What is the difference between counseling and psychotherapy?

Counseling is typically considered to be advice giving in resolving personal, social or psychological problems and difficulties. Generally speaking, psychotherapy is the treatment of mental disorders by psychological rather than medical means. Both counseling & psychotherapy helps people work through challenges that arise in their activities of day-to-day living. Emily works with her clients to identify problems, to set realistic goals, and to develop skills in problem solving, coping, and interpersonal relations.

How long does treatment take?

There is no set answer for this question; some people might work through their issues in a few months, others might take a year or even a few years. The quality of the relationship between the client and the therapist, the client’s motivation, the therapist’s skill and the reason the client is seeking assistance are all important factors in determining how long treatment takes.

How often do I have to come in?

Typically, therapy is a once a week commitment. Others find that coming in twice a week is more beneficial. The frequency of the visits is related to how intensely the client wants to work on his or her problems. Clients who are highly involved in the process of change find that they get more when they increase the frequency of visits.

Does going to therapy mean that I'm crazy?

No, not at all! When a client decides to seek therapy, they are taking charge of their life and their situation. Life is hard for everyone and all people need assistance at some point in their lives.

How much does Emily charge? Does she take insurance?

Emily charges $90 for a 50 minute therapy session; she takes cash, check & debit/credit cards. Emily does not take insurance at this time although she will gladly give you a receipt for you to turn into your insurance company if you would like to submit it on your own.

What is play therapy?

Cited from a4pt.org:

Initially developed in the turn of the 20th century, today play therapy refers to a large number of treatment methods, all applying the therapeutic benefits of play. Play therapy differs from regular play in that the therapist helps children to address and resolve their own problems. Play therapy builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them. Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others. Play provides a safe psychological distance from their problems and allows expression of thoughts and feelings appropriate to their development.

Why play therapy?

Adults and teenagers are able to talk through their problems and issues, but children, ages 2-11, are not. Play is known as children’s “work” — that is how children grow, learn, and experience new things in the world around them. If a child or his or her family is facing challenges or life changes and they need extra help, Emily believes play is the most direct way for them to demonstrate their fears, frustrations, experiences and fantasies. This play is within the context of a non-threatening environment where the child feels safe, accepted and free of expectation.

When is the right time to bring my child in for play therapy?

• When the child’s problems are interfering with most or all of their activities in daily living — feedings, rest time, bathing, play time, etc.
• If the child’s normal behaviors suddenly change, such as: She used to love to go to gymnastics class, but now when it is time to go she refuses and throws a fit.
• If the child is complaining of chronic stomachaches, headaches, sweaty hands or feet with no medical explanation and/or refuses to participate in routine activities.
• If a child is unable to meet parents' normal expectations for daily living, such as potty training, sitting at the table to eat, bedtime challenges, and parents feel they are at the end of their resources.
• Family is experiencing a new baby in the house, separation, divorce, prolonged illness, death or other trauma.
• A parent has a gut feeling something is just not right.

How long is treatment?

The length of therapy depends on the issues being addressed and the desire of the individual to feel better. Some disorders, such as phobias or fears, require only short-term treatment. Sometimes, treatment can last several months — progress is often made in small gains at a steady pace.

What happens once my child arrives for his or her session?

The child will visit the play room and Emily will observe and gather information while the child plays, which will allow her to assess the child. This initial assessment usually takes one to two sessions. Then Emily will meet with the parents, share her assessment, formulate a plan and go from there.