Emotional Regulation & Anxiety

Support that helps the nervous system feel safer.

 

Anxiety doesn’t always look like worry. In children and teens, it can show up as anger, avoidance, shutdown, or physical symptoms that are hard to explain.

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At New Leaf Therapy, concerns related to emotional regulation and anxiety are supported through individual therapy and parent support sessions, with an emphasis on helping the nervous system feel safer before asking for change.

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Rather than pushing young people to “calm down,” therapy focuses on understanding what their emotions are communicating.

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Who this support is for

 

This work may be helpful for:

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• Children and teens experiencing anxiety or overwhelm

• Youth who struggle with big emotions or shutdown

• Neurodivergent individuals navigating regulation challenges

• Parents seeking more effective ways to respond

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Anxiety can exist on its own or alongside ADHD, autism, or other stressors.

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How anxiety and regulation challenges often show up

 

Anxiety and emotional dysregulation may appear as:

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• Irritability or anger

• Avoidance of school or social situations

• Physical symptoms (stomach aches, headaches, fatigue)

• Difficulty sleeping

• Meltdowns or withdrawal

• A constant sense of being “on edge”

 

These responses are not intentional misbehaviour. They are protective responses from a nervous system under strain.

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A nervous-system-informed approach

 

Sam’s work prioritizes regulation and safety. Therapy helps young people build awareness of their emotional and physical signals and develop tools that support steadier regulation over time.

 

This may include:

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• Learning to identify emotional cues

• Building coping strategies that actually fit the individual

• Reducing overwhelm and internal pressure

• Supporting self-compassion and resilience

• Creating a sense of predictability and trust

 

The goal is not to eliminate anxiety, but to make it more manageable.

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Supporting parents in moments of intensity

 

Parent support sessions help caregivers:

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• Respond to anxiety without escalating it

• Understand emotional responses through a nervous system lens

• Reduce cycles of reactivity and repair ruptures

• Support regulation at home and in daily routines

• Feel more confident during difficult moments

 

Small changes in response can lead to meaningful shifts over time.

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What progress can look like

 

Progress may include:

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• Fewer emotional explosions or shutdowns

• Improved communication of feelings

• Greater confidence navigating stress

• A calmer home environment

• Stronger trust between parent and child

 

These changes happen gradually (and sustainably).

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Taking the next step

 

If anxiety or emotional regulation challenges are affecting your child or family, support is available.

If you’re curious whether this approach might be a good fit, you’re welcome to reach out.

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