Maggie Blackburn

Maggie Blackburn

(she/her)

LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual

I am a therapist who specializes in helping individuals manage and overcome social and relationship anxiety. Whether you struggle with social interactions, fear of judgment, or difficulty navigating relationships, I understand how challenging these experiences can be. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood while working through the barriers that hold you back from living more fully and authentically. In our work together, I focus on building a solid foundation of self-awareness and self-compassion. We'll explore the root causes of your anxiety and identify negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your stress in social situations. By gaining insight into how anxiety affects your thinking and behavior, we can work together to challenge these unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. I also teach practical tools and techniques to help you manage anxiety in the moment, such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and relaxation strategies.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps people with social and relationship anxiety, to learn how to be confident and explore social and romantic relationships. We work together on how to “just get out there” like people around them have been telling them to do. In therapy my clients are able to experience a therapeutic relationship with me that makes them feel safe to discuss their challenges within relationships. Together we use the therapeutic relationship to explore your emotions, thoughts, and situations that come up in your life that have you replaying past scenarios, second-guessing, or avoiding. Typically clients see me weekly in order to discuss how current life challenges relate to their therapeutic goals. I use the clients feedback as a way to identify what types of modalities, coping skills and techniques will work best for them.I include mindfulness in a unique way (think actions/activities that make it possible to be more present and not only meditation/breathing) in order to make these skills feel more accessible for my clients. With therapy you can feel like the impossible is possible and that you are not alone in the feelings you are experiencing.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly seen and heard. I deeply understand the impact that social and relationship anxiety can have, so I approach each person with empathy and patience, allowing them to share at their own pace without fear of judgment. This allows us to explore the root causes of their anxiety in a way that feels safe and supportive. Another strength is my ability to help clients gain insight into the patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to their anxiety, and then guide them in challenging those patterns with practical, evidence-based strategies. I specialize in helping individuals shift their mindset from self-doubt to self-confidence, while also teaching them how to engage with others in a way that feels authentic and empowering. I also incorporate a personalized, holistic approach into my work, recognizing that each client is unique. I combine mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral tools, and relationship-building strategies to offer a comprehensive framework for overcoming social and relational struggles. This flexibility ensures that our work together remains dynamic and responsive to each client’s evolving needs. Finally, I am passionate about empowering my clients to move beyond fear and discomfort, guiding them to create more fulfilling relationships, both with themselves and with others. I feel privileged to support them in finding their voice and cultivating the skills needed to navigate the world with greater ease, confidence, and connection.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

You have noticed for a while that when you are around other people you take things personally, you don’t feel confident, you second guess yourself or find yourself replaying different situations you’ve been in over and over again. You aren’t “anti-social”, in fact you really want to BE social, but every time an opportunity comes up for you to do something you either need someone else to go with you or you talk yourself out of going. It has been a long time since you have been on a date or had what felt like a healthy relationship. You are starting to think that you will never find someone. When you think about getting on dating apps or going out on dates the second guessing, overthinking and self-criticism begin. For some time you have thought that everyone feels this way or that this is just who you are. People around you tell you to “get yourself out there or you won’t make friends” or “the right person will come along at the right time” but as time goes on you are thinking that there is no way to get out there or the right time won’t ever come. You have decided that it is time to find someone to talk to who might understand what you are going through.

About Maggie Blackburn

Identifies as

Specializes in

AnxietyChild or AdolescentCouples CounselingDepressionSelf Esteem

Accepts cash

$150/session

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Brainspotting

In my practice, I use Brainspotting as a way to help clients access and process deep-seated trauma, anxiety, or other emotional issues. It's especially useful when words alone aren't enough to reach the underlying emotions. The technique can be gentle but effective, often bringing about significant shifts in emotional and physical well-being by allowing the body and brain to naturally heal themselves. Each session is personalized to the individual’s needs, ensuring that the experience is both safe and empowering.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

In my practice, I use CBT as a structured, solution-focused approach to help you break free from harmful cycles of thinking and behaving. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges, CBT equips you with the skills to better manage your thoughts and emotions. It’s a hands-on, proactive method that empowers you to take control of your mental health by teaching you how to change the way you think and behave in everyday situations. Each session is tailored to your specific goals, making the process personal and effective.

Couples Counseling

In my practice, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on the needs of the couple. This may include communication skills training, conflict resolution strategies, and exercises designed to improve emotional connection and empathy. I also help couples explore the underlying emotional needs driving their behaviors, guiding them toward healthier ways of relating to each other. The goal is to foster a supportive, collaborative atmosphere where both partners feel empowered to work together, rebuild trust, and deepen their bond. The process is customized to address each couple's unique dynamics and relationship goals.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

In my practice, I use DBT to help individuals who struggle with emotional regulation, self-harm, relationship difficulties, or conditions like borderline personality disorder. DBT is particularly effective when clients need to balance accepting their emotions with changing harmful behaviors. I work with clients to build emotional resilience and mindfulness, so they can respond to difficult situations in a healthier, more controlled way. The approach is warm and validating, yet focused on making real, tangible changes in behavior. Through DBT, I help clients improve their emotional stability, enhance their relationships, and increase their overall quality of life.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

In my practice, I integrate mindfulness-based approaches to help clients become more aware of their emotional and physical experiences, especially when dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress. Mindfulness helps clients develop a non-judgmental awareness of their thoughts, which reduces the power of negative thinking patterns and promotes emotional regulation. Whether through guided meditations or mindfulness exercises, I work with clients to bring them into the present moment, fostering acceptance of their current emotional state while also empowering them to make positive changes. The goal is to cultivate a sense of calm and clarity, enabling clients to respond to challenges more skillfully and with greater peace of mind.