Malaak Mohammad

Our first session is all about getting to know each other. I'll ask questions about what's been going on, what your concerns and goals are, and what makes your you or your child unique. I also want you/your child to feel comfortable, so we'll move at your own pace. My goal is for everyone to leave the first session feeling heard and with a better idea of how we'll work together.

I believe parents are an important part of the therapy process. I'll regularly check in to share progress, discuss skills we're working on, and answer any questions you have while also respecting your child's privacy. We'll work together to find the right balance so your child feels supported both in and outside of therapy.

Sometimes! I like to think of it as "practice" rather than homework. Depending on your child's age and goals, I may suggest trying a coping skill, noticing a pattern, practicing a communication tool, or completing a small activity between sessions. These are always meant to feel manageable and help make the skills we learn in therapy part of everyday life, not to add extra stress.

Building trust is one of the most important parts of therapy. I want teens to know they have a safe space to talk openly, while also helping parents stay involved in the process. I'll share themes, progress, and ways you can support your teen without breaking their trust. If there are ever safety concerns, I'll communicate those right away and work with both you and your teen to create a plan.

That's completely okay! Building trust takes time, and I never expect children or teens to share everything right away. My first priority is creating a space where they feel safe, understood, and comfortable. Whether we connect through conversation, games, creative activities, or simply taking things slowly, I'll meet them where they are and let the relationship develop naturally.

Therapy looks different for everyone, so there's no set timeline. Throughout our work together, we'll regularly check in on goals and celebrate progress. When your child feels more confident using the skills they've learned and their goals have been met, we'll talk together about whether they're ready to graduate from therapy. My hope is that clients leave feeling empowered, not dependent on therapy.