Parenting an Anxious Child when you’re anxious too! Tools and Truths with Courtney Montgomery

Robyn sits down with author and mom Courtney Montgomery to talk about parenting an anxious child, managing guilt, and finding balance between support and independence.

In this episode, therapist and mom Robyn Isman talks with Courtney Montgomery, author of Lily’s Special Toolbox, about the real and emotional work of parenting an anxious child. Courtney opens up about her own lifelong experience with anxiety—how it shaped her childhood, her parenting, and the way she helps her kids navigate big feelings.

Together, Robyn and Courtney explore how anxiety can look different in every child and how it often shows up as frustration or anger rather than fear. They discuss the guilt parents feel when they try not to rescue, and the importance of validation and supportive language in helping kids build confidence. Courtney shares how she uses tools from her book to make coping accessible and how small shifts in words can create powerful changes in a child’s sense of safety.

By the end of this conversation, parents will feel seen, supported, and equipped with practical ways to respond to their child’s anxiety with calm and confidence. You’ll also be reminded that your own self-compassion—and willingness to do less—can make the biggest difference of all.

Shared Resources:

• Courtney Montgomery’s book: Lily’s Special Toolbox
• More information about Courtney
• Follow Courtney on Instagram @likereallyanxious
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources