S2E28 – Managing Separation Anxiety: Setting Clear Limits and Choices

Nov 11, 2024

In this episode of the Play Therapy Parenting Podcast, I answer a question from Cindy about managing her five-year-old daughter’s intense separation anxiety and big emotions. Cindy describes her daughter’s attachment to her as a “safe person,” especially at home, where her anxiety becomes more unmanageable. I discuss strategies that can support Cindy’s daughter, including reflecting her feelings to help build emotional vocabulary and setting clear limits with choices, which empowers Cindy’s daughter to handle situations more independently.

I also suggest a gradual approach to creating separation expectations, using a specific target date and providing choices for how Cindy’s daughter can respond. This strategy encourages self-regulation and reinforces her sense of security. By combining these techniques with her ongoing play therapy, Cindy can help her daughter develop resilience and confidence in her ability to manage her emotions.

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References:
Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley.
VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press.
Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship (2nd ed.). Brunner-Routledge.
Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.
Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

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