Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) is complex and is far more than refusing to go to school.
The behaviour is not a choice but a coping mechanism for a range of contributing and intersecting factors. It is usually a deeply distressing experience where a child feels an overwhelming inability to attend school due to emotional factors like anxiety, trauma, developmental needs or sensory overload.
In the fast-paced London environment, children often face unique pressures, from academic competition to complex social dynamics, that can trigger a threat response toward the classroom. When a child resists school, it is usually their way of communicating that their current environment feels unsafe or unmanageable. Early intervention is vital to prevent long-term educational gaps and to help the child regain their confidence.
Our Approach to Support
At CY&A Psychology, we focus on understanding the ‘why’ behind the avoidance. We work collaboratively with families and schools to identify the specific triggers and barriers, whether they stem from separation anxiety, social anxiety disorder or diagnosed or undiagnosed neurodiversity.
By using evidence-based psychological therapy, we help young people build emotional regulation skills, address underlying difficulties and overcome barriers. We will work with you parents, young people, and the school to create a gradual, supportive reintegration plan. We have a service for schools.
Our goal is to transform the school gate from a place of dread into a manageable milestone, ensuring your child or teenager feels heard, supported and empowered to return to learning at their own pace.
Things that help with Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
Intensive Therapy
Skill Up: Executive Functioning Sessions
PEERS® programme (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills)
CBT
ACT
Compassion Focused Therapy
Behaviour Therapy
Our Charges
Our session fees range from £200 to £250, depending on who you are working with, and £85 for our Assistant Psychologist. The number of sessions required will be based on your needs, which will be assessed at your initial appointment. An approximate number of sessions will be recommended. We will informally review progress every four sessions throughout your care. Our egg timers provide a rough guide for you.
Mild
1-8 sessions
Moderate
8-16 sessions
Long term
16+ sessions
We accept payments from these insurance companies
Please fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you. Alternatively, you can call us on 020 7458 4570 or send us a WhatsApp.
Don’t forget to check our frequently asked questions.