Children, Teens, and Adolescents
What to Expect
❋ Intentional StructureSessions are tailored to your child’s age, developmental level, personality, and needs and may include play therapy techniques, creative activities, conversation, and other interactive approaches when appropriate.
❋ Collaborative SupportThis may include caregiver-only sessions, joint sessions with the caregiver and child, or other forms of collaboration based on your child’s individual needs and treatment goals.
❋ Expert FacilitationUsing evidence-based therapeutic approaches, children can develop practical coping skills, emotional regulation strategies, and healthy ways to navigate challenges.
❋ A Supportive SpaceChildren are provided with a supportive environment where they can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and authentically.
When a child or teen is struggling, it can be difficult to know what they need—or how to help. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for young clients to express themselves, develop healthy coping skills, build confidence, and work through challenges.
Areas of Support
Anger/ Irritability
Grief
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma
Disturbance of Conduct
Self-Esteem
Relationships and more!
FAQs
Will I be in my child’s therapy sessions?
1
Typically, the first session includes both the child and their parent or caregiver. This allows us to hear everyone’s perspective, establish shared goals, and begin the therapeutic process with a clear understanding of your child’s needs and concerns. Depending on your child’s age, developmental needs, or clinical circumstances, I may also begin the first session by meeting with the parent or caregiver individually before meeting with the child or joint sessions.
Will I know everything my child says during sessions?
2
No. Building trust and a strong therapeutic relationship is an important part of effective therapy, so I do not routinely share the details of everything your child discusses during sessions.
During the intake process and first session, we will discuss privacy, confidentiality, and what information may be shared with parents or caregivers. We will also review the limits of confidentiality, including situations in which information may need to be disclosed due to safety concerns or other legal or clinical requirements.
What happens if my child says something concerning?
3
Your child’s safety is always a priority. As a mandated reporter, I am legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities when a disclosure or other information meets the reporting requirements, regardless of my personal beliefs or opinions.
If your child shares information about self-harm, suicidal thoughts, dangerous behaviors, or another activity that may place them at significant risk of harm, I will take the concern seriously and determine the appropriate level of intervention. When clinically and legally appropriate, I will involve the parent or caregiver in addressing the concern and developing a plan to support your child’s safety.
How will I speak with the therapist?
4
At the beginning of your child’s session, you may have an opportunity to provide updates or share relevant concerns with me with or without your child present, depending on what is clinically appropriate.
This may include changes at home, school concerns, recent behaviors, or other information that could help inform treatment. Keeping me updated allows us to make sessions as relevant, focused, and supportive of your child’s needs as possible.