Elite Teen Counseling - FAQ

FAQ

Where is the office located?

13405 Folsom Boulevard, Building #200Folsom, CA 95630

What are your office hours?

We are open by appointment only and offer evening and weekend appointments.

You and your therapist will work to find a time that works best for your family.

What ages do you work with?

We provide therapy for individuals aged 10 to 25, covering preteens, teens, and young adults. We specialize in meeting the unique needs of each developmental stage within this age range.

How much does therapy cost?

Our rates vary depending on the therapist and type of session (individual or family). We are committed to providing affordable services. Contact our office for detailed pricing information.

Do you accept insurance?

We are out of network but can provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your out-of-network mental health benefits.

What kinds of issues do you address?

Our therapists are experienced in helping with a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:

Anxiety and depression, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, self-harm issues, peer pressure and social challenges, problems with identity and self-esteem, academic stress and motivation, trauma and grief, relationship difficulties, defiance and other behavioral issues, substance abuse, gender and sexuality exploration, life transitions (e.g., starting high school, going to college, etc.), family conflict, and co-parenting.

What is the therapy process like?

The therapy process typically begins with an initial intake session where we gather information about the client’s background, concerns, and goals. Regular weekly or biweekly sessions follow this. Each session lasts about 50 minutes and focuses on providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office, filling out the online form at the bottom of this page, or emailing us directly. We will help match you or your teens with the therapist best suited to your needs and schedule.

How do you ensure confidentiality?

We take confidentiality very seriously. All information shared in therapy is kept confidential unless there is a concern for the client’s safety or the safety of others, as required by law. For clients under 18, parents or guardians are often involved in the process, but we also ensure that the teens have private, confidential sessions to build trust and autonomy.

What should I expect in the first session?

The first session lets you or your teen get to know the therapist. It involves gathering information about the client’s history, understanding their goals, and developing a treatment plan. The client is encouraged to ask any questions and share their concerns.

What is the role of parents/guardians in teen therapy?

We believe parents/guardians are critical partners in therapy, especially for younger teens. We involve them when appropriate and always with the teen’s consent. Regular updates may be provided, and family therapy sessions can be included if beneficial. However, teens need a sense of privacy in their therapy to promote honesty and self-growth.

Is everything my teens say in therapy confidential?

Yes, with certain legal exceptions. Suppose the therapist believes the teens are in danger or may harm themselves or someone else. In that case, we are legally obligated to take steps to ensure their safety, which may involve notifying the parents or guardians. We work closely with the teens to navigate these situations while respecting their privacy as much as possible.

Do you offer family therapy?

Yes, we offer family and individual therapy for teens and young adults. Family therapy can significantly improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen family bonds during challenging times.

What is Parent Coaching?

Parent coaching is designed to support and empower parents in navigating the challenges of raising teens and young adults. It’s not therapy for the parent but rather a collaborative process where parents work with a therapist to develop practical strategies, improve communication with their teens, and build a stronger, more positive relationship.

The goal is to provide parents with tools to address specific behavioral or emotional concerns, foster teen resilience, and create a supportive home environment. Parent coaching focuses on enhancing the parent’s strengths while offering guidance on handling difficult situations effectively.

Can young adults continue therapy after turning 18?

Absolutely. We welcome young adults up to the age of 25. Therapy can be beneficial for navigating the transition to adulthood, whether it’s dealing with college, work, relationships, or living independently.

What if my teens don’t want to go to therapy?

It’s common for teens to feel hesitant about therapy. We encourage parents to have an open conversation with their teens about the benefits of treatment and allow them to participate in the decision-making process. Sometimes, starting with a family session can help ease their concerns. Ultimately, therapy is most effective when the client is engaged.

How do you handle emergencies?

If a client is experiencing a mental health crisis, we provide guidance for immediate help, including crisis hotlines or emergency services. We offer urgent consultations as needed for ongoing clients, but we do not have a 24/7 emergency service.

Do you offer virtual therapy sessions?

We offer virtual therapy (teletherapy) for clients who prefer or require online sessions. This option benefits clients with busy schedules, transportation challenges, or those living outside our immediate area.

How long does therapy last?

The length of therapy varies for each client. Some clients may only need short-term treatment for a specific issue, while others may benefit from longer-term support. This will be discussed during the initial sessions and can be reassessed as treatment progresses.

How do I know if my teen needs therapy?

If your teen is struggling with issues such as persistent sadness, anxiety, anger, withdrawal from family or friends, changes in eating or sleeping habits, or difficulty in school, therapy could be beneficial. If you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help you decide.

What therapeutic approaches do your therapists use?

Our therapists are trained in various evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based practices, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. The therapeutic approach will be tailored to the client’s unique needs and goals.

What should I do if my teen refuses to talk during therapy?

It’s not uncommon for teens to be reserved during the first few sessions. Our therapists are skilled at creating a safe and comfortable environment, and we understand teens may need time to open up. We work at the client’s pace, focusing on building trust first.

Can I choose which therapist my teen sees?

Yes, we match each client with the therapist who best fits their needs based on experience, expertise, and personality. If you have a specific therapist in mind, we’ll do our best to accommodate that request.

Will therapy be serious all the time?

Not at all! While we tackle serious topics, we also believe humor and creativity can play a significant role in healing. Our therapists strive to create a comfortable environment where teens can feel relaxed, express themselves freely, and laugh as they work through challenges.

What makes your therapy practice different?

We focus on your teen’s strengths, not just their challenges. We believe in helping them see their potential, building on what’s already great about them. We aim to empower them to be their best version, not just to “fix” problems.

Do you give homework?

Sometimes! But don’t worry – our “homework” isn’t like school assignments. It might involve journaling, trying a new habit, or practicing a skill. We see homework as a method to help make the most of therapy outside of sessions – and we promise it’s always meant to be helpful, not stressful.

Can therapy help my teen discover their passions?

Absolutely. Therapy isn’t just about working through struggle – it’s also about self-discovery. We help teens explore their interests, strengths, and passions, empowering them to pursue what makes them feel confident and fulfilled.

How do you help teens feel confident?

We focus on highlighting the things teens are good at and love doing. Whether celebrating small wins or encouraging new challenges, we aim to build confidence by showing teens they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

What’s the best part about working with teens?

Teenagers are at such an exciting stage of life! We love witnessing their growth, helping them discover who they are, and watching them develop the tools to thrive. Every day is different, and their resilience and creativity inspire us as much as we hope to encourage them.

Is your furniture comfortable?

Yes, hard couches are not allowed! We strive to make our offices warm and engaging, and we don’t want our furniture to cause you pain. We are here to fix that, remember?