Is It Just Worry… or Could It Be OCD?
How to Recognize Anxiety and OCD in Children—and When to Seek Support
All kids worry sometimes—about school, friends, or the dark. But for some children, those worries don’t just come and go. They stick. They grow. They start to take over daily life.
Maybe your child seems “stuck” on certain thoughts, needs things to feel “just right,” avoids situations that trigger anxiety, or engages in repetitive behaviors you don’t fully understand. As a parent, it can be hard to know: Is this typical worry, or could it be OCD or anxiety?
At the OCD & Anxiety Center of Minnesota (OCDMN), located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, we specialize in helping children, teens, and families find answers—and most importantly, find relief—through child anxiety treatment and OCD treatment for children.
What Does Anxiety or OCD Look Like in Children?
Children may not always have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but anxiety in children and OCD in children can show up in many different ways, including:
Excessive worry or constant “what if” questions
Avoidance of people, places, or situations
Repetitive behaviors like handwashing, checking, or arranging things
Needing constant reassurance from parents or teachers
Meltdowns, irritability, or difficulty with transitions
While some of these behaviors can be part of typical development, when they start to impact school, friendships, family life, or self-esteem, it may be time to seek support from a trained child OCD therapist.
Early Support Makes a Big Difference
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children is often missed or misunderstood. Kids may be misdiagnosed with general anxiety, oppositional behavior, or even ADHD when OCD is actually at the root of their distress.
The good news? Early intervention through specialized OCD treatment for kids can change the trajectory of a child’s life—helping them build resilience, manage anxiety, and regain the freedom to live fully.
Our Unique Approach: Combining Evidence-Based Therapies with Creative Tools
At OCDMN, we know that no two children are the same—and no two treatment plans should be either. That’s why we combine gold-standard, evidence-based therapies such as:
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
With creative, child-centered approaches like:
Play Therapy
Sand Tray Therapy
Art-based coping tools
Mindfulness and sensory-based activities
This thoughtful blend allows us to meet each child where they are—combining structure with creativity to help them feel safe, understood, and empowered to face their fears at their own pace.
Parent Coaching: Supporting the Whole Family
We believe that parents and caregivers play a vital role in the healing process. Our parent coaching services help families learn how to support their child’s progress without unintentionally reinforcing anxiety or compulsions. Together, we build a comprehensive plan that empowers both children and their families to thrive. Learn More
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been wondering whether your child’s anxiety is something more—or if you’re just not sure what steps to take—we’re here to help.
Our child anxiety and pediatric OCD specialists, Emi Bendler and Halen Bower, work with children and families to reduce anxiety, manage compulsions, and bring life back into balance.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healing.
