FAQ

Every child experiences challenges differently. Some children may show changes in emotions, behaviors, friendships, learning, or confidence. If you are unsure whether support may be helpful, reaching out for a conversation can be a good first step. Together, we can explore your child's needs and discuss what type of support may be appropriate.

Children have different needs, and there is no one approach that fits every child. Ellie offers different forms of support, including Play Therapy, Counseling, ADHD & Executive Function Coaching, and Social Skills Programs. The first conversation helps identify which approach may best support your child.

After receiving your message, Ellie will review your concerns and respond with the next steps. This may include discussing your child's needs, answering questions, and exploring whether the service is a good fit.

We have a full guide with example scripts for different services and ages. Read the guide →

No. I do not expect children to immediately talk about their feelings. Many children first communicate through play, and I meet them where they are.

Play Therapy is often most helpful for younger children, although the specific approach depends on each child's developmental needs.

Parents play an important role in a child's growth. I will communicate with parents about general progress and provide guidance on ways to support children's emotional development at home.

Neither. Therapy focuses on emotional healing. Tutoring focuses on academic content. ADHD and Executive Functioning Coaching focuses on the skills behind learning and daily functioning. It helps children build the systems and strategies they need to use their abilities more effectively.

Parents are important partners. I provide regular updates and practical suggestions so families can support new habits at home without becoming the "nagging coach."

No. Children who struggle with organization, time management, task initiation, or follow-through can benefit from executive function strategies regardless of whether they have a formal diagnosis.

Every child has a different starting point and different goals. We regularly review progress and adjust the level of support based on your child's development and needs.

I do not expect children to immediately talk about difficult experiences. Building trust comes first. I create a space where children can share at their own pace.

No. Counseling can support children who are navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, relationships, or simply want to better understand themselves.

Counseling focuses more on emotions, thoughts, and coping skills. ADHD Coaching focuses more on executive functioning such as organization, planning, and time management.

No. Many families seek consultation simply because they would like to better understand their child or navigate a particular stage of development.

No. Parent Consultation is support for parents, and children do not attend these sessions. This is not family therapy or family counseling.

No. Every family is different. Rather than telling you what you "should" do, I work with you to develop approaches that feel both practical and authentic.

Every family is different. Some benefit from a few focused consultations, while others choose ongoing support as their child grows.

Sessions run once a week for 60–90 minutes over 16 weeks, with weekly homework and real-world practice in between.

Yes. PEERS® emphasizes real-world practice with weekly assignments, and parents act as "social coaches" at home to help the skills take root in everyday life.

Groups are kept small — usually 4–6 children — so every child gets plenty of practice and feedback.

Children and teens who need support with making friends, keeping friendships, or navigating everyday social situations.

No. It is a structured social skills program focused on teaching and practicing friendship skills.

No. The program supports children who are developing these skills through teaching and practice.

No. PEERS® is a structured social skills curriculum focused on teaching and practicing practical relationship skills.

Yes. PEERS® was developed at UCLA and is a research-validated, evidence-based social skills program, and is one of the most widely used and recognized social skills interventions internationally.

Motivation matters. PEERS® works best when teens are willing to participate, practice, and apply new skills.

Counseling focuses on emotions and personal experiences. PEERS® focuses on learning specific social strategies and practicing them in realistic situations.