Answers to Questions

“Remember that happiness is a way of travel- not a destination.”

—Roy M. Goodman

How do I know if my child needs therapy?

All children encounter hurdles in life, but some children need more help than others in getting over them. If your child is experiencing difficulty at home, with peers, at school, or in the community, therapy gives him/her an opportunity to work through these difficulties in personally meaningful ways.

How long is a child in therapy?

The length of therapy varies according to the personality, life experiences, and goals for each child.

What is play therapy?

Play therapy is to children what counseling is to adults. A child's primary language is not verbal. Toys are their words, and play is their language. Children's behaviors are frequently an expression of what's going on inside them. Play therapy gives children an opportunity to make sense of their thoughts, feelings, and life experiences in a way that is comfortable, safe, and non-threatening. In the process, children also frequently learn to develop greater trust in themselves, their abilities, and their relationships.

Play therapy is an evidence-based approach for preventing and resolving children's psychosocial difficulties. Studies have consistently demonstrated it's effectiveness with a broad range of children's problems.

What should I expect if my child starts play therapy?

Play therapy is a unique and rewarding experience for each child. While some children may quickly progress, others may actually revert to more regressive, baby-like behaviors. Some children may become aggressive and forceful, tell you what to do, or ask you to do everything for them. Others may become more quiet and subdued, have difficulty expressing their feelings, or do things just to please you. Children may show significant behavioral or emotional changes between sessions some weeks and not during others. Each play session is a personal experience that continues for each child in his or her daily life in unique, profound ways.

How does billing and insurance work?

Clients pay SDCPT at the time of service. If insurance reimbursement is desired, clients are given a superbill to submit to their insurance company for reimbursement. Clients are encouraged to contact their insurance company in advance to determine whether they have coverage for services at SDCPT, which is an out-of-network provider.