Anxiety Treatment for Children & Adolescents

Anxiety disorders are among the most frequently diagnosed psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents.

Some common anxiety disorders that affect young people include:

• Separation Anxiety
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Specific Phobias
• Agoraphobia
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

How Prevalent Are Anxiety Disorders in Youth?

Estimates suggest that 15–20% of children and adolescents meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder. However, these conditions are often underdiagnosed, as anxiety in children can present differently and is sometimes mistaken for ADHD or behavioral issues.

How Are Anxiety Disorders Diagnosed in Children and Adolescents?

Diagnosing anxiety disorders in young patients involves a comprehensive assessment from a mental health expert such as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in pediatric mental health. A clinician qualified to diagnose anxiety disorders in children and adolescents will typically gather information from parents, schools and the child’s pediatrician to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Because symptoms in children differ from those in adults, a thoughtful, collaborative approach is essential.

What Are the Signs of Anxiety in Children and Adolescents?

Anxiety disorders in youth can lead to:

• Academic performance issues
• Struggles with family or peer relationships
• Behavioral challenges at home or school
• Avoidance of social or school activities
• Low self-esteem
• Sadness or mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Persistent worry or fear
• Avoidant behavior
• Physical symptoms to include headaches and nausea

*Anxiety is sometimes misidentified as ADHD, mood disorders or learning disabilities. That’s why it’s important to consult with a provider experienced in treating anxiety disorders in children and adolescents who can provide a complete psychiatric evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

What Are the Goals of Treating Pediatric Anxiety?

The goals of anxiety treatment in children and adolescents should be individualized but often include:

• Minimizing excessive or disruptive anxiety
• Identifying a “hierarchy of worries”
• Connecting one’s thoughts to one’s feelings and subsequent behaviors
• Reframing worrisome thoughts
• Boosting self-confidence
• Improving academic and social functioning
• Reducing avoidant behaviors
• Enhancing long-term mental wellness and resilience

Why Early Treatment for Childhood Anxiety Matters

Untreated anxiety can continue into adulthood, potentially impacting a child’s educational path, job opportunities and relationships. Early intervention can support self-esteem and prevent co-occurring conditions like depression or substance use disorders. Anxiety is treatable, and starting care early is key to long-term success.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Effective treatment for anxiety in children and adolescents often involves a customized plan developed by a skilled mental health professional. This may include:

• School accommodations like 504 or IEP plans
• Coordination with schools and pediatricians
• Evidence-based therapy like CBT, relaxation training and emotional regulation skills
• Medication management tailored by a fellowship-trained, board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in pediatric mental health, who discusses risks and benefits to determine the best evidence-based treatment options for each young person

Why Choose Fine Tune Psychiatry for Pediatric Anxiety Care?

At Fine Tune Psychiatry, our fellowship-trained, board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners with pediatric experience specialize in diagnosing and treating anxiety in young people. Many of our clinicians are affiliated with prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Pennsylvania and bring academic expertise and associated evidence-based care as well as empathy and compassion to each patient interaction.

• Expert Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
• Clinicians with academic backgrounds and teaching experience at institutions such as Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania, Tufts Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and other leading institutions
• Appointments typically available within 2-3 weeks
• Convenient in-office and online options for children and adolescents
• Treatment for co-occurring psychiatric conditions
• Holistic care approach—addressing the whole child, not just the diagnosis
• Collaboration with your child’s other healthcare providers
• 60-minute initial sessions and 20 to 30-minute follow-ups
• Most major insurance plans accepted

For more information, visit our Child & Adolescent Psychiatry page.