How do I know if I really need therapy?
Everyone experiences difficult situations in life, and sometimes we need a little extra support.  We often get support from family and friends, but there's nothing wrong with seeking professional assistance when you need it.  Think of it this way: if you had a broken leg, you'd meet with an orthopedist without hesitation.  Deciding to see a therapist is no different; it shows that you're wise enough to seek help rather than "toughing it out" on your own.  I work with clients grappling with complex, long-standing issues, and I also work with clients who are generally functioning well but who want to enhance an area (or several areas) in their lives.  Regardless of the intensity of your needs, making the decision to obtain professional guidance means that you care about yourself and your family, and shows that you're committed to making positive changes. 

How long can I expect to be in therapy?
Because each person's issues are unique, the length of treatment varies depending on the individual/family.  Based on your particular needs and goals, therapy can be short-term for a specific problem, or longer-term if you're hoping to address more complex patterns or dynamics.  Beginning with the initial appointment and continuing forward, I will communicate openly and honestly with you about the pace of our work together.

How often will we meet?
The frequency of sessions depends on the type of services you're seeking:

• Individual and/or family therapy sessions are typically weekly.  Toward the end of our work together, I often suggest that we taper sessions to every other week or once per month for a period of time.  During the tapering/maintenance phase, we will monitor the stability of your progress, and I can help you problem-solve and "tweak" things as needed. 

• For parent consultations, I meet with parent(s) once or twice to provide guidance on a circumscribed, specific issue.  If after the consultation the parent(s) decide to pursue additional/ongoing services, we have the option of transitioning into longer-term work together and/or I can provide appropriate referrals.

• For school consultations, I first meet with the parent(s) to obtain information about the child's developmental history and current functioning.  I then observe the child once or twice in the school setting and I consult in person or by phone with relevant professionals (e.g., teachers, school counselors).  I provide a written summary of my observations and recommendations and offer additional referrals as needed.

What should I tell my young child before his/her first session with you?
How families handle this depends on the age and temperament of their child, the issues that are bringing them to therapy, and what sort of explanation feels most comfortable to them.  I encourage openness and honesty as a rule of thumb, while keeping things appropriate to the child's level of understanding.  One approach is to explain calmly that the child is going to meet with a "talking doctor" named Dr. Wendy.  Dr. Wendy doesn't look in noses and mouths or push on bellies, and she definitely doesn't give shots.  Instead, she helps people with their feelings and things that might be bothering them.  She helps people by talking, sort of like how teachers help us feel better when we're sad or angry, or if we have an argument with a friend.  And just like most classrooms, Dr. Wendy's office has toys, games and art supplies!  Some families will offer a specific example that's relevant to their situation, such as, "We're going to see Dr. Wendy so that she can help Mom and Dad be more patient and do less yelling" or "Dr. Wendy will teach us ways to help you feel less worried."

How much does parking cost?
Free parking is available throughout the Quince Orchard Medical Park.  If for some reason you aren't able to find a space in the lot adjacent to my building, please feel free to park anywhere in the complex and follow the sidewalk to my office.

Is your office accessible to people with physical disabilities?
Absolutely!  My office is on the ground floor, easily accessible via a sidewalk ramp.  The office suite is on a single level and contains a large private bathroom that can easily accommodate a wheelchair.