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2. What’s the best way to talk to my child about therapy—and what if they don’t want to come?

Start simple and honest. You might say something like, "I know things have felt hard lately, and I found someone who helps kids and teens when big feelings get overwhelming. They use art, play, and other tools to help you feel better."

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For younger kids, it can help to talk about therapy like a place to play, make art, or get help with tricky feelings. Teens are more likely to engage in therapy when they feel respected and part of the decision. Being honest and clear with them -while giving them a say in the process -can make a big difference. It helps to let them know that therapy is their space, and what they share stays private (unless there’s a safety concern). Sometimes, it’s simply about inviting them to give it a try - and making sure they have as much choice and control as possible along the way.

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And yes - sometimes kids don’t want to go. That’s okay. We’re used to it. We take things slow, build trust, and follow their pace. Our sessions are designed to feel safe and approachable - not clinical or forced.

We work with children as young as 3, and we always take a developmentally appropriate approach.
Our job is to meet your child where they’re at - whether that’s through talking, creating, moving, or just sitting quietly for a bit.

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3. How long does therapy take, and how often will my child need to come?

Every child is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. We typically schedule four sessions at intake to hold your child’s spot and begin building connection and momentum. During that time, we’ll get to know your child, clarify goals, and talk with you about what frequency and length of therapy makes the most sense for your family.

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Most kids and teens start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions.
A good starting point is 8 - 12 sessions, which can lead to meaningful progress - especially when we’re focusing on a specific challenge or clearly defined area of concern, like anxiety, grief, or school stress.

For more complex needs - such as trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, or neurodivergent support - therapy may continue longer. Some children benefit from 12 - 20+ sessions to work through deeper challenges at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.

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We’ll go at your child’s pace, and check in regularly to make sure therapy continues to feel helpful, aligned with your goals, and manageable for your family.

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4. How will I be involved in my child’s therapy, and what will I be told about what happens in session?

At Valley Art Therapy, we see parents and caregivers as essential partners in the therapy process. While sessions are a private space for your child to feel safe and express themselves freely, you’ll still be kept in the loop in meaningful ways.​

 

We don’t share everything your child says in session, but we will always let you know if there are safety concerns or anything that falls under our duty to report. At the start of our work together, we’ll discuss the best ways to communicate and share general updates throughout the process.​ As part of your child’s therapy, we may schedule parent sessions to check in more intentionally, share resources, and give you space to ask questions or explore what’s coming up for you as a caregiver.

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If questions or concerns come up between sessions, you're always welcome to email your child’s therapist or request a time to connect—outside of your child’s session, so they don’t feel caught in the middle.

We believe therapy works best when we’re working together with compassion, clear communication, and a shared goal of helping your child thrive.

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5. What will my child or teen do in therapy sessions - and what does a typical session look like?

Each session is shaped by your child’s needs and comfort level - so no two sessions look exactly the same. Therapy is child-directed, which means your child or teen leads the way, while the therapist gently facilitates the process and offers support and strategies along the way.

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Depending on your child’s age and preferences, sessions may include art-making, play, movement, games, talking, or quiet regulation activities. Using your child’s interests and therapy goals as a guide, we integrate creative, developmentally appropriate tools to help them express emotions, build self-awareness, and practice coping strategies they can use in everyday life.

 

Sessions are typically 50 minutes long, and your child will be in the room with the therapist. You’re welcome to wait in our cozy waiting area (yes, there’s coffee!) or step out and return at the end. In some cases—especially with younger kids - we may invite you in for the last few minutes to check in, answer questions, or share a simple strategy to support your child at home.

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We start with a parent consultation to get a better sense of what’s going on for your child and answer any questions you have. Then, we’ll connect your child with a therapist whose style and approach feel like a good fit for your family.

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Every child is different - but each session is grounded in our commitment to:

• Building trust and emotional safety

• Supporting nervous system regulation

• Using developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed strategies

• Encouraging expression - through art, play, movement, or words

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We follow your child’s pace - always.
No pressure. Just safety, support, and genuine care.

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Most children attend sessions weekly or bi-weekly. The length of therapy depends on your child’s needs and goals - some benefit from short-term support, while others continue longer to explore deeper patterns.

We respect your child’s privacy - while keeping you in the loop.

Therapy works best when kids feel safe and trusted, so we don’t share everything from sessions. But we do stay connected with you - offering check-ins, guidance, and collaboration around goals and progress.
If any concerns about your child’s safety or well-being come up, we’ll always let you know and work together on the next steps.