Understanding SPACE: Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions

2. Evidence-Based Techniques: The program integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, making it a robust choice for families. Parents learn to implement CBT strategies at home, which can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms in their children.

3. Empowerment Through Education: SPACE aims to empower parents by providing them with knowledge and skills. This approach helps them recognize anxious behaviors and respond in ways that support their children’s emotional health rather than ways that might be making their symptoms worse (such as accommodating their fears or rituals).

4. Focus on Emotional Support: SPACE teaches parents to create a supportive atmosphere where children feel safe to express their emotions, but where parents are not overly accommodating of their emotions. Often, when children experience significant anxiety or symptoms of OCD, their parents are managing the environment to reduce their experience of these symptoms rather than confronting them. Reducing parent accommodations has been shown to improve a child’s ability to confront their fears and manage their anxiety without as much parent intervention and support.

– Look for a CBT Therapist in San Diego: Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a highly effective treatment for anxiety. A therapist experienced in CBT who also has training in SPACE can help you implement SPACE strategies at home.

– Seek an Anxiety Therapist in San Diego: These professionals specialize in helping children and adolescents manage anxiety and OCD. They can guide you through the SPACE program and provide additional support tailored to your family’s needs.