Childhood anxiety is a complex and often overwhelming experience for both the child and the parent. I provide a dedicated space to navigate these challenges. This article outlines my professional background, my therapeutic services and the resources I have created to support families.
Who I Am
I am Saskia Joss. I am a BACP-registered child therapist. My practice focuses exclusively on childhood anxiety and related emotional difficulties. I have spent years working with children to help them understand their feelings. My goal is to provide practical tools for long-term emotional resilience.
I work with children who experience various forms of anxiety. This includes general worry, social anxiety and phobias. I also support children dealing with low mood or a lack of confidence. My approach is rooted in empathy and professional expertise. I believe every child deserves to feel heard and understood.
Professional Experience and Training
I am a qualified therapist with extensive experience in clinical settings. I adhere to the ethical framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This ensures a high standard of professional conduct. My training allows me to identify the root causes of anxious behaviours. I do not just look at the symptoms. I look at the whole child.
My career has been dedicated to mental health. I have worked in various environments, including schools and private practice. This diversity of experience has shaped my understanding of the modern child's world. I am an anxiety specialist. I keep my knowledge up to date with the latest research in child psychology.
Working at the Mill Hill Therapy Hub
I work in person at the Mill Hill Therapy Hub{:target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"}. This facility is located on Sunbury Avenue in north-west London. It is a purpose-built space designed for therapeutic work. The environment is calm and welcoming. This is essential for children who feel anxious.
The Therapeutic Space
The Hub provides a neutral ground. It is separate from home and school. This separation helps children feel safe to explore their emotions. I usually work with children of primary school age or those in the early stages of secondary school. This is a critical developmental period. Early intervention can prevent anxiety from becoming a lifelong struggle.
In-person sessions take place weekly or fortnightly. Consistency is a vital part of the therapeutic process. It builds trust and provides a reliable routine. I value the physical presence in therapy. It allows me to observe non-verbal cues and build a genuine connection with the child.
My Therapeutic Approach
I do not expect children to sit and talk for fifty minutes. That is not how children communicate. Instead, I use play and creativity. My sessions often involve art, role-play and games. These activities serve as a bridge to the child’s inner world.
Use of Art and Play
Art allows a child to express what they cannot find words for. A drawing can represent a fear more clearly than a sentence. Play is the natural language of childhood. Through play, children can practise social situations. They can face their fears in a controlled and safe environment.
I also use role-play to build confidence. We might act out a difficult school scenario. This helps the child feel prepared for real-life challenges. My methods are flexible. I adapt my techniques to suit the individual needs of each child.
Parenting Support via Phone Calls
Anxiety does not just affect the child. It affects the entire family unit. I offer parenting support through dedicated phone calls. These calls are designed for parents who need guidance and practical strategies.
Practical Guidance for Parents
I provide a space for parents to discuss their concerns. We look at the patterns of anxiety within the home. I offer advice on how to respond to an anxious child. Sometimes, our natural instincts to protect a child can inadvertently fuel their anxiety. I help parents navigate this delicate balance.
These calls are convenient for busy schedules. They allow for focused, professional advice without the need for travel. My goal is to empower parents. When a parent feels confident, the child feels more secure.
My Book: "Help! My Child's Anxiety is Giving Me Anxiety"
I am the author of the book Help! My Child's Anxiety is Giving Me Anxiety. I wrote this book because I saw a need for a practical guide for parents. It was published in April 2025. It is available in hardback, paperback and as an audiobook.
Why I Wrote This Book
The book is born from my clinical experience. I wanted to reach families who might not be able to attend therapy sessions. It covers the science of anxiety in simple terms. It explains why children act the way they do when they are scared.
The title reflects a common reality. Parent anxiety and child anxiety are often linked. The book provides strategies for the whole family. It is a toolkit for managing daily life. I include exercises that can be done at home. It is designed to be a companion during difficult times.
The Podcast: "Help! My Child's Anxious"
I co-host a weekly podcast titled Help! My Child's Anxious. I host this show with my mother, Vanessa Feltz. We explore the many facets of childhood anxiety and parenting.
Sharing Knowledge Freely
The podcast is a way to share professional insights with a wider audience. We discuss common issues like school refusal and social media pressure. We also talk about the emotional toll on parents. The format is conversational and accessible.
I believe in democratising mental health information. Not everyone can access a private therapist. The podcast provides free, high-quality advice every week. It is available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify{:target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"}.
My Professional Commitment
I am dedicated to my work as an anxiety specialist. I am passionate about helping children lead happier lives. My practice is built on transparency and professional integrity. I ensure that all data is handled securely and in accordance with privacy laws.
The welfare of the child is always my primary concern. I work collaboratively with parents and, where appropriate, with schools. A holistic approach is the most effective way to manage anxiety.
Contact Information
If you are concerned about your child's anxiety, please reach out. You can find more information on my website at www.saskiajosstherapy.co.uk. I am here to help you and your child navigate the path to emotional well-being.
You can book an introductory phone call on my Calendly{:target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"} to discuss your needs. We can determine if in-person therapy or parenting support calls are the best fit for your family. I look forward to supporting you.
