Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE)
Helping Parents More Effectively Help Their Children
When a child struggles with anxiety, OCD, or related challenges, the whole family feels it. As a parent, you may feel torn between wanting to rescue your child from their distress and worrying that your efforts aren’t all that effective and/or sustainable over time. You’re not alone—and there’s support available.
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is a research-based treatment developed at Yale University that empowers parents to take an active role in supporting your child with managing their anxiety. Unlike traditional therapy, SPACE works with the parents, not the child. Parents meet with a trained therapist to learn practical tools and strategies that support the entire family system.
What You’ll Gain Through SPACE
- Confidence: Learn how to respond to your child’s anxiety in supportive, more effective ways
- Clarity: Identify and gradually reduce accommodations that unintentionally reinforce anxiety/OCD
- Connection: Strengthen your relationship with your child through empathy and encouragement
How It Works
- Parents attend weekly sessions with the therapist
- A personalized plan is collaboratively created to support your child/family
- Small changes in your responses/behaviors lead to meaningful improvements in your child’s ability to manage anxiety
Is SPACE Right for Your Family?
If your child:
- is suffering from anxiety/OCD
- demonstrates avoidant behaviors (i.e. avoids school, social activities/events, etc.)
- resists trying new things and/or meeting new people
- OR often feels overwhelmed...
SPACE may be a great fit!