Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy
Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy, as featured on the MTV True Life episode: “I Have Misophonia” premiering Friday, December 16th, 7:00 PM EST. See Clip >
Are you Suffering from any of these symptoms as a result of Misophonia? Call today for a Consultation.
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You may also be affected by visual stimuli, such as repetitive foot or body movements, fidgeting or movement you observe out of the corners of their eyes. Intense anxiety, rage and avoidant behavior may develop as a result of misophonia.
* Do you feel your family and friends don’t understand how much you suffer?
* Do you often feel you can just suffer through a social event where there is eating present only to find that you must “escape” before you have a panic attack?
* Do you find that some people are at first understanding and make some efforts not to make the triggering sounds in front of you, but soon forget and constantly have to be reminded, causing you to feel angry, anxious and depressed?
* Are you avoiding social activities that you enjoy because of the misophonia?
* Are you fearful of losing your job and/or is the misophonia effecting your job performance?
If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions or symptoms, then we can help.
You may be a candidate for Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy, or MCRT.
Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R, with over 20 years of clinical experience, a New York University graduate, developed Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy and founded Misophonia Cognitive Center™ in response to the growing number of people with Misophonia coming to his private practice from audiologists and ENTs. He discovered that by helping people to retrain and reinterpret the thoughts around their Misophonia, anxiety and depression symptoms began to improve. But even more important so did the Misophonic trigger response.
Call us at 646-585-2251 for a consultation.
Category Archives: Misophonia in Children
Misophonia in Children: Recognizing and Addressing Symptoms
Misophonia in children is a growing area of concern among parents, educators, and mental health professionals. This neurological condition, characterized by intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, can affect a child’s emotional well-being, academic performance, and social development. While often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, recognizing the early signs of misophonia in children and addressing them with supportive strategies can significantly improve a child’s quality of life.
What Is Misophonia?
Misophonia, literally meaning “hatred of sound,” involves strong emotional responses such as anger, panic, or disgust in reaction to specific auditory triggers. These responses are not simply irritations but are intense and involuntary, often affecting daily functioning. In children, the condition may manifest differently than in adults and can often be mistaken for behavioral problems, anxiety, or sensory processing issues.
Common Misophonia Triggers in Children
Children with misophonia are often sensitive to soft, repetitive human-generated sounds. These can include:
- Chewing or slurping during meals
- Pencil tapping or clicking in classrooms
- Loud breathing or sniffing
- Foot tapping or rhythmic finger movements
- Environmental sounds like ticking clocks or rustling papers
The intensity of the reaction can vary, but these sounds often lead to feelings of distress, anger, or even fear. Some children may lash out verbally, cover their ears, leave the room abruptly, or experience anxiety in anticipation of these sounds.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Misophonia in Children
Identifying misophonia in children requires careful observation and an understanding that the child’s reaction is not a behavioral choice but a neurological response. Common symptoms include:
- Disproportionate anger or frustration in response to everyday sounds
- Increased anxiety or dread in certain settings (like the dinner table or classroom)
- Avoidance behaviors such as skipping meals or refusing to go to school
- Covering ears or using headphones to block out noise
- Difficulty concentrating when trigger sounds are present
It’s also common for these children to feel embarrassed or ashamed of their reactions, which can lead to social withdrawal or low self-esteem.
How Misophonia Affects a Child’s Life
Misophonia can impact nearly every area of a child’s life if left unaddressed:
- Academically: Difficulty focusing in noisy classrooms or distress from classmates’ sounds can hinder learning.
- Socially: Children may avoid peers, feel isolated, or struggle to make friends due to their reactions.
- Emotionally: Persistent stress and anger can contribute to mood swings or symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- At home: Mealtimes and family interactions may become sources of conflict and discomfort.
Supportive Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for misophonia, there are many ways parents and caregivers can support their child:
- Validation: Acknowledge your child’s experience without minimizing it. Saying “I understand that this sound bothers you” builds trust and safety.
