Childhood Anxiety and Phobias Management
Turning Worry Into Confidence — One Step at a Time
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we understand that childhood is meant to be a time of curiosity and connection — but for some children, fear takes up too much space.
Whether it’s fear of being away from parents, constant worry about mistakes, or
intense reactions to certain places or things, anxiety can hold children back in school, friendships, and everyday life.
Our child psychology team gently helps children manage fear, understand their thoughts, and feel more secure. We offer this care in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Is Childhood Anxiety?
Anxiety is more than occasional nervousness — it’s persistent worry or fear that interferes with daily functioning.
Children may experience:
- Generalized anxiety (worrying about many things)
- Separation anxiety (fear of being away from loved ones)
- Selective Mutism (Feeling unable to speak, Preferring to use widely understood sounds (such as “uh-uh” for “no” and “uh-huh” for yes) or other noises instead of words)
- Social anxiety (fear of being judged or embarrassed)
- Phobias (strong fears of specific objects, places, or events)
- Panic symptoms (racing heart, breathlessness, dizziness)
These feelings are real, and with the right support, they are also manageable.
When Should You Seek Help for Anxiety or Phobias?
Consider therapy if your child:
- Cries or panics at school drop-off
- Worries excessively, even when reassured
- Avoids social or new situations due to fear
- Shows physical signs of anxiety (tummy aches, nausea, sleep issues)
- Can’t seem to “shake off” certain fears or obsessions
- Becomes very upset by changes in plans or routines
You don’t have to wait for a crisis — small signs are worth noticing early.
How We Support Children With Anxiety
Our step-by-step approach includes:
- Parent and Child Intake Session: We explore the fears, their history, and how they impact daily life.
- Gentle Emotional Observation: Through conversation and play, we assess thought patterns, triggers, and emotional regulation.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Tools: We teach children to recognize anxious thoughts and replace them with helpful ones.
- Gradual Exposure Planning (for phobias): We guide children in facing fears — at their own pace — in a safe, structured way.
- Parent Guidance and Home Strategies: You’ll learn how to respond supportively without reinforcing fear.
We don’t push children through fear — we walk alongside them with confidence and calm.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Child psychologists skilled in CBT and anxiety management
- Gentle, age-appropriate techniques that empower children
- Practical tools families can use at home and school
- Support for both children and parents throughout the process
- Clinics in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
Because childhood shouldn’t feel scary — and we can help make it feel safe again.
Dr. Dolly Habbal
Consultant Psychologist – PhD in Clinical Psychology
Dr. Deiaaeldin Adel Hosny
Consultant Clinical Psychologist – American Psychology Association & British Psychological Society
No Doctors found! with ID: 12483
When Worry Gets in the Way of Growing Up — We’re Here to Help Make It Easier
We provide a full assessment profile for all Anxiety Spectrum Disorders, with a clinical report and intervention psychotherapeutic plan.
If anxiety is limiting your child’s joy or confidence, it’s time to explore new ways forward — together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes — but if fear disrupts daily life, causes distress, or persists, support may help.
Only when they’re ready. We move at your child’s pace using proven, compassionate methods.
Absolutely. It can impact focus, participation, and confidence.
Yes. These are common concerns, and we guide families through them gently.
It varies — some children benefit in a few sessions, others need longer-term support.