How to Bend but Not Break an Empirically Supported Treatment for Anxiety in Youth

Abstract

This chapter addresses the treatment of youth anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for youth anxiety, as illustrated by the Coping Cat program, is implemented flexibly based on considerations including age/developmental level, co-occurring disorders, socioeconomic status, and cultural factors to enhance outcomes. For fidelity, the program adheres to key components: building rapport, providing psychoeducation about anxiety, addressing anxious self-talk, conducting exposures, assigning homework, and providing rewards/praise. The essential components, however, are applied with flexibility. Ultimately, research is needed to evaluate strategies to increase continued fidelity to the core components of treatment. Peer consultation and supervision may be valuable for maintaining fidelity while flexibly applying the program to a specific client.