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Performance Anxiety Therapists

Performance anxiety can hold you back from showing your true abilities. Connect with therapists on First Session who can help you perform with greater confidence.

Therapists

  • Photo of Jordan Wiener

    Jordan Wiener

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    • Virtual sessions in ON, BC, AB, MB, SK, YT, NT, NU, NL
  • Photo of Amanda Schneider

    Amanda Schneider

    Registered Psychotherapist

    • Virtual sessions in NU, NT, YT, NL, SK, MB, ON, BC
  • Photo of Erik Reuter

    Erik Reuter

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    • Virtual sessions in AB, BC, ON, MB
  • Photo of David Binger

    David Binger

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    • Virtual sessions in ON, AB, BC, SK, YT, NL
  • Photo of Candice Burnett

    Candice Burnett

    Registered Therapeutic Counsellor

    • Virtual sessions in BC, NT, YT, AB, SK, NL, MB, NU
  • Photo of Kate Newby

    Kate Newby

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    • Virtual sessions in AB, BC, MB, SK
  • Photo of Shannon Bradley

    Shannon Bradley

    Registered Psychotherapist

    • Offers in-person (Burk's Falls, ON)
    • Virtual sessions in ON
  • Photo of Jason Scriven

    Jason Scriven

    Registered Clinical Counsellor

    • Offers in-person (Victoria, BC)
    • Virtual sessions in YT, BC, AB
  • Photo of Dennis Keefe

    Dennis Keefe

    Registered Psychotherapist

    • Virtual sessions in ON
  • Photo of Andrea Montello

    Andrea Montello

    Psychologist

    • Offers in-person (Windsor, ON)
    • Virtual sessions in ON
  • Photo of Nicholas Balaisis

    Nicholas Balaisis

    Registered Psychotherapist

    • Offers in-person (Kitchener, ON)
    • Virtual sessions in ON, AB, BC, QC
  • Photo of Jason Colero

    Jason Colero

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    • Waitlist
    • Virtual sessions in NS, ON, BC

Performance anxiety—whether in sports, music, public speaking, work presentations, or exams—can make high-stakes moments feel overwhelming. Physical symptoms like racing heart, shaking, or blanking out can undermine your abilities and erode confidence over time. Therapy can help you understand what's driving the anxiety and develop strategies to perform more freely.

On First Session, you can browse therapists who specialize in performance anxiety. Watch their intro videos to get a sense of their approach, then book a session directly online. All therapists have had their credentials verified during onboarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is performance anxiety?

Performance anxiety is intense nervousness or fear that arises in situations where you're being evaluated or observed. It can affect athletes, musicians, students, public speakers, and professionals alike. Symptoms may include racing heart, sweating, trembling, difficulty concentrating, and fear of judgment or failure. While some nervousness is normal, performance anxiety becomes a problem when it interferes with your ability to perform.

Who might benefit from therapy for performance anxiety?

Anyone whose performance is affected by anxiety may benefit from therapy. This includes athletes struggling with competition nerves, musicians or performers with stage fright, students experiencing test anxiety, professionals who dread presentations, or anyone who avoids opportunities because of fear of performing. Therapy can help you reclaim confidence in high-pressure moments.

What's it like to work on performance anxiety in therapy?

Sessions often involve understanding the thoughts and physical sensations that fuel your anxiety, developing coping strategies, and gradually building confidence through practice. Some therapists use cognitive behavioural techniques to challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, while others may incorporate mindfulness, visualization, or exposure exercises. The approach is tailored to your specific situation.

How long does therapy for performance anxiety typically take?

Many people see meaningful improvement within several sessions of focused work. The timeline depends on the severity of your anxiety and how long you've been experiencing it. Your therapist can help you set realistic goals and adjust the approach as you progress.

How do I know if a therapist is right for me?

On First Session, you can watch therapist intro videos to get a sense of their style and expertise. Look for someone who seems understanding and experienced with anxiety in performance contexts. Many therapists offer free consultations to help you determine fit.

How do I book a session?

Browse therapists on First Session who work with performance anxiety. Watch their intro videos, review their profiles, and book directly online when you find someone who resonates. With the right support, you can learn to perform more freely and confidently.

You deserve more from therapy.

You made the courageous decision to reach your full potential. Find the right therapist to help get you there, and make the most of the time and money you’re investing in yourself.