Anxiety in Children & Teens
When Worry Takes Over:
Anxiety in kids and teens can show up as constant worry, reassurance-seeking, avoidance (school, social situations, bedtime), and physical symptoms like stomach aches. Often, “behaviour” is actually stress—meltdowns, irritability, or shutdowns can be signs your child feels overwhelmed.
COMMON SIGNS
Frequent worry, “what if” questions, reassurance-seeking
Avoidance (school, sleep/bedtime, separation, social events)
Physical symptoms (tummy aches, headaches, nausea)
Perfectionism, panic-y feelings, intense self-criticism
Irritability, shutdowns, meltdowns when stressed
Nervousness or worries when separated from care givers
Overwhelm and fear of judgements in social situations and difficulties making
New friends
How Therapy Can Help:
We use CBT-based strategies to help children and teens understand the link between thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and behaviours. Together we build coping tools, reduce avoidance, and practice skills so progress carries into everyday life.
THERAPY MAY INCLUDE:
Worry education and “worry brain” strategies
Calming skills (breathing, grounding, body regulation)
Flexible thinking and confidence-building
Gradual exposure / brave practice (step-by-step)
Plans for home, school, and bedtime routines
Education around anxiety curve and evaluation of parental accommodations keeping anxiety elevated
Parent’s Role in Therapy:
Parents are often included for part of sessions to learn supportive responses that reduce reassurance cycles and build brave behaviour—without escalating conflict.
Anxiety FAQ
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Worry is part of development, but therapy can help when anxiety is frequent, intense, or getting in the way of sleep, school, friendships, or family life especially if your child is avoiding things or needing constant reassurance.
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CBT helps kids understand the worry cycle (thoughts–feelings–body–behaviours), learn coping skills, and gradually practice “brave steps” to reduce avoidance and build confidence.
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It depends on the concern and goals, but many families start noticing progress within the first several sessions when practice is consistent.