This training course provides mental health professionals with a comprehensive approach to the assessment and diagnosis of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). Participants will learn to utilize evidence-based assessment tools and clinical interviews to accurately identify symptoms and severity, while exploring key differential diagnoses such as generalized anxiety, panic disorder, avoidant personality disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. The course will also address cultural and developmental considerations that may impact presentation and diagnosis. Participants will be introduced to effective treatment approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—with guidance on setting treatment goals, building rapport, and implementing targeted interventions to reduce avoidance, improve social functioning, and enhance self-confidence.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Identify and apply validated assessment tools and clinical criteria to accurately diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder, while considering differential diagnoses and comorbid conditions.
- Describe key cultural, developmental, and contextual factors that influence the assessment and presentation of social anxiety symptoms.
- Demonstrate the ability to develop individualized treatment plans incorporating evidence-based goals and interventions for clients with Social Anxiety Disorder.
Syllabus:
Objective 1: Identify and apply validated assessment tools and clinical criteria to accurately diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder, while considering differential diagnoses and comorbid conditions.
- Opening case example of SAD
- The trap of social anxiety
- DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and specifications
- Common stages of treatment
- Differential diagnosis quiz question
- Differential diagnosis lab exercise
- SAD screenings and assessments
- 10 assessment recommendations
- Functional analysis
- Case conceptualization
- Video demonstration
- ACT’s conceptualization of anxiety
Objective 2: Describe key cultural, developmental, and contextual factors that influence the assessment and presentation of social anxiety symptoms.
- Engaging clients in treatment using Motivational Interviewing
- Cultural contexts and influences table
- Group discussion of cultural, developmental, and contextual factors
Objective 3: Demonstrate the ability to develop individualized treatment plans incorporating evidence-based goals and interventions for clients with Social Anxiety Disorder.
- Detailed review of stages of treatment
- Mindful affirmations for anxiety
- Narrative therapy overview, application and key benefits
- Video feedback for SAD
- Diverse case examples
- Video demonstration
- Putting it all together: Fill in the blank group exercise
- Resource spotlight, handout and resources review
- Closing group reflection questions
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: May 30, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2025 - 08/6/2026. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com