Welcome to the SPACE program! In this first module, we will introduce you to our program and help you understand how we will target your child's anxiety. This module will include important background information, a video, and some selected readings from the book "Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD" by Eli R. Lebowitz, Ph.D.
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions)
SPACE is a parent-based treatment program for children and adolescents with anxiety and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). SPACE was first developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at Yale University and has demonstrated effectiveness in numerous clinical trials. Some common anxieties that SPACE targets include: generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, social anxiety, fears and phobias, panic, agoraphobia, and OCD.
While the SPACE treatment program revolves around sessions with just you and the therapist, the patient is ultimately your child! In this program, you will learn skills and tools to help your child overcome their anxiety by changing your own behavior. You will not force your child to change their behavior. You may be doing some of the heavy lifting for now, but ultimately, your child will feel less anxious and function better following treatment. Watch the video below for a brief background and introduction by Dr. Lebowitz himself!
Understanding Child Anxiety
If this is your first time seeking treatment for your child's anxiety, you are not alone! We are so glad you are here with us. It is definitely challenging to navigate your child's anxiety and the behaviors that accompany it! If you would like more information on understanding anxiety, and why your child may behave in certain ways, please read Chapter 1 in Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD.