Understanding School Refusal
School refusal happens when a child or teen experiences significant distress about attending school. This can look like frequent absences, trouble getting to school in the morning, or leaving school early. Unlike truancy, school refusal isn’t about defiance or a lack of interest in learning, it’s usually tied to emotional, social, or psychological challenges that make school feel overwhelming.
Common Causes of School Refusal
School refusal often develops from a combination of factors. Some of the most common include:
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Anxiety Disorders – Worry about separation from parents, social interactions, test performance, or general school demands.
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Depression or Mood Concerns – Low energy, sadness, and difficulty finding motivation to attend school.
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Bullying or Peer Conflict – Fear of negative social interactions or unsafe environments.
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Academic Stress – Learning challenges, ADHD, or feeling behind academically.
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Adjustment Issues – Transitions to a new school, changes in family dynamics, or major life events.
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Medical or Physical Concerns – Frequent health issues or somatic complaints (such as stomachaches or headaches) connected to stress.
Why Early Support Matters
When left unaddressed, school refusal can lead to academic decline, social withdrawal, and worsening emotional health. With the right support, students can build coping strategies, restore confidence, and successfully reintegrate into school.
By addressing the root causes of school refusal and providing a clear, supportive pathway back to the classroom, we help students and families move forward with confidence.
What to Expect
Each student receives a personalized treatment plan developed and overseen by their dedicated licensed therapist, who serves as their case worker and point person throughout the program. This therapist coordinates care, provides direct clinical support, and ensures ongoing collaboration with both the family and the school.
Program Features
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Comprehensive intake & assessment with individualized goal-setting
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Psychiatric evaluation and ongoing consultation when needed
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Daily group therapy focused on emotional regulation, coping skills, and social connection
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Individual therapy sessions tailored to each student
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Family therapy sessions and parent coaching for home support
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Structured academic support and supervised study
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Recreational and experiential therapies to reduce stress and build confidence
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Collaboration with school teams to create a gradual, supported re-entry plan
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Regular progress reviews and adjustments to the treatment plan
Academic Support
We recognize that school avoidance often comes with academic stress. Our program integrates daily academic support so students can maintain progress while working on their treatment goals.
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Supervised Study Time to complete schoolwork in a supportive setting
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Case Management to ensure academic goals are part of treatment
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School Collaboration with teachers and staff to adjust plans as needed
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Flexible Transition Planning for smoother reintegration back into school
This balance helps students reduce school-related anxiety, keep up academically, and return to class with greater confidence.
Treatment Modalities
Our program uses a comprehensive, evidence-based approach tailored to each student. Depending on their needs, treatment may include:
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Psychiatric assessment & medication management
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Unified Protocol & Exposure Therapy
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SPACE Therapy (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions)
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Executive functioning support
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Mindfulness & stress management practices
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Individual therapy
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Group therapy
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Family therapy & parent coaching
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Experiential therapies such as:
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Art therapy
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Recreational therapy
Let's start feeling better together
School Refusal Program Interset Form
Learn About Testing
Psychologists at Main Street Counseling conduct personalized and comprehensive assessments that can provide a detailed understanding of a person’s abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. Psychological assessments are typically recommended when a person is suspected of having impairments in cognitive, academic, emotional, or behavioral functioning. The battery of assessments provided is tailored to each individual’s concerns and overall goals.