SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions)

SPACE treatment is a structured, evidence-based intervention designed to help parents support their children with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It was developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at the Yale Child Study Center and is unique in that it focuses exclusively on parental behaviors and interactions rather than direct therapy with the child. 

 

Many parents of children with anxiety or OCD may feel unsure about how to respond to their child’s distress, often engaging in accommodating behaviors to ease their child’s discomfort. While well-intentioned, these accommodations can unintentionally reinforce the child’s anxiety, making it harder for them to develop the coping skills they need to thrive.

 

What is SPACE Treatment?

SPACE is unique because it focuses entirely on empowering parents and caregivers, rather than directly involving the child in therapy. Through SPACE, parents learn:

 

• How to reduce accommodating behaviors that maintain anxiety or OCD.

• Ways to set clear and supportive boundaries.

• Strategies to communicate confidence and encouragement to their child.

• Techniques to address their own feelings of guilt, fear, or uncertainty related to their child’s struggles.

 

 

By making targeted changes in their own responses, parents can help create an environment where their child feels safe to face challenges, build resilience, and reduce anxiety symptoms.

 

Why Choose SPACE?

Research has shown that SPACE is as effective as traditional child-focused therapy in reducing anxiety and OCD symptoms. It also helps strengthen the parent-child relationship by fostering trust and open communication. This approach is especially helpful for families where a child may be unwilling to participate in therapy or when parents want to take a more active role in the treatment process.

 

How SPACE Treatment Works

Our trained SPACE providers work closely with parents in a supportive and collaborative process. Treatment typically involves 12-15 weekly sessions where caregivers will:

 

1. Identify specific accommodations they’re making for their child’s anxiety or OCD.

2. Learn alternative supportive responses that encourage independence and growth.

3. Practice implementing these strategies, with guidance and feedback from the therapist.

​

Parents often report feeling empowered, confident, and more connected to their child after completing the SPACE program.

 

Is SPACE Right for Your Family?

If your family is navigating the challenges of childhood anxiety or OCD, SPACE treatment could be the perfect fit for you. This compassionate and practical approach not only helps children overcome their struggles but also equips parents with lifelong tools to support their child’s mental health.

 

You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Let us support you in creating a path to peace and resilience for your child and your family. At CHI, our trained clinicians are here to help your family thrive. If you’d like to learn more about SPACE or schedule a consultation, please contact us.​