Frequently asked questions.
General questions
What is child-centered play therapy, and how does it help my child?
Child-centered play therapy is like giving kids a backstage pass to their own emotions—through play! Kids often express themselves better with toys than words, and this therapy helps them work through big feelings and tough experiences in a way that feels safe and fun.
What age groups do you work with?
We work with kids as young as three, all the way through the rollercoaster years of adolescence. We also work with parents using Child-Parent Relationship Therapy.
What challenges can therapy help my child or teen overcome?
We address a variety of concerns, including low self-esteem, emotional outbursts, anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, family struggles, and more. If it’s weighing your child or teen down, we’re here to help lighten the load.
How do I know if my child or teen needs counseling?
If your child is struggling emotionally, socially, or behaviorally and it’s impacting their day-to-day life—or yours—it might be time to give therapy a try. Trust your instincts; you know your child best!
Read more on signs your child might benefit from play therapy.
What is a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), and why is it important?
An RPT is a therapist with specialized training in play therapy, like a superhero with extra tools in their utility belt. It ensures your child is getting care that’s uniquely suited to their developmental needs.
Services and process
What can I expect during my child’s first therapy session?
The very first session is the initial parent consultation session between the therapist and parents/ guardians. This session is held without the child present. You will have the opportunity to share any information you would like with the therapist and learn more about what the counseling process will look like. After this session, therapy with your child/ teen can begin.
The first session with your child is all about building connection. The therapist will spend time getting to know your child through play and conversation, helping them feel comfortable, accepted, and safe. The therapist will bring your child to the play room and let them know they can play with everything in the room in almost any way they would like. After 45 minutes, your therapist will walk your child to the lobby to meet you.
How does parent involvement work in your therapy sessions?
Parents are key players on this journey. We’ll check during a parent consultation session every 5 or so weeks to share insights, strategies, and progress, ensuring you feel supported and involved every step of the way. These parent consultations are free of charge!
How long does therapy usually take to see results?
Every child is different, but most families start noticing positive changes within a few months. The key is consistency—like watering a lily pad, growth takes time! Currently, studies show the average length of play therapy ranges from 20-40 weeks. (This means there are some that take 10 weeks and some that could take 60, every situation is different!).
Do you offer family counseling or parenting support?
Yes! We provide parenting support through Child Parent Relationship Therapy to help you navigate challenges at home and strengthen family bonds. Think of us as your co-pilot for family harmony.
Can you help with school-related issues like bullying or academic struggles?
Absolutely. From building confidence to managing stress, we help kids and teens develop the tools they need to thrive at school and beyond. While some diagnoses are not curable, such as dyslexia or ADHD, therapy helps children thrive with these diagnoses instead of just survive.
Practical concerns
Do you accept insurance?
We’re out-of-network with all insurance companies, but provide the documentation (superbills) you need for reimbursement. You can call your insurance provider and they will be able to let you know if you have OON benefits. Generally, if you have OON benefits, they will reimburse between 50 and 80% of the bill. If you choose to use the benefits, we provide you with the information you need at the end of each month to file for reimbursement.
Why private pay instead of insurance?
If we were to accept insurance, we would be forced to diagnose your child, insurance companies frequently limit the number of sessions possible, and information about your child’s diagnosis and therapy sessions belong to a permanent mental health record that will follow your child through their life. So if your child gets a mental health diagnosis young, it could be seen in the future if your child decides to enlist in the military, apply for security clearance, or apply for health or life insurance.
What am I paying for / how do I pay?
We believe that parents should not be charged to learn about their child. The initial parent consultation, as well as the parent consultations every 5 weeks, are free of charge. You get a dedicated 50 minutes to discuss your child, progress being made, and issues you are noticing. We accept debit cards, credit cards, and HSA/FSA cards.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. If you let us know in time, you will not be charged. We also know that life happens! So your first late cancel/ no-show is free of charge. You will not be charged in case of emergency. Determining whether a situation counts as an emergency is up to the therapist.
How do I schedule a therapy session with you?
Give us a call at (469) 294-4474 or request an appointment online. We’ll hop right on it!
Specialized topics
What is emotional regulation, and how can therapy help my child with it?
Emotional regulation is like learning to drive your feelings instead of letting them drive you. Therapy gives kids tools to recognize, name, and manage their emotions, leading to smoother “rides” at home and school.
Can therapy help with my child’s low self-esteem or negative self-talk?
Yes! We help kids and teens shift their inner dialogue from “I can’t” to “I can” and build confidence that lasts. Think of it as rewiring their inner cheerleader.
How do I know if play therapy is working for my child?
You’ll start to notice changes—maybe your child is handling frustrations better, opening up more, or showing more confidence. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process, too!
What if my teenager doesn’t want to talk to a counselor?
Teens can be tricky! We use a laid-back, relatable approach to connect with them. Once they feel heard and understood, they’re usually willing to open up—no prying required.
You’re not alone in your parenting journey. Together, we can create a happy, healthy life for your children.
