Book Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Kids | Cadabam’s CDC
When your child is overwhelmed, you feel overwhelmed too. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched ways to help children think, feel, and act in healthier ways—often in as little as 6–12 sessions. At Cadabams CDC, we translate CBT into kid-friendly games, stories, and experiments so your child enjoys the process while you see real change.
Overview: What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a short-term, goal-focused approach. It teaches children how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected, giving them practical tools to handle big emotions.
How CBT Works Differently for Kids vs. Adults
- Language: We use cartoons, emojis, and super-heroes instead of clinical jargon.
- Length: Sessions are 30–45 minutes to match shorter attention spans.
- Parent Role: Caregivers are co-therapists at home.
Evidence & Research Behind Pediatric CBT
- Over 75 % of children with anxiety show marked improvement after 8–12 CBT sessions (JAMA Pediatrics, 2023).
- Schools report improved grades and fewer meltdowns when kids use CBT techniques daily.
Why Choose Cadabam’s CDC for Child CBT?
Specialized Child Development Clinicians
Our clinicians have post-graduate diplomas in child psychology plus 1000+ hours of play-therapy training. They know how to turn coping skills into a game your child actually wants to play.
State-of-the-Art Therapy Rooms
- Sensory-friendly lighting
- Interactive whiteboards for drawing “thought bubbles”
- Calm-down corners with bean bags and noise-blocking headphones
Parent Partnership Model
You’ll receive:
- A weekly parent update (5-minute voice note)
- Home activity sheets that take 10 minutes a day
- Optional parent coaching calls every fortnight
CBT Techniques We Use for Kids
Thought-Feeling-Behavior Triangle
Kids draw a triangle and place events (e.g., “test tomorrow”) at the top. They learn that changing the thought (“I can prepare”) changes the feeling (calm) and the behaviour (studying).
Play-Based Cognitive Restructuring
Using LEGO® or clay, children build “worry monsters” and then create a “brave hero” to defeat them—literally rewiring the worry pathway in their brains.
Behavioral Experiments & Rewards
- Experiment: “What happens if I ask for help?”
- Reward: Sticker chart that leads to a movie night. Small wins build lasting confidence.
Conditions CBT Can Help With
| Condition | How CBT Helps | Typical Age Range |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety & Phobias | Gradual exposure in a safe space | 5–17 |
| ADHD & Focus Issues | Time-blocking games, reward loops | 6–14 |
| Autism Spectrum-Related Behaviors | Social stories + emotion cards | 4–16 |
| Depression & Low Mood | Activity scheduling, gratitude jars | 8–17 |
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Book Your Free Screening Call Takes 15 minutes. We’ll ask about your child’s age, main challenges, and goals.
- Receive Child Assessment Plan Within 24 hours, you get a PDF plan with recommended session count and goals.
- Schedule Therapy Sessions Choose in-person or secure online video sessions after school or on Saturdays.
- Track Progress Together We use child-friendly rating scales (happy-to-sad faces) every 4 sessions. Data is shared with you instantly via our parent app.
What to Expect in Your Child’s First CBT Session
Pre-Session Checklist for Parents
- Bring your child’s favourite snack for comfort.
- Fill out a 3-minute online strengths survey.
- Have a quiet car ride—avoid screens so your child arrives calm.
Session Flow: 60-Minute Snapshot
| Minute | Activity |
|---|---|
| 0–10 | Ice-breaker game & goal recap |
| 10–30 | Skill building (thought bubbles, role-play) |
| 30–45 | Practice in the therapy room |
| 45–55 | Parent join-in & home activity briefing |
| 55–60 | Feedback & sticker reward |
Post-Session Home Activities
- “3 Good Things” bedtime list
- 5-minute breathing buddy exercise
- Weekly family board-game night to practice turn-taking skills
Risks & Benefits at a Glance
Proven Benefits: Improved Coping & Grades
- Better emotion regulation after 4–6 sessions
- Homework completion rates jump up to 30 % (CDC internal data, 2023)
- Reduced parent stress scores in 8 weeks
Minimal Risks & How We Mitigate Them
- Temporary frustration during new skill learning → We add extra play breaks.
- Mild increase in worry when facing fears → Gradual exposure prevents overwhelm.