Peer Relationships and Social Anxiety
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About Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Changes
Child Social Anxiety Therapy in Santa Monica & Los Angeles
Social anxiety and peer difficulties are among the most painful experiences of childhood. A child who is shy, socially anxious, or struggling to make or keep friends can find school a daily ordeal — and the impact on self-esteem, emotional development, and academic engagement can be significant.
Dr. Sally Hackman, PhD, MFT, has extensive experience helping children in Santa Monica and Los Angeles navigate peer relationships and overcome social anxiety — addressing both the emotional roots of the difficulty and the practical social skills that support healthy peer connection.
Key Points
Helping Your Child Connect.
Empowering Resilience
Build your child's social confidence from the inside out — addressing the anxiety, self-doubt, and avoidance that keep children from experiencing the friendships and belonging they need.
Healing Space
A warm, child-friendly space where your child can explore their social experiences honestly — and practice the confidence and skills they are building in therapy.
Transformative Support
Dr. Hackman integrates play therapy, cognitive approaches, and relational work to help children build genuine social confidence — while maintaining regular parent consultations to support the work at home and school.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
Your Child's Wellbeing Is Our Priority.
Social skills and the capacity for friendship are foundational to children’s development and lifelong wellbeing. Early support for social anxiety and peer difficulties can dramatically change a child’s experience of school and childhood.
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Years of Child Therapy Experience
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Serving Santa Monica Continuously
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Confidential — Always
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First Session Free If You Don't Return
FAQ
Common Questions
Shyness alone does not require therapy. But when shyness becomes social anxiety that is causing significant distress or limiting a child's ability to participate in school, friendships, or family life — then therapeutic support can make a meaningful difference
A combination of individual therapy for your child and parent consultation with Dr. Hackman can help you support your child emotionally, understand what is happening socially, and make informed decisions about when and how to involve the school.