Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful therapeutic approach originally developed for trauma but now proven effective for anxiety disorders, including social anxiety.

EMDR helps your brain reprocess negative memories and beliefs that fuel social anxiety, allowing you to develop healthier perspectives and responses to social situations.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR works directly with your brain's information processing system, targeting the root causes of your anxiety rather than just managing symptoms. This makes it particularly effective for social anxiety that hasn't responded well to other treatments.

Read more here.

Somatic therapy is a mind-body approach based on the understanding that traumatic experiences—including social traumas like public speaking mishaps or bullying—can become trapped in the body. Unlike traditional therapies that begin with the mind, somatic work starts with the body, helping you develop a safer relationship with physical sensations.

While still building its evidence base, somatic therapy shows promise, particularly for those experiencing strong physical symptoms during social situations. As a qualified yoga teacher, I've witnessed the effectiveness of body-based approaches and may incorporate somatic techniques alongside evidence-based therapies where appropriate.

Polyvagal theory explains how our nervous system—particularly the vagus nerve—influences our wellbeing and social interactions. It describes three interconnected states: fight or flight, shut down, and social engagement.

While not a therapy itself, this theory helps explain why those with social anxiety might struggle to feel socially connected. I incorporate these insights into my therapeutic approach to help you better understand your nervous system's responses.

Research shows ACT is effective for social anxiety and can be used either on its own or alongside CBT.

IFS (Internal Family Systems) views our minds as consisting of multiple sub-personalities or 'parts'. This approach helps understand internal conflicts—like when one part of you feels one way, while another part feels differently.

While building its evidence base, IFS focuses on creating harmony between these different aspects of ourselves. Though not a standardised protocol like some therapies, I may incorporate IFS concepts alongside evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, or CFT where beneficial.

Brainspotting is a newer brain-based therapy that evolved from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing). Originally developed to help athletes overcome performance blocks, it works by identifying specific eye positions ('brainspots') that help process difficult memories and reduce current symptoms.

While still building its evidence base, Brainspotting shows promise for addressing both social traumas (like bullying or public speaking difficulties) and performance-related challenges. Popular in the USA and growing in the UK, I may incorporate it alongside evidence-based therapies, particularly for clients facing high-stakes social situations.