If your teen is struggling with emotions, relationships, school, or substance use, therapy can help them build healthy coping skills. Signs that therapy may be beneficial include sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from family or friends, increased irritability, declining grades, or risky behaviors.
Reference: American Psychological Association (APA). (2021). Recognizing Mental Health Warning Signs in Teens. Retrieved from www.apa.org
Yes, therapy is confidential. However, if there is a risk of harm to your child or others, or if there is a legal obligation (such as reporting abuse or imminent danger), we are required to take appropriate steps to ensure safety.
Reference: National Association of Social Workers (NASW). (2021). Confidentiality and Its Limits in Therapy. Retrieved from www.socialworkers.org
DCPP (formerly DYFS) is the state agency responsible for investigating child abuse and neglect. If there are concerns about a child’s safety, they may intervene to ensure the child's well-being.
Reference: New Jersey Department of Children and Families. (2023). Child Protection & Permanency. Retrieved from www.nj.gov/dcf
If domestic violence poses an immediate danger to a child or a client, therapists are mandated to report it. However, adult clients experiencing domestic violence have the right to confidentiality unless there is a direct risk to children or others.
Reference: National Domestic Violence Hotline. (2023). Confidentiality and Reporting Requirements. Retrieved from www.thehotline.org
In New Jersey, truancy (excessive unexcused absences) can lead to school intervention, court involvement, and referrals to family services. If truancy is due to emotional or behavioral concerns, counseling and support services can help address the root cause.
Reference: New Jersey Department of Education. (2023). Truancy and Attendance Laws. Retrieved from www.nj.gov/education
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a specialized plan under IDEA that provides customized educational support for students with disabilities. A 504 Plan, under the Rehabilitation Act, provides accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to education but does not include specialized instruction.
Reference: U.S. Department of Education. (2023). Understanding IEPs and 504 Plans. Retrieved from www.ed.gov
Every individual, regardless of immigration status, has the right to remain silent, request a lawyer, and refuse to sign any documents without legal consultation. If approached by ICE, it is important to stay calm, not run, and ask for legal representation.
Reference: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). (2023). Know Your Rights: Immigration and ICE Encounters. Retrieved from www.aclu.org
We accept most major insurance plans. Contact us to verify coverage and discuss payment options.
According to New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care (CSOC), undocumented families can access mental health services for minors without concern for immigration status, and eligibility is based on the child's needs, not citizenship.
Reference: New Jersey Children's System of Care (CSOC). (2023). Behavioral Health Services for Undocumented Youth. Retrieved from www.performcarenj.orgReference: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). (2023). Know Your Rights: Immigration and ICE Encounters. Retrieved from www.aclu.org
Wraparound is a holistic, family-centered model that provides comprehensive, individualized care by involving a team of professionals, community resources, and family members to support a child’s mental health and well-being.
Reference: National Wraparound Initiative. (2023). The Wraparound Approach in Mental Health. Retrieved from www.nwi.pdx.edu
No. Therapists cannot accept friend requests, follow, or engage with clients on social media to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
Reference: American Psychological Association (APA). (2023). Ethical Guidelines for Social Media Use in Therapy. Retrieved from www.apa.org
No. Dual relationships (e.g., being both a therapist and a friend, employer, or family member) are strictly avoidedto maintain ethical integrity and objectivity.
Reference: National Association of Social Workers (NASW). (2023). Code of Ethics: Avoiding Dual Relationships. Retrieved from www.socialworkers.org
No. Therapists cannot accept money, gifts, or favors from clients outside of agreed-upon payments for services. This maintains ethical standards and prevents conflicts of interest.
Reference: American Counseling Association (ACA). (2023). Ethical Guidelines on Gifts and Financial Boundaries. Retrieved from www.counseling.org
Therapists are legally required to report any threats of harm to a person’s safety. If a client expresses intent to harm themselves or others, the therapist must take appropriate action to prevent danger.
Reference: Tarasoff v. Regents of the University of California, 1976; American Psychological Association (APA). (2023). Duty to Warn and Protect. Retrieved from www.apa.org
No. Clients cannot attend therapy sessions while intoxicated. If substance use is a concern, alternative arrangements may be made to support recovery.
Reference: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023). Guidelines for Therapy and Substance Use. Retrieved from www.samhsa.gov
A safety plan provides clear steps to take in times of crisis, including coping strategies, trusted contacts, and emergency resources. It helps ensure safety and stability during emotional distress or high-risk situations.
Reference: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. (2023). The Importance of a Safety Plan. Retrieved from www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org