Therapy for Children and Adolescents

Therapy for Children (6 and under):

Inquiries for therapeutic services for children under the age of 6 years old will be evaluated on a case by case basis.   Support for parents and young children (under the age of 6) is often provided through therapeutic support and consultation to the parents of young children.  This consultation minimizes diagnostic labeling for children in early childhood development and provides assistance for parents to support their young children in a strength based manner, with emphasis on  the child's cognitive and developmental capabilities.  This approach may assist parents in empowering their children, balance child-parent dynamics, enhance structure and implementation of appropriate boundaries,  while working to minimize problematic behaviors in the home through strengthening the parent's capacity to support their children in a loving way.  

Child/Adolescent Therapy (ages 6-17):

During the initial assessment process,  the initial session is typically scheduled with the parent(s)/guardian(s) together, or separately, to gain background and assessment information pertaining to the problem(s) for which the child/adolescent has been referred for treatment.  A diagnostic assessment is facilitated, during the first session with the child.  A diagnosis allows for insurance reimbursement for treatment.  Alternatively, treatment can be provided on a fee for service basis. 

After the initial assessment, individual sessions are provided to the child or adolescent to assist the child with meeting their treatment goals.  It is determined during the intake process, the treatment needs for adolescents and the level of family participation in the treatment.  

Treatment provided to children is determined and evaluated at a pace which the child appears comfortable and responsive to the therapeutic process.  Treatment for children and adolescents may utilize artistic and play techniques to help children express concerns and worries that they may not have language or ability to externalize without support.  Often times, art, music, sand and play techniques can assist children in engaging in treatment and enhancing their development of mastery over problems.

Referral Information to submit regarding child or adolescent:

• Name
• DOB
• Referral Resource
• School/Grade
•  Insurance (Name and DOB and employer of who holds the insurance)
• Self Harm/Suicidal attempts/ideations
• History of Hospitalizations
• Medications
• IEP
• Open court proceedings for child or family

*When a parent seeks therapy for a child, and there are open divorce or custody proceedings, please note that both parents need to consent to treatment.  Both parents are invited to meet with the therapist early in the process to inform the assessment pertaining to the problems for which the child is seeking treatment.   The role of therapist is to assist the child or adolescent in their individual treatment needs, and the therapist does not provide any court recommendations pertaining to custody.  It is important for children and adolescents to gain therapeutic support and keep the therapy role specific to the child and their goals or needs for treatment.   Parents will be engaged in the process as appropriate.  At times, the family may be referred for family therapy if the family needs supersede the individual therapy for the child(ren) and adolescents serving as clients.