01/09/2026
Back to school anxiety isn’t always just “a few nerves”
For some children and teenagers, going back to school can feel really overwhelming.
When a child comes to see me, I don’t expect them to sit down and immediately start talking about their feelings. First, I get to know them and help them feel comfortable.
That might be through Lego, games, Minecraft colouring, drawing or simply chatting about whatever they’re into. With teenagers, I keep things relaxed so it doesn’t feel awkward or like an interrogation!
Once they feel safe with me, we can gently start to understand what’s behind their anxiety, make sense of their emotions and find tools that might help when things feel too much.
Sometimes they just need somewhere they can be themselves and talk without any pressure.
That’s always where I start.
Rebecca 🌿
Willow Therapies