Evaluation
Your first session
A 75-minute visit for the parent or guardian and the child, together and then apart.
We start with everyone in the room, so that you hear each other's answers. Then the prescriber spends time with your child, and time with you. The visit ends with a written plan, and nothing starts until you agree to it.
At a glance
Length: 75 minutes, usually once
Fee: set by the visit length and given to you in writing first
Who comes: a parent or guardian, and the child
What the 75 minutes look like
The order can change when a child needs a break.
Step 1: Everyone together
We talk about why you are here, what school and home look like, and what each of you hopes will change.
Step 2: Time with your child
Your child talks with the prescriber about sleep, school, friends and moods. A teen may ask to do this alone.
Step 3: Time with the parent
You talk about history, family, current medicines and what you have already tried.
Step 4: The plan, in writing
We go through what we recommend and what the options are. You decide what to start, and the plan is sent after the visit.
What this is not
Not a diagnosis on the spot
Some answers take more than one visit. We say what we know and what we are still finding out.
Not a promise of a prescription
A medicine is one option. You may leave with a different plan, or with a plan to wait.
Not a school or court report
We do not write evaluations for custody or school placement.
Questions
Questions about your first session
What should we have with us?
A list of your child's current medicines, the name of your pharmacy, any recent school or pediatrician letters you have, and your questions. Leave out anything you do not want to share; we can ask for it later.
Does my teen have to talk in front of me?
No. Part of the visit is one-on-one. We tell your teen, and you, what stays private before it starts.
Who can come with us?
A parent or legal guardian has to come. Another adult who cares for your child is welcome with your written permission.
Ready for a first session?
Write to us and we will tell you the next first-session times, and send your written estimate.