Too Anxious to Speak Up, Too Lonely to Stay Silent: IOP for Social Anxiety Recovery in Austin, TX
You spend hours replaying conversations in your mind — worrying you said the wrong thing, sounded strange, or came across as awkward. There’s a fear that people could tell you were embarrassed or nervous, or that you might have unintentionally offended someone.
Thoughts spiral as you imagine how others might be silently judging you. It’s easy to slip into overanalyzing every interaction, questioning whether your words or actions made you look foolish, selfish, or “less than.”
You long to connect with others, to be seen and heard, yet the idea of speaking up, joining a group, or being the center of attention feels terrifying. Even simple moments — introducing yourself to a colleague, making small talk, or sharing an opinion — can feel like performing under a microscope, as if every word or gesture is being evaluated.
If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Social anxiety can feel like living in two worlds at once: one where you crave connection, belonging, and closeness, and another where connection feels impossible, a source of intense anxiety and self-doubt. That push and pull can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated, and exhausted by the constant mental rehearsal and worry. This is where an IOP for social anxiety can be helpful.
The Struggle of Living with Social Anxiety
Social anxiety, also called social anxiety disorder (SAD), is more than shyness. It’s a strong fear or worry about social situations where you might be judged, watched, or evaluated. That fear can be so intense that you may avoid social events, stay quiet in conversations, or push yourself through interactions while feeling completely on edge. Over time, it can affect work, school, friendships, and everyday life.
If you are living with social anxiety, you might notice yourself:
Dreading social or performance situations, sometimes feeling guilty or ashamed for avoiding them.
Overthinking what you said, how you acted, or what others might have noticed about you.
Worrying that people could see your nervousness, awkwardness, or embarrassment.
Replaying conversations over and over, checking for mistakes.
Comparing yourself to others and feeling “less than”.
Blushing, feeling shaky, having shortness of breath or a trembling voice, experiencing muscle tension, or a rapid heartbeat.
Over time, avoiding social situations can shrink your world and make isolation a constant companion. It’s important to know: social anxiety is not a personal flaw. It’s your brain trying to protect you from a situation it perceives as risky. And the good news is that with evidence-based treatment like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and exposure therapy, these patterns can be reshaped, helping you feel more confident, connected, and in control.
You’re Not Alone, And Help for Social Anxiety Is Available
At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we understand how exhausting the push and pull of social anxiety can be.
Our Social Anxiety Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Austin, TX, is designed for people who struggle with social anxiety, including clients with performance-related fears like delivering presentations or speeches. Our IOP offers a structured, supportive environment where you can gradually face your fears, build confidence, and practice connecting with others while still managing daily responsibilities such as work or family responsibilities.
Through a combination of evidence-based therapy approaches like CBT, ACT, and Exposure Therapy, our IOP equips you with tools to navigate social situations without being overwhelmed, tolerate discomfort without avoidance, and rediscover meaningful connections.
Many clients find that the therapy doesn’t just reduce anxiety, it restores hope: the hope that you can speak up without fear controlling you, form relationships without overthinking every word, and live fully even when anxiety is present.
What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Social Anxiety?
An IOP for social anxiety provides more support than weekly therapy without requiring hospitalization or full-day attendance. You attend multiple sessions per week in a safe, structured setting, making tangible progress while continuing your normal routine.
Our IOP is ideal for people who:
Have tried weekly therapy for social anxiety and feel stuck, or for those who want to make faster progress than weekly sessions typically allow.
Avoid social, academic, or professional opportunities due to fear.
Experience intense self-consciousness or worry about judgment.
Want to rebuild confidence and an authentic connection.
Inside Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists’ Social Anxiety IOP
Our IOP blends evidence-based treatment with warmth and compassion. Every part of the program is designed to foster skill-building, increased confidence, and real-world application.
Program Features
Comprehensive Assessment: Your journey begins with an in-depth assessment where our therapists and psychologists get to know you, your experiences, patterns of anxiety, values, and goals. This allows us to create a plan that truly fits your needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Individual Therapy: Every client in our IOP works one-on-one with 1-2 therapists throughout the program. This focused format means you won’t spend hours in large groups learning about topics that don’t apply to you. Instead, every session is dedicated to understanding your personal experience and helping you make meaningful progress.
Exposure and Values-Based Therapy: We integrate principles from CBT, exposure therapy, and ACT. You’ll learn how to approach feared situations in a gradual, supported way, guided by what matters most to you. Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety altogether, you’ll practice living more fully and authentically, even when discomfort shows up.
Skills Training: You’ll gain practical tools drawn from CBT, mindfulness, and self-compassion to manage anxious thoughts and sensations more effectively. These skills help you respond to anxiety with flexibility instead of avoidance.
Real-Life Practice: Growth happens outside the therapy room, too. Between sessions, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in real-world situations, starting small, authentically celebrating progress, and building confidence with each step.
A Typical Day in the IOP for Social Anxiety
Each day in the Social Anxiety Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is thoughtfully structured to balance learning, practice, and reflection. A typical day may include:
Check-In: Begin by sharing recent wins, challenges, and insights. This collaborative time helps track progress, strengthen accountability, and build momentum for change.
