Young children can feel anxious even when they cannot explain what is worrying them. Their anxiety may appear as clinginess, tears, tantrums, tummy aches, trouble sleeping, avoidance, repeated questions or a strong fear of being away from a parent or carer.

This page offers supportive information for Brisbane parents who are concerned about anxiety in a young child and want gentle, age-appropriate help.

Understanding anxiety in young children

Some fears are a normal part of childhood. Children may feel nervous about separation, starting kindy or school, sleeping alone, the dark, loud noises, new people, animals, medical appointments or changes at home.

Anxiety may need more support when it is intense, continues over time or starts interfering with sleep, school, family life, friendships, play or everyday routines.

A child’s behaviour is communication. Rather than telling them to “just be brave,” it can help to stay calm, listen, name the feeling and reassure them that they do not have to manage big worries alone.

Gentle confidence support at your child’s pace

Hypnosis for children is not about making them do anything against their will. When appropriate, it can use simple relaxation, breathing, stories, imagination and positive coping ideas to help a child feel safer and more capable.

A session may focus on helping a child practise:

• slow, calming breathing

• recognising and naming feelings

• imagining a safe, peaceful place

• coping with small changes and new situations

• building confidence one step at a time

• using reassuring words they can remember

The aim is not to promise that all fears will disappear. It is to support emotional regulation and confidence while respecting the child’s individual needs and pace.

Parents and carers are an important part of support

For young children, parent or carer involvement is essential. You know your child best and can help decide whether hypnotherapy is appropriate. Support may include discussing the child’s worries, routines, strengths and the practical steps that can help at home.

Never encourage a child to ignore something that feels unsafe, frightening or inappropriate. If a child speaks about bullying, mistreatment, feeling unsafe or any concerning experience, listen carefully, take it seriously and seek appropriate help. Speak with the relevant school, childcare provider, GP or safeguarding authority where needed. If there is immediate danger, contact emergency services.

When to seek professional assessment

Speak with a GP, child psychologist, paediatric professional, school counsellor or other qualified health professional if anxiety is severe, persistent, worsening or significantly affecting your child’s daily life. It is particularly important to seek help if there are major sleep changes, school refusal, panic-like symptoms, withdrawal, ongoing physical complaints or concerns about safety.

Hypnotherapy is complementary support. It is not a replacement for medical, psychological, psychiatric or safeguarding care.

Award-recognised hypnotherapy support in Brisbane

Clive Westwood has practised hypnotherapy since 2013 and is a Clinical Member of the Australian Hypnotherapy Association. He provides calm, private and non-judgmental one-to-one support for adults, teenagers and children where appropriate.

Clive has a special interest in anxiety, panic attacks, overthinking and phobias. His work has been recognised by ThreeBestRated and Quality Business Awards, and he has been featured on Today Tonight, 9 News, ABC Radio and 2GB Radio.

Watch Clive Westwood on Today Tonight, view Google reviews and real client video testimonials, or explore free hypnosis and guided-meditation resources online.

Brisbane clinic and online appointments

From 1 October 2026, in-person sessions are available at Room 9, Perfect Wellness, 148 Arthur Terrace, Red Hill QLD 4059. Online appointments may be available where suitable.

The Red Hill clinic is convenient for families near Ashgrove, Paddington, Bardon, Kelvin Grove, Newmarket, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane City, Spring Hill, Herston, Milton, Bowen Hills and Fortitude Valley.

Learn more about Clive Westwood Hypnotherapy or discuss an appointment with Clive Westwood.

Frequently asked questions

Can hypnotherapy help a young child with anxiety?

No result can be guaranteed. For some children, gentle, age-appropriate hypnotherapy may support relaxation and coping skills. A parent or carer should decide whether it is suitable.

Is anxiety in young children normal?

Many children experience temporary fears and worries. Seek professional advice if the anxiety is intense, persistent or affecting daily life.

Can my child listen to a hypnosis recording?

Only if a parent or carer decides it is appropriate. Children should listen while safely resting at home, never while walking, travelling near traffic, cycling, swimming or during school or childcare.

Individual results vary. Hypnotherapy is complementary support and is not a replacement for safeguarding, medical, psychological, psychiatric or emergency care.