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parents

Why Bring My Child to Counseling?

We bring our children to counseling because we want things to improve. We want them to make it to adulthood safe, healthy and happy. We want to see our children content and thriving.

The actual problems can vary from mild to severe. For example, you might notice your son or daughter become less talkative, is spending more time alone or is missing that "spark" in their eyes. Some parents are challenged by a teen who becomes irritable and angry all the time, doesn't want to go to school or might be abusing drugs, alcohol or food.

Research indicates that counseling intervention during adolescence, when many symptoms of psychological problems first appear, may prevent more severe mental health conditions from developing. 

Some common parental concerns are:

  • Problems with friends, school and/or legal system

  • Increasing conflict at home

  • Being stressed out and worried most of the time

  • Becoming withdrawn and chronically sad​

  • Persistent anxiety

  • Misuse of alcohol, drugs and food

  • Excessive, explosive anger and defiance

  • Confusion and conflict about developing sexual identity

  • Child is hurting themselves on purpose, such as "cutting" or burning their body

  • Doing things that put their physical health at risk, such as: risky sexual behavior, refusal to eat, purging or excessive exercise

  • Thinking life is not worth living

  • Suicide threats or attempts

What to expect?

You can choose to begin by scheduling a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation with me to discuss your situation and how to proceed. Or, you may prefer to immediately make an appointment for an initial consultation. During initial consultation, I will meet with both you and your child to discuss your situation, decide whether we want to work together and begin to set goals and a treatment plan. We will also discuss my fees and any out of network insurance reimbursement to which you may be entitled. Counseling is not expected to last "forever." Every person is unique and sees results at a different pace. We will talk about the expected duration of therapy and what commitments you are willing to make. Progress is discussed each week. If counseling does not seem to be working or you are not satisfied with my services, I will help you find an alternative. 

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