Anxiety - Spring Forward Family Centre https://www.springfwd.com.au Paediatric Allied Health Services | Children's Art Therapy | Child Counselling | Paediatric Physiotherapy Tue, 21 Feb 2023 04:06:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://www.springfwd.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SFFC-Favicon-100x100.png Anxiety - Spring Forward Family Centre https://www.springfwd.com.au 32 32 Finding the Right Therapist in Penrith to Address Disruptive Mood Dysregulation https://www.springfwd.com.au/finding-the-right-therapist-in-penrith-to-address-disruptive-mood-dysregulation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=finding-the-right-therapist-in-penrith-to-address-disruptive-mood-dysregulation Tue, 21 Feb 2023 04:06:33 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=6493 What Is Disruptive Mood Dysregulation and How Does It Affect Children in Australia?  Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a condition in children and adolescents that is characterised by ongoing irritability and frequent intense outbursts. The onset of DMDD usually occurs in children who are under the age of 10. DMDD is diagnosed when a...

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What Is Disruptive Mood Dysregulation and How Does It Affect Children in Australia? 

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a condition in children and adolescents that is characterised by ongoing irritability and frequent intense outbursts. The onset of DMDD usually occurs in children who are under the age of 10. DMDD is diagnosed when a child has temper tantrums at least 3 times per week, and experiences an angry mood between tantrums. 

The symptoms of DMDD can have a significant impact on the child’s life, as well as on the lives of their parents and caregivers. Children with DMDD often find it difficult to regulate their emotions, which can lead to frequent bursts of anger and frustration. This can be extremely challenging for both the child and their loved ones. 

How Does Child Counselling Help in Addressing Disruptive Mood Dysregulation? 

There are a few different ways that child counselling can help in addressing Disruptive Mood Dysregulation. Counselling can help to teach children how to regulate their emotions, and to prevent extreme outbursts. There are also evidence-based interventions available, like cognitive therapy, which can be helpful in addressing the symptoms of DMDD. Treatment for children with DMDD often involves talk therapy and medications. 

Finding a Qualified Child Psychologist or Paediatric Psychologist in Penrith like Spring Forward Family Centre 

When it comes to finding a therapist for your child, it’s important that you do your research and find someone who is qualified to address the issues that your child is experiencing. At Spring Forward Family Centre, we have a team of qualified child psychologists and paediatric psychologists who can provide support for disruptive mood dysregulation, ADHD, executive functioning, anger-management and aggression. 

If you’re not sure whether counselling is the right step for your family, we offer free family consultations in order to help you make the best decision for your child. We believe that every child has the potential to grow and thrive, and we’re here to help them reach their fullest potential. 

What to Look for When Choosing the Right Therapist from Spring Forward 

Navigating the world of therapy can be overwhelming, but with the right therapist in Penrith, you can build up your child’s resilience and help them learn to manage their disruptive mood dysregulation (DMDD). When looking for a therapist, consider checking online professional directories. You can also talk to other families and get recommendations from their personal experiences. 

It’s important to find a therapist who specialises in working with children and adolescents. Ask questions such as “What techniques does the therapist use?” or “What is their experience with DMDD specifically?”. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for children has been successful in treating mood disorders, so this is one key element to consider when selecting a provider. 

Lastly, make sure to discuss any potential wait times or backlogs – the emotional toll of long-term disruption could be alleviated by getting started on treatment as soon as possible. By finding the right professional, you can help your child understand their feelings in a safe and supported environment. 

The Benefits of Working With a Professional Who Specialises in Therapy for Kids 

When it comes to finding the right therapist in Penrith to address Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), you want someone who specialises in therapy for kids. Working with a professional can help your child learn how to better navigate their disorder, build helpful thinking patterns and behaviours, and gain an understanding of their emotions and behaviours. Here are some of the key benefits of working with a professional: 

  1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – This therapy is often used to help reduce the core symptoms of DMDD and may also include relaxation techniques, helping your child identify triggers, responding to emotions in a more effective way, and helping them cope with stress. 
  2. Learn Self-Regulation Skills – A professional can help your child understand their emotions and cope effectively with them. For example, they can learn how to notice when they start feeling overwhelmed and practise techniques for managing their anger or frustration. They can also learn how to set goals for themselves that are achievable. 
  3. Build Self-Confidence – Through therapy, your child can build positive thinking patterns and beliefs about themselves that will lead to increased self-confidence and better self-esteem. They will start to see their strengths as well as be able to recognise their weaknesses without feeling overwhelmed or ashamed about them. 

