Therapy FAQs #2
Ivy Griffin
Dear parents,
Here are answers to more frequently asked questions that often pop up for parents searching for services for their child/teen. I hope these insights can help you as you begin sussing out what you are looking for therapeutically.
What is theoretical orientation and does it matter?
A therapist's theoretical orientation is the approach from which they will attempt to support your child.
For instance, a behaviorist will focus on identifying and changing negative behaviors, a cognitive behavior therapist will help your child look at the negative thought patterns that lead to the behavior and work to help them change the thought pattern before the behavior occurs, a solution-focused therapist will work to find a solution to the problem, a psychodynamic therapist will work to uncover the unconscious motivations that are driving the behavior, and an integrative or holistic therapist will pull from theories that best suit the needs and nature of the client.
As for if it matters, some people find that certain therapeutic approaches don’t mesh well with their learning style, personality, or personal goals.
What is the difference between a licensed therapist and an associate? Will it affect the quality of service my child receives?
At a minimum, a licensed therapist (LMFT or LPCC) has completed graduate school and earned their masters degree, has completed a traineeship/internship (1,300 hours, 750 hours which are direct client hours) during their graduate program, has completed their associateship (3,000 hours), has passed a state law and ethics exam, has passed a state clinical exam, and completed a minimum of 36 hours of continuing education units during their initial license renewal period.
At a minimum, an associate has completed graduate school and earned their masters, has completed a traineeship/internship (1,300 hours, 750 hours which are direct client hours) during their graduate program, is currently accumulating hours for their associateship by actively seeing clients, attends regular supervision and consultation meetings (104 weeks of supervision/consultation, 1 hour of individual or triadic supervision or 2 hours of group supervision per week during the 104 weeks), and is actively studying for their state law and ethics exam as well as their state clinical exam for licensure.
Because of the required supervision, if you choose to see an associate you will not only get the care and expertise of the associate but of the clinical supervisor as they oversee and monitor the associates caseload.
How do I get medication for my child?
In the state of California, therapists can NOT prescribe medication. If you feel that medication services are an option you want to explore for your child you will want to reach out to either a psychiatrist or your PCP (primary care provider/doctor) for a consultation. If you are looking for a psychiatrist that takes your insurance, you can call the number on your insurance card and request a list of in-network psychiatric providers or you can ask your PCP for a referral.
With warm regards,
Megan Bell, LMFT # 114303
Thrive Therapy & Counseling
2131 Capitol Ave, Suite 306
Sacramento, CA, 95816