I want you to know what to expect when you come to see me. Hopefully, your questions are answered here, but if not, please contact me.
What can I expect in the first session?
During the first appointment, I will meet with the parent or primary caregiver (without the child). This will allow time for me to gather a comprehensive history and evaluation of the parent’s concerns. We will discuss family history, the child’s developmental history, current symptoms and behaviors, and my treatment approach. Based on this information, we will work together to develop goals and a plan for treatment. I may make recommendations for further services such as psychological evaluations, occupational therapy, or additional community based services.
What do I bring to the first session?
- Previous evaluations or assessments (psychological evaluations, occupational therapy, speech etc.)
- Provider List (names, address, and phone numbers of current and previous providers (previous mental health providers, pediatrician, medical providers, psychiatrist, occupational therapy, speech, naturopathic doctors etc.)
- Medication list (names, dosages, dates of current and previous psychotropic medications)
What I can expect in therapy sessions?
Sessions with children consist of various forms of play therapy. This includes but is not limited to:
- Expression through toys and child centered play (puppets, doll house, figurines etc.)
- Role plays
- Parent and child games and interventions
- Sand
- Art
These interventions are sometimes used in conjunction with traditional talk therapy or may be used in lieu of talk therapy when children are not able or ready to express emotions and experiences verbally.
Parent consultations are held regularly in order to support parents with home-based interventions and parenting strategies.
How long will sessions last?
The initial session may last between 1 and 1 1/2 hours. After the first appointment, sessions will last between 40 minutes and an hour, depending on the treatment approach.
How do I prepare my child for counseling?
Young children do not understand the meaning of the words “counseling” or “therapist.” You might tell your child:
“We are going to meet a lady named Katrine tomorrow. She has a playroom full of toys that you can play with. Her job is to play and talk with kids in a way that helps them to feel better when they feel sad, angry or confused.”
Below are some visuals that can help ease your child’s anxiety about coming to therapy. Feel free to share them with your child!
Do you accept insurance?
I am not in network with insurance. This means that the full session rate is due at the time of service. However, I can provide documentation for you to file claims with your insurance. Your insurance plan may or may not reimburse a partial amount of each session.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, therapist/client communication is confidential. Information may only be released with written consent. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or elder abuse (including neglect, domestic violence, physical or sexual abuse)
- If a client intends to harm self or others
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person
- A judge may subpoena records or therapist testimony
Do both parents have to consent to services?
Yes. I require both parents to sign written consent to services. Exceptions may be made in the event that one parent is absent due to abandonment or military service. I am happy to talk with you about your circumstances.
Please note that I do not provide services to children and families who have ongoing custody cases in court. I do not provide court reports, court testimony, custody evaluations or mediation.
The mission of Children’s Counseling Center is to provide support and treatment to children and families in a warm, therapeutic environment.