Tips for Parents to Support Their Kids During Counselling Sessions 

As a parent, you play an important role in your child’s therapy journey. Supporting your child throughout their therapy sessions can make all the difference when it comes to improving their overall mental health. Here are a few tips on how to support kids during counselling sessions: 

  • Remember that the therapist’s role is not to ‘fix’ your child’s symptoms but to help them understand the underlying issues that may be causing them distress. 
  • Encourage your child to talk openly about their feelings and experiences during the session, and make sure that they feel heard and respected. 
  • Provide honest feedback about how things are going throughout the counselling process, so that the therapist can adjust their approach as needed. 
  • Show your support by being there for your child outside of the counsellor’s office. Ask about how their sessions went and be willing to talk about anything that comes up in conversation. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to helping kids with disruptive mood dysregulation, finding the right therapist can be a huge help. They can provide the guidance and support kids need to start feeling better. If you’re looking for a therapist in Penrith, be sure to check out our website for more information. 

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Symptoms of Childhood Anxiety: How Parents Can Identify Early Signs https://www.springfwd.com.au/symptoms-of-childhood-anxiety-how-parents-can-identify-early-signs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=symptoms-of-childhood-anxiety-how-parents-can-identify-early-signs Tue, 14 Feb 2023 05:31:08 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=6428 Introduction to Children and Anxiety  Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States, affecting 40 million adults in the US ages 18 and older. But what about children? The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) reports that 3 million children in the US suffer from an anxiety disorder.  That’s a...

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Introduction to Children and Anxiety 

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States, affecting 40 million adults in the US ages 18 and older. But what about children? The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) reports that 3 million children in the US suffer from an anxiety disorder. 

That’s a lot of children feeling an intense sense of unease and fear for no reason. It can be difficult for parents to identify early signs of anxiety in their children. This is why it’s important for parents to be aware of the symptoms of childhood anxiety. 

Types of Anxiety Common Among Children 

There are various types of anxiety that are common among children. 

These anxiety disorders are commonly referred to as GAD (generalised anxiety disorder), OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), SAD (social anxiety disorder), selective mutism, panic disorder and specific phobias. 

Fears and worries are typical in children as they are trying to figure out the world around them. However, if these fears and worries persist or become extreme, it could be a sign that the child is experiencing an anxiety disorder or depression.  

“Anxiety is an emotion. One that we all feel. It becomes an anxiety disorder or something of concern if it is persistent, lingers or if a person is still worrying about something days or weeks after the event,” share one of Spring Forward Family Centre’s experts on Child Counselling. 

Physical, Behavioural and Cognitive Symptoms of Anxiety in Children 

There are a range of physical, behavioural and cognitive symptoms of anxiety in children. Some of the most common physical symptoms include fatigue, headaches, and stomachaches. 

Behaviourally, anxious children may be clingy, startle easily, cry or have tantrums. They may also have difficulty sleeping and eating, as well as changes in mood. Cognitively, anxious children may seem to worry excessively about small things, have a hard time making decisions or concentrating, and be overly perfectionistic. They can also become fixated on certain nonimportant things. Become easily upset or have changes in behaviour that is not “them.” 

It’s important for parents to be aware of these symptoms so that they can identify early signs of anxiety in their children and seek help. 

Strategies for Parents to Help Manage Childhood Anxiety 

There are a few things you can do as a parent to help your child manage their anxiety. 

  • Be there for them: Show them that you understand and feel empathy for what they’re going through. Just listening to them and being there for them can make a world of difference. 
  • Let them know that this doesn’t make them any less of a person for feeling this way 
  • Teach them coping skills: Show them some breathing exercises or other calming techniques that they can use when they start to feel anxious. It is important to feel grounded as anxiety makes us feel like we are not. 
  • Seek professional help: If your child’s anxiety is severe or interfering with their daily life, it’s best to seek professional help from a therapist or counsellor who specialises in childhood anxiety. 

The Importance of Professional Child Counselling When Needed 

If you’re a parent, you might be wondering what you can do to help your child if they’re experiencing anxiety. And the answer is: get professional help. 