Skills Training: Learn and apply evidence-based techniques drawn from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. These tools are designed to help you navigate anxious thoughts, physical sensations, and self-criticism more effectively.
Exposure Practice: Engage in experiential learning through guided exposure exercises, either using our innovative virtual reality technology or through real-world practice in settings that matter most to you (such as stores, restaurants, professional environments, or social settings). Each step is personalized and supported by your therapist.
Reflection and Goal Setting: End the day by reflecting on progress, identifying challenges, and setting values-based goals for continued growth between sessions.
Overcoming Social Anxiety Is Possible
Overcoming social anxiety doesn’t mean being the most outgoing person in the room. It means showing up as yourself, even when anxiety is present.
Meaningful Progress
Progress in social anxiety recovery isn’t about becoming fearless. It’s about learning to show up for what truly matters, even when anxiety is present. For many, that means:
Speaking up with confidence - whether you’re sharing an idea in a meeting, giving a presentation, or advocating for yourself at work.
Pursuing new opportunities - saying yes to a promotion, networking event, or professional challenge without letting fear make the decision for you.
Enjoying social events - connecting more naturally, staying present in conversations, and letting go of the urge to replay every interaction afterward.
Expressing your needs - asking for clarification, support, or space, even when your heart is racing or your voice shakes.
Building genuine relationships - creating friendships, partnerships, and professional connections that feel balanced, authentic, and fulfilling.
Living in alignment with your values - participating in the relationships, goals, and experiences that give your life meaning, instead of letting anxiety call the shots.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re tired of feeling too anxious to speak up yet too lonely to stay silent, the Social Anxiety IOP at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists can help.
You’ve worked hard to manage anxiety on your own. Now it’s time to get the support that helps you move from just coping to truly living. At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we’ll help you build confidence, connection, and a life guided by what matters most, not by fear.
Find Structured Support with Our IOP for Social Anxiety in Austin, TX
When social anxiety makes every interaction feel overwhelming, it’s easy to retreat and feel alone. But healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation. At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, our IOP for social anxiety in Austin, TX, offers a supportive, structured path toward confidence and connection. Designed for teens and adults, this intensive outpatient program blends evidence-based treatment with compassionate guidance—helping you face fears, practice new skills, and rediscover your voice in a safe, understanding environment.
Here’s how to get started:
Reach out today by calling 512-246-7225 or emailing hello@austinanxiety.com to schedule your free consultation.
Learn more about our IOP for social anxiety in Austin, TX, and how we tailor care to meet your unique needs and comfort level.
Take your first step toward change with a team that will walk beside you, offering encouragement and expertise every step of the way.
Your story doesn’t have to be defined by fear or isolation. Connection and confidence are possible, and our team is here to help you begin.
Mental Health Services We Offer at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists in Austin, TX
At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we understand that anxiety, OCD, and related challenges show up differently for everyone. That’s why our care extends beyond our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)—offering flexible treatment options designed to meet children, teens, and adults wherever they are in their recovery. Our clinicians support individuals navigating OCD, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, PTSD, generalized anxiety, selective mutism, emetophobia, separation anxiety, depression, tics, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
In addition to individual therapy, we provide specialized services such as parent coaching, SPACE treatment, group therapy, and psychological assessments. Clients across Texas can also access care through our secure online therapy, offering the same high-quality support from the comfort of home.
We’re also proud to host Camp Courage—a hands-on, therapeutic program that helps kids and teens gradually face fears, strengthen coping skills, and build confidence in a nurturing environment.
Whether you’re seeking early intervention, structured support, or ongoing guidance, our approach remains evidence-based, collaborative, and compassionate. Each member of our team is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, judgment-free space where true healing and growth can begin.
Meet the Caring Team Guiding Your IOP Journey
At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is led by a warm, dedicated team of clinicians who are deeply committed to helping clients experience lasting progress. We provide evidence-based, individualized care for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, and related challenges—always tailored to each person’s goals, values, and life stage.
Dr. Samantha Myhre, PhD – Assistant Clinical Director & IOP Coordinator
Dr. Myhre offers extensive experience in treating anxiety and OCD through evidence-based practices. Her clinical interests include mindfulness, depression, and self-worth. Working with clients ages six and older, she creates a collaborative, empowering space that fosters confidence, emotional insight, and meaningful growth.
Ann Elise focuses on adult therapy and holds advanced certification in perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International. With expertise in anxiety, OCD, trauma, and postpartum transitions, she integrates CBT, ACT, ERP, and EMDR to help clients restore balance, resilience, and self-compassion.
Ayla specializes in supporting children, teens, and families managing OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. Using CBT, ERP, and PCIT, she takes a strengths-based, family-centered approach that helps young clients face fears, regulate emotions, and apply coping strategies in everyday life.
Dr. Youssef primarily works with adolescents and young adults facing OCD, anxiety, and depression. Recognized for her empathic and culturally responsive approach, she tailors evidence-based treatment to each client’s lived experience—creating a safe, affirming space for genuine healing and change.
No matter your age or background, our IOP team offers research-driven, compassionate care designed to meet you where you are. Together, we’ll walk the path toward confidence, resilience, and a more grounded sense of well-being.