Screening for Anxiety in Children and Teens

Providers may wish to use the screening tools below to help evaluate patients for anxiety. 

After Screening

If screening is positive for anxiety or if there is continued clinical concern for anxiety, providers may wish to consider
these strategies and services:

• For preschool/kindergarten-age children (or those with similar developmental level), consider parent-focused therapy such
  as PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy) and/or Triple P.
  • Search the NC Child Treatment Program provider roster and type “PCIT” as treatment model under Advanced Search.
• For older children, consider cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Consider sharing Advice for Selecting a Psychologist with families hoping to find a therapist.
• It may be appropriate to help psychoeducate families with materials such as this flyer: How to Help Your Anxious Child or
  Teen.
• If significant issues in school, consider whether child could benefit from 504 plan accommodations for addressing anxiety,
  and/or school-based mental health services. This fact sheet provides examples of accommodations and school responsibilities, including in cases of bullying.
• Consider sharing the Anxiety Medication Guide from the AACAP (available in English and Spanish). Providers can copy link into After Visit Summary and/or share with families. 

Providers may bill CPT Code 96127 for a brief emotional/behavioral assessment, with appropriate documentation in the patient's chart.

Screening Tools