- Sound Accommodations: Use white noise machines, noise-canceling headphones, or calming background music during trigger situations.
- Routine Planning: Establish predictable routines and prepare children in advance for potentially triggering situations.
- Safe Zones: Create a quiet, calming space where the child can go when overwhelmed.
- Behavioral Techniques: Work with a specialist on coping strategies like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your child’s misophonia is significantly interfering with daily life, it’s essential to consult a professional who understands the condition. Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy (MCRT), developed by Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R, is one such approach that can help children learn to manage their triggers and responses more effectively. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and provide children with the tools they need to thrive.
Helping Your Child Thrive with Misophonia
Misophonia is manageable, especially when diagnosed early and approached with empathy and appropriate support. By recognizing the signs and seeking the right help, you can empower your child to navigate their world with greater ease and confidence.
Contact an Expert in Misophonia Treatment
If your child is struggling with misophonia, professional support is available. Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, offers online therapy sessions tailored to children and families.
With decades of experience and fluency in five languages, Dr. Katz provides accessible and inclusive care for clients around the world.
Contact Information
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Coping Strategies for Children with Misophonia
Implementing effective coping strategies can help children manage misophonia symptoms and improve their quality of life. Misophonia, characterized by intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, can be particularly challenging for children. These reactions can interfere with daily activities, school performance, and social interactions.
Understanding Misophonia in Children
Misophonia in children manifests through strong negative reactions to specific sounds such as chewing, breathing, or repetitive noises like pen clicking. These reactions can range from mild irritation to severe anger or distress, significantly affecting the child’s behavior and emotional well-being.
Effective Coping Strategies for Children with Misophonia
Creating a Supportive Environment
A supportive environment is crucial for helping children with misophonia manage their symptoms. Parents, teachers, and peers should be educated about misophonia to foster understanding and patience.
- Educate the Community: Inform teachers and classmates about misophonia to reduce misunderstandings and promote empathy.
- Safe Spaces: Establish quiet, trigger-free zones at home and school where the child can retreat if they become overwhelmed.
- Consistent Routines: Maintain consistent daily routines to provide a sense of stability and predictability.
Behavioral Strategies
Behavioral strategies can help children develop resilience and reduce the impact of trigger sounds.
- Desensitization: Gradually expose the child to trigger sounds in a controlled and safe environment to reduce sensitivity over time. This process should be guided by a professional therapist.
- Positive Reinforcement: Encourage positive behaviors and coping mechanisms by rewarding the child for successfully managing their reactions to triggers.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teach the child mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, to help them stay calm when exposed to trigger sounds.
Use of Technology and Tools
Several technological aids and tools can help children manage misophonia symptoms effectively.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can help block out trigger sounds and create a more comfortable auditory environment for the child.
- Sound Apps: Apps that generate white noise or soothing sounds can mask trigger sounds and reduce the child’s stress levels.
Therapeutic Interventions
Professional therapeutic interventions can provide tailored support and strategies to help children cope with misophonia.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help children understand and change their negative thought patterns and reactions to trigger sounds. This therapy focuses on developing healthy coping mechanisms and reducing emotional distress.
- Family Therapy: Involving the whole family in therapy can help improve communication, understanding, and support for the child with misophonia.
- Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists can work with children to develop strategies for managing sensory sensitivities and improving daily functioning.
Coping Strategies for Children with Misophonia: Conclusion
Coping with misophonia can be challenging for children, but with the right strategies and support, they can learn to manage their symptoms effectively. Creating a supportive environment, implementing behavioral strategies, utilizing technology, and seeking professional therapy are all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to managing misophonia in children.
Dr. Stephen Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™ offers specialized online treatment services to help children and their families navigate the challenges of misophonia. Call today to schedule a consultation or convenient online session.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Convenient online sessions
Dr. Katz is multi-lingual
For more information about Dr. Katz and his treatment services, visit https://www.misophoniacognitivecenter.com/.
