Support for School Refusal
at Evolving Minds Counselling

School refusal occurs when a child or adolescent experiences significant emotional distress about going to school. This distress may result in frequent absences, difficulty remaining in class, or complete school avoidance. Unlike truancy, school refusal is driven by underlying psychological or emotional challenges, not by defiance or disinterest in learning.

​

It is most commonly linked to anxiety, particularly separation anxiety and social anxiety, as well as bullying, peer difficulties, academic pressure, learning challenges, or perfectionism.

 

Some children and adolescents become so fearful of making mistakes, being judged, or not meeting expectations that attending school feels unbearable. For others, the school environment may feel unsafe, unpredictable, or overwhelming.

 

At Evolving Minds Counselling, we work with children, adolescents, and families to address the causes of school refusal in a compassionate and structured way. Using evidence based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, and parent coaching, our clinicians help children and young people manage anxiety, develop emotional regulation skills, and gradually rebuild a sense of safety and confidence in the school setting.

​

We take a systemic approach, collaborating with schools, teachers, and other support professionals to ensure your child is receiving consistent and coordinated care. This integrated support helps to reduce stress, improve communication, and create a plan that is tailored to your child’s developmental, emotional, and educational needs.

​

Contact Evolving Minds Counselling on (02) 8519 4197 or click below to book an appointment.