Therapy for School Refusal in Melbourne

School refusal is more than just occasional reluctance to attend school—it involves persistent difficulty in attending due to emotional distress. Children and teenagers experiencing school refusal often struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, or other underlying issues that make the school environment feel unmanageable.

It’s important to address school refusal early, as prolonged absence can impact academic progress, social development, and emotional well-being.

Common Signs of School Refusal

  • Frequent complaints of physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomachaches) before school

  • Intense anxiety, panic, or distress about attending school

  • Difficulty separating from parents or caregivers in the morning

  • Emotional outbursts, meltdowns, or shutdowns when school is mentioned

  • Avoidance of schoolwork or discussions about school

  • Spending excessive time at home without engaging in learning activities

Causes of School Refusal

School refusal is often linked to underlying emotional or psychological factors, including:

  • Anxiety disorders (social anxiety, separation anxiety, generalised anxiety)

  • Depression or low mood

  • Learning difficulties or academic stress

  • Bullying or social challenges

  • Difficulty managing sensory input or rigid routines (common in ADHD or ASD)

  • Family stress, changes, or past trauma

How We Can Help

At Toolbox Clinic, we provide compassionate and evidence-based support to help children, teenagers, and families navigate school refusal. Our psychologists work collaboratively to uncover the root cause and develop practical strategies to increase confidence in attending school.

Our approach may include:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Helping children and teens identify fears, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and develop coping strategies

  • Emotion-Focused Therapy: Supporting emotional processing and resilience

  • Self-Compassion Therapy: Reducing self-criticism and building confidence in overcoming challenges

  • Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP): Addressing emotional blocks that contribute to avoidance

  • Parent Support & Guidance: Equipping caregivers with strategies to encourage school attendance while supporting emotional well-being

Seeking Support

School refusal can feel overwhelming for both young people and their families, but with the right support, gradual progress is possible. If your child is struggling with school attendance, early intervention can make a significant difference.