Anxiety Therapy for Children & Teens
Helping Your Child Navigate Anxiety with Confidence
As both a licensed therapist and mother of three San Francisco teenagers, I've witnessed firsthand how anxiety can impact a young person's daily life. Anxiety in children and teens often looks different than in adults – it might manifest as irritability, avoidance of activities, physical complaints, or school refusal. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a mother's understanding of what works in real family life.
Anxiety is one of the most common challenges facing young people today, but it's also one of the most treatable. Through personalized therapy, your child can develop valuable coping skills that will serve them throughout their lifetime. Together, we'll help your child understand their anxiety triggers, develop practical strategies to manage anxious thoughts and feelings, and build confidence in their ability to face challenges.
Ready to help your child overcome anxiety? Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how we can work together to support your child's emotional wellbeing.
Understanding Childhood & Teen Anxiety
Anxiety in young people can take many forms:
Generalized anxiety: Excessive worry about everyday matters
Social anxiety: Fear of social situations and judgement from peers
Separation anxiety: Distress when separated from parents or caregivers
Specific phobias: Intense fears of particular objects or situations
Performance anxiety: Pressure around academics, sports, or other activities
Health anxiety: Preoccupation with illness or bodily sensations
Children and teens with anxiety often experience physical symptoms like stomach aches, headaches, or sleep problems. They may struggle with peer relationships, academic performance, and family interactions. Without proper support, anxiety can lead to depression or affect self-esteem over time.
My Approach to Anxiety Therapy
My therapy approach for anxious children and teens combines several evidence-based methods:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helping young people identify anxious thought patterns and replace them with more realistic perspectives
Mindfulness techniques: Teaching present-moment awareness to interrupt anxious spiraling
Exposure therapy: Gradually facing fears in a supported environment
Family systems work: Involving parents in understanding how to support anxious children without reinforcing avoidance
Play and expressive therapies: Using creative approaches to help younger children express and process anxious feelings
My background as both a therapist and mother of three teenagers allows me to offer practical, real-world strategies that fit into your family's daily life. I understand the unique pressures San Francisco youth face, from academic competitiveness to social media influences.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Anxiety Therapy
Consider reaching out if your child displays:
Excessive worry that interferes with daily activities
Avoidance of social situations or school
Physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches) without medical cause
Sleep disturbances or sleep problems
Persistent fear of specific situations
Difficulty concentrating or irritability
Frequent reassurance-seeking
Supporting Your Child Through Anxiety
Parents play a crucial role in helping children manage anxiety. In our work together, I'll guide you in:
Recognizing anxiety triggers in your child's environment
Responding supportively to anxiety symptoms without reinforcing avoidance
Modeling healthy coping strategies
Creating a home environment that supports emotional regulation
Collaborating with schools when anxiety affects academic performance
For parents seeking additional guidance, I also offer specialized parent coaching sessions focused on supporting anxious children.
Begin Your Child's Journey to Confidence
Anxiety is highly treatable, and with the right support, children and teens can develop lifelong skills for managing anxious thoughts and feelings. As both a licensed therapist and mother of three teenagers here in San Francisco, I bring professional expertise and real-world understanding to our therapeutic relationship.
Contact me today for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how we can work together to help your child overcome anxiety and thrive.
