CBT is most effective for children ages 7 and up, as it requires the ability to identify thoughts and understand the connection between thinking and feeling. For children ages 6-7, we assess readiness on a case-by-case basis. For younger children (under 6), play therapy or parent coaching is usually more appropriate.

CBT is action-oriented, not just talk therapy. While we do discuss feelings, the focus is on practicing new skills and behaviours. Children spend more time learning strategies and doing exercises than just talking about emotions. This makes CBT less overwhelming for children who struggle to verbalize feelings.

Homework resistance is common, especially at first. We work with you to make assignments manageable and age-appropriate. We also problem-solve barriers (too hard, too boring, too scary) and adjust homework accordingly. Progress is slower without practice, so we'll work together to find strategies that help your child complete assignments.

You'll notice gradual changes: your child facing situations they previously avoided, worrying less frequently, using coping strategies independently, and improved daily functioning. We track progress systematically using rating scales and goal review. Most parents notice improvement within 6-8 weeks.

CBT is structured with specific techniques, homework, and measurable goals. Regular counselling often focuses more on exploring feelings and building insight. CBT is time-limited (typically 8-16 sessions) while traditional counselling may be open-ended. CBT has the strongest research evidence for treating childhood anxiety.

No. CBT's goal is to teach skills your child can use independently. Once your child learns the strategies, they have them for life. We intentionally work toward ending therapy by building independence. Most children don't need ongoing weekly therapy after completing CBT.

When children start facing fears (exposure), anxiety may temporarily increase. This is expected and actually necessary for CBT to work. We go gradually and ensure your child has coping skills before exposure begins. The temporary discomfort leads to long-term improvement.

If progress stalls, we reassess. Sometimes the diagnosis is different (e.g., OCD requiring ERP instead of CBT, or trauma requiring EMDR). Sometimes medication needs to be considered. Sometimes external factors (school problems, family stress) need to be addressed first. We'll work together to determine the best path forward.

Yes! Parent involvement is essential. You'll attend part of each session for updates and guidance. We teach you how to support your child's practice at home without accidentally reinforcing anxiety. Research shows CBT is most effective when parents are actively involved.

CBT doesn't dismiss anxiety or tell children to "just stop worrying." Instead, it teaches concrete skills for managing anxious thoughts and behaviours. Children learn to identify specific worry patterns, evaluate evidence, develop coping strategies, and face fears gradually with support. It's active skill-building, not dismissing feelings.