FAQ

How do I know if my child needs counseling?

There are many reasons why parent(s) may seek counseling for their child.  Basically, if your child’s symptoms negatively interfere with his/her functioning at school and/or, home or negatively interfere with relationships with other people, counseling may be necessary.  Your therapist will be able to evaluate whether counseling would be beneficial in your situation.  The therapist can also make referrals, if needed, for psychological testing or a psychiatric evaluation.

What should I tell my child about coming to counseling?

We suggest that before coming to the office, you and your child should discuss seeing a counselor.  You can let the child know that children who have been hurt, sad, or mad (fill in the appropriate feeling) sometimes come and see a counselor.  The counselor will not “make” them do anything that they don’t want to do.  They will be able to play with toys in the play room and they can talk if they want too.  It is important to emphasize that a he/she is not “in trouble”.  Counseling is so he/she (and the family!) can feel better.

How many sessions will my child need?

The number of sessions varies greatly from child to child.  In the beginning of therapy, most children come weekly for sessions.  Parents will have progress meetings with the counselor regularly to determine if progress is being made, determine, treatment goals, and discuss recommendations.  At these meetings, the length of treatment will be discussed further.

What is sandplay therapy?  How is sand used in therapy?

People use a special container full of sand to build miniature worlds.  The sand may be wet or dry and can vary in textures.  Many shelves, holding miniature objects, are available to use and place in the sand.  These objects represent many aspects of real life and even imaginary life.  What emerges from these worlds is often a depiction of the builder’s view of life, feelings, worries, concern etc…  The therapist facilitates in helping the builder to gain insight into this world and/or to play with this world.  This play, allows people to not only express their feelings about their environment, but allows them to experience it and manipulate it to find other solutions.  This type of therapy is very powerful and unique!  It is available for people of all ages and families.