Sure, you can try to talk to your child about their anxieties and help them come up with coping mechanisms, but if their anxiety is severe, it’s going to be really tough for them to manage on their own. That’s where child counselling comes in. And in most cases, it doesn’t just have to be severe anxiety. Sometimes a parent’s anxiety makes the child’s anxiety worse. This then becomes counter productive 

A professional counsellor will be able to help your child understand their anxiety and develop healthy coping mechanisms. And not only that, but they can also provide support for you as a parent. 

So if you think your child might be struggling with anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. It could make all the difference in the world. 

How to Find Reputable Child Counsellors in Australia 

If you think your child may be experiencing anxiety, it’s important to seek professional help. But how do you know if a counsellor is reputable? 

Here are a few things to look for: 

  • Find out if the counsellor uses evidence-based methods. This means that they use methods that have been proven to be effective through research. 
  • Ask about the counsellor’s cancellation policy. A good counsellor will understand that life can be unpredictable, and will have a flexible cancellation policy. 

If you’re looking for a reputable child counsellor in Australia, you can look at reputable and trusted providers like Spring Forward Family Centre. 

Conclusion 

So, what are the signs of childhood anxiety? 

Some of the most common signs of childhood anxiety are physical symptoms, such as being constantly tired, having trouble sleeping, headaches, stomach aches, or feeling sick all the time. 

Behavioural signs of childhood anxiety can include changes in eating habits, becoming more clingy, or withdrawing from friends or activities they used to enjoy. Headaches and stomaches are major indicators to anxiety too. 

If you are worried that your child may be experiencing anxiety, the best thing to do is speak to your GP or a qualified child counsellor. Early intervention is the key to helping your child overcome anxiety and grow into a happy and healthy adult. 

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Finding the Right Children’s Counsellor for When Kids Are Bullied https://www.springfwd.com.au/finding-the-right-childrens-counsellor-for-when-kids-are-bullied/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=finding-the-right-childrens-counsellor-for-when-kids-are-bullied Sat, 21 Jan 2023 13:09:22 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=5512 The Warning Signs of Bullying in Children?  When it comes to bullying, prevention is key. Research shows that adults can play a role in preventing bullying before it starts.  How do you know if your child is being bullied? There are some common warning signs. Look for fear, shame, or helplessness in your child. Victims...

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The Warning Signs of Bullying in Children? 

When it comes to bullying, prevention is key. Research shows that adults can play a role in preventing bullying before it starts. 

How do you know if your child is being bullied? There are some common warning signs. Look for fear, shame, or helplessness in your child. Victims of bullying may be seen as different, weak, or have low self-esteem. 

If you suspect that your child is being bullied, don’t wait to seek help. Talk to your child’s teacher or school counsellor, or contact a professional counsellor who specialises in working with children. 

What Child Counselling Can Do for Bullying in Australia? 

There are many child counselling services available in Australia that can help your child if they are being bullied. The service is confidential, so you can speak to them without fear of your child finding out. They offer telephone counselling, so you don’t even have to leave your home. 

If you’re not sure where to start, some of the most popular child counselling services are Kids Helpline, Lifeline, headspace and Relationships Australia. All of these organisations provide confidential support and constructive advice to help your child get through this difficult time. 

How to Find an Experienced Counsellor for Kids like Spring Forward Family Centre? 

When it comes to finding the right counsellor for kids, it can be tricky to know where to start. You want someone who has experience and knows how to handle bullies, but you also want someone your child will feel comfortable talking to. 

At Spring Forward Family Centre, we have a team of experienced counsellors who are ready and willing to help kids who are dealing with bullying. We understand that every child is different, so we take the time to get to know each one and find the best way to help them. 

If you’re looking for support for your child, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We would be more than happy to help! 

Types of Child Counselling to Combat Bullying 

So why would a parent consider counselling for their child when they’re being bullied? Well, there are various types of counselling that could be useful for your situation. 

Counselling can help those who are victims of bullying to process the pain and anger they may be feeling. It can also help those who bully others to understand the root cause and build better, healthier relationships with their peers. Mental health experts can also provide strategies to help those emotionally and mentally scarred by bullying heal. 

Regardless of what type of counselling you choose, it’s important to ensure your child is comfortable with their counsellor. Talk to your child, reach out to other parents who have gone through similar experiences and ask around for potential resources in your network. Most importantly: trust your gut! 

