1/9

Your First Therapy Visit in Naperville

What Parents Should Know Before Bringing a Child or Teen

Welcome! This interactive guide will help you understand what to expect from your child's first therapy session at Fox Valley Institute.
2/9

Why Children and Teens May Need Therapy

Children and adolescents experience emotional challenges just like adults. Common reasons for therapy include:

3/9

Preparing Your Child for Therapy

Key Tip: How you present therapy will shape your child's expectations and comfort level.

Use Age-Appropriate Language

For younger children: "You'll meet a feelings helper who teaches kids how to handle big emotions."
For teens: "Therapy is your space to talk things through with someone who's completely on your side."

Emphasize Safety

Explain that they're in control of what they share and that the therapist is there to help, not judge.

4/9

The First Session: What Happens

At Fox Valley Institute, we make first visits comfortable and productive:

1. Parent Consultation

We'll discuss your concerns, family history, and goals for therapy.

2. Child Introduction

Your child meets the therapist in a warm, welcoming environment.

3. Building Trust

Through conversation or play, we establish comfort and connection.

4. Next Steps

We'll discuss recommendations and schedule follow-up sessions.

5/9

Our Therapeutic Approaches

We tailor our methods to each child's needs:

Play Therapy

For younger children to express emotions through play and creative activities.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Helps teens identify and change negative thought patterns.

Family Therapy

Improves communication and relationships within the family system.

Trauma-Informed Care

Specialized approaches for children who have experienced trauma.

6/9

Creating a Safe Space

At Fox Valley Institute, we prioritize comfort and safety:

1

Child-Centered Design

Our therapy rooms are welcoming with age-appropriate furniture and tools.

2

Experienced Clinicians

Our therapists specialize in child development and adolescent psychology.

3

Confidentiality

We maintain strict confidentiality while keeping parents appropriately informed.

7/9

Supporting Your Child at Home

How to reinforce therapy between sessions:

✓

Open Communication

Ask gentle questions like "How did you feel about today's session?" without pressuring for details.

✓

Consistency

Maintain regular appointments and any recommended home practices.

✓

Positive Reinforcement

Acknowledge your child's efforts with specific praise like "I noticed you used that calming technique we practiced."

8/9

Parent Resources

We support the whole family in the therapeutic process:

Parent Consultations

Regular check-ins to discuss progress and parenting strategies.

Educational Materials

Access to resources about child development and mental health.

Community Referrals

Connections to support groups and additional services when needed.

9/9

Begin the Journey

You're taking an important step
Starting therapy shows your commitment to your child's emotional well-being and development.

Ready to schedule your first visit or learn more?

Visit Our Website Call Now

Fox Valley Institute | Naperville, IL

Specializing in child and adolescent therapy since 2005