The return to school can bring excitement, anticipation -- and for many children, a whole lot of anxiety. In this episode, Tammy and Jen, with co-host AJ, talk about back-to-school anxiety and school avoidance, exploring what may be underneath a child's reluctance to attend school and how parents and caregivers can respond with compassion while still encouraging connection and partipation.

Jen and Tammy discuss the difference between typical back-to-school nerves and anxiety that begins to interfere with a child's daily life, including signs such as stomachaches, headaches, sleep difficulties, meltdowns, reassurance seeking and avoiding or refusing school.

Tammy and Jen also explore how avoidance can unintentionally reinforce anxiety, and why supporting a child doesn't mean removing every uncomfortable feeling or allowing anxiety to make all the decisions. Instead, children benefit from feeling heard and validated while being gently supported to face what feels difficult, one step at a time.

Join Jen and Tammy for a compassionate conversation about anxiety, nervous systems, parenting, school relationships and practical ways we can help children feel safe, supported and capable as they head back to school.

In this episode of Two Therapists, One Couch, Jen and Tammy, with moderator AJ, talk about something many families experience as summer comes to an end: back-to-school anxiety.

Together, they explore what anxiety can look like in children and youth, and why transitions can feel overwhelming, and how parents and caregivers can support their children without minimizing their worries. They share practical, compassionate strategies for helping kids feel more prepared, connected and confident as they return to school -- while also recognizing the emotions parents may be carryig themselves.

A conversation about anxiety, connection, and reminding our kids: you don't have to feel completely calm to know that you can cope. ❤️

We will explore the stories, relationships, experiences, emotions and life moments that bring us through the therapy door. Because therapy isn't just about what's "wrong" with us -- it's about understanding ourselves, healing, growing, and sometimes simply needing a safe place to land. 

Join us as we talk therapy from both sides of the couch -- with curiosity, compassion, and a whole lot of real life. 

Because sometimes the people who help others heal are still doing their own healing too 🤍