Child & Adolescent OCD, Tic, Trich, and Anxiety Group (COTTAGe)

Social anxiety, or intense nervousness in social or performance situations, is proven to interfere with a teen’s ability to form friendships, participate in school, and enjoy daily life. Research indicates that teens who suffer from social anxiety are at heightened risk for developing depression, substance abuse, and other psychiatric conditions.

“Adolescence can be a very challenging time, especially when it comes to building relationships, fitting in with peers, and navigating complex social environments,” says Courtney Weiner, Ph.D., a child psychologist and therapist at COTTAGe. “For shy teens, these challenges are even greater. We have found that creating a safe, supportive environment to discuss these difficulties with other teens is a critical part of the therapeutic process.”

The Child & Adolescent OCD, Tic, Trich, and Anxiety Group (COTTAGe) at the University of Pennsylvania is a specialty clinic in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania. Staff members have expertise in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders including:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Tic Disorders
• Trichotillomania
• Skin-Picking and other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB's)

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Separation Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder/Agoraphobia
• Specific Phobias
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder

Do you know a teenager who may experience extreme shyness and social anxiety? COTTAGe is now offering a state-of-the-art 14-week group treatment program which will help them build the skills necessary to manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable in social situations.

Learn more about the program by visiting http://www.med.upenn.edu/cottage or calling 215-746-331 to register for the 14-week program.