1280 Eaton Ave
Hamilton, OH 45013
Beginning Counseling Services
During the initial phone call, we’ll gather some basic information. The new client paperwork can either be downloaded from the website or sent to you by mail. Complete the paperwork and bring it, along with any applicable custody paperwork and the insurance card, to your first counseling appointment.
During your first visit, we will talk about concerns and go over background information in depth. This intake process can take up to two hours to complete and you can elect to do it in one long session or two shorter sessions. This assessment time can often be interpreted by children to be very negative, as we are often talking about behavioral issues and concerns held by the child's caregivers. For this reason, I request that the assessment sessions be completed without the child present as this can negatively impact the client/counselor relationship. By the end of the first session we will have an idea of what we will be working on, and we will begin that in the next session.
For the child's first session, I like to see the caregiver and child together for about half the session and then see the child separately for the last half of the session. After this, the child will have sessions without the parent. I encourage parents to keep me updated on important things going on with their children via email or phone calls. If we need to talk in depth then I’ll ask you to join us during the counseling session.
"In play therapy, toys are like the child's words and play is the child's language."
- Dr. Garry Landreth
Play Therapy
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Children often don't have the ability to verbalize their problems the way adults do. They don’t know how to explain what they feel. Play is a way for a therapist to observe children in their most natural state. There are lots of toys in my office. Your child will have opportunities to self direct his/or her play as well as participating in activities that are designed to help guide children towards learning and emotional expression.
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Common Issues Addressed
Abuse- Physical or Sexual
ADHD
Anxiety
Anger Management
Behavioral Issues
Defiance
Depression
Divorce Reaction
Family Conflict
Peer Conflict
Self Esteem Deficits
Social Skills Deficits
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma Response