Social Anxiety Treatment in Texas - DFW, Houston, Austin

What is the difference between social anxiety and introversion?

Introversion is a personality trait involving a preference for less social stimulation. Social anxiety disorder is a clinical condition involving fear and avoidance driven by anxiety about negative evaluation. Introverts may prefer quiet evenings at home; people with social anxiety want to socialize but are blocked by fear. They are not the same thing, and social anxiety is treatable.

How common is social anxiety disorder?

The ADAA estimates social anxiety disorder affects about 15 million American adults, making it one of the most common anxiety disorders. It typically begins around age 13 and can persist for decades without treatment.

What medications treat social anxiety?

SSRIs including sertraline and paroxetine are FDA-approved for social anxiety disorder. Venlafaxine (an SNRI) also has strong evidence. Beta-blockers like propranolol are used situationally for performance anxiety. NIMH provides detailed guidance on anxiety treatment options. Long-term benzodiazepine use is generally avoided.

Can social anxiety be treated via telehealth?

Yes. Interestingly, telehealth can be less anxiety-provoking for people with social anxiety because the visit occurs in a familiar environment (your home) rather than an unfamiliar office. Lyte Psychiatry offers same-week telehealth appointments across Texas and New Mexico.

Does CBT help social anxiety?

Yes. The APA identifies CBT as the most effective psychological treatment for social anxiety disorder, with response rates of 50-80%. The combination of CBT and medication produces better outcomes than either alone. Lyte Psychiatry manages medication and can refer patients to CBT-trained therapists.

Is social anxiety covered by insurance?

Yes. Social anxiety disorder treatment is covered by all major insurance plans under mental health parity laws. Lyte Psychiatry accepts BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Humana, Ambetter, and Magellan. Most patients pay $0-$30 per visit. See all insurance plans we accept →

Can social anxiety lead to alcohol use?

Research shows that about 20% of people with social anxiety disorder have a co-occurring alcohol use disorder. Alcohol temporarily reduces social anxiety, but tolerance develops quickly and the underlying anxiety worsens over time. We screen for alcohol use at every initial evaluation and address it when present.

How long does it take to recover from social anxiety?

With appropriate treatment, most people see meaningful symptom reduction within 8 to 12 weeks. Social anxiety is a chronic condition for many people and may require ongoing medication. However, the goal is not just reducing symptoms but building confidence and expanding what feels possible in daily life. Many patients describe their lives looking completely different two years into treatment.