Helping Families Find Solutions For Life's Challenges
How Do I Know If My Child Or Our Family Needs Therapy?
Life is full of unexpected challenges and therapy can provide a safe, nurturing environment where these challenges can be faced. Parents usually pursue therapy for their child because of a concern they have or because it was recommended by the child's pediatrician or teacher/guidance counselor. Children present with a variety of issues including behavioral difficulties, anxiety or fears, depression, school refusal, problems with peer relationships, impulsivity/hyperactivity, dealing with family stressors such as divorce or separation, and trauma or loss related concerns.
Family issues may also be a reason to seek support from a therapist. Some of the challenges listed above can take a toll on the family system and therefore, create conflict among family members. In some cases, family stress is the cause for a child's behavior and therapy can help tease this out.
What Is Play Therapy?
Since play is a child's primary form of communication, many child therapists are trained under a specific theoretical model that believes in the power of play. This is a specific treatment modality that utilizes play-based techniques, art therapy, and sandtray techniques to address a child's innermost thoughts and fears. "Trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psycho-social difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development" (Association for Play Therapy). Research based evidence supports the notion that play therapy is an effective way to address social, emotional, and behavioral concerns in children.
What Can Be Expected in a Therapy Session?
A typical therapy session is 50 minutes; however some young children can only tolerate 40-45 minutes. Family sessions may at times run longer than 50 minutes, depending on the agreement between the therapist and the family. Extended individual sessions (80 minutes) are used on occassion should the therapist feel it is appropriate for a client who is in need of extra support.
Parents are at times invited to join a child's session and parent guidance is often done at the beginning or end of a child's session. Separate parent sessions are scheduled as needed to address clinical concerns that cannot be discussed with the child present.
Payment and Fees
Payment is due at the time of services. Clients are expected to cancel with a 24 hour notice to avoid being charged for the missed session. Fees related to court or collaboration with other professionals will be discussed at start of therapy. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.
Other Questions?
Feel free to contact me via phone or email to discuss any additional questions you may have. 703.346.9160- confidential voicemail tamara@familysolutionscp.com