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Separation anxiety occurs when distress arises around separation from a primary caregiver or attachment figure. While some level of separation anxiety is developmentally appropriate, particularly in young children, it can become challenging when the distress is intense, prolonged, or interferes with daily life.
Separation anxiety is rooted in attachment and the need for safety. It reflects a child’s difficulty tolerating separation, uncertainty, or perceived threat when away from a trusted caregiver.
Separation anxiety may present as:
Separation anxiety looks different for each child and may fluctuate depending on stress, developmental stage, or changes in routine.
Separation anxiety is most commonly seen in early childhood, but it can also affect older children and adolescents. Families may notice:
For some children, separation anxiety may emerge or intensify after changes such as starting school, moving house, family stress, or illness.
At Chrysalis Psychology & Wellbeing, we work to understand what is driving the anxiety and support children to feel safer and more confident during separations.
In adolescents, separation anxiety may be less visible but still deeply distressing. It can show up as:
We provide a respectful, collaborative approach that helps adolescents build independence while maintaining emotional security.
Our approach is evidence-informed, gentle, and practical. Support may include:
Understanding anxiety patterns
Helping children and families understand how anxiety works and what maintains separation fears.
Building emotional regulation skills
Teaching strategies to manage anxiety and tolerate distress during separations.
Gradual exposure and confidence building
Supporting children to face separations in a paced, supportive way that builds confidence over time.
Strengthening attachment and safety
Helping caregivers respond in ways that promote security without reinforcing anxiety.
Parent and caregiver guidance
Providing clear, practical strategies to support consistency and confidence at home and during transitions.
Collaboration with schools or childcare
Offering strategies to support smooth separations in educational settings.
The first session focuses on understanding the child’s anxiety, family context, and daily routines. Together we develop a plan that feels manageable and supportive. Intervention may involve cognitive behavioural strategies, emotional regulation work, parent coaching, and gradual exposure approaches.
Support at Chrysalis Psychology & Wellbeing is tailored to the child’s developmental stage and family needs.
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