School Refusal Treatment in Chicagoland
School refusal, also known as school avoidance or school phobia, is a condition where a child or adolescent consistently refuses to go to school or has extreme difficulty attending school due to emotional distress or anxiety related to school-related activities.
Signs & Symptoms of SCHOOL REFUSAL
- Frequent complaints of physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or nausea, particularly on school days.
- Persistent refusal or reluctance to go to school, often accompanied by pleading, crying, or tantrums.
- Excessive worry or anxiety
- Avoidance of school-related activities: Such as homework, tests, or extracurricular activities, even when at home.
- Avoiding interactions with peers or teachers, or displaying signs of social isolation.
- Decline in academic performance
- Changes in behavior at home
- Difficulty sleeping
- Physical symptoms worsen on school days
Treatment Options
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
- It helps students understand and change negative thought patterns.
Family Therapy:
- Involves family members to address dynamics that may contribute to the school refusal.
Individual Counseling:
- Personalized sessions focusing on the child's specific issues and coping strategies.
Help Manage Their School Refusal
With support from our expert providers you can go…
1. From avoidance to attendance:
Through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and gradual exposure techniques, an individual can transition from avoiding school due to anxiety or other underlying issues to regularly attending classes and actively participating in school activities.
2. From academic struggles to success:
With the support of educational accommodations and tutoring, a person can move from falling behind academically due to school refusal to achieving success in their studies and feeling more confident in their abilities.
3. From social isolation to social engagement:
Through social skills training and involvement in extracurricular activities, someone can go from isolating themselves from peers due to school refusal to developing positive social relationships and enjoying social interactions at school.
4. From emotional distress to emotional regulation:
By learning coping skills and receiving therapeutic support, an individual can transition from experiencing overwhelming emotions such as fear or sadness related to school to managing their emotions effectively and feeling more in control of their mental health.
5. From family conflict to family support:
Through family therapy and open communication, a person’s family can move from experiencing conflict and tension around school refusal to providing understanding, support, and encouragement, creating a more supportive and nurturing home environment.
How To Get Started
1. Fill in the new patient form
2. Receive your personalized evaluation & treatment plan
3. Experience mental wellness