Back to school can be a difficult time for kids, especially if they suffer from anxiety.

On this episode of Raising Joy, we’re talking to Laura Anne Burgos, LCSW. She is a licensed clinical social worker and therapist in the Gastroenterology Department at Cook Children’s Medical Center. Laura Anne explains how the mind/body connection can trigger physical pain such as stomachaches and headaches. She also helps us understand when to seek help from teachers, therapists and doctors.

In addition to her clinical work, Laura Anne is also a canine handler for the Sit..Stay..PLAY! program at Cook Children’s. We talk to her about the value Cook Children’s facility dog program provides to patients, families and staff.