Why do kids seek counseling?

Kids, teens and young adults seek therapy when they are struggling with certain issues in their life.  They may be experiencing a change in their life such as divorce or dealing with the loss of a loved one.  They may be having academic difficulties that are affecting they way they feel about themselves or they may be having difficulties connecting with peers or family members.  There are many reasons why counseling is needed to help the young person to gain emotional well being.

What can I expect in a counseling session?

During sessions kids can identify the problems that are interfering with their life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but younger children may benefit from shorter sessions.  Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. Some time will be spent with parent so that I can gain a full understanding of what the issues are and what goals need to be addressed during the counseling session.

 

What benefits can I expect from working with a counselor?

Being able to identify and express one's feeling is the first step to feeling better. Identifying the difficulties of life and understanding how we can make changes is crucial to the counseling process.

• Attaining a better understanding of personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led to counseling
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
• Addressing academic and organizational issues

 

What goals will be set during counseling?

• This is a collaborative processes where kids and parents decide on gaols
• Long and short therm goals are set
• plans and progress are discussed in session

If you aren't sure what your goals are for counseling, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

 

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

Insurance is not accepted at this time. 

 

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or Dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.