Fear of Public Speaking
Counseling Support
Finding Your Voice Beyond Fear
Public speaking anxiety is one of the most common — and most limiting — forms of social fear. Whether it’s presenting at work, participating in class, or speaking in group settings, the intense worry about judgment or making mistakes can feel paralyzing. Physical symptoms like shaking, blushing, or a racing heart can make even simple interactions feel overwhelming. Over time, this fear can hold you back from personal and professional opportunities, creating frustration and self-doubt.
At Minisink Psychology, we offer compassionate, evidence-based counseling to help individuals understand and manage their fear of public speaking. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore the roots of this anxiety, practice new skills, and build the confidence to express yourself clearly and calmly — both in public settings and everyday life.
Recognizing When Public Speaking Anxiety Is Holding You Back
Fear of public speaking can show up in subtle or powerful ways, including:
- Avoiding meetings, interviews, or group discussions
- Overpreparing or worrying excessively before an event
- Physical symptoms like trembling, dry mouth, or a racing heart
- Losing focus or forgetting your words when speaking
- Harsh self-criticism after presentations or conversations
Becoming aware of these patterns is the first step toward change — and toward speaking with greater ease and authenticity.
How Therapy Helps You Speak with Confidence
Our therapists use proven, practical approaches designed to reduce anxiety and strengthen communication skills. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), gradual exposure, and mindfulness-based strategies, you’ll learn to calm your body, quiet your inner critic, and speak from a place of confidence and control.
Counseling may include:
Reframing Fearful Thoughts:
Challenge and replace negative beliefs about public speaking.
Gradual Exposure Practice:
Build tolerance and confidence through step-by-step experiences.
Relaxation and Mindfulness Techniques:
Manage physical anxiety responses during preparation and performance.
Effective Communication Training:
Strengthen organization, tone, and delivery for clearer, more confident speaking.
Therapy helps you transform fear into focus — allowing your authentic voice to shine.
Serving Clients Across Bergen County, NJ and Beyond
We work with adults, teens, and families — in person and online. Whether you live in Ridgewood, Hackensack, Teaneck, Paramus, or nearby, our practice is here to help you take that first step.
Who Can Benefit from This Support
Fear of public speaking therapy is ideal for anyone who feels held back by anxiety in professional, academic, or social situations. Whether you’re a student presenting in class, a professional speaking to colleagues, or someone who simply avoids being in the spotlight, counseling offers the tools to grow your confidence and presence.
Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific goals, pace, and comfort level.
Lasting Improvements in Anxiety, Depression, Moods, and Functioning
Work with your brain’s natural ability to heal and adapt
Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to form new connections, break old patterns, and adapt over time. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, constant worries, anger, or emotion dysregulation, neuroplasticity is the engine behind lasting change.
Regulate thoughts and emotions
Modify our thoughts to be more in line with reality
Rewire emotional responses to memories
At Minisink Psychology & Psychotherapy, we provide professional and empathic evidence-based psychotherapy to help you navigate life’s challenges and strengthen your inner resilience.
Meet Our Therapists
Suzannah Espinosa, PhD
