Parent Support
I work with parents in a number of ways
I am certified in Parent Child Interaction Therapy and a Within Agency Trainer (WATer). I am also trained in the Supportive Parenting of Anxious Children (SPACE | SPACE Treatment) a research backed intervention developed by Dr. Eli Liebowitz that can help anxious children better manage their fears.
I work with parents of children with disruptive behavior challenges and anxiety/OCD to learn to better connect and manage difficult childhood behaviors.
Caregiver, Parent, and Family Support for Young Adults with Anxiety or Eating Disorders
Failure to launch refers to young adults or college age youth who struggle with the transition from adolescence into independent adulthood. This may be due to many reasons, but often it can be related to untreated anxiety, OCD, or eating disorders. These young adults may find it challenging to take on responsibilities, such as securing employment, going to college, managing finances, or living independently. This phenomenon is often linked to anxiety, and a lack of confidence, creating a barrier that keeps them dependent on their parents or caregivers. Caregivers may feel stuck and helpless about knowing how to help their adult child.
Severity may range from mild to severe impairment in a young adult child. Mild cases might involve a reluctance to pursue job opportunities, delaying important life decisions, or repeatedly missing classes or work due to anxiety or stress. More severe cases can look like prolonged periods of unemployment, an unwillingness to move out of the family home, or dependence on parents to manage daily tasks such as cooking, bathing, or scheduling appointments. In some instances, the young adult may withdraw from social interactions and express feelings of hopelessness or avoidance regarding their future. Often these young adults are not willing to engage in treatment due to anxiety or depression.
Treatment may first need to focus on helping parents learn how to support young adults in a different way in order to encourage them to build key life skills that will support their journey toward independence. One key factor is reducing "parent accommodation," which refers to well-meaning but over-involved behaviors that inadvertently create more avoidance. Parents can unintentionally enable dependency by completing tasks for their child or allowing them to avoid responsibilities. Working with us, parents will learn strategies to set clear expectations, encourage autonomy, and provide support in ways that promote growth rather than dependence. Family therapy is often a valuable tool in this process.
While it can be challenging to see your child struggle with anxiety, addressing the issue early and with the right support can lead to meaningful change. With proper treatment, young adults can build the skills they need to thrive and create fulfilling, independent lives. Dr. Cammarata specializes in guiding families through this process, helping young adults overcome anxiety and embrace their full potential.