Separation anxiety therapy · Atlanta & virtual
Separation anxiety therapy for kids and families
When drop-offs end in tears, bedtime takes hours, or your child can't let you out of sight, everyone in the family feels it. Separation anxiety is one of the most common childhood anxiety problems, and it's very treatable. We use CBT with gradual exposure and SPACE parent coaching, in person in Atlanta and virtually.
Who we see
Kids, teens & parents
Approach
CBT, exposure & SPACE
Sessions
In person or virtual
Location
Atlanta, GA
Signs of separation anxiety
Some worry about being apart is normal, especially for younger kids. It becomes separation anxiety when the fear is intense, lasts for weeks, and starts to limit your child's or your family's life.
Your child isn't being manipulative or dramatic. The fear feels real and urgent to them, and with the right support, kids learn they can handle being apart.
How separation anxiety grows
When a child panics at the thought of being apart, loving parents naturally step in: staying a little longer, skipping the sleepover, answering the worried text right away. This is called accommodation, and nearly every family does it.
Accommodation brings quick relief, but it also teaches a child's brain that separation is dangerous and that they can't cope without you. Treatment helps the whole family step back gradually and kindly.
- 1A separation ahead. Drop-off, bedtime, a babysitter, or a parent leaving for work.
- 2Fear and distress. Crying, clinging, physical complaints, or "what if something happens to you?"
- 3Avoidance or accommodation. Staying home, staying close, or a parent changing plans.
- 4Quick relief. Everyone calms down, for now.
- ↻The fear grows. The next separation feels even harder, and the family adapts again.
How we treat it
CBT, gradual practice, and SPACE for parents
Kids learn to face separations in small, manageable steps and discover they can cope. Parents learn how to respond with warmth and confidence while stepping back from accommodation, often using SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions).
01
Family consultation
We learn about your child's fears, your routines, and what separations are hardest.
02
A step-by-step plan
Together we build a ladder of separations, from easiest to hardest.
03
Brave practice
Your child practices each step with support, building confidence along the way.
04
Parent coaching
Practical ways to support your child without accommodating the anxiety.
Who we help
Separation anxiety therapy can help if:
Young children
Your child struggles with drop-offs, bedtime, or being with other caregivers.
School-age kids and teens
Worry about being apart is affecting school attendance, sleepovers, camps, or activities.
Parents
You want guidance on how to help, whether or not your child is ready to come to therapy. SPACE works directly with parents.
How parents can help
Small changes at home make a big difference. A few places to start:
Keep goodbyes short and warm
A quick, confident goodbye is easier on kids than a long, drawn-out one. Avoid sneaking away.
Show confidence in your child
Let your child know you believe they can handle it, even when they feel scared.
Step back gradually
Make small changes over time rather than all at once, and notice brave behavior when it happens.
Common questions
Is separation anxiety normal?
Some separation worry is a normal part of development, especially in toddlers and preschoolers. It's worth getting help when the fear is intense, lasts several weeks, or gets in the way of school, sleep, or family life.
Can older kids and teens have separation anxiety?
Yes. It can show up at any age, sometimes after a move, a new school, an illness, or a stressful family change. In teens it may look like refusing to go out or constantly checking in with parents.
What is SPACE?
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is an evidence-based program that works with parents. You learn to respond to anxiety with support and confidence while gradually reducing accommodation. It can help even if your child isn't in therapy.
My child refuses to go to school. Can you help?
Yes. School refusal is often driven by separation anxiety. With your permission, we can also coordinate with teachers and school staff on a gradual plan.
Will I have to face my worst fears right away?
No. Treatment is gradual. You and your clinician build a plan together and work up step by step, at a pace that's challenging but manageable.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. We see clients in person at our Atlanta office and virtually.
How do I get started?
Fill out our short New Patient Screener Form and we'll reach out within 24–48 hours to schedule your free consultation. You can also call us at (404) 462-5533.
Help your child feel brave apart
Start with a short screener, and we'll follow up to set up your consultation.
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