Therapy for Performance Anxiety in Washington, DC

There it is again.

The racing thoughts. The inner critic that won't quiet down. The knot in your stomach before a big meeting, presentation, date, or event.

You want to do well—but the pressure feels paralyzing. And no matter how much you prepare, self-doubt creeps in and takes over.

Your body reacts too. You might notice your heart pounding, your mouth going dry, your hands shaking. Even when you’ve succeeded before, something inside still says, “What if I fail this time?”

Performance anxiety can be overwhelming. But with support, you can understand what’s beneath it and learn to show up as your full, capable self.

Feel Confident + Show Up Fully

I’m Dr. Wayne Bullock, a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience providing anxiety therapy in Washington, D.C., and in nearby areas. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Performance anxiety can affect anyone. But it often runs deeper than just nerves. Whether it's perfectionism, fear of judgement, past experiences, or deep emotional patterns, we'll explore what's fueling your anxiety and work toward finding new ways to feel empowered and present.

What Is Performance Anxiety?

Performance anxiety is an intense fear or stress response related to being evaluated or observed, whether in a professional, academic, sexual, or social situation.

This anxiety isn't just about doing poorly. It's often about the fear of not being enough, of being exposed, of letting others down, or failing when it matters most.

Performance anxiety may show up in situations like:

Public speaking, meetings, or job interviews
Creative or artistic performances
Athletic competitions or physical challenges
Academic tests or presentations
Dating or social events
Sexual intimacy or new relationships

Common Signs of Performance Anxiety

You might be experiencing:

Racing thoughts or difficult concentrating
Overthinking or mentally rehersing worst-case scenarios
Physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, nausea, or dry mouth
Difficulty sleeping before a performance
Avoidance of opportunities you care about
Low confidence or imposter syndrome
Feelings of shame, embarrassment, or inadequacy

Whether this is new or something you've struggled with for years, anxiety therapy can help you address the root causes and change how you respond.

How Therapy Helps With Performance Anxiety

Therapy for performance anxiety gives you a safe and steady space to explore where your anxiety comes from and learn to loosen its grip.

Explore

We'll begin by understanding what siutations tend to trigger your anxiety, and how you typically respond. We'll examine any unconscious beliefs or patterns that may be keeping you stuck—whether they’re rooted in past trauma, identity-based stress, or relational dynamics.

Reframe

As we explore your experience, you'll learn how to shift the narratives that hold you back. Together, we'll challenge perfectionism, reframe your fears, and help you reconnect to a more authentic, grounded sense of self.

Regulate

You'll also learn practical strategies to manage the physical and emotional symptoms of performance anxiety. From mindfulness techniques to self-soothing tools, we'll build a toolkit that supports you before, during, and after performance situations.

This work isn't about "erasing" anxiety. It's about deepening your understanding of self and learning to feel more at ease in your own skin.

Therapist for Performance Anxiety in Washington DC

I provide in-person therapy for adults in Washington, DC, and surrounding areas—including Arlington, Alexandria, Bethesda, and the DC Metro region.

I specialize in trauma-informed and psychoanalytic therapy, combining interpersonal and relational approaches. My style is warm and collaborative, but I'll also encourage you to dig deeper and challenge old patterns because that's where real change happens.

I offer affirming care for clients of all identities and backgrounds, with deep experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, including gay men navigating anxiety related to intimacy, dating, career, or social roles.

Getting Started Is Simple

We'll begin with a free 15-minute consultation to answer any questions you might have. If you decide to more forward, we'll schedule 45-minute weekly sessions where we'll start working on your goals. The path to change can feel uncertain, but you don't have to walk it alone.