Mayo Clinic Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Program

5-day Intensive Treatment for Pediatric Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

The Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Clinic at Mayo Clinic provides efficient and effective treatment to children and adolescents with anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This program offers two unique innovations. First, parents are thoroughly involved in treatment to develop the tools and confidence to support their child’s efforts to master anxiety and OCD. Second, treatment is available in an intensive package of nine therapy sessions completed over five days (Monday through Friday). Treatment consists
 of exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy designed to empower families to manage anxiety and
 OCD through a better understanding of behaviors that maintain symptoms and how therapy can improve functioning. Local services are offered on a weekly basis. Medication management is available as needed.

The goals of treatment:


1. Build an understanding of the fundamental components of therapy for anxiety and OCD

2. Relieve symptoms through confidence building exposure exercises (facing one’s fears)

3. Provide parents the guidance and hands-on practice to support their child’s efforts to master anxiety and OCD

OCD Specialists At This Clinic:

• Stephen P. Whiteside, PhD, ABPP
• Mark Olsen, MD
• Bridget Biggs, PhD, LP