FAQ for Kids and Teens
Is therapy the same as getting advice from my teachers and parents?
Working with a therapist is a unique kind of relationship. Being that I am a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. This means that I am most interested in learning about you, the issues that have led you into counseling, and the obstacles getting in the way of your success. I am not here to tell you what to do, I am here to walk alongside you as you journey through this time. Many of my child and teen clients report that working with me feels like talking to an older sibling or cousin, rather than an authority figure. You can rest assured that you will not be judged when working with me or feel like you need to be anybody but yourself during our sessions. Our work together will be collaborative. We will spend most of our time together discussing areas of your life that you want to improve on and explore skills that will help you reach these goals.
Will the information I share in session be shared with my parents?
As a minor you are protected by confidentiality, meaning that I, your therapist, will not disclose the information you share with me in session with anyone unless you give me permission to do so. If I feel it would be beneficial for your parents to know certain information, or if you request that I share certain information with your parents, we will collaboratively decide what specific information you want me to share and discuss whether you want to be present for this conversation.
Limits of Confidentiality:
In special circumstances, I may be required by law to break confidentiality. I am considered a mandated reporter; therefore, I am required to take steps to ensure safety if a client reports past or present abuse or neglect of a minor, dependent adult, or elder. I am also mandated to take steps to ensure safety if a client reports an intention to harm themselves, or an intention to harm another person/group of people. In some cases, these issues require that a report be made to authorities or that parents be informed of the issues at hand so that they can help create safety for their child or teen. If you have any questions or concerns about my obligations as a mandated reporter, please feel free to ask me more about limits of confidentiality.
If my parents are forcing me to come to therapy against my will, do I have to participate?
Coming to therapy against your will can feel incredibly frustrating and unsettling. In these cases, I work with you first by addressing any questions or concerns you have about counseling. We might take 1-3 sessions to get to know each other and see if you can identify any personal goals for being in therapy. For therapy to be successful, the client must be actively involved in the treatment process. I will not be able to do my job effectively if you are unwilling to participate in making progress. Therefore, if after the first few sessions, you do not feel motivated to return, I will provide both you and your parents with a list of referrals and other treatment options for you to explore.
FAQ for All
What can I expect a therapy session to look like?
Initially, we will start by getting to know each other. I will likely ask more questions in the beginning few sessions in order to learn more about what issues brought you into therapy and the goals you would like to address here. We will also talk about your history, family dynamics, academic and/or professional demands, and current coping skills. From there, we will meet on a weekly (occasionally biweekly) basis and continue to explore how we can best accomplish your therapeutic goals and better understand what has kept you from living a more fulfilling life. I will also aim to help you gain greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and learn coping skills to manage the difficulties you are currently facing.
How long does therapy tend to last?
The length of treatment varies for each person and situation. Within my experience, I have found that certain factors tend to expedite the therapeutic process. These factors include the client’s motivation for change, their willingness to use coping and/or communication skills outside of therapy, and their ability to look more deeply into the issues that have brought them into counseling.
Does going to therapy mean that there is something wrong with me?
Certainly not! No person is perfect, we each come with imperfections, it is how we respond to the challenges we face that matters most. As human beings, we are intended to grow as people and learn how to adjust to the stressors we face at various life stages. Sometimes, the journey of growth requires a little extra support along the way. Being in therapy is a sign that you want to improve areas of your life that are getting in the way of your success. Whether you are coming to therapy because of a feeling, mood, stressor, relationship problem, or a family conflict the goal is to help you feel better and live a healthier life. There is nothing wrong with you for taking an active step in improving your well-being. On the contrary, working on your wellness is a sign of internal strength and resiliency.