I’ll admit it. It’s the end of the school year. We are all running out of steam, kids, parents, and I’m sure we can add teachers to the mix as well. Do we really have to finish strong? Let me be clear. There is a difference in being flexible and being consistent. Sometimes we just can’t get to school on time, or miss a homework assignment. Life happens. That is different from being inconsistent and all over the place. Why is consistency so important to kids? Kids thrive on predictability. They like to know what comes next. They need to know what is expected of them. Kids also need to know we as parents and caregivers will do what we say. Kids don’t act like they want or need limits …

One topic I have been eager to educate parents about is what parents can expect when they bring their child to therapy. Every therapist has their own style and practices differently and has their own unique style. I can only speak for how I have chosen to practice. First, I made the choice to only see children 13 and under. (Occasionally I will see kids up to 16). In my practice, I meet with the child’s parents without the child for the first session. I want to hear from them what brought them here, why now, and what are they hoping to accomplish by bringing their child for therapy. I make them aware that they will be a big part of their child succeeding in therapy. I see their child …

How do I even know my child needs therapy? Let me talk about making the decision to bring your child to therapy. For some parents, it’s an easy decision. They may have been receiving phone calls from school “strongly recommending” they seek counseling for their child. Other parents may be given the suggestion from their pediatrician. Some reasons you may consider bringing your child to therapy can be that your child’s behavior is interfering with his or her quality of life. The following list will give you some examples. I’m sure I have missed a few, but generally if you have concerns, don’t delay! Get Help!!