New Heart Therapy - Pans/Pandas

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Compassionate Therapy Support for Children with PANS/PANDAS

When a child experiences sudden and dramatic changes in emotions, behavior, or daily functioning, it can leave families feeling overwhelmed, confused, and unsure where to turn. PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) can trigger abrupt symptoms that deeply affect a child’s sense of safety and the wellbeing of the entire family.

Common symptoms may include:

Sudden onset of anxiety or panic
Obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors
Mood swings or emotional outbursts
Irritability or aggression
Separation anxiety
Sensory sensitivities
Sleep disturbances
Motor or vocal tics
Changes in eating habits or food restriction
Difficulty concentrating
Regression in behavior or developmental skills
School refusal
Urinary frequency or bedwetting
Depression or withdrawal

Because PANS/PANDAS affects the nervous system, children are often responding from a place of distress rather than choice. Therapy can offer a supportive space to help children regulate emotions, develop coping skills, and rebuild a sense of stability while helping caregivers better understand what their child is experiencing.

Healing from PANS/PANDAS often involves a three-pronged approach: medical treatment to address underlying causes, therapeutic support to build regulation and coping skills, and family support to strengthen connection and create stability at home. I work alongside medical providers as part of a coordinated treatment team, recognizing that therapy is one important piece of a larger healing process. While medical professionals address underlying infections, inflammation, and physical symptoms, therapy can support emotional regulation, coping, family connection, and resilience throughout recovery.

Using a holistic, neuroaffirming approach, I support children and families in navigating the emotional toll of PANS/PANDAS with compassion and care. Through mindfulness, expressive arts, play, and nervous system regulation support, I help children strengthen resilience, restore connection, and find steadiness during difficult seasons. My goal is to create a safe and understanding environment where children feel supported and families feel empowered with tools for the journey ahead.

If your child is struggling with sudden emotional or behavioral changes related to PANS/PANDAS, you do not have to navigate it alone. Support is available, and healing is possible.

Take the Next Step

You don’t need a confirmed diagnosis to start support. If your child has sudden changes in behavior, reach out today for guidance and a consultation.

Helpful Resources

(Optional learning and support — explore at your own pace)

If you’d like to learn more about PANS and PANDAS, these trusted organizations offer education, advocacy, and family support:

Podcasts

Documentaries

You’re Not Alone

Watching your child change so suddenly can be one of the hardest experiences a parent faces—but there is hope. With the right combination of medical care and therapeutic support, many children recover and return to thriving.

At New Heart Therapy, we are here to help you and your child navigate this journey with compassion, clarity, and care.

Serving families in person in Bellingham, Washington and telehealth therapy options within Washington state to make support accessible and flexible for your family’s needs.

Get in Touch

If you believe your child may have pans/pandas and you’re seeking guidance, I’d be honored to support your family.

📞 Call: (360) 218-4115
💬 Email: andrea@newhearttherapy.com
📅 Schedule a Consultation by clicking the button below

Together, we can help your child feel safe, supported, and strong again.

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