I am also a designer. I left my job after I became such a nervous wreck after having to speak infront of of people. One time I was so so visibly nervous, it was making everyone uncomfortable. Sometimes I have been ok and surprised myself, but usually if i know I have a presentation I work myself up so much for the week before, I feel like I want to seriously to dead. I left my job to go freelance. You don't have to get involved in the whole going to lunch with people (one of my biggest phobias eating infront of people) and going to meetings, having bdays where everyone stands around your desk etc the list goes on, its better but I still get nervous.
I just want to get over this. I wouldn't wish this upon anyone, but glad Im not the only one. Sometimes feel like my head is going to explode. Its so hard to even begin to let other people know like friends.