In most cases, when the referred patient is thirteen or younger, we schedule the first visit as a parent only meeting. This allows for us to have an open dialogue with you and not have your child either in the waiting room or potentially listening to you talk about what YOU feel is problematic about them. A parent only appointment allows you to get to know the therapist and can help establish an important trust. The child comes to the following appointment.
With teenagers, we typically invite the parents and the teens together for the intake. Most often, the therapist will split the time up, spending a portion of time with the teen and other time with the parents before giving recommendations to all parties. However, if the referred therapist or parents feels a parent only meeting is advisable given the circumstances, this can be arranged.