Helping young people in Sarasota, FL overcome anxiety through evidence-based therapy. Christine Murawski, M.A., LMHC provides compassionate, personalized anxiety treatment for children, teens, and young adults.
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges facing young people today. At Therapy SRQ in Sarasota and Venice, FL, we specialize in helping children, teenagers, and young adults manage anxiety through proven therapeutic techniques. Christine Murawski, M.A., LMHC brings years of experience working with young people to create personalized treatment plans that address each individual’s unique needs.
Anxiety can manifest in many ways in children and teens. You may notice excessive worrying about school, friendships, or family situations. In fact, physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, and difficulty sleeping are common. Some children become avoidant, refusing to attend school or participate in social activities. Others may experience panic attacks, perfectionism, or constant need for reassurance.
Therefore, recognizing these signs early allows for timely intervention and better outcomes. Common signs of anxiety in young people include:
At Therapy SRQ, we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure techniques, mindfulness practices, and Play Therapy for younger children to help manage anxiety. Our approach teaches young people to identify anxious thoughts, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and develop practical coping skills they can use in their daily lives.
Additionally, we work collaboratively with parents and families to create a supportive environment that reinforces progress made in therapy sessions. As a result, our evidence-based treatment approach has helped many families in Sarasota, Venice, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and surrounding communities.
Specifically, our therapy practice in Sarasota and Venice treats a range of anxiety-related conditions. The following ICD-10 diagnostic codes represent conditions commonly addressed in our anxiety therapy program:
In addition, accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Our licensed therapist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best course of anxiety therapy for your child or teen.
How common is anxiety in children and teens?
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions affecting young people. According to the CDC, approximately 9.4% of children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with anxiety. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that anxiety disorders often develop during childhood or adolescence and can significantly impact daily functioning if left untreated. Early intervention with a qualified therapist in Sarasota or Venice can make a significant difference in outcomes.
What does anxiety therapy look like for a child?
Therapy sessions are tailored to your child’s age and developmental stage. For younger children, our therapist may use play-based approaches and creative activities to help them express and understand their feelings. Older children and teens typically engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which the American Psychological Association recognizes as one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Sessions at our Sarasota and Venice offices are designed to be engaging and supportive rather than intimidating.
When should we seek professional help for anxiety?
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) recommends seeking professional help when anxiety interferes with your child’s ability to participate in everyday activities, attend school, make friends, or enjoy life. If your child’s worry seems excessive compared to the situation, or if physical symptoms like stomachaches and headaches occur frequently, a consultation with a therapist can provide clarity and direction.
How long does anxiety therapy typically last?
The duration of therapy varies depending on the severity of anxiety and your child’s individual needs. Many children show improvement within 8 to 16 sessions when using evidence-based approaches like CBT. The Child Mind Institute emphasizes that early intervention typically leads to faster progress and better long-term outcomes. Our Sarasota therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment timeline.
Anxiety does not have to control your child’s life. Therapy SRQ serves families in Sarasota, Venice, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, North Port, and Osprey.
Therapy SRQ provides anxiety therapy for children, teens, and young adults throughout the Suncoast region. Our offices in Sarasota and Venice, FL serve families from Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, North Port, Osprey, Nokomis, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and surrounding Sarasota and Manatee County communities. We are committed to making quality mental health care accessible to families in our community.