Attacking Anxiety

Drawing on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), this book sets out a clear, enjoyable, step-by-step approach for addressing the sorts of anxieties, fears and phobias that are so common in children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and related challenges.Using this easy-to-follow model, parents and professionals will have the tools they need to help children and teens cope with and sometimes overcome anxieties caused by everyday occurrences. The book covers seven common scenarios, from fears of environmental sounds and visiting the doctor or dentist, to anxieties around transitions, changes to schedules and an intolerance for making mistakes. The model can be adapted to suit almost any anxiety or phobia and is ideal for use at home, at school and in clinical settings where it can be integrated into a variety of treatment approaches and styles.Designed to help parents of children with autism spectrum disorders and the teachers and therapists who work with them, this book is an excellent resource for successfully alleviating many of the anxieties and phobias that interfere with life enjoyment, not only for the child but for the entire family.

Preface. 1. What is a Phobia and How do Phobias Evolve Over Time? 2. Overview of Phobia Treatment. 3. Gradual Exposure, Humor and Interactive play. 4. The 4-Step Treatment Model. 5. Treating Sophia's Phobia of Thunderstorms and Bugs. 6. Treating Will's Phobia of Environmental Sounds, including Flushing Toilets, Hand Dryers and Vacuum Cleaners. 7. Treating Michael's Phobia of Injections and Blood Draws. 8. Treating Jacob's Phobia about Losing Games and Not Being First. 9. Treating Li's Phobia of Clowns, Mascots and People in Costumes. 10. Treating Jordan's Phobia about Being Late and Making Mistakes. 11. Collaborating with Other Professionals. Appendix. Unbundling Phobias: Idea List.