GETTING STARTED We personally assess each family’s case based on the knowledge gathered during the initial parent consultation. If treatment is indicated, the next step to getting started is obtaining your consent to request current academic, medical, and/or diagnostic records of your child. Reviewing existing information will minimize the amount of time spent analyzing these areas unnecessarily, thereby maximizing time spent on positive appropriate treatment interventions to address your concerns and your child’s needs. We take pride in the high level of care we provide. We believe counseling is more than identifying problems. It’s about problem-solving, building self-esteem and confidence, shaping futures, and giving children and adolescents something to smile about! The success of our practice is enhanced by creating a fun and upbeat atmosphere for everyone. Children and adolescents are typically eager to begin counseling and are enthusiastic, cooperative, and helpful with their care. We encourage you to talk with us about specific needs and actively participate in your child’s therapeutic process. It is our desire that parenting be fun again for disheartened caregivers. Whatever your child’s needs, you can be sure that we want them to hit “grand slams” no matter what brings them to our door at the Sandlot Counseling Center!

SMALL GROUP THERAPY/INTERVENTION It is important to tap into all available intervention strategies when addressing your child’s needs and concerns. Research shows that small group therapy provides recuperative power, refreshing support, and facilitates self-discovery for meaningful change. At Newman Clinical Associates we offer Filial Therapy Groups for parents/guardians and developmentally appropriate Groups for Children and Adolescents with an emphasis on positive behavior management, social skills, communication, self-esteem, and the therapeutic healing process. Groups for Children and Adolescents: Children are diamonds in the rough; therefore small group counseling activities directly teach pro-social skills and provide opportunities for each child to “practice for success” with their peers. Sessions are designed to develop competence in dealing with interpersonal conflicts, learn to use self-control, and contribute to a positive home and/or school environment. Filial Therapy Groups: Filial therapy is an excellent method of learning and enhancing strong parenting skills that are inclined to help both the child and the parent: become more secure in their relationship; positive in their personal identity; and instrumental in processing feelings, behaviors, and verbal/ non-verbal communication. Filial Therapy groups are powerful encounters with like-minded parents who wish to utilize play therapy interventions at home to enhance the counseling process and potentially accelerate their child’s progress.

ASSESSMENT SERVICES Early assessment of a child’s needs without pointing an accusing finger, is the first step to addressing the emotional or behavioral issues of children and adolescents. Other important keys to success are the development of a positive support system, sharing a relationship of trust with a therapist, frequent communication about issues of parenting a unique child, receiving timely encouragement, and enthusiastic participation in the therapeutic process. Many parents bring their children to Newman Clinical Associates for help coordinating professional resources to determine if their child may be exhibiting characteristics of