SPACE Intervention

What is SPACE?

SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is a parent-based program designed to help children struggling with anxiety by equipping their parents or caregivers with effective tools and strategies. Developed by Eli Lebowitz, Ph.D. at Yale University's Child Study Center, SPACE is an eight-session intervention proven through extensive research to reduce problematic anxiety in children (ages 4 to 17). To facilitate SPACE sessions, clinicians must complete a rigorous training program. Many of our clinicians at PPA have undergone this certification, allowing us to offer SPACE to families across South Florida. Because SPACE is delivered exclusively to parents or caregivers (not the child), our SPACE-trained psychologists can provide this service either in office or via telehealth.

Why Involve Parents?

From the moment of birth, children instinctively seek solace and protection from their parents, while parents are naturally driven to safeguard their young. This inherent bond between parent and child prompts parents to alleviate their child's anxieties when they arise. Over time, children often internalize this parental support, learning to self-soothe and manage their discomfort. However, some children may overly rely on parental reassurance, failing to cultivate their own coping mechanisms and understanding that anxiety can be managed. The aim of the SPACE program is to enhance children's resilience to anxiety by adjusting parental involvement in this dynamic. As parents gradually reduce accommodations while remaining supportive, children can develop greater confidence in managing their emotions.

How to Enhance Treatment Effectiveness?

The success of the SPACE program hinges on parental engagement. Through our experience, we've identified several key conditions for optimal progress:

Commitment

Like any endeavor, the outcomes of therapy are proportional to the effort invested. Prioritize treatment over the coming months, aiming to attend sessions consistently and punctually.

Involvement of Both Parents / Caregivers

If possible, choose a time in which both parents can attend to maximize results.

Consistent Effort Between Sessions

Weekly sessions alone are insufficient. Effective treatment requires proactive efforts planned during sessions and implemented at home between appointments.