Your Questions About Child and Family Therapy, Answered
How do I know if therapy is right for my child?
You know your child best. If you’ve noticed changes in behaviour, emotions, or patterns—or something just doesn’t feel quite right—it can be helpful to connect and talk it through. You don’t have to figure it out alone. This is a space to explore your concerns, ask questions, and consider whether support might be helpful for your child and family.
How do I know which service is right for my child or family?
It’s completely understandable to feel unsure about where to start. An initial consultation offers a chance to connect, share your story, and explore your hopes for support. From there, thoughtful, individualized recommendations are made based on your child’s needs, your family’s strengths, and what feels like the best fit moving forward.
Does my child need a diagnosis to access services?
No. A formal diagnosis is not required. Support is available for children and families navigating a wide range of experiences, challenges, and transitions.
Do you provide crisis or emergency services?
Balance and Thrive does not offer crisis or emergency services. If you or your child are in immediate distress, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
What can I expect for the first visit?
Before your first session, you’ll be invited to complete an intake form to share some background about your child and family. The initial session—offered in person or virtually—focuses on getting to know you more deeply, understanding your concerns, and beginning to identify meaningful next steps. There is also space to ask questions and learn more about the therapeutic process.
How long will we need services?
Every child and family is unique. The length of support varies depending on individual needs, goals, and pace. During the initial consultation, a general sense of direction can be shared, while continuing to check in and adjust along the way to ensure the support feels helpful and responsive.
How long does therapy typically take?
The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on individual needs and goals. Some families may see progress in a few sessions, while others may engage in longer-term support. We will regularly review progress and adjust our approach accordingly.
We are separated. Can one parent bring my child to therapy?
At Balance and Thrive Child and Family Therapy, we are required to obtain informed consent from all individuals who are legally authorized to make decisions for the child. We may request custody or court documentation to clarify this.
We know children benefit when caregivers are meaningfully involved in the therapeutic process. When appropriate, we include all legal guardians in the intake session to support clarity, collaboration, and a neutral, child-centred approach.
We understand that joint sessions may feel difficult. Accommodations such as virtual attendance or separate consultations can be offered when needed, and referrals are available if a different process is preferred.
Will you tell me what my child shares in session?
At Balance and Thrive, what a child shares in therapy is kept confidential to help them feel safe, respected, and able to express themselves openly.
We do not share detailed content of sessions with parents or caregivers as a matter of routine. Instead, we focus on sharing general themes, progress, and any information that is important for supporting your child at home.
There are important exceptions to confidentiality. If there are concerns that a child is at risk of harm to themselves or others, or if there is suspected abuse or neglect, we are required to take appropriate steps and involve caregivers and/or relevant services as needed.
This balance helps protect your child’s privacy while also ensuring their safety and well-being remain the priority.
What forms of payment are accepted?
Payments can be made by cash, debit, or major credit cards.
Do you offer direct billing to insurance companies?
Direct billing may be available, depending on your provider. Receipts are provided after each session with all the information needed for reimbursement through your insurance plan.
We’re happy to answer any questions and support you in navigating this process with ease.
At Balance & Thrive Child and Family Therapy, we offer a range of therapy services including individual therapy for children, family therapy, play therapy, and supportive counseling. Our approaches are tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and family, focusing on promoting emotional well-being and healthy family dynamics.
What is your cancellation policy?
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is requested for cancellations to avoid being charged for the session. At the same time, it’s understood that illness and unexpected situations can arise—flexibility and understanding are always part of the conversation. Details will be reviewed together during your initial appointment.
Have Questions About Child and Family Therapy Services?
Reaching out for support can feel like a meaningful—and sometimes uncertain—step for families. If you have questions about services or are wondering what support might look like for your child or family, you’re welcome to connect at any time. This is a space where your questions are met with care, and where you can gather the information you need to make thoughtful, informed decisions for your family’s well-being.