Misophonia in Children: Recognizing Signs and Strategies for Parents
Misophonia, a condition characterized by extreme emotional reactions to specific sounds, can affect people of all ages, including children. Recognizing the signs of misophonia in children and understanding how to support them is crucial for their well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore misophonia in children, signs to look for, and strategies for parents.
Understanding Misophonia in Children
Misophonia can manifest differently in children compared to adults. Children may not always be able to express their feelings and emotions effectively, making it challenging to recognize misophonia. Here are some common signs that may indicate misophonia in children:
1. Emotional Outbursts
Children with misophonia may experience sudden and intense emotional outbursts in response to trigger sounds. These outbursts can include anger, frustration, or even tantrums.
2. Avoidance Behavior
Children may develop avoidance behaviors to escape trigger sounds. For example, they may leave the room during mealtime or isolate themselves during noisy activities.
3. Physical Symptoms
Misophonia can also manifest as physical symptoms in children, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, or digestive discomfort when exposed to trigger sounds.
4. Academic and Social Challenges
Misophonia can impact a child’s academic performance and social interactions. They may have difficulty concentrating in noisy environments or avoiding situations where trigger sounds are present.
Strategies for Parents
As a parent, there are several strategies you can employ to support your child with misophonia:
1. Open Communication
Encourage open and non-judgmental communication with your child. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and frustrations related to misophonia.
2. Identify Triggers
Work together with your child to identify their specific trigger sounds. Understanding the triggers can help you take proactive steps to minimize exposure.
3. Teach Coping Strategies
Teach your child age-appropriate coping strategies to manage their emotional responses to trigger sounds. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can be helpful.
4. Create a Quiet Space
Designate a quiet and trigger-free space in your home where your child can go to relax and de-escalate when needed.
5. Seek Professional Help
Consider consulting a misophonia specialist or therapist who can provide guidance and treatment options tailored to your child’s needs.
Expert Guidance at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™
Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, specializes in the treatment of misophonia in children and adults. Dr. Katz offers online sessions, making treatment accessible and convenient for families. He also speaks five languages, ensuring effective communication.
Contact Stephen Geller Katz for Misophonia Treatment
If you suspect that your child may be experiencing misophonia, don’t hesitate to reach out to Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz can provide expert guidance and support to help your child manage misophonia and improve their quality of life.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
How to Cope with a Child Suffering from Misophonia
Misophonia is difficult enough to deal with when it affects you personally, but things can quickly get much more complicated when you’re living with a child suffering from misophonia on a daily basis. Children are less cooperative and don’t consider their actions that much with regards to others, and if you don’t control the situation from early enough, you might eventually find yourself dealing with a child that’s beyond any realistic control.
Figure Out the Irritants and Minimize Them
The first thing to do is to find out what exactly triggers your kid’s misophonia and take steps to minimize the presence of those irritants in your daily life. This should be easier to manage when the kid is still young and lives with you at home, although you’ll eventually also have to deal with the problem that they would want to go out among other people, where you won’t be in control of everything about the environment.
Explain the Situation Frequently
This makes it important to ensure that the child itself is aware of the condition they have as early as possible. Talking to them once will probably get you nowhere, as this is a difficult concept to explain to someone that young. Make sure to have this conversation several times as they are growing up, and especially try to use any situations that have triggered them more severely. The sooner they understand that they have a medical condition that needs to be dealt with in a sensitive way, the easier it will be for them and for you alike in the long run.
Get Specialized Help Early Enough
It’s also critical that you don’t try to deal with the situation on your own, as this is an actual medical condition that’s beyond the control of most people out there. Get your child diagnosed early on so you know what you’re dealing with, and then start taking steps to ensure that the condition is under control in the long run.
Finding the right specialist for this purpose can be a bit of a tricky ordeal though, especially when it comes to a child, so if you want to avoid a great deal of hassle and confusion, get in touch with us at your earliest convenience. We’ll take you through the process of diagnosing and treating your child step by step, and the only thing you’ll have to do is stand by their side for support.