Questions to Ask a Prospective Child Counsellor at Spring Forward Family Centre 

Finding the right child counsellor to support your child through the difficult times of bullying can be daunting. Here are some helpful questions you can ask every prospective child counsellor at Spring Forward Family Centre: 

  • How do you approach handling bullying? – It’s important to make sure that the counsellor has experience and a plan of action when it comes to helping children deal with bullying. Find out what strategies they use and how they plan to keep your kid safe. 
  • Are there any particular therapies that you specialise in? – Bullying can have wide-reaching consequences and different approaches may be needed for different kids. Knowing which therapies the counsellor specialises in is helpful in finding out if they’re a good fit for your kid. 
  • What is your stance on cyberbullying, and how do you handle it? – As cyberbullying is done anonymously, it might be hard to trace or address who is behind the bully. Ask the counsellor if they have experience dealing with online bullying and what kind of solutions they provide. 
  • Do you work with other professionals (therapy groups, social services etc) when dealing with bullying? – Having a team approach can help kids struggling with bullying, so make sure to ask if this is something their facility offers or provides access to. 

Tips for Finding the Right Children’s Counsellor in NSW like Spring Forward 

So how do you find the right children’s counsellor for when your kids are being bullied at school? There are a few things you can look into. 

First, schools often have counsellors on staff who can act as a supportive resource for children who are experiencing bullying. These professionals generally have training in helping children manage the effects of bullying and can provide more individualised care than regular teachers or administrators. 

Second, students from different peer groups can be trained to be advocates for those being bullied, and counselling services in NSW like Spring Forward offer programmes like this which help in creating positive connections between peer groups impacted by bullying. 

Finally, counselling services such as Spring Forward also offer direct support to both victims and those who bully in order to help them process their experiences and build helpful thinking patterns and behaviours to support their emotional wellbeing. After all, it does take a village to raise a child! 

Conclusion 

So, if your child is being bullied and you’re not sure where to turn, know that child counselling can be an extremely beneficial step in the right direction. By working with a counsellor, your child will learn how to deal with the emotions that bullying brings up, and will develop positive thinking and behavioural patterns that will help them in all areas of their life. 

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Benefits of Professional Child Counselling for Young Patients With Anxiety https://www.springfwd.com.au/benefits-of-professional-child-counselling-for-young-patients-with-anxiety/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=benefits-of-professional-child-counselling-for-young-patients-with-anxiety Sun, 15 Jan 2023 15:57:29 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=5487 What Is Child Counselling and why is it relevant today in Australia?  It’s natural for parents to want to do everything they can to help their children feel happy and secure. When a child is struggling with anxiety, it can be difficult for parents to know where to turn for help.  Child counselling is a...

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What Is Child Counselling and why is it relevant today in Australia? 

It’s natural for parents to want to do everything they can to help their children feel happy and secure. When a child is struggling with anxiety, it can be difficult for parents to know where to turn for help. 

Child counselling is a type of psychological therapy that helps children manage their emotional distress and anxiety. Counselling for families includes addressing relationship issues, grief, and anxiety. In Australia, an increasing number of children are being diagnosed with anxiety each year. 

Anxiety in children is treated with psychological therapy and lifestyle adjustments. This may include therapy sessions with a professional child counsellor, as well as working with the child’s school to make adjustments to the curriculum or environment. 

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Children 

Signs and symptoms of anxiety in children can vary from child to child. However, there are some common signs that parents can look out for. 

If your child seems to be excessively worried or anxious about everyday things, or if they have difficulty controlling their emotions, these could be signs of an anxiety disorder. Children with anxiety disorders may also avoid social situations, have trouble sleeping, or experience physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach aches. 

If you think your child may be struggling with anxiety, it’s important to seek professional help. Counselling and therapy can be extremely helpful in managing and treating anxiety disorders in children. 

Benefits of Professional Child Counselling 

There are many benefits to professional child counselling. Counselling can help manage anxiety and stress in children, as well as reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, counselling can also increase control and self-esteem in young patients. 

Professional child counselling is often conducted using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This is an effective treatment for behaviour and conduct problems, as well as for mild to moderate anxiety. 

How to Access Professional Child Counselling like Spring Forward Family Centre 

If you’re ready to connect your family to the professional resources you need, face-to-face counselling for children is a great place to start. You may want to reach out to a family therapy centre like Spring Forward Family Centre that provides specialised child counselling services. 

At Spring Forward, they offer therapeutic approaches tailored to children’s individual needs. Through therapy, they can help improve academic performance, social skills, and general behaviour. They also have consultation services for parents and other caregivers as well – essential resources for children in managing emotional arousal, coping, and managing behaviour. 

Going through life with anxiety can be exceptionally difficult but fortunately there is professional help available. Reach out today and see how taking this step can benefit your family and your child’s mental health journey. 

Strategies for Managing Anxiety in Children 

One of the most common strategies that professionals use to manage anxiety in children is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy helps kids learn to understand that avoiding fear only increases the fear, and facing the fear increases strength and empowerment. It also helps them to respect their feelings without giving in or empowering their fears. 

Another effective tool is exposure treatment. This is considered a central part of CBT for paediatric anxiety, and it works by introducing the child to their fears on a gradual basis. Over time, this can help them to learn how to respond more effectively to different triggers. 

Child counsellors also may provide relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises and guided imagery. These can help kids feel calmer, more confident, and better able to cope with their anxiety. Additionally, they may suggest lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise or making sure they have enough sleep each night. 

FAQs on Professional Child Counselling in Spring Forward Family Centre 

Parents might have a lot of questions when considering professional child counselling. Questions like ‘what kind of therapies do you offer?’ and ‘what kind of team approach do you take?’ At Spring Forward Family Centre, we take a comprehensive approach that combines psychiatry, psychology and social work to provide the best possible care for our young patients. 

We provide therapies such as Cognitive behavioural therapy, sensory integration, behaviour modification and family therapy. We also offer psycho-educational assessment and medication management if prescribed. Our experienced team of professionals will work together to customise a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. 

By providing these tools and support, it’s our goal to help your kid improve their self-esteem and confidence so they can succeed in life. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to children and anxiety, seeking professional help is one of the best things you can do for them. Counselling can help children learn how to cope with their anxiety, and teaches them how to be more resilient in the face of stressors. With the help of a counsellor, your child can learn to manage their anxiety and live a happier, healthier life. 

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The Magic of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Child Anxiety Counselling https://www.springfwd.com.au/the-magic-of-acceptance-and-commitment-therapy-in-child-anxiety-counselling/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-magic-of-acceptance-and-commitment-therapy-in-child-anxiety-counselling Fri, 30 Dec 2022 15:06:19 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=5418 Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental illness in children and teens, affecting around one in eight kids. The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable, and a combination of therapies often works best. One such therapy is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).  What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?  Acceptance and...

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Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental illness in children and teens, affecting around one in eight kids. The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable, and a combination of therapies often works best. One such therapy is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 

What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)? 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a relatively new type of therapy that stemmed from traditional behaviour therapy. It focuses on developing psychological flexibility, which is the ability to stay present and live consistently with your values. This is done by combining mindfulness and self-acceptance practises with commitment and behavioural activation. 

The Science Behind ACT 

ACT is based on the Relational Frame Theory, a psychological theory that suggests that we interact with the world around us through relationships of various dimensions. In simpler terms, this means that we react to the world around us based on how we perceive it. So if a child is anxious, they will often perceive the world in a way that reinforces their anxiety, leading to a never-ending cycle. 

ACT aims to help change how we react and relate to our feelings instead of avoiding them. The goals of ACT include overcoming negative thoughts and feelings, while living a meaningful and fulfilling life. This is done by accepting these thoughts and feelings instead of trying to fight them or get rid of them. 

Benefits of ACT for Children 

ACT can be really helpful for children, especially when it comes to anxiety. 

It encourages them to embrace their thoughts and feelings, rather than avoid them. This can be really powerful, as it helps them to develop a greater sense of psychological flexibility. With this increased flexibility, they’re better able to cope with the difficulties and challenges that life throws their way. 

ACT also aims to increase psychological flexibility by helping children to focus on what’s important to them. This could be anything from their values and beliefs to their passions and interests. And by doing so, it allows them to live more meaningful and purposeful lives. 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Techniques for Anxiety Counselling 

ACT is a psychotherapy that emphasises acceptance. In other words, rather than trying to fight our anxiety or feelings of unease, we learn to accept them. This might seem counterintuitive, but acceptance actually reduces our motivation to avoid situations. 

There are several techniques that ACT utilises, including mindfulness, metaphor and paradox. 

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgement. By learning to be mindful of our anxiety, we can start to see it for what it is: just a feeling. It doesn’t control us, and we don’t have to let it dictate how we live our lives. 

Metaphor is a powerful tool that can help us reframe our relationship with anxiety. For example, you might imagine your anxiety as a wave that you can ride out until it dissipates. Or you might picture it as a cloud that’s passing by. By using metaphor, we can start to see our anxiety in a new light and understand that it’s not permanent or insurmountable. 

Paradoxically, by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) emphasising acceptance, we can learn to commit to living the life we want, even in the face of anxiety. ACT helps us see that our anxiety is not who we are – it’s just something that we feel. And once we accept that, we can start to move forward with our lives. 

Challenges in Applying ACT for Child Anxiety Counselling 

While ACT is an evidence-based practise, there are a few challenges that need to be considered when using it to treat child anxiety. 

First, it can be difficult to get children to buy into the idea of accepting their thoughts and feelings. They may see it as giving up or being lazy. It’s important to explain that accepting doesn’t mean that they’re resigning themselves to a life of anxiety. Instead, it’s about acknowledging that anxiety is a part of their life and making a commitment to do something about it. 

Second, some of the techniques used in ACT (e.g., mindfulness) can be challenging for children to master. They may need a lot of practise and patience before they’re able to see results. 

Lastly, it’s important to find an experienced therapist who is trained in ACT and who has experience working with children. This will help ensure that your child gets the most out of therapy and that the interventions are tailored to their individual needs. 

How to Make the Most of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Child Anxiety Counselling 

Here are a few ways to make the most of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in child anxiety counselling: 

– Try to be as accepting as possible of your child’s personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings. This can be a challenge, but it’s important to remember that acceptance does not mean condoning or approving of everything. 

– Keep the focus on creating a meaningful life, even though this may involve accepting some pain along the way. This can help your child feel more motivated to make positive changes. 

– Help your child build up a repertoire of coping skills that they can use in difficult situations. This can include things like mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. 

Conclusion 

So, what is ACT and how can it help child anxiety? ACT is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy that helps individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings, and to commit to actions that are inline with their values. This can be a very helpful approach for children who are struggling with anxiety, as it can help them to feel more in control of their thoughts and emotions, and to focus on what they can do, rather than what they can’t. 

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Can you tell if your child is anxious? Common signs of anxiety, stress and worry in children. https://www.springfwd.com.au/can-you-tell-if-your-child-is-anxious-common-signs-of-anxiety-stress-and-worry-in-children/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=can-you-tell-if-your-child-is-anxious-common-signs-of-anxiety-stress-and-worry-in-children Thu, 05 May 2022 06:41:31 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=2799 More and more kids

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More and more kids, unfortunately, have been experiencing stress, worry and anxiety. This was again made more prominent when our children’s regular routines were put into constant disarray due to the impact of COVID. These feelings can be disheartening and overwhelming.

What does stress look like in children? This can actually look different to stress for an adult. If you have noticed that your child has become very quiet or suddenly speaks fast and becomes difficult to understand what they are saying. Are they spending more time in their room and not wanting to come out? Are they trying to avoid places or activities that remind them of these stressful events or activities? Are they not as engaged in the family as they once were? These are potential signs that they are stressed, worried and/or anxious.

Other indicators may include;

  • Difficulty sleeping, changes in sleep patterns or nightmares.
  • Restlessness, on edge or increases in activity levels (constantly on the go).
  • Complaining of headaches or stomach aches.
  • Easily agitated; bothered by things they are usually okay with.
  • Increased meltdowns and tantrums
  • Decreased attention
  • More clingy behaviours

However, there is a multitude of strategies that can be applied to help ease these overwhelming feelings and thoughts. These strategies are founded within mindfulness.

Some strategies include:

  • Breathing exercises
  • Physical exercise
  • Having the feeling named and normalised “It sounds like you are anxious. I understand. Anxiety can be tricky. Can I help?”
  • Talk about concerns or worries your child may have

Want more information on mindfulness and the mindfulness products we recommend? Read ‘Making Mindful Children‘ or learn more about our group programs.

