is created equal. The difference between general counseling and specialized care for social anxiety is huge. You don’t just need someone to listen—you need someone who understands the unique ways social anxiety affects your life and knows how to treat it effectively.

Start by asking the right questions:

• Do they specialize in anxiety disorders—or just offer general therapy?

• Can they treat co-occurring issues like addiction, depression, or trauma?

• Do they offer long-term support, or is it just a few sessions and you're on your own?

Many people with social anxiety also struggle with substance use or other mental health challenges. That’s why it’s so important to find a program that looks at the full picture—not just isolated symptoms.

At The Forge Recovery Center in Culver City, we provide specialized, evidence-based treatment designed for people just like you. We understand how social anxiety can quietly shape your entire world—and how hard it is to reach out for help. Our dual-diagnosis approach means we’re equipped to treat both your anxiety and any related struggles, like addiction or depression, with a long-term, personalized care plan.

If you're tired of just “getting by,” it might be time to find real support that actually helps you move forward. We're here when you're ready.

How The Forge Recovery Center Helps You Build Confidence, Not Just Cope

At The Forge Recovery Center, we’re not here to just help you get by—we’re here to help you thrive. That starts with creating an environment where you feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. Our therapists are specifically trained in treating social anxiety, so they know how to guide you through your fears without pushing you too hard, too fast.

Group sessions are kept small for a reason—so you’re not just another face in the room. You'll be surrounded by people who get what you're going through, without the judgment or pressure you might expect from social situations. Over time, this kind of supportive setting helps you practice social interaction in a way that feels manageable, not terrifying.

That’s the kind of transformation we aim for—real, lasting change. Whether it’s being able to speak up in a meeting, go on a date, or reconnect with family without fear, we help you build the tools and confidence to fully engage with life again.

Because coping is a short-term solution. At The Forge, we’re focused on helping you heal—and that starts with believing in what you’re capable of becoming.

Taking the First Step: What to Expect When You Reach Out

We get it—reaching out for help can feel just as overwhelming as the anxiety itself. Picking up the phone or filling out a form might seem like a small step, but if you’re struggling with social anxiety, it can feel huge. That’s why we’ve made the first step at The Forge Recovery Center as simple, respectful, and pressure-free as possible.

When you call us, you won’t be met with scripts or judgment. You’ll talk to a real person who’s there to listen, not interrogate. Our intake calls are relaxed and confidential—we’ll ask a few questions about what you’re experiencing, what challenges you’re facing, and what kind of support you’re looking for. You’re free to share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with.

From there, we’ll walk you through what personalized care at The Forge could look like. No pressure. No commitment on the spot. Just clarity and support so you can decide what’s best for you.

If calling feels too intense, you can also start by filling out a quick contact form online—we’ll reach out in the way that works best for you.

You’ve already done the hardest part by thinking about getting help. The next step? Let us make it easier.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

April 15, 2025