After you make the initial contact (call, email, website message), we will call to discuss more about what you are looking for, provide information about the practice, and schedule the introductory visit if you are interested. At the end of the introductory visit, if it does seem like the right fit then we move forward with scheduling the next session - if it does not seem like the right fit then we will gladly offer referrals. If you decide to continue therapy for your child/teen, any other remaining questions about the process should be answered below.

 It is suggested, but not required, that all new clients begin with weekly sessions for the first few weeks (if available). Most clients choose to continue with weekly or biweekly sessions and then, as progress is solidified, transition to a few monthly check-ins before the therapeutic process is completed. 

The average length of intervention for young children is about 4-6 months. However, therapy can range from months to years depending on the client and their presenting problem, reasons for therapy, age, speed of processing, etc.  

You are welcome to come in for at least part of the first session if your child/teen feels comfortable with it. If not, parents are welcome to drop their children off for sessions or wait in the private waiting room. Beyond the first session, most of the therapy is done individually. However, parents are always kept up to date with important progress and invited into session as the child wishes or when the therapist deems it necessary. 

Please feel free to send me an email update, schedule a brief call, or come in for a parent session. We do not meet with parents privately in front of their children/teens as it compromises their feelings of trust in the therapeutic process and relationship. Our intention is to protect the security of their healing space and confidentiality, while still including parents in the process. 

 "How did it go?" or "What did you/they say?" rarely gets the response that parents are looking for. If you would like to ask, I tend to suggest something like, "I hope your session went well today, is there anything you found helpful that you feel comfortable sharing?" However, simply waiting for them to share when they are ready is often the ideal approach - especially for teens. Respecting their privacy in the therapeutic process encourages quicker and more honest growth and healing. 

That's okay. The primary concerns for therapeutic intervention will always be addressed. However, each client arrives at that main concern at different times and through various routes of conversation. Sometimes something insignificant to adults is important to a child or teen. Meeting youth where they are in the process offers the greatest opportunity for long-term progress. 

Parents cannot be late to pick up their children as it interferes with the next client's session. It also compromises the confidentiality of yourself and other clients. 

 Yes! As long as the waiting room remains a quiet space.