PANDAS (Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disease Associated with Strep) is a neuropsychiatric condition, which can suddenly occur in children following a Streptococcal infection. The defining feature of PANDAS syndrome is the immediate onset in which it occurs – one week your child is well, with OCD behaviours appearing the next. Researchers believe that this autoimmune condition occurs due to antibodies attacking the basal ganglia area of the brain, causing inflammation. To help children and families to cope with these sudden behaviour changes, our therapists at Bridges Therapy Centre provide PANDAS therapy in the form of CBT.
Triggered by a misdirected immune response, PANDAS syndrome can result in a variety of symptoms as outlined below:
- Irritability, aggression or oppositional behaviour
- Excessive reassurance seeking
- Fear or phobias of things that were previously tolerated
- Sensory issues connected to sound, touch, and sight
- Evidence of hyperactivity and/or fatigue
- The sudden development of OCD-like obsessions & compulsions
- Emotional instability and potential depression
- Verbal and/or motor tics.
Overcoming Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be an extremely effective tool in the treatment of OCD behaviours that are related to PANDAS syndrome. From the start of symptom onset, children with PANDAS often engage in behavioural patterns that are negatively reinforcing, and can become more severe over time. By addressing these symptoms through talking therapy, CBT for PANDAS can provide children and family members with the tools to effectively manage or combat these behaviours for the future.
How We Can Help
Our caring team of professionals will begin by spending time getting to know your child and their specific behaviours. This will give us an insight into their PANDAS, before we can create a tailor-made therapy plan specifically for their needs. For more information about our therapy for PANDAS in London, Hendon, and Canary Wharf, please contact our expert team today.
Contact Us
If your child is exhibiting signs of PANDAS syndrome, contact our team of therapists today, for your free 15 minute initial consultation and to learn more about our personalised support and treatment.
Bridges Therapy Centre
18a Heriot Road,
London, NW4 2DG
Bridges Therapy Centre - Hendon, London, NW4 - English & Hebrew Counselling & Therapy Services
The contents on this site is for information only, and is not meant to substitute the advice of your own physician or other medical professional