Anxious children will typically avoid anything that makes them feel anxious – including acknowledging or discussing their anxiety or difficulties talking. This is not a reason to avoid talking about it, as their anxiety is likely to worsen over time. Children need support to learn to understand and talk about their anxiety and other feelings in order to manage them. Although this may be difficult for them and you, wIth time and support from the psychologist, your child’s distress will gradually lessen and they will find it helpful to talk about their worries. During the first session which only the parents attend, the psychologist can talk with you about how to best explain treatment to your child, and why they will be attending.