All first appointments begin with informed consent. Informed consent involves an explanation of therapy, confidentiality, all treatment options, risk and outcomes, as well as duration and frequency of therapy.
Younger Children (5-10):
Often, during my initial appointment with younger children, I primarily engage with adults. This allows us to delve into your child’s situation while providing an opportunity for parents to openly discuss their concerns and parenting challenges. I conduct clinical screenings to ensure I have a comprehensive understanding of your child’s circumstances. This initial interview also facilitates collaboration between us, enabling us to formulate a tailored support plan for your child. Drawing on this information, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that may involve parents participating in therapy sessions or the child receiving individualized support.
Older Children and Teens (10 and up):
During this initial appointment, both the adults and the child actively participate as we collectively examine and discuss the underlying concerns. Whether it involves anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma or emotional regulation, our collaborative effort aims to establish goals and instigate positive transformations. For older children, I often administer questionnaires and assessments to gain a comprehensive understanding of their behavior and emotions. A crucial aspect of our interaction is building rapport with the child by discussing their interests, passions, and identifying areas of success. Together, we establish goals and devise a treatment plan that effectively addresses the present issue.
Adults:
The initial appointment serves as an opportunity to delve into your personal history, experiences and goals. In order to gain a comprehensive understanding, we may utilize questionnaires, and screeners to ensure that no important details are overlooked. It is important for me to explore what strategies have been effective for you in the past, as well as those that have not, in order to avoid repeating unhelpful approaches. This first session is designed as an informal assessment and an opportunity to establish a strong rapport, which is crucial for your success in therapy. Often, the first session can feel overwhelming, but after a few sessions most people feel confident and comfortable.