What to Expect

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The Parent(s)/Guardian(s) will attend the initial intake session without the child to discuss their concerns and explore treatment options. Intake paperwork is completed electronically prior to the first appointment via the client portal. Please bring your insurance card and a copy of your ID to this session. Clients ages 16 and older will complete their own intake paperwork and be present for their intake session. 

The therapeutic process is unique to every client and progress will depend on various factors such as the severity of symptoms and the developmental level of the child. It's common for children to need several sessions before they "warm up" to the therapy environment. Most clients will receive a weekly standing appointment to begin, which will reduce in frequency as functioning improves. Treatment goals are reassessed every 12 weeks.

Parents/Guardians can receive updates regarding their child's therapy a few different ways. 1.) For general feedback, our clinicians offer monthly, brief check-ins (10min or less) by phone or video chat. These meetings must be scheduled in advance.

2.) For a more in-depth exploration of treatment, to voice concerns, and problem-solve issues a Parent Consultation session can be requested.

3.) Records request (Ages 15 and below)- Parents can request their child's session notes at anytime.

*Please Note: As your child's therapist, we take the job of "holding their heart" very seriously and strive to maintain a strong therapeutic relationship. Limitations to confidentiality require us to notify a parent/guardian immediately and include harm to others, harm to self, or harm from someone else. Otherwise, we may encourage your child to bring up valuable conversations at home or in a family therapy session. For young children, (5yrs and under) non-urgent updates will be provided as deemed necessary. 

Great question! Many children have a normative fear of going to the doctor and may associate this with therapy. You can let your child know that they are "going to therapy" where they will get to play and talk about feelings. If there is still hesitation or worry, don't sweat it. Most children feel much better once they visit our office.

Young Children: During the first few appointments, some children may feel anxious about meeting someone knew. We will follow your child's lead and honor their requests to ensure they feel absolutely comfortable in the therapy setting.  Adolescents & Teens: If your child requests a joint/family session, you will be notified in advance and given open times to schedule 

Therapy is not one-size-fits-all and takes time. Depending on your child's symptoms and development, you could begin to see early glimmers of positive change such as in their mood, thinking patterns, and response to stress. Please understand that this is uncommon and many children need several weeks-months to begin making improvements. Try to be patient during your child's treatment and remain open-minded. Therapy is hard work, but it will be well-worth it!