Spring Forward has child and adolescent counselling services available to help support them through difficult circumstances and uncomfortable emotions. Meet our Counsellor Danielle or find out more about our counselling services.

MHNSF Pty Ltd T/A Spring Forward Family Centre is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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Making Mindful Children: How mindfulness can benefit your child https://www.springfwd.com.au/making-mindful-children-how-mindfulness-can-benefit-your-child/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=making-mindful-children-how-mindfulness-can-benefit-your-child Mon, 04 Apr 2022 05:48:36 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=2432 Mindfulness is an appropriate strategy to help

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What is mindfulness? What does mindfulness do? How can my child benefit?

Practising mindfulness means paying attention to what is happening in our minds, body, and immediate environment, while remaining present, compassionate and curious. Overtime, mindfulness practises improve our ability to cope during times of high stress. Because of this, mindfulness results in greater mental clarity, an increased ability to care for and love ourselves and others, and achieve improved mental and physical wellbeing.

The reason for this is because our senses help engage us in the present and help us to notice what is happening around us. By focusing on one sense, we engage in mindfulness. Mindfulness activities like mindful smelling and mindful listening are great strategies that can help manage these thoughts and feelings of worry and anxiety. There are many more strategies that can be used. Mindful listening and smelling are just a small snippet of what can help these thoughts and feelings.

Meditation is another form of mindfulness as it focuses on the present moment. It also allows your mind, body, and spirit to rest and therefore can benefit your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Mindfulness meditation focuses on breath work to calm and reduce negative feelings in the body.

There is a plethora of activities that can help bring mindfulness forth. To start your child’s mindfulness journey at home, we have provided you with some at home suggestions below.

Prefer guided mindfulness interventions for your child? Our Mindful Magic group program provides innovative methods of mindfulness to help reduce stress, worry and anxiety, teaching children how to work their own magic using their mind.
Book your child in for the April 2022 School Holidays!

Meet our Mindful Magic Creator & Counsellor Danielle, and Creator, Facilitator and Therapy Assistant Brittany.

MHNSF Pty Ltd T/A Spring Forward Family Centre is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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Managing Back To School Anxiety https://www.springfwd.com.au/managing-back-to-school-anxiety/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=managing-back-to-school-anxiety Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:02:00 +0000 https://www.springfwd.com.au/?p=1415 Starting a new school year with new teachers, classes and expectations can make

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Starting a new school year with new teachers, classes and expectations can make children a little nervous. Some children may still be feeling the effects of the COVID lockdown which can make this time even harder.

Here are some ways you could help your child manage their feelings.

1. Show confidence and excitement when talking about school. This sends a positive message to your child.

2. Talk and listen to your child about their feelings. Let them know it is ok to feel how they feel.

3. Encourage your children to reconnect with school friends. Set up a playdate.

4. Give your child a little control. Let them pick their school lunch or afterschool activities.

5. Incorporate breathing exercises and muscle relaxation activities.

Practical ways to maintain positive emotions around school.

6. Maintain a healthy diet, physical activities and sleep routine.

7. Do a special activity with your child in the afternoon/evening. i.e. read them a book before bed.

8. When your child is ready, get them back into extra-curricular activities.

9. Encourage your child to exercise self-compassion. i.e.. positive affirmations, “I’m trying my hardest, it’s ok that I need help with my homework today”

Need a little more support?

Our Spring Forward team is here to help! Our experienced counsellors have created two holiday programs that help children embrace mindfulness and boost their self-esteem. Our ‘Mindful Magic’ group provides children with different strategies to help overcome confronting feelings and manage stress in everyday life. ‘Esteem Team’ is a fun and supportive program where children will learn about self-esteem, what it means to them, strategies to support themselves and language to use with others. Learn more.

If you are interested in these programs secure your spot in our April 2022 School Holiday Programs or express your interest in our after school programs.

Prefer one-on-one sessions?

Our Spring Forward team includes two experienced counsellors who assist children to express themselves in a healthy and productive way that can alleviate any restrictive emotional states such as anxiety and stress. Our counsellors provide understanding and compassion while building skills to assist in becoming self-aware and fostering self-growth.

Learn more about counselling at Spring Forward or contact us for bookings and enquiries.

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