Guest blog: Can Remote Therapy Be Effective For Social Anxiety?
On first thought, it often seems that remote therapy wouldn’t be appropriate for an anxiety that is based on interpersonal relations. However, research and clinical experience are showing us something fascinating: remote therapy isn't just a convenient alternative – it's proving to be equally effective, and in some ways, for social anxiety, even advantageous.
Why Remote Therapy Works So Well for Social Anxiety
Comfort
When you're dealing with social anxiety, the act of traveling to a therapist's office and sitting in a waiting room can trigger anxiety symptoms, understandably. Remote therapy eliminates these additional stressors, allowing you to focus purely on the therapeutic work from an environment where you feel most secure. It also allows you to start at a place that feels comfortable for you, whether that's starting with cameras off or on. You can gradually buildup to where you feel comfortable.
The Relationship
The therapeutic relationship remains just as strong remotely. Research has shown that the therapeutic alliance – that relationship between therapist and client – develops just as effectively online as it does in person. Video sessions still allow for eye contact, facial expressions, and real-time responses, maintaining that human connection that's vital for therapy.
Accessibility
Remote therapy breaks down geographical barriers, making treatment available to anyone. This is particularly helpful for people with mobility challenges, childcare responsibilities, work responsibilities, or individuals who previously couldn't find the therapist they need in their local area.
Cost saving
Without commute time and travel expenses, costs are reduced. Parents can attend sessions while the kids nap and professionals can fit sessions around work commitments, for example in their lunch break.
Consistency
Weather, sudden pandemics (lets hope not!), the last minute urgent delivery, or other things that normally impact in person therapy are suddenly no longer obstacles. This consistency in treatment can be crucial for maintaining momentum in therapy and is in line with the evidence base of weekly sessions.
Making the Most of Remote Therapy
To maximise your remote therapy experience:
Create a private, comfortable space for your sessions
Ensure good internet connection and proper lighting
Maybe turn your reverse review off, so that you’re not focused on your own picture on the screen but rather focusing on the therapist just like in-person therapy
Use headphones for better audio quality and privacy
Keep pen/paper nearby for notes and between-session work
The Bottom Line
Remote therapy is no longer a pandemic era compromise – it's a legitimate, research-baked, effective option for treating social anxiety.
However, the key is finding a therapist who specialises is skilled in delivering remote therapy!
About the Author:
Sophia Spencer is as specialist social anxiety and mental health therapist. She examines how social dynamics and psychological patterns shape our relationships, and often lead to depression and/or anxiety. Through her advanced training in CBT and Psychological Sciences (MSc), she helps clients understand both individual and societal influences on their social fears and relationship challenges.. Her approach combines evidence-based CBT techniques with insights from social psychology to help clients build authentic connections - whether in dating, family relationships, friendships, or professional settings.
Sophia Spencer
References:
Warnock-Parkes E, Wild J, Thew GR, Kerr A, Grey N, Stott R, Ehlers A, Clark DM. Treating social anxiety disorder remotely with cognitive therapy. Cogn Behav Therap. 2020 Jul 16;13:e30. doi: 10.1017/S1754470X2000032X. PMID: 34191940; PMCID: PMC7411446.
