Treatment for Anxiety
Specialized anxiety treatment for children in Pittsburgh — including Selective Mutism, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and generalized anxiety.
We work with children and adolescents from preschool age through high school. Treatment approaches are tailored to your child's age, developmental level, and specific anxiety presentation. If you're not sure whether your child is a good fit, a free consultation is the best first step.
Selective Mutism-Our Approach
Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by a person’s inability to speak in certain social settings such as at school, work, or in the community. Children with SM are typically able to speak comfortably and communicate well in other settings, such as at home with family.
At Child Behavior Management Pittsburgh, we specialize in PCIT-SM (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Selective Mutism) one of the evidence-based approaches available for young children with this diagnosis. Treatment involves gradual, supported exposure to speaking in increasingly challenging situations, with parents as active partners in the process.
Early intervention matters enormously for Selective Mutism. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcomes.
If your child has been diagnosed with Selective Mutism, or if you suspect they might have it, we would love to talk.
anxiety treatment
It’s normal for children to feel worried or shy at times — but when anxiety starts to get in the way of school, friendships, or family life, extra support can make a big difference.
At Child Behavior Management Pittsburgh, we specialize in helping children and parents learn practical, evidence-based tools to manage anxiety with confidence.
We use proven approaches such as:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – helping kids recognize and change unhelpful thoughts and worries.
Parent Coaching – giving parents step-by-step strategies to respond to anxiety in supportive and effective ways.
Exposure-Based Practice – helping children face fears gradually, at a pace that feels safe and doable.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM) – a structured, research-supported approach that strengthens the parent-child relationship while building bravery skills and increasing speech.
Our sessions are offered via secure telehealth, allowing children to practice coping skills in the comfort of their own home — often where anxious behaviors appear most.
Investment: Sessions are $250 per 45–50 minutes. We are a private pay practice and provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement. Financial aid is available.
✨ Our goal is simple: to help your child feel braver, calmer, and more confident, while helping you feel equipped to support them every step of the way.
Signs your child may benefit from anxiety treatment:
Refuses to go to school, attend activities, or try new things
Cries or melts down at drop-off even after the transition age
Won't speak in certain settings despite speaking freely at home (Selective Mutism)
Has physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches) that appear before school or social events
Asks "what if" questions repeatedly and can't be reassured
Avoids situations other children handle without difficulty
Has big emotional reactions to changes in routine or unexpected events
Seems frozen, shut down, or unable to participate in situations that trigger anxiety
