Why are you opening a specialist clinic?
Because child anxiety is such a widespread and debilitating problem. Here are just a few examples of anxiety-provoking situations you might be familiar with:
- A mother’s or father’s anxiety when their newborn baby cries in the middle of the night
- The “drop off” at childcare, kindergarten or school
- A child experiencing bullying at school
- A teenager with friendship problems or study/exam stress
When I had my son Charlie I experienced significant levels of anxiety, as many new parents do. My experiences with Charlie at sleep school and in my counselling work with kids and parents has allowed me to gain deeper insight into the stressful challenges that many families face.
So I decided to put together some evidence-based programs (developed in Australian universities) to specifically target and treat anxiety. In our practice we have been using these resources on a daily basis and we have seen some fantastic results.
My small team of child-friendly Educational and Developmental psychologists would love to help YOUR child learn how to overcome their anxiety and discover how to live life to their full potential – free of worry and ready to deal with the daily challenges of life.
What will you teach my child?
We will teach your child:
Crucial skills to manage and reduce anxiety
Effective thinking skills
Relaxation techniques
Mindfulness techniques
Coping skills
How to develop resilience
How to use their strengths and positive emotions.
How to understand their own unique personality
Problem solving skills
How to identify their particular anxiety triggers
How to develop their personal power
The importance and meaning of wellbeing
What is a “mind like water” state?
The concept of “mind like water” is an age-old concept traditionally used to define a state of perfect readiness to face any given situation.
Imagine a perfectly still pool of water. If you throw a pebble into this pool, the water will respond by creating small ripples in an outward motion in direct proportion to the force and size of the pebble. If you through a larger stone, the water will respond accordingly. Then, after the response, it will return to stillness.
What specific issues can you help with?
Generalized anxiety (which may manifest as physical complaints, such as tummy aches or headaches, etc)
Separation anxiety (at any age)
Sleep problems
School refusal
Performance anxiety
Exam and test anxiety
Specific phobias – animals, claustrophobia, choking, etc
Social/friendship anxiety
Bullying
Low self confidence self esteem
Is your program based on scientific evidence?
Yes. We have developed a customised program which draws from a variety of current best practice treatments for anxiety. These treatments have been extensively researched in university settings and have been shown to be effective.
However, we also tailor our program to your child’s individual needs. The types of treatments include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness, among others.
Do you work with other health professionals and schools?
Yes, we often work in consultation with psychiatrists, paediatricians, GPs and school staff to provide holistic care. You can be confident that you will receive extremely detailed and comprehensive care.
We understand how schools operate and we can support you and your child in an independent private setting, while consulting with your child’s teachers and school welfare staff.
Why see a specialist educational and developmental psychologist?
Educational and developmental psychologists are experts in normal and abnormal child development and educational issues, including learning difficulties, AD/HD, ASD, behavioural problems, social problems and other common childhood issues (which are often the underlying trigger for anxiety problems).
Anxiety Resource Kit
As we work with your child they will gain valuable insight and become more empowered to face their own challenges. They will also a receive some fun and helpful resources to help them remember the vital skills they are learning.
Other Helpful Websites
Kids Helpline
http://www.kidshelp.com.au/grownups/news-research/hot-topics/anxiety.php
Kids Health
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/mental_health/anxiety.html
My Anxious Child
http://www.myanxiouschild.com/products/turnaround