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Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) Programs

SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) at The Scoggan Institute

At The Scoggan Institute, our outpatient treatment center for OCD and anxiety understands that anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can significantly impact children and adolescents, leaving parents feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support their loved ones. Fortunately, there is an evidence-based program called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) that can equip parents with the tools and strategies they need to effectively help their children manage anxiety and OCD symptoms.

What is SPACE?

SPACE is a parent-based treatment program specifically designed to help parents of children and adolescents struggling with anxiety disorders and OCD. Unlike traditional therapies that involve the child directly, SPACE focuses on empowering parents to become active participants in their child’s recovery.

How Does SPACE Work?

The core principle of SPACE revolves around two key changes parents can make:

  • Responding More Supportively: SPACE teaches parents how to validate their child’s emotions and offer support without reinforcing anxieties or engaging in behaviors that inadvertently accommodate OCD compulsions.

  • Reducing Accommodations: Parents often make accommodations to lessen their child’s anxiety in the short term. However, in the long run, these accommodations can actually strengthen the child’s anxieties and compulsions. SPACE helps parents identify and gradually reduce these accommodations, fostering their child’s independence and resilience.

Benefits of SPACE for Parents

  • Gain Confidence: Learn practical strategies to manage your child’s anxiety and OCD symptoms effectively.
  • Reduce Stress: Develop a more supportive and collaborative approach, leading to a calmer and more peaceful home environment.
  • Improve Communication: Learn effective communication skills to foster open and honest conversations with your child.
  • Strengthen the Parent-Child Bond: Build a deeper connection with your child by offering support and understanding.

Benefits of SPACE for Children and Adolescents

  • Develop Coping Skills: Learn healthy strategies to manage anxiety and OCD triggers independently.
  • Increased Confidence: Gain a sense of self-efficacy as they learn to manage their emotions effectively.
  • Reduced Anxiety Symptoms: Experience a decrease in anxiety and OCD symptoms over time.
  • Improved Functioning: Become better equipped to navigate daily activities and social interactions with less anxiety.

What to Expect During SPACE Therapy at The Scoggan Institute

Our SPACE program consists of individual sessions with a trained therapist specializing in anxiety and OCD treatment in children and adolescents. Here’s a general overview of the process:

  • Initial Assessment: The therapist will meet with parents to understand the child’s anxiety or OCD symptoms, their impact on the family dynamic, and parental goals for treatment.
  • Psycho-education: The therapist will provide information about childhood anxiety and OCD, including the rationale behind SPACE principles.
  • Skill Development: Parents will learn and practice evidence-based strategies for responding supportively and reducing accommodations.
  • Ongoing Support: The therapist will offer ongoing support and guidance as parents implement these strategies and navigate challenges.
  • Collaboration (Optional): With parental consent, the therapist may collaborate with the child’s school or other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Is SPACE Right for Your Family?

SPACE is a valuable program for families with children or adolescents experiencing any of the following:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Separation anxiety disorder
  • Panic disorder
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Phobias

Getting Started with SPACE at The Scoggan Institute

If you’re interested in learning more about SPACE and how it can benefit your family, contact The Scoggan Institute today. Our compassionate intake specialists can answer your questions and guide you through the process of scheduling an initial assessment to determine if SPACE is the right fit for your child’s needs.

Remember, you are not alone. The Scoggan Institute is here to support you and your child on your journey towards healing and well-being.

Start your path to psychological wellness with our thoroughly selected specialists.

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