SPACE Therapy for Child Anxiety in Naples, Florida and online (PSYPACT states)

"SPACE Therapy for Anxious Childhood Emotions: A Parent-Focused Approach"

SPACE Therapy (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) at Naples Behavioral Pediatric Therapy is a parent-focused, evidence-based therapy designed to reduce child anxiety, improve independence, and strengthen family relationships. This therapy is available both in person and online in PSYPACT states.

SPACE Therapy in Naples, Florida

Dr. Sonya Bhatia offers SPACE Therapy, an evidence-based, parent-focused treatment aimed at helping children and adolescents overcome anxiety without requiring the child to attend therapy sessions. Developed by experts in pediatric anxiety, SPACE Therapy teaches parents practical strategies to reduce their child’s anxiety, increase independence, and foster emotional resilience. Research has demonstrated that SPACE is as effective as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for decreasing child anxiety and OCD. Learn more about the research supporting SPACE.

How Does SPACE Work?

SPACE is designed to help parents:

• Respond effectively to child anxiety

• Encourage coping and independence

• Reduce family stress related to anxiety

  
  

This structured program is ideal for children and adolescents struggling with:

• Separation anxiety

• Social anxiety

• School refusal

• Generalized anxiety

• Other anxiety-related challenges

  
  

How SPACE Therapy Works

Parent-Only Sessions

Instead of placing pressure on children to attend sessions, SPACE teaches parents practical strategies to respond differently to anxiety and reduce accommodations that unintentionally reinforce symptoms. Parents participate in weekly sessions to learn strategies to manage anxiety at home.

Structured Program

Typically delivered over 8-12 weekly sessions, with the option for additional follow-ups as needed. The program will teach parents how to:

• Identify Accommodations: During the program, parents learn how to identify ways the family might be adjusting routines to avoid child anxiety (e.g., child sleeps with parents in their room, avoiding or skipping activities).

• Engage in Step-by-Step Change: Parents learn how to support their child with warmth and confidence while gradually reducing accommodations.

• Build Sustainable Skills: Families leave with practical tools that continue to support long-term independence and resilience.

  
  

No Child Involvement

Children do not participate; the focus is on guiding parents to foster change. Children can, but do not have to, participate in individual therapy while their parents are participating in SPACE.

Individualized Guidance

Sessions are tailored to your child’s unique needs and family dynamics.

Why Choose SPACE Therapy?

• Evidence-based: Backed by extensive clinical research.

• Parent-focused: Works even when children are reluctant to attend therapy.

• Flexible: Can be used alone or alongside child-focused therapy (like CBT).

• Effective: Shown to reduce child anxiety and improve family functioning.

  
  

What to Expect at Naples Behavioral Pediatric Therapy

• You’ll meet directly with Dr. Sonya Bhatia, a child psychologist trained in the SPACE model, in person or online via telehealth.

• Sessions will be collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your child’s unique needs.

• You’ll gain confidence in responding to anxiety without reinforcing avoidance.

• Your child benefits—even if they never step foot in the therapy room.

  
  

Benefits of SPACE Therapy

SPACE Therapy empowers parents with skills to help manage child anxiety. It reduces child and adolescent anxiety while increasing independence and confidence. Moreover, it improves parent-child relationships and provides a time-limited, focused treatment approach.

SPACE Therapy can be especially helpful when a child or adolescent cannot or will not participate in therapy (e.g., due to their own scheduling restraints, therapy refusal, etc.). For some children, SPACE is the only way they will receive the evidence-based support they need to manage anxiety.

SPACE Therapy can be conducted with parents in person in Naples, Florida, or online via a secure telehealth connection. It is ideal for families seeking a parent-focused, evidence-based solution for childhood and adolescent anxiety. Parents learn skills to empower their child while reducing stress at home.

Frequently Asked Questions about SPACE Therapy

Is SPACE Therapy the Right Fit for My Child?

SPACE Therapy may be the right fit if:

• Your child struggles with anxiety, OCD, or phobias.

• Your child is resistant to attending therapy sessions or cannot attend for another reason (e.g., scheduling conflicts, high-conflict divorce).

• Family life is significantly impacted by accommodations (like avoiding social activities, school refusal, or bedtime struggles).

• You want an active role in treatment that empowers you as a parent.

  
  

What Age is SPACE Therapy Best For?

SPACE is effective for children, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with anxiety or OCD.

Does My Child Need to Attend Sessions?

No. SPACE is designed for parents. The skills you learn will directly help your child.

How Long Does SPACE Therapy Take?

Treatment typically lasts 12 sessions, though the length may vary depending on your child’s needs.

Can SPACE Be Combined with Other Therapies?

Yes. SPACE can be offered as a stand-alone treatment or alongside CBT, exposure therapy, or medication management.

What If My Child Refuses Therapy?

SPACE is ideal for children who cannot or will not attend therapy—parents can still create meaningful change.

I Am Divorced or Separated from My Child's Other Parent. Can I Still Participate in SPACE Therapy?

Yes, absolutely! SPACE Therapy can be effective even if it is implemented in only one home or with one parent.

Get Started with SPACE Therapy in Naples, Florida, or Online in PSYPACT States

Parents are powerful agents of change for children. SPACE Therapy equips you with proven tools to support your child’s emotional health and independence. Call Naples Behavioral Pediatric Therapy today at 239-922-1440 or complete the contact form to request an appointment or learn more about SPACE Therapy.

Together, we can help your child feel less anxious and more confident—while strengthening your family’s resilience.