Cognitive behavioral therapy in childhood anxiety.

Anxiety disorders are the most common childhood disorders. They tend to be chronic and to cause significant impairment. In this article, we review the scientific basis of cognitive behavioral therapy in treating childhood anxiety disorders. We describe the assessment process and its use throughout the treatment. An outline of the central principles of applying cognitive behavioral interventions in the treatment of children is provided and the main treatment components are reviewed. These components include psycho-education, coping skills and exposure. Finally, we discuss the role that parents play in the implementation of cognitive behavioral therapy with anxious children.