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April 15, 2025 31 mins

Dr. Jodi Richardson continues her illuminating conversation with psychologist Jodie Wassner, diving into Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and its transformative approach for families navigating childhood anxiety.

What you'll learn:

  • Why building connection and understanding must precede cognitive work with anxious children
  • How to use the powerful ACT question: "Is that just something your mind is telling you?"
  • Practical strategies for helping both parents and children tolerate uncertainty
  • The step-by-step process of moving from empathetic understanding to helpful cognitive techniques

Standout moment: "Parents often rush to fix their child's anxiety, but Jodie explains why spending months truly understanding your child creates the foundation for all effective intervention work."

Who this episode is for: Parents supporting anxious children, educators working with anxious students, therapists interested in ACT approaches, and anyone seeking to understand psychological flexibility in managing anxiety.

Listen now to discover how ACT principles can help anxious children separate from unhelpful thoughts while living according to their values.

Jodie Wassner's book mentioned: https://www.woodslanehealth.com.au/products/9781839975820?srsltid=AfmBOorhVwFFObgAD0RWw76jrEEMKSsYh36ST4-fMTr-CBFUfXEOnuUD

More on Jodie's work:

https://www.curiouskidspsychology.com.au/our-team

Connect with me:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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