Carrie Cotter

During the first session, we will review background information, including medical and family history, and discuss the concerns bringing you to therapy. Together, we will begin developing a plan for treatment and future goals. Sessions are designed to feel relaxed and supportive, with time dedicated to building rapport, getting to know clients and their families, and helping children feel comfortable by encouraging questions and open conversation.

Communication with the parent (s) is a crucial part of the therapy process. Typically, I check in with parents either at the beginning or the end of every session as just a quick "how are things going", but the majority of my session time is spent one-on-one with your child. I do ask parents to trust the process and know that, as a parent myself, if I feel you need to know something shared in a session, I will tell you. With that said, you can ask me questions at any time by reaching out on the portal. I will never hide any information from you, as long as you are a legal guardian.

This happens. It takes time to build a relationship where children and teens feel safe opening up, just like with adults. The first few sessions are designed to build that type of relationship. It is important to me that the child feels safe and heard, and I believe they will open up when they are ready. This is where client-centered counseling plays a large part. We go where the child needs to go, and in doing this, they gain trust and begin to talk about the real issues.

In our first sessions together, we will work together to create goals. These goals will be measurable. Through parent reports and speaking with the child, we will have a good idea if the interventions being used in therapy are working or not. If at any time you feel therapy is not having a positive impact, just speak with me about it. We can adjust our approach to find what works best for your child.

Deciding to end therapy is a decision made with myself, the child, and the parents. Together, we will review the progress made and discuss steps to continue succeeding. I will provide my contact information upon completion. With all of my clients, I keep an open-door policy. If something occurs and you need to make additional appointments, you are always welcome. Once a client, always a client.