Brief Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is characterised by an intense fear about negative appraisal in social situations and is globally impairing for many individuals. The disorder is maintained by unique and deeply interconnected mechanisms, yet responds well to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) programs specifically designed to address these mechanisms. In efforts to increase treatment access, participant retention, and speed of remission, intensive treatment programs have been investigated. This chapter reviews these programs and includes a case study of the only intensive treatment protocol for adolescents to date. In doing so, aspects of treatment that seem to work well, and not so well, are discussed. There is considerable variability amongst intensive programs in program content and delivery, and the literature is limited by a lack of studies in youth and randomised-controlled trials. Though some of the potential benefits mentioned above are not supported by evidence, other encouraging findings do emerge; intensive programs seem to be as effective as standard delivery formats in alleviating symptoms, intensive programs are appealing to busy families and may increase access, and they offer unique advantages regarding key treatment processes (habituation) and components (exposure). Recommendations are made for practitioners and researchers regarding treatment and areas of future investigation.