Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?Whether you have been in counseling before or are seeking counseling for the first time, sometimes it can be helpful to have a picture in mind of what to expect. The first step is to call the office and set up the Intake Session. This session is for parents only. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your child, share your concerns and see if you are comfortable with Amy. It is also a time for her to gather relevant information about your child and determine if she is the best professional for your family. If so, you and Amy will work together to determine the course of treatment. How frequently will she want to see my child?Initially, once a week is optimal. Then, as you and Amy determine progress is being made, the time between sessions will be extended. What about my child missing school?Amy will provide you with a note to take back to your child's school, which means the absence should be excused. How long will my child be involved in therapy?This is a good question, one most parents ask, yet one that Amy cannot answer definitely. However, once she gets to know your child, she will be able to give you a general idea. Will you be meeting with just my child or the entire family?Every child and family situation is different. That will be determined as therapy progresses. How will we be informed about our child's progress?Amy will provide feedback to you by either speaking with you for a few minutes at the beginning of your child's appointment time or asking you to schedule a session for yourself. How soon can we expect to see some changes?This varies from child to child. Some parents see changes after the first session, yet others do not see change for a while. What do I tell my child?For younger children, simply tell them they are coming to play with a lady named Ms. Amy. For older children and adolescents, just tell them that when things are hard it helps to have someone to talk to and you've scheduled an appointment for them with Ms. Amy. How can I help?Probably one of the most important things you can help with is not telling your child what to come in and tell Amy. Children usually know what they need to come in and do and say. You can be most helpful to Amy by letting her know your concerns and what you want your child to tell her so she can tailor her interventions based on that information. Another helpful thing is to note any significant changes in your child, better or worse, and letting Amy know. Finally, you can be respectful of your child's time in therapy by not asking what happened in session. If they want to share everything to you, that's great, but if they don't, respect that, please. Know that Amy will be giving you feedback about her time with your child. What kind of therapy do you do with children and adolescents?Younger children will be involved in play therapy and older children and adolescents will be involved in the more traditional talk therapy along with activity therapy. Is Amy a Christian?Yes she is. Does Amy accept insurance?Amy does not accept any health insurance. If you wish, she will provide you with a detailed receipt which you may use to file for reimbursement with your insurance company. If you have mental health benefits your insurance company will reimburse you directly. Please check with your insurance carrier about your specific policy. Please let Amy know when you contact her if she can assist you with this process or if you have any questions What are her fees?Payment for services is due at the time of service. Payment may be made by check, cash or credit card. Amy accepts MC and Visa. Fees are $150.00 for the Initial Intake Session and $125.00 for Individual Sessions. |