Frequently Asked Questions

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The first session is an initial assessment and is typically held in person with parents or caregivers only. This appointment usually lasts about 1.5 hours and is used to gather important background information, discuss concerns, review your child’s history, and begin identifying treatment needs and goals.

During this first appointment, parents or caregivers will also be introduced to the playroom and given an overview of the type of therapeutic work that may take place there.

If absolutely necessary, a child may attend the intake session. Otherwise, the child does not need to be present for this first appointment. A separate child intake session will then be conducted during the child’s first meeting.

It is usually best to keep the explanation simple, calm, and reassuring. A child can be told that they will be meeting with someone whose job is to help children with feelings, worries, or challenges and that they will have a safe space to talk, play, and express themselves.

It is often helpful to avoid describing therapy as punishment or as something that means something is “wrong” with them.

Children should wear comfortable clothing that allows them to move easily and engage in play activities. While materials such as paint and markers are washable, it is best for children to wear clothes that can be gently soiled. Comfortable, practical everyday clothing is usually best.

Session frequency depends on each child’s needs, treatment goals, and scheduling considerations. In many cases, sessions take place weekly, especially at the beginning of treatment, though recommendations may vary depending on the situation.

Therapy sessions are typically 45 to 60 minutes in length.

The length of therapy can vary depending on the child’s needs, goals, and progress. Some children may benefit from shorter-term support, while others may need a longer course of treatment.

This is reviewed over time based on the child’s individual needs and response to treatment.

Caregivers are important partners in the therapeutic process, and collaboration is encouraged throughout treatment. Progress updates are typically provided once per month through general feedback, caregiver consultations, and collateral sessions as appropriate. Caregivers may also receive support and guidance to help reinforce progress outside of sessions, while also protecting the child’s therapeutic space and sense of safety.

Privacy is an important part of therapy. Children benefit from having a space where they can express themselves freely, and their therapeutic space is respected throughout the process.

Because the child is the primary client, not everything shared in session is repeated word for word. Caregivers remain an important part of treatment and will receive general feedback as appropriate, while also allowing space for the child to feel safe in therapy.

There are important limits to confidentiality. For example, parents or caregivers will be informed if there are concerns about a child’s safety, including risk of harm to self, risk of harm to others, suspected abuse or neglect, or other situations in which disclosure is required by law.