Supporting the Anxious Child: Finding Safety in a Big World
If your child is a "deep feeler," a "worrier," or someone who needs to know exactly what’s coming next, they likely have a highly sensitive nervous system. Anxiety isn't a character flaw or a sign of weakness; it’s often the result of a bright, imaginative mind trying its best to stay safe in a world that feels unpredictable.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is the body’s internal alarm system. For some children, this alarm is a bit louder and more sensitive than others. It can show up as tummy aches, "perfectionism," avoidance, or even big outbursts. My goal isn't to silence that alarm entirely—because fear can be a helpful teacher—but to help your child learn how to check the alarm and decide if they actually need to run, or if they are safe to stay. My Philosophy: Respecting the Feeling, Building the Courage
I don't believe in "pushing" kids through their fears or using a "tough love" approach. Anxiety thrives when a child feels misunderstood or forced into a box. My approach is rooted in:
Gentle Empowerment: We move at your child's pace. We don't "flood" them with fears; we build a ladder of small, brave steps that they choose to take.
Radical Affirmation: I let your child know that it is okay to be scared. We validate the feeling first, because a child who feels heard is a child who can begin to feel brave.
Body-Based Tools: Anxiety isn't just in the head; it’s in the body. I help kids understand their "sensory signals"—like a racing heart or shaky hands—so they can use physical tools to find their way back to calm.
Beyond the Box: Tailored Tools for Navigation
Because every child’s "scary" looks different, their "brave" will look different too. We don't use a standard workbook; we build a personalized navigation kit.
Understanding the "Why": We explore what the anxiety is trying to protect. Is it a fear of making a mistake? A sensory overwhelm? Once we know the "why," the "how" becomes much clearer.
Creative Expression: Sometimes talking is too much. We use play, art, and movement to externalize the worry, turning it into something we can look at together rather than something hidden inside.
Self-Regulation, Not Compliance: I am not interested in "making" your child do things. I am interested in giving them the tools to want to try, because they feel safe enough to do so.
Working Together with Families
Anxiety doesn't just affect the child; it affects the whole family. It can make mornings feel like a battle and evenings feel like a mountain. I work closely with you to create an "atmosphere of safety" at home, giving you the language and strategies to support your child without becoming overwhelmed yourself.