Anxiety in Kids and Teens: Calming the Brain, Then Calming the Thoughts

Anxiety in kids and teens is often a sign of a brain working too hard to keep them safe, not a sign of weakness or drama. Neurofeedback and counseling together can help calm that overactive “alarm system” and give young people tools to handle worries more confidently.

How anxiety shows up

Anxious kids and teens might have:

• Stomachaches or headaches, especially on school day

• Meltdowns, tears, or shutdowns before activities

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

• Avoidance of school, social events, or new situations

Many of them say, “I know it doesn’t make sense, but I still feel scared.” Their logical brain understands; their nervous system doesn’t feel safe yet.

How neurofeedback helps

Neurofeedback gives the brain real-time feedback so it can practice being calmer and more regulated over time. Sensors read brain activity while your child watches a game on a screen that responds to how their brain is firing.

As the brain shifts into more balanced patterns, the screen “rewards” that state, and, with repetition, the brain learns it can spend more time there. Families often notice fewer panic moments, easier bedtimes, and less constant worry as sessions continue.

How counseling supports anxious kids and teens

Counseling works alongside neurofeedback by:

• Teaching coping skills (breathing, grounding, self-talk)

• Helping kids understand and name their feelings

• Breaking the cycle of avoidance with small, supported steps

• Coaching parents on how to respond in ways that lower anxiety instead of feeding it

When the brain is a bit calmer from neurofeedback, these skills are easier to learn and actually use in real life.

Simple tools you can start today

Try one or two of these at home:

• One breathing skill: In for 4, hold for 4, out slowly for 6–8; practice when everyone is calm.

• Name the feeling: “I feel nervous and my brain is trying to protect me.”

• Confidence statements: Instead of “It’ll be fine,” try “I believe you can handle this, even though it feels hard.”

Small, consistent practice builds confidence and flexibility over time.

How Idaho Counseling & Neurofeedback can help

At Idaho Counseling & Neurofeedback in Meridian, we often combine:

• Twice-weekly, 30-minute neurofeedback sessions to support calmer brain patterns

• Counseling to teach skills, reduce avoidance, and support parents

  
  

Families can choose private-pay neurofeedback with a specialist or work with a licensed therapist who can bill insurance (with a waitlist for those spots). If your child or teen feels stuck in anxiety, you can call or text 208-571-2210 to explore next steps.