| Free psychological treatment offered for kids who are very scared of dogs |
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Anxiety disorders are among the most common problems experienced by kids, affecting up to 5% of young people at any one time. One of the most common anxiety problems kids experience is a fear of dogs (a “dog phobia”). Although dog phobia is irrational, it can cause real problems and distress for a child.
For example, they may be too frightened to walk down a street where they think there is a dog, or too scared to visit a friend’s home where there is a dog. This fear can also cause problems for dog owners, as they may have to reassure kids who are upset around their dog. Dog phobia can be very upsetting for a child, however, it can also be treated quickly and effectively.
Effective treatment for childhood phobias involves helping a child gradually “face their fear” (i.e. graded exposure therapy). For example, a psychologist may encourage the child who is scared of dogs to gradually get used to being around real dogs until they are no longer fearful. Researchers at Macquarie University’s Centre for Emotional Health have been researching and treating kids with anxiety disorders since 1965. They are currently conducting a treatment trial for kids who are very frightened of dogs and inviting member from dogs NSW to become involved.
If you are a parent of a child who could benefit from this treatment, or you know a parent that could, please contact Mr Simon Byrne (contact details below). The parent would need to bring their daughter or son to the Emotional Health Clinic at Macquarie University for a four hour treatment and follow-up session. The researchers are trialling a promising new medical treatment for anxiety. We are specifically looking for kids who are:
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