FAQ
Frequently asked questions
A few of the things parents and clients ask most often. If your question isn't here, reach out. I'm happy to help.
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
Trust your instincts. You know your child best. Persistent changes in mood or behavior, big reactions to small situations, trouble at school, sleep or appetite changes, or withdrawal from things they used to enjoy can all be signals worth exploring. You don't need a crisis or a diagnosis to benefit from support. A free consultation is a low-pressure way to talk it through.
What happens in the first session?
For children, we usually begin with a parent session so I can hear your concerns and history, followed by a session with your child. The early sessions are about building comfort and trust and getting a clear picture of what's going on. There's no pressure to dive into everything at once.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on your goals and what brings you in. Some families come for a focused, shorter stretch around a specific challenge; others stay longer for deeper work. We'll check in regularly about progress and adjust together, so therapy always fits your needs.
Will you talk to me about what my child says in session?
Parents are an essential part of treatment, and I'll keep you informed and involved with regular check-ins and practical strategies. At the same time, children need a degree of privacy to feel safe opening up. I'll share themes, progress, and anything safety-related, while protecting the trust that makes the work effective. We'll talk about how this works at the start.
What's your approach to confidentiality with minors?
I balance a child's need for a private, trusting space with a parent's need to stay informed. I always share concerns related to safety. Beyond that, I focus on giving you the understanding and tools to support your child, rather than relaying session details word for word.
Do you work with schools or other providers?
Yes. With your written consent, I'm glad to collaborate with teachers, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and other providers when it supports your child's care. Coordinated support often makes a meaningful difference.
Do you accept insurance?
I'm an out-of-network provider and don't bill insurance directly, but many PPO plans reimburse a portion of out-of-network care. I provide a detailed superbill you can submit for potential reimbursement.
What if my child doesn't want to come to therapy?
That's very common, and it's okay. I move at the child's pace and use play and creativity to build comfort before anything else. Many kids who arrive reluctant come to look forward to our time. If your child is hesitant, that's something we can navigate together, and parent support can help in the meantime.
What's the difference between a therapist, psychologist, and psychiatrist?
A therapist (like me, an LPCC) provides talk and play-based therapy to support emotional and behavioral well-being. A psychologist also provides therapy and can conduct psychological testing. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. These roles often work together, and I'm happy to coordinate or refer when helpful.
Do you offer telehealth for kids?
Younger children generally do best with in-person, play-based sessions, so I typically see kids in the office. Telehealth is available for adults and parenting sessions. We can talk about the right format for your family during your consultation.
Still have questions?
A free 15-minute consultation is a great place to get answers and see whether we're a good fit.
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