
Initial Phone Consultation
I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to explain my approach, learn more about what you are seeking, and answer any questions you may have. This is an opportunity for us to determine whether working together feels like a good fit.
Assessment
Before beginning therapy or consultation, it is important to complete a clinical assessment of 3-4 sessions to ensure that we have a clear understanding of your or your child’s needs.
For older teens and adults, the assessment involves gathering a thorough history and may include the use of questionnaires to better understand your experiences and goals for therapy.
For children and younger teens, I begin by meeting with parents for an intake appointment to learn about your child’s development, current concerns, and the challenges you are noticing. If appropriate, I will complete a play-based assessment with you and your child together, allowing me to observe your child’s ways of engaging and communicating in a developmentally supportive environment.
When helpful to your child’s care, I may also conduct a school observation. Observing children in their natural environments provides valuable insight into how they navigate their world, relate to others, and communicate their needs through behavior.
A central part of the assessment process is identifying and understanding your child’s strengths, as these will be their best tools for learning and relating. We will work together to build on these strengths to address areas of need in a way that supports growth while honoring your child’s individuality.
The assessment also helps me understand the patterns within your parent-child relationship. It is within relationships and through meaningful experiences that children learn best. By strengthening positive interactions and connections within your family, we lay the foundation for your child’s well-being now and into the future.
Therapy
What do we achieve? What does it look like? How often do we meet? How do we decide what to do? What outcome are we looking for?
