Question 1

How do I prepare my child for therapy?

Accepted Answer

Preparing your child for their first therapy session involves clear, age-appropriate communication and helping to create a comfortable environment.  Keep the explanation simple, emphasizing that the first visit is just a casual, safe space to play, talk, and get to know each other.  Use these steps to set your child up for a successful first appointment:
Explain the "Why" simply:  Tell them they are going to see someone who helps kids understand and manage their emotions.  Explain that the therapist is like a coach for their feelings.
Normalize the visit:  Reassure them that having big feelings is completely normal and that it is okay to be nervous.
Mention the fun stuff:  Let younger children know that the therapy room has toys, games, and art supplies.  Also, bringing a favorite comfort item or toy from home can be helpful.
Briefly discuss confidentiality:  Explain that therapy is a private space.  Let them know that what they share with the therapist belongs just to them, giving them a sense of control.
At Stevenson Psychology, I strive to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that helps children and teens feel safe, respected, and heard from their very first visit.

Question 2

How many sessions will I or my child/teen need?

Accepted Answer

Every client is unique and every client will progress through therapy at their own pace.  Length of time depends on the presenting issue and willingness or motivation to engage in change.  Some clients only need a few sessions to work through their issue or to learn some coping tools.  Others have been through more traumatic events or have limited social support and require longer-term therapy.

Question 3

How do I know if my child needs therapy?

Accepted Answer

At Stevenson Psychology, Audrey understands that recognizing when your child may benefit from therapy can be challenging or overwhelming for parents.  Some signs that your child may benefit from therapy include:
noticeable changes in mood such as persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability or uncontrollable anger
excessive fears or worries
emotional outbursts, tantrums or defiance
drastic changes in sleep or eating
aggressive behaviour
withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed
withdrawal from family and friends
conflict with peers
reduced school performance
school refusal
excessive accommodation by parents
avoidance or disruption to daily activities
frequent stomach aches, headaches or other physical symptoms
Audrey provides a safe, supportive environment where your child can express themselves and develop healthy coping skills.  Early intervention can improve your child's well-being and resilience, so if you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to reach out to Stevenson Psychology for a confidential consultation to discuss possible next steps.

Question 4

What should I expect for the first parent session?

Accepted Answer

For younger children 5 to 10 or 11:
During my initial session for younger children, I meet with parents or guardians only.  This allow us to fully explore your child's situation or concerns openly and explore background information while also discussing parental concerns and challenges.  We will also discuss how to introduce therapy for your child and prepare them for their first session.  From this first meeting, we will work together to start creating a treatment plan that supports the parents and the child, whether that be parents having parent consultation sessions or the child receiving individual sessions.

For older children and teens 11 or 12 to 17:
During this initial session, we will book a longer appointment (80 minute session) in order for both parents/guardians and child to be able to actively participate as we explore and discuss underlying concerns.  We will establish collaborative goals and a treatment plan that will most effectively address the presenting concerns.

Question 5

What is perinatal therapy?

Accepted Answer

Perinatal therapy is a specialized form of mental health support focusing on emotional and psychological well-being of women during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth.  This therapy addresses the unique emotional, psychological, and relational challenges that can arise during this period such as anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and the transition to parenthood.  Audrey understands the profound changes women experience during this time and provides a safe, supportive space to explore feelings and develop coping strategies.  Audrey offers support to women in fostering a healthy transition to parenthood and promoting long-term emotional well-being.

Question 6

What can I expect for my child's first session?

Accepted Answer

During your child's first session, you can expect a welcoming and supportive environment focusing on helping you and  your child feel comfortable.  This initial session primarily focuses on getting to know your child, building rapport and comfort.  This typically involves gentle conversation about what brings them to therapy, age appropriate conversation about limits to confidentiality and play-based activities.  If the child requests, parents or guardians are welcome to join in for part or all of this first session.  Audrey's goal is to ensure that this first experience sets a positive framework for ongoing sessions and collaboration with you and your child.

Question 7

What is Synergetic Play Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Play is the primary language for children.  During play therapy, children’s play often resembles the difficult emotions and experiences they are struggling with internally.  Instead of relying on talking, the Synergetic play therapist co-regulates with the child helping them to learn how to manage their feelings, regulate their nervous system and build emotional resilience.  When a child feels stressed or overwhelmed, they “borrow” the therapist's regulated nervous system and the child learns to self regulate by feeling the therapist's emotional stability.  Synergetic Play Therapy views the therapist as an external regulator who helps the child stay within their window of tolerance as they explore challenging feelings, thoughts, and sensations.

Frequently asked questions