Navigating childhood anxiety can be complex. At Positive Development Psychology (PDP), our goal is to support families in Westchester by providing clear and effective strategies to help your child or teen build confidence and manage their anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety
Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action
Anxiety is not just about feeling nervous. It is a persistent worry that is out of proportion to the situation and affects your child’s daily life. Recognizing the signs early is crucial. We are here to help you identify those signs and understand what they mean for your child.
Children and adolescents with anxiety may present with:
- Excessive worry about everyday activities or events
- Avoidance of social situations, school, or other settings that cause them distress
- Trouble sleeping
- Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches with no clear cause
- Irritability, mood changes or disruptive behaviors that seem out of character
- Difficulty concentrating or seeming “on edge”
- Changes in academic performance
- Reassurance-seeking behavior
Building a Foundation for Growth
Once we have assessed your child, we can start building a foundation for growth. This involves creating a safe space for your child or teen to express their worries and fears. While acknowledging that their feelings are valid, we also teach your child that, although anxiety can sometimes feel all-consuming, there is a way through it. Children and adolescents are provided with a variety of tools that give them the confidence to cope with their anxiety.
Our Approach: A Different Strategy for Each Child
Personalized Therapy Plans
Every child is unique, and so is their experience with anxiety. That is why our treatment plans are personalized. We use a variety of techniques, including cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness strategies- all of which are made to fit your child’s specific needs.
Ongoing Support and Adaptation
In addition to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for children and teens, we also offer SPACE, which is a parent-based intervention to address child and adolescent anxiety. Regardless of the approach used, our support does not end when the session does. We provide ongoing strategies for children and parents to use at home and can consult with your child’s school, as appropriate.
The Benefits of Real Connection
Collaborative Treatment
At PDP, we work together with you and your child to tackle anxiety head-on. We celebrate progress, no matter how small, and view challenges as opportunities for learning. This collaborative approach helps your child to not only feel heard, but to actively participate in the therapeutic process. A strong therapeutic relationship contributes to better outcomes in therapy. This connection is the cornerstone of effective therapy, providing a reliable source of support for your child.
Take the First Step Towards Managing Anxiety
Join the PDP Family
If you are ready to take the first step towards helping your child or adolescent cope with anxiety, we are here to guide you. Join the PDP family and gain access to the support, strategies, and connection that make a real difference.
Reach out to us today to start on the path to a brighter, more confident future for your child.