Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by intense fear of social or performance situations. Individuals with this condition often worry about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected, even in everyday interactions. At his Boston-based practice, Dr. Joe Gallego offers personalized, evidence-based treatment to help patients feel more confident and connected.
Dr. Joe Gallego is a board-certified psychiatrist who works with adolescents and adults struggling with social anxiety and other anxiety spectrum disorders. His clinical style is collaborative, trauma-informed, and affirming. Whether your anxiety shows up in the classroom, workplace, or relationships, Dr. Gallego creates a safe space to explore and overcome it.
Social anxiety can interfere with academic performance, career advancement, friendships, and even basic errands like making a phone call or asking a question in public. Many individuals suffer in silence, believing their fear is a personal flaw rather than a treatable condition.
Dr. Gallego begins treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation that explores the onset, triggers, and impact of social anxiety symptoms. For teens, this includes collaboration with parents to understand school and social dynamics, while maintaining the adolescent’s autonomy and voice in treatment planning.
Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique symptoms, strengths, and goals. Plans may include psychotherapy, medication management, or a combination of both. The focus is on reducing anxiety symptoms while supporting meaningful engagement in life activities.
Dr. Gallego uses evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients reframe negative thinking, reduce avoidance, and build social confidence. He also incorporates mindfulness strategies and skills-based techniques to support emotion regulation and self-trust.
When appropriate, medications like SSRIs or beta blockers may be prescribed to reduce the physiological symptoms of social anxiety. Dr. Gallego prescribes thoughtfully, ensuring that patients understand their options and feel empowered in every aspect of their care.
Adolescence is a common time for social anxiety to emerge. Teens may struggle with school presentations, peer interactions, or extracurricular involvement. Dr. Gallego provides age-appropriate care that fosters self-expression and emotional safety while addressing the unique developmental needs of adolescents.
Social anxiety may be compounded by cultural expectations, past trauma, or identity-based stress. Dr. Gallego offers inclusive, affirming care for patients from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and neurodivergent patients.
Social anxiety often leads to patterns of avoidance that reinforce fear. Through therapy, patients learn to face feared situations gradually and develop coping strategies that support long-term confidence. Treatment emphasizes progress over perfection and honors each patient’s pace.
Dr. Gallego offers in-person appointments in Boston for individuals who benefit from face-to-face care. Many patients find that relational therapy in a consistent, grounded space supports healing and behavioral change. Contact the office for current availability and scheduling.
If social anxiety is interfering with your life, help is available. Dr. Joe Gallego offers compassionate, expert psychiatric care in Boston tailored to your needs. Reach out today to begin your journey toward freedom and connection.
