Integrated treatment of social phobia

The importance of recognizing and properly treating social phobia is emphasized by its surprising prevalence and the accompanying marked disability. The author describes how substantial treatment gains can be provided with both psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches. For those who are significantly affected, a combination approach may be most useful. Appropriate treatment also requires appreciation of comorbid disorders. The author concludes that overall outcome can be enhanced by giving special attention to the dynamic aspects of the therapeutic relationship, as well as by being aware of possible changes in patients' relationships with others as treatment progresses.