Understanding Separation Anxiety

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based, neuro-affirming therapy for separation anxiety in children, adolescents and adults across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney.

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Separation anxiety involves an intense fear or distress about being apart from a parent, caregiver, partner or other important attachment figure. While it is often associated with children, separation anxiety can also affect adolescents and adults, particularly during times of stress, transition, or change. It can affect school attendance, relationships, work, confidence, and everyday life.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

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Signs of separation anxiety may include:

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• distress when separating from a parent, caregiver, partner, or loved one

• excessive worry about something happening to an important person

• fear of being away from home or alone

• school avoidance

• difficulty sleeping alone

• frequent reassurance-seeking

• panic symptoms during separation

• avoiding time away from loved ones

• physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or stomach aches

• clinginess or difficulty with independence

 

What Can Contribute to Separation Anxiety

 

Separation anxiety can develop for a range of reasons. It may be linked to anxiety, attachment, trauma, grief, or major life transitions. It can also become more noticeable during times of uncertainty, such as starting school, changing schools, relationship breakdowns, or moving away from home.

 

Therapy for Separation Anxiety

 

Therapy for separation anxiety focuses on understanding the thoughts, emotions, and experiences that may be contributing to fear and avoidance. Counselling can help people manage anxiety, feel more confident when apart from important people, and develop practical strategies.

 

Evidence-Based Therapies for Separation Anxiety

 

Our clinicians draw on a range of evidence-based therapies depending on each person’s needs, goals, and stage of life. These may include:

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• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Mindfulness-based strategies

• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

• Play and Art Therapy

 

Separation Anxiety Counselling in Menai and Surrounding Areas

 

We provide separation anxiety counselling for children, adolescents and adults across the Sutherland Shire, including Menai, Bangor, Illawong, Alfords Point, Barden Ridge, Engadine, Woronora Heights, Sylvania, Kirrawee, Gymea, Miranda, and Caringbah.

 

Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice or online across Sydney.

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.