Anxiety is one of the most common concerns that brings families to Spectrum House. Whether your child is experiencing separation anxiety, social anxiety, generalised worry, or school refusal, our team can help them understand what's happening and build practical tools to manage it.
Childhood anxiety is normal in small doses, but when worry starts to limit daily activities — stopping a child from attending school, making friends, trying new things, or sleeping — support from a psychologist can make a real difference.
Our psychologists use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — both of which have strong evidence bases for childhood anxiety. Sessions are adapted to your child's age, interests, and communication style. We involve parents as key partners in the process, helping you understand your child's anxiety and how best to respond at home.
We support children and adolescents experiencing separation anxiety, social anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder, specific phobias, school refusal, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and anxiety related to autism or ADHD.
Who This Is For
- Children who worry excessively or are hard to reassure
- Children avoiding school, social activities, or new situations
- Young people experiencing physical symptoms of anxiety (headaches, stomachaches)
- Children with a diagnosis of autism or ADHD who also experience anxiety
- Families who want support to understand and respond to their child's anxiety
What to Expect
- An initial session to understand your child's history and concerns
- A collaborative plan tailored to your child's needs
- Regular sessions combining skill-building, exposure, and practical strategies
- Parent guidance and check-ins throughout the therapy process
- Clear goals and review points so you can track progress
Cost, Medicare & NDIS
Psychology sessions at Spectrum House are privately billed. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP you can access Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. NDIS participants with therapeutic supports in their plan may be able to use those funds. Speak with us about our current fees.
Do I Need a Referral?
You can contact us directly to book an initial session. If you'd like to access Medicare rebates, ask your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral to a psychologist. This gives you access to rebates for individual sessions throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will my child need?
This varies by child and the nature of their anxiety. Many children see meaningful improvement in 8–12 sessions. We review progress regularly and discuss the plan with you throughout.
Will my child have to talk about their worries straight away?
Not at all. Our psychologists are skilled at building rapport before diving into difficult topics. For younger children especially, much of the early work happens through play and indirect conversation.
Do parents attend sessions?
We include parents in the process — either in parts of sessions or in regular parent-only check-ins — as parental understanding and response is a key part of supporting childhood anxiety.
Can anxiety support help with school refusal?
Yes. School refusal is often driven by anxiety, and our team has experience working with children, families, and schools to develop graduated return-to-school plans alongside psychological support.
More questions? Visit our FAQ page or get in touch.
Ready to get started?
Contact us to check availability and discuss how we can support your child and family.