Anxiety in Children & Teens
At Little Spurs Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, we provide comprehensive evaluations and individualized care for children, teens, and young adults (ages 10–21) experiencing emotional and behavioral health challenges, including anxiety disorders. Our licensed clinical psychologist partners closely with families to develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that help children build confidence, manage stress, and improve overall well-being.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a common mental health condition that involves excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that can interfere with a child’s daily life. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of development, ongoing or intense anxiety may impact school performance, sleep, relationships, and overall functioning.
Children with anxiety may struggle to manage their thoughts and physical responses to stress, making everyday situations feel overwhelming.
Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety in Children
Anxiety can present in both emotional and physical ways. Common symptoms may include:
- Excessive worry or fear about everyday situations
- Irritability or frequent emotional outbursts
- Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
- Avoidance of certain activities, places, or social situations
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, or fatigue
- Clinginess or difficulty separating from caregivers (especially in younger children)
If anxiety is persistent and interferes with your child’s daily life, a professional evaluation can help identify the best path forward.
How We Evaluate Anxiety
At Little Spurs Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, we take a comprehensive and individualized approach to evaluating anxiety in children and teens.
Our evaluation process may include:
- Clinical interviews with the child and caregivers
- Standardized anxiety and behavioral assessments
- Review of medical, developmental, and family history
- Screening for co-occurring conditions such as depression or ADHD
- Collaboration with schools or other providers when appropriate
This thorough evaluation helps us understand your child’s unique needs and develop an effective care plan.
