What to Expect-Therapy for Children and Adolescents
Effective therapy is tailored to the person, and it is essential that individuals feel safe in the process of therapy. This means considering individual factors, environment, and developmental factors. Dr. Keaschuk can adapt different techniques and approaches to best fit the individual. She strongly believes that parents and caregivers are involved in the therapeutic process. The extent of this involvement is determined collaboratively with children and parents/caregivers. She knows that both children, and their caregivers, need to trust that they are speaking in a safe place where confidentiality is respected.
For young children
Dr. Keaschuk will meet with parents or caregivers alone for the first session to obtain a developmental history and to better understand the concerns that prompted referral. The second session typically involves meeting with the child for most of the session and then with parents at the end to discuss approach to treatment. This initial assessment helps to clarify which approaches are the best fit for children and their families. There are situations where parent-based therapeutic interventions are the best course of action, and others where a blend of individual therapy (including play therapy) and parent-based intervention is recommended. Resources and support are provided throughout the process.
For adolescents
Dr. Keaschuk asks to meet with the adolescent and at least one parent or caregiver at the first appointment. This appointment is split into thirds: Dr. Keaschuk will meet with the family together, with the adolescent alone, and with the parent alone. This provides needed privacy for adolescents and parents to share their concerns and helps to build trust in the therapy process and relationship. This first session also begins the process of treatment planning which is done in a collaborative manner with teens. Goals for treatment and individual responsibilities in treatment are discussed collaboratively.
Dr. Keaschuk does not provide child or parenting assessments for court proceedings. In situations where there is joint custody, she requires consent of both parents to see a minor child. There are exceptions to this; please contact Dr. Keaschuk with your specific questions.
Parents of children and teens often report that it is difficult to get their children to agree to engage in treatment. In these situations, there are many different types of parent-based treatment that can provide support to children and adolescents even when they are not seen directly. (link to parent consultation).