What happens in a Therapy/Intervention session?
The initial appointment will generally be a 90-minute session involving both a parent/guardian and the adolescent. The purpose of this session is to help the psychologist to understand the young person's needs and concerns and the issues they have been experiencing. Much of this session will be parent-only and will entail exploration of your autistic adolescent’s background history and current needs. 

This will conclude with a discussion with the psychologist about a treatment plan and what will be helpful going forward. Further appointments will generally consist of 50-minute sessions with the adolescent, although review sessions will also involve parents (see below for further information). 

How long is a Therapy/Intervention session?
Initial Therapy/Intervention sessions generally last 90 minutes.
Further Therapy/Intervention sessions last 50 minutes.

The overall number of sessions required depends on the presentation of the adolescent and their readiness to engage with the psychologist. As such, this will vary on a case-by-case basis. It will not be possible to continue with therapy should the young person/adolescent decline to engage. 

There will generally be a review involving parent(s)/guardian(s) after approximately 6 sessions. Due to the confidential nature of therapy, please note that information will only be discussed with parents/guardians when the young person has given consent to do so or in cases where exceptions to confidentiality occur. The psychologist may also discuss certain matters with parent(s)/guardian(s) after individual sessions if considered helpful. 

What needs/concerns are supported during therapy?
Common difficulties that are supported at Hawthorn Psychology include:

Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Low Mood/Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Self-Harm, Low Self-Esteem, Emotional Regulation.

This list is not exhaustive. Please contact us if you require further information.