Helping Parents Support Children With Anxiety & OCD
If your child or adolescent struggles with anxiety or OCD, you’ve probably tried everything to make things better: reassurance, avoiding triggers, changing routines — and yet the anxiety still calls the shots.
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is a parent-focused evidence-based program developed by Eli Lebowitz, PhD, at Yale’s Child Study Center. SPACE guides parents in making key changes in their own behavior that lead to a reduction in their child’s anxiety—while supporting a healthier Family dynamic.
How SPACE Works
Instead of trying to “fix” your child’s anxiety or ocd directly, SPACE focuses on what’s in your control — your own responses. By changing the way you support your child with anxiety, you help them become more resilient and confident. It’s empowering, practical and effective.
With SPACE, you will:
Learn how anxiety takes hold in family dynamics
Identify accommodations that keep anxiety cycles spinning
Build new communication and response skills
Help your child face fears safely and independently
What to Expect WITH SPACE:
Typically 8–12 weekly sessions
One-on-one parent meetings (no child participation needed)
Worksheets, scripts and between-session support when needed
SPACE isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing differently. With the right tools, you can reduce anxiety’s control and build a calmer, more ADAPTIVE family life.