Episode 158 | Kristen’s Story - Licensed Family Therapist - Anxiety in Children

On today's episode, Katie meets with Kristen McNeely, a Licensed family therapist who is in expert on Anxiety in Children. Kristen shares the importance of how we respond to anxiety as parents and caregivers, helping children understand what anxiety is and how we can help them navigate their feelings. This episode is full of ways to support your child through anxious moments and knowing when to get them help.

[4:12] Kristen introduces herself

[5:45] Seeing more behavior disorders that are manifesting as anxiety

[7:15] Your child's anxiety is not your fault

[7:45] The way we respond to their anxiety is important

[10:19] Understanding what anxiety is

[12:15] Accommodating vs Supporting

[14:42] Being systematic in your approach

[15:45] Our children are people too

[18:20] Getting a call about her son at school

[19:18] Wearing a professional hat as a parent

[20:23] Shifting your perspective

[21:20] Every situation is not an indicator of a problem

Connect with Kristen

Instagram

Website

SPACE

Books Kristen Recommends

Freeing your Child from Anxiety by Tamar Chansky

Breaking Free of Anxiety and OCD Eli Lebowitz

Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Parents, download our free parent starter kit.

When you download our starter kit, you’ll learn how to:

• Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match
• Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious
• Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure

The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn’t send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you’re facing.

Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here.

Shop for your CLOC gear here.