Common Questions

How do I know if my child  needs therapy?

Children face a wide range of issues in today’s world. However, they may not have the means to tell us how they are feeling and may present with a variety of issues including behavioral difficulties, anxiety or fears, depression, school refusal, problems with peer relationships, impulsivity/hyperactivity, dealing with family stressors such as divorce or separation, and trauma or loss related concerns.

At times, the challenges listed above can take a toll on the family system and therefore create conflict among family members.  Therapy can provide a safe, nurturing environment where these challenges can be faced.

What can be expected in a therapy session?

A typical therapy session is 50 minutes; however some young children can only tolerate 35-45 minutes.  Parent feedback is often done at the end of a session. Separate parent sessions are scheduled as needed to address clinical concerns that cannot be discussed with the child present.

Family sessions may at times run longer than 50 minutes, depending on the agreement between the therapist and the family.  Extended individual sessions (80 minutes) are used on occasion should the therapist feel it is appropriate for a client who is in need of extra support.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist’s office.   Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone.  This is called “Informed Consent”.  Sometimes, however, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team, but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.

However, state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

  • Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
  • If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.