How does scheduling work?
To schedule an appointment, please call (484) 620-1998. I listen to all incoming voice mails personally to preserve confidentiality. If no one answers, please leave a message and your call will be returned as soon as possible.
What should I bring to my first session?
The most important thing to bring is yourself. Come prepared to chat for an hour without outside distractions. Leave yourself time to find the office so you do not feel rushed.
Payments may be made with cash or check. If you are using your insurance, please bring your insurance card with you.
If your child is being seen, please bring any testing reports or IEPs. Feel free to bring toys or stuffed animals that will make your child feel more comfortable and be assured that there are plenty of toys in the waiting room and in my office.
If I am unable to find childcare, can I bring my child who is not being seen?
Yes. If you are being seen, it may be difficult to get the most out of your session with your child present. But we can do our best in a pinch!
I have infant, toddler, and preschool toys as well as board games for older children.
If one of your children is being seen, then it is absolutely fine to bring your other kids along. There are plenty of toys in the waiting room, to keep them occupied, while I meet with your child.
What should I tell my child before his or her first visit with you?
It is often helpful to tell your child that you will be bringing him or her to an office to speak with someone who helps children with their feelings.
It is not necessary to describe me as a doctor, but if you feel it will help them to understand then you might want to call me a “feelings doctor”. Explain that there is no medical equipment or exam and that all we do is talk, play, and do art projects.
You may want to equate the visit with seeing their school counselor, if they have a relationship with one. You can tell them that lots of kids visit therapists for lots of reasons. You may want to show them parts of this website.
How frequently do people come for therapy?
This depends on the person’s goals, financial situation, and schedule. If possible, it is best to schedule weekly at first so that we may gain some momentum in the beginning and start developing skills immediately. We continually re-evaluate the situation and will adjust frequency as needed.
How long do people usually come for therapy?
This depends upon the person and their reasons for entering therapy. Some people will feel that they have reached their goals after a few sessions and others will continue for much longer. There is no “right” amount of time.
Many individuals will finish therapy but come in occasionally or for “booster sessions” if something comes up in their life that they feel they need to talk about.
Where should I park?
Parking can easily be found on State Street and the immediate cross streets. The meters need to be fed until 6 pm.
Do I need to sit and wait while you see my child or teen? Can I run and get some coffee?
During the first visit, I ask that you wait downstairs because you will be an active participant in the session at a couple of different points. You are welcome to leave during follow-up visits. Please return 10 to 15 minutes before the end of session so that I may check in with you.
Do I need to schedule my session for the same day and time each week or can we change it up?
It is up to you. If you would like the same time each week, and I am able, I will be happy to accommodate you. If not, we can work around your schedule. It is often helpful to schedule a few sessions at a time so that you are sure to get a convenient slot.