Meet Hailee Dear, LCSW: Your Partner in Overcoming OCD and Anxiety
Welcome to my blog! My name is Hailee Dear, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and various anxiety disorders. I am passionate about helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of OCD and anxiety to achieve a life of greater peace and fulfillment.
About Me
I grew up in sunny South Florida and made the move to vibrant Atlanta in 2012. My journey into the field of mental health has been both fulfilling and diverse. I have had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, including hospice care, a federal prison, and a community mental health agency. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on the different ways mental health issues can manifest and the various approaches needed to address them.
For the past four years, I have focused specifically on working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families. My most recent role was at a partial hospitalization program (PHP), where I worked with acute cases of children and adolescents struggling with OCD and anxiety. It has been incredibly rewarding to see these young individuals make strides in their mental health journey, especially those who were previously resistant to treatment.
In my practice, I utilize evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I have received extensive training in these modalities during my time at Rogers Behavioral Health, a leading institution in the field. I also incorporate the SPACE treatment approach, which focuses on reducing parental accommodation of child anxiety, into my work with families. My goal is to help your loved ones live a life that is no longer dictated by OCD or anxiety.
When I'm not working, I love to travel, spend time with my family, and immerse myself in a good book. These activities help me recharge and stay connected to the things that bring me joy.
Blog Focus: Navigating School Refusal and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents
One of the most challenging aspects of my work involves helping children and adolescents who struggle with school refusal and anxiety. This issue is more common than many people realize and can significantly impact a child's educational and social development.
Understanding School Refusal
School refusal is not just about a child not wanting to go to school. It often stems from deep-seated anxiety issues, such as social anxiety, separation anxiety, or specific phobias related to the school environment. Children who refuse school may experience severe emotional distress, including panic attacks, depression, and physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches.
Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
Open Communication: It is essential to create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and fears. Listen without judgment and validate their emotions.
Collaborate with School Staff: Work closely with teachers, counselors, and school administrators to develop a plan that supports your child's return to school. This might include a modified schedule, additional support within the classroom, or a gradual reintegration plan.
Gradual Exposure: Using principles from CBT and ERP, gradually expose your child to the school environment in small, manageable steps. This helps them build confidence and reduce their anxiety over time.
Parental Support and Boundaries: While it is important to support your child, it is equally important to set clear and consistent boundaries. Over-accommodating their anxiety can reinforce avoidance behaviors. The SPACE approach can be particularly helpful here, as it provides a structured way for parents to reduce their accommodation behaviors.
Professional Help: Engaging with a mental health professional who specializes in anxiety and school refusal can provide your child with the tools and support they need to overcome their fears. Therapy can help them develop coping strategies and build resilience.
Success Stories
In my practice, I have seen many children and adolescents overcome their school refusal and go on to thrive academically and socially. One particular case involved a teenager who had not attended school for several months due to severe social anxiety. Through a combination of CBT, gradual exposure, and parental coaching, they were able to return to school and even participate in extracurricular activities. Their journey was not easy, but with persistence and the right support, they achieved their goals.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with school refusal and anxiety can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. As a therapist, I am here to guide you and your family through these challenges, offering evidence-based strategies and compassionate support. Together, we can help your child build a brighter, anxiety-free future.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and my practice. I look forward to sharing more insights and tips on managing OCD and anxiety in future blog posts. If you have any questions or topics you would like me to cover, please feel free to reach out!
Warm regards,
Hailee Dear, LCSW
