If you cannot speak directly with the therapist it is best to leave a message suggesting best times to reach you for a return call. Not all therapists have a formal evaluation period. Some like to begin treatment immediately and gather necessary information as they go along. This is perfectly acceptable, and it leaves the door open to you in the future. Most important, it keeps you and your child from becoming attached to one person, only to have to switch abruptly to someone else.
Some therapists consider the first session a time for evaluation.
They will want to collect enough information to determine what, if any, treatment might be most helpful. They will spend time during the first appointment asking questions. Those who see the first meeting as the beginning of treatment will gather information and begin by making comments or suggestions. Therapists vary as to which members of the family they wish to see for the first appointment. Usually, with children under twelve or thirteen, therapists will not ask to see the child first.