How I Work

Is it a match? When families call me for issues with their children, the first step is to see if I am a good match for your child, teen or family. This can be determined in a free consultation by phone.

Who do you see first? When it is determined that I would be a good match for your child, I will typically meet with the parent(s) initially to gather background information.  There may be information that you may not want to say in front of the child, either about the behavior or about family dynamics.  In addition, this gives the parents to opportunity to meet with me, learn my style and set up a game plan.

What do I bring to my first appointment? When an appointment is made, you will be sent a link for forms to be completed online before the initial appointment. This will allow us more time to talk and less time on paperwork. If you are wanting me to see a child under 18 where the parents are separated or divorced, please bring in custody documents. If you have health insurance, and you would like me to bill your insurance, please bring a copy of your insurance card.  If your child has an IEP or 504, those documents will be helpful as well. Don't worry if you don't have all of these documents.  We can discuss them at the initial appointment.

What about teens? Although most teens are old enough to be a part of the intake process, again there may be information that is sensitive and you may or may not want them present. Most teens I work with in a creative manner, ranging from structured games, to art therapy to traditional talk therapy. Much will depend on your child's personality and the issue that they are coming in to see a therapist.

What about kids under 5? I work with kids under 5 through play therapy, as is probably pretty evident on my website. You can tell them that are coming to talk to someone about their fears or anger to make it so they don't get in trouble any more, or aren't so scared anymore.

How do I know what going on in therapy? Although a child does confidentiality in therapy, they do live in your house. When planning our treatment strategy, we will discuss how updates are given to parents and how frequently. A young child may want to update you him/herself after each session, while a teenager may want updates to be monthly. If parents have updates that they want to let the therapist to know about, they are welcome to leave a voicemail prior to their child's session. This allows their child to have as much time with me directly as possible.