Anxiety & excess unrealistic worries that become repetitive, just too big and unmanageable, can feel out of control and result in overwhelming stress for children, adolescents & adults. In children especially, usually less aware, anxiety can often be observed as physical complaints, stomach aches, headaches, skin rashes, stress tics, along with fears of being away from parents, extra trips to the school nurse or even school refusal. Childhood Anxiety can be debilitating and if unaddressed can greatly impact adolescence & adulthood, often leading to Depression, especially when one thinks there is nothing they can do about their anxiety (a sense of learned helplessness).
Helping to alleviate Anxiety is one of my areas of strength in my psychology practice and one where I've seen much (relatively quick) success in my clients. Children in particular are often amazing sponges for helpful information. Time and again I have noticed that from the first session, once I explain how anxiety works, including its tricks, and teach tools children can easily use to stand up to and reduce Anxiety, they feel better. Because I am coping skills based and results-oriented, I find that children especially experience relatively quick relief from the out-of-control feeling of anxiety, and hopefulness that they can gain control over their worries. I have seen results, even surprising myself, in as little as 1-5 sessions, depending on severity and a child's ability, willingness, to apply and practice the tools provided.