Anxiety in Children/Teens
The DSM V lists the following disorders under Anxiety Disorders:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Selective Mutism
- Specific Phobias
Anxiety is a somewhat normal part of childhood. As children learn to navigate this world, they must learn to manage the things that are frightening and scary. Some children, however, do not move past these typical worries, and often, they worsen as the child gets older.
As you can see from the list above, there are many types of anxiety disorders. A thorough evaluation will determine which diagnosis, if any, is appropriate. Children who experience anxiety will worry about a variety of things, from school, to homework, friends to family issues, even sports performance. They also may fear things such as the dark, strangers, unforeseen events, even bugs.
David’s approach to treating anxiety disorder is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach helps anxious individuals learn how to recognize and manage the constant stream of anxious thoughts. Play and art therapy techniques are very helpful in implementing CBT with children. Parents will receive parenting skills, and methods to manage their own anxiety, if applicable.
LifeWorks AZ uses a strengths based approach in counseling. David believes that highlighting and tapping into all the gifts and strengths people have makes all the difference in creating the changes they desire in their lives. He also believes that it is vital to obtain balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in order to create the desired change.
David's technique is unique in he works not only with the child he also works with parents
in coaching, counseling, and therapy to create behavior changes in the whole family system.
David uses a wide array of approaches to create desired change: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Art Therapy, Sports Mental Training, Play, Talk therapy, and more.
Click here to contact David for more information and a free consultation.
