Therapy Issues

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Are you struggling with the effects of avoidant personality disorder?

Right now, as a result of avoidant personality disorder, you may be experiencing:

 

  • Intense fear of criticism, disapproval, or rejection that leads you to avoid social situations
  • Reluctance to get involved with people unless you’re certain they’ll like you
  • Restraint in intimate relationships due to fear of being shamed or ridiculed
  • Preoccupation with being criticized or rejected in social situations
  • Feelings of inadequacy and inferiority that persist regardless of your actual accomplishments
  • Self-censoring in groups for fear that what you say might be “wrong” or embarrassing
  • Avoidance of work or social activities that involve significant interpersonal contact

Your avoidant personality disorder may be getting in the way of your life in these ways:

  • Your career advancement is limited by avoiding opportunities that involve evaluation or visibility
  • Your social circle has become increasingly restricted as you avoid potential rejection
  • Your personal growth is stunted by unwillingness to try new experiences where you might fail
  • Your daily life is constrained by elaborate strategies to avoid potential criticism or embarrassment
  • Your self-concept has become defined by fear and avoidance rather than by your values and aspirations

You’re wondering…

  • Will I always feel this vulnerable to others’ opinions and potential rejection?
  • How can I develop more confidence in social situations when my fear feels so overwhelming?
  • Is it possible to have meaningful relationships without constant anxiety about being judged?
  • What’s the difference between being introverted and having avoidant personality disorder?
  • How can I break the cycle of avoidance that keeps me safe but increasingly isolated?

You’re longing for…

  • The ability to engage socially without overwhelming anxiety about others’ judgments.
  • Confidence in your own worth that doesn’t depend on constant external validation.
  • Freedom to express yourself authentically without excessive self-monitoring and censoring.
  • Meaningful connections with others that feel secure rather than fraught with danger.
  • A life expanded by new experiences rather than constricted by fear of failure or embarrassment.

How we can help you.

At Evergreen Counseling, we understand that avoidant personality disorder develops from a complex interplay of temperament and early experiences that taught you that rejection is devastating and must be avoided at all costs. Our therapists create a safe, accepting relationship where you can gradually explore and challenge your fears of criticism and rejection.

What you’re longing for is possible.

By pursuing trauma therapy for avoidant personality disorder, you can imagine the following:

Before Therapy After Therapy

You restrict your life significantly to avoid potential criticism or rejection from others.

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You engage in social situations with manageable anxiety, focusing more on connection than on potential rejection.

Your self-worth feels contingent on others' approval, leaving you constantly vulnerable to perceived judgment.

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You recognize your intrinsic worth beyond others' opinions or judgments of you.

You experience intense anxiety in social situations, focusing on potential negative evaluation rather than connection.

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You express yourself more authentically, accepting that not everyone will approve but that doesn't diminish your value.

You avoid expressing opinions or showing your authentic self for fear of disapproval or ridicule.

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You take reasonable social and professional risks that expand your life rather than letting fear constrain your choices.

Your fear of embarrassment prevents you from trying new activities or pursuing meaningful goals.

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You maintain a more balanced perspective when facing criticism, neither dismissing it entirely nor seeing it as devastating.

What if I’m Not Ready?

Not Quite Ready to Book a Complimentary Concierge Matching Call? That’s Okay.

We understand that taking the first step towards therapy can feel overwhelming. We’re here to make this decision easier for you.

Starting therapy can bring up mixed feelings—part of you might be eager, while another part hesitates to confront deeply buried emotions. You might doubt whether therapy can help, especially if you’ve struggled for a long time or had disappointing experiences with untrained therapists or life coaches. At Evergreen Counseling, our trauma-trained therapists are deeply committed to providing expert care.

Here’s How We Can Help You Move Forward

  • Complimentary Concierge Matching Call: Our concierge matching call is an opportunity for you to ask questions, share your concerns, and see if our approach feels right for you—without any obligation.
  • Reimbursement Options: Concerned about the cost? We can guide you on how to get reimbursed for therapy using your out-of-network insurance benefits, making high-quality care more accessible to you.
  • Informed Decision: Whether you’re ready to start or still exploring your options, we want you to feel fully informed and confident in your choice.

Schedule Your Complimentary Concierge Matching Call

Schedule Now

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