When everyday fears start to limit your child's activities, friendships or school attendance it is natural to ask whether professional help is needed. Growing Minds Therapy offers specialist Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for children and young people experiencing anxiety, OCD, PTSD, phobias, panic and depression using evidence-based CAMHS approaches.
Many parents notice their child becoming increasingly avoidant, physically unwell before school or constantly seeking reassurance. These patterns can signal that anxiety has moved beyond typical worries and may benefit from structured support. Our service helps families decide whether CBT is the right step by providing a thorough clinical assessment grounded in over 20 years of experience. We look at the frequency, intensity and impact of the anxiety symptoms rather than isolated incidents. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is particularly suitable when unhelpful thinking patterns, avoidance or safety behaviours are maintaining the difficulties. The same evidence-based methods used in CAMHS form the foundation of our work with social anxiety, general anxiety, OCD, PTSD, phobias, panic attacks and low mood. Parents often feel reassured after speaking with us because we explain the clinical reasoning behind our recommendations in clear, straightforward language. We never rush families into therapy. Instead we explore the current difficulties together and discuss how CBT could help the child develop more helpful ways of responding to anxiety. Our professional standards ensure that any decision to begin treatment is based on a careful formulation rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This clinical depth allows us to match the intensity and focus of therapy to each child's unique situation.
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Our Method for Assessing Anxiety in Children
We begin with a detailed clinical assessment that examines the young person's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and physical symptoms. Drawing on the same evidence-based CBT framework used in CAMHS, we identify which maintaining factors are strongest. This rigorous process informs whether CBT is likely to be helpful and allows us to create a personalised plan. Every assessment is conducted to the highest professional standards with full transparency for the family.
Deciding on and Beginning CBT Support
Contacting us through the website is the first step. We listen to your description of your child's anxiety and arrange an initial assessment. This meeting helps us understand the difficulties and jointly decide whether CBT is appropriate. If we proceed, we explain the process clearly and begin building skills step by step. Regular reviews ensure the therapy continues to meet the child's needs, with guidance provided for the period after formal sessions end.
Guidance for Parents Considering CBT
We offer clear information about what CBT involves and how parents can support their child during and after therapy. Should you decide CBT is not the right option at this time we provide signposting and advice on other helpful steps. Our ongoing availability means families can return for further discussion whenever new concerns arise about anxiety, OCD, trauma or low mood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that anxiety might need professional help?
When anxiety stops a child from joining normal activities, affects sleep, school attendance or friendships it is worth seeking specialist advice. Persistent physical symptoms, frequent reassurance seeking or avoidance that seems disproportionate can also indicate the need for CBT. Our service can help you understand whether these difficulties would benefit from evidence-based treatment.
Is CBT the only option for childhood anxiety?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a well-established treatment for anxiety, OCD, PTSD, phobias, panic and depression in young people. We specialise in this evidence-based approach used in CAMHS. Other supportive strategies can be used alongside or instead of CBT depending on the individual situation.
How do I know if my child is ready for CBT?
Readiness depends on the child's age, ability to talk about feelings and willingness to try small changes. During our assessment we explore these factors together. Our clinical experience helps us judge whether the young person is likely to engage with the structured work of CBT.
Can CBT help children who also have OCD or phobias?
Yes. Our specialist service treats anxiety alongside Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, phobias, panic, PTSD and depression. All therapy follows the same evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy methods used within CAMHS services.
What happens during the initial assessment?
We gather a clear picture of your child's difficulties, their impact on daily life and what has been tried so far. This helps us decide whether CBT is likely to be beneficial. The assessment is collaborative and you will receive a clear explanation of our clinical thinking.
How soon can we start CBT if it is recommended?
After the assessment we discuss the best way forward. If CBT is appropriate we aim to begin sessions as soon as is practically possible. Our service maintains high clinical standards while keeping the process straightforward for families.