Working Together 

​​I understand that as parents, you know your child better than anybody, that you are critically important to their well-being, and that you have brought them to therapy because you care about their well-being and ability to be successful in life. As I work with your child, I invite your input and feedback. Your experience and perspective with your child many times gives me insights into emotional patterns, current issues, academic or peer problems that might be key to initiating a what-is-going conversation to advance their progress.  ​

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At the start of working with your child, I develop an informal agreement with them on confidentiality and my relationship with you, the parent. Ideally, you will be able to tell your child that you are calling me. It is important and calming for children to know that the grown-ups in their lives are paying attention and supporting their progress and success. ​

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It is my legal obligation to share with parents my concerns regarding self-harm or harm to others, such as heavy substance abuse, unprotected sex, and other risky behaviors. In these circumstances, I discuss with young people how best to inform their parents. In areas that do not involve self-harm or harm to others, I will maintain their confidentiality and only share with you issues that your child agrees that I may share.

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Adolescents often feel shaky about separating from parents. They may become confused and worried about the natural developmental imperative of balancing separation and attachment. I help educate my young clients about why attachment issues are so challenging. We talk about how they can go out into the world while staying strongly connected to you. Together, we develop strategies that work for everyone in the family.​​​​