Frequently Asked Questions
for Parents of Minors

​​What is the therapy process for children?

For children 12 and under, the therapy process begins with a parent-only session. This allows the therapist to gather background information, answer any questions, and gain a deeper understanding of your child's needs. The second session is an intake session with the child and therapist. Parents are welcome to join for the first 10 minutes or stay for the full session - whatever feels most comfortable for the child. Ongoing sessions after that are typically one-on-one between the child and therapist. 

​

For children 12 and up, the first session is usually a one-on-one intake with the child and therapist. However, you are always welcome to schedule a parent session first if you'd prefer to discuss questions, goals, or concerns ahead of time. 

​

What if I'm unsure how to proceed with therapy for my child?

If you're feeling unsure - whether you're considering family sessions, wondering if you or your child should have individual therapy, or deciding if your child should continue therapy on their own - the initial parent session is a great starting point. You'll have a full 50 minutes with a clinician who will help you explore your options and provide guidance on the best path forward. This session is designed to give you a clear picture of what care and support could look like for you and your family. 

​

How involved will I be as a parent? 

We understand how important it is for parents to stay informed and involved in their child's therapy process. At the same time, it's equally important that therapy remains a safe and private space for your child. Individual sessions are primarily your child's time - designed to empower them to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace. If appropriate, your child may choose to include you in a session, and the clinician will help guide the process. 

​

How will I know what you are working on in sessions?

Parent updates are built into the therapy process. Your child is encouraged to take the lead in what they choose to share about their sessions, as therapy is most effective when it feels like their own space, free from pressure. Parent involvement will vary depending on your child's age, developmental stage, and presenting concerns - teens often navigate therapy more independently, while younger children may require more collaboration and ongoing communications. If you have questions or concerns at any time, you are welcome to contact your child's therapist via phone, email, or the client portal; they will help guide you on how best to support your child between sessions. 

​

How long will it take to see a change? 

Change in therapy varies for each child, and your child's therapist will help set realistic expectations during the initial parent session and follow-up check-ins. Therapy is not a quick fix - it involves building trust, exploring underlying challenges, developing insight, and practicing new skills over time. While progress may feel slow at first, this is completely normal. In fact, it's common for things to feel more difficult before they improve, as working through tough topics can initially bring up stronger emotions. 

​

How can I get in touch with my child's therapist to discuss a concern about my child?

• Email your child's therapist to set up a time to discuss. 

• You can call or text our office at 410-231-3016 or email admin@counselingandwellnessco.com. Our office manager will ensure your therapist receives the message, and they will get back to you as soon as they are available during their office hours. Please note that office hours may vary depending on your therapist's schedule. 

• Send a message to your child's therapist through our client portal.

​

What is the session structure like? 

Session activities vary based on your child's age and developmental stage - you may hear about them engaging in creative or expressive activities, crafts, books, games, Lego building, or imaginative play. While adults tend to process emotions through conversation, children often communicate their thoughts and feelings through play, which can reveal a great deal even if they aren't speaking directly about a concern. We encourage children to set the pace in how they choose to share, as pressuring them to "talk about it" like an adult can unintentionally create distress. Sessions are designed to feel safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate, helping your child build insight, confidence, and coping skills in a way that feels natural to them. 

​

Do I need to be in the waiting room for the entire session?

You are not required to stay in the waiting room for the entire session. You're welcome to step out for a walk, or sit in your car - but we ask that you remain nearby and keep your phone on in case we need to reach you. Please return to the waiting area by 45-50 minutes after the session start time so you and your child's therapist can check out together, wrap up any final thoughts, and ensure the next session starts on time. 

What are the fees?
 

​Children Under the Age of 12 

Parent Session (50 Minutes) - $190.00​

Intake Session (60 Minutes) - $225.00 

Therapy Session (50 Minutes) - $190.00

Children Age 12 and up 

Intake Session (60 Minutes) - $225.00

Therapy Session (50 Minutes) - $190.00

​

We understand that ongoing communication is important, so we offer free parent/therapist check-in calls that are 10 minutes or less. For check-ins that go beyond 10 minutes, we charge a prorated fee based on our rate of $190.00 per 50 minutes.

​

​Do you accept insurance? 

We are considered an out-of-network provider. We want to focus on therapy, rather than hanging out on hold trying to process claims. If you have a PPO, you likely have out-of-network benefits. We can provide a monthly statement that you can submit to your insurance company. We recommend using an app like Reimbursify to submit the superbill for easy reimbursement. 

Can I submit to my insurance, even though you are out-of-network?

If you intend to submit a receipt or superbill for reimbursement, we recommend calling your insurance company beforehand and asking the following questions:

1. What are the amounts covered for:

• Parent session (CPT code 90846) - for children under 12 

• Intake session (CPT code 90791) 

• Subsequent therapy sessions (CPT code 90837) 

2. Do I have a deductible I need to meet before my insurance starts to cover payment? If so, how much of the deductible do I still have to meet for this year?

3. Is pre-certification or pre-authorization required? 

​

No Surprise Act | Good Faith Estimate 

Under the No Surprise Act, out-of-network providers are required to give clients who don't have insurance or who are not using insurance, an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. Counseling & Wellness Collective will provide you with a written Good Faith Estimate before your first session with your therapist. 

​

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises 

​

​

Have additional questions? Contact us at admin@counselingandwellnessco.com or 410-231-3016

​  

​