Child & Adolescent Therapy
How Child & Adolescent Therapy Works
Understanding how therapy works from your perspective is key to making this journey as beneficial as possible for you. It allows you to feel more comfortable and in control, knowing what to expect in each session and how it contributes to your well-being. You’ll have the opportunity to explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe, supportive environment, guided by a compassionate therapist.
Initial Consultation with Parents
The initial session will be conducted with the parents or caregivers, without the knowledge of the teen or child. This allows the therapist to gather information and understand the concerns from the adult perspective, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the situation before involving the young person directly.
Case Work-Up
The case work-up will be done exclusively with the teen or child, typically taking 3 to 5 sessions. However, the number of sessions may vary depending on the current concern and the individual’s willingness to engage in the therapeutic process. The therapist will build rapport and gather relevant information.
Assessment Phase
Assessments will be conducted based on the specific concern, usually requiring 10-15 sessions. The number of sessions may vary depending on the child’s or teen’s ease and speed in completing the assessments. These assessments should be viewed as a lifelong investment, as the results will provide valuable insights throughout their adolescence and young adulthood. For online sessions, it is mandatory to use a laptop during this phase to ensure optimal participation and accuracy.
Comprehensive Evaluation
In cases where IQ assessments are necessary, a minimum of two IQ tests will be administered, along with other tests relevant to the specific concern. This comprehensive evaluation allows for a thorough understanding of the individual’s cognitive abilities and any related issues that may impact their functioning and well-being.
Collaborative Goal Setting
The assessment results and diagnosis will be shared with the adolescent or parent, depending on the individual’s age and level of understanding. The therapist will then collaborate with the parents or adolescent to establish goals that need to be addressed in the intervention phase. This collaborative approach ensures that all parties are invested in the therapeutic process and working towards common objectives.
Tailored Intervention Strategies
The intervention phase will commence, focusing on the agreed-upon goals and the diagnosis. The therapist will employ evidence-based techniques and strategies tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. The duration and intensity of this phase may vary depending on the complexity of the issues and the progress made by the adolescent or child.
Assessing Progress
In the final phase, the effects of the therapy will be assessed to determine the progress made and any areas that may require further attention. The therapist will work with the adolescent or child to develop relapse prevention strategies and provide closure to the therapeutic process. This phase ensures that the individual is equipped with the tools and resources needed to maintain their progress and cope with future challenges.
