What should I tell my child to expect from therapy?
We understand that attending counseling for the first time (or returning to counseling after a long break), can be a big step to take. You are not alone. Because children and teens have many different perceptions about counseling, it can be helpful to remind them that they get to choose how much (or how little) that they would like to share during counseling. Often when youth are told by their parents that they are going to counseling, they feel obligated. Therefore, it can be helpful to remind kids and teens that counseling can be fun because they have the opportunity to reach their personal goals!
What happens during the first appointment?
Typically, the parent(s) and the psychologist will spend the first appointment going through the paperwork and setting the treatment goals (the child is involved during certain parts of the initial appointment as well). Appointments are typically 45-50 minutes long. Throughout the treatment process, we do individual therapy sessions (with just the psychologist and child), as well as parent-child appointments to enhance the family communication and bonding.
How long will it take for my child to get better?
Several factors are a part of getting better and improving. Some children and teens will meet their treatment goals sooner than others because of their own motivation to feel better. Additionally, the rapport between the psychologist and the child is also an important factor for reaching goals. The short answer is that the time to achieve one’s goals varies. It is also important to remember that many insights are learned along the journey to reaching one’s goals too.
Do you accept my insurance?
We are an out-of-network provider for all insurance companies. However, we can provide you with a “Superbill” receipt that you can use to submit to your insurance company. We do not file insurance forms directly and we cannot guarantee reimbursement through any insurance company.
Insurance companies were designed to manage and contain escalating health care costs. Their goal is to reduce costs and raise profits; their bottom line is their investors, not to increase your quality of life.
In order for insurance companies to cover services, they require a diagnosis of mental illness, even if one doesn’t exist. This can affect or limit future insurance coverage and may inhibit certain employment opportunities. Unfortunately, insurance companies limit what services are offered, can restrict what is discussed in session, and may limit how many sessions you can attend. For these reasons, Moody Counseling does not accept insurance.