Kids and Teens
Kids and teens do better when you are not staring at them and pressuring them to talk! So we sprawl out on my office floor and “chill” with drinks and snacks. We have fun hanging out, doing art projects, listening to their music, etc. because that’s what gets them comfortable and gets them talking!
How it works:
1. Parent(s) schedule online for an “Initial Parent(s) Appointment” to meet with me alone, without child, so I can get background and specific concerns about the child. This Initial Parent Appointment is 2 hours and child is not present (nor waiting in lobby annoyed at being the topic of a two-hour mystery conversation!)
2. Parent schedules online for an “Initial Child/Teen Appointment” for child to meet with me alone, so I can get a feel for the child’s personality and perspective. This appointment is 90 minutes (I first meet with kid alone for approximately 70-75 mins, and then I meet with parent alone for the last 15-20 minutes).
3. Parent schedules online for “Child/Teen Follow-up Appointment” for child to meet with me alone for follow-up. This appointment is 90 minutes (I first meet with kid alone for approximately 70-75 mins, and then I meet with parent alone for the last 15-20 minutes). This follow-up invites the child/teen to show more of themselves since I’m no longer a stranger and they know what to expect (and enjoy!).
4. Parent schedules online for a “Parent(s) Follow-up Appointment” so I can meet alone with the parent(s), without child, to share my perspective of the child’s situation and my recommendations. This appointment is 90 minutes.
In about 85% of cases, after the four appointments, the situation is greatly improved if not completely resolved. The kid has had a great experience, feels comfortable about “sessions” now, and looks forward to “popping in” to see me again “as-needed” whenever stressors may arise in the future.
In about 15% of cases, the child wants to come weekly or every other week for a few additional weeks (or a couple months) during a transition time (such as a divorce or grieving), which is the parents decision. Each child is different, so I customize solutions for each family based on their goals, as well as their time and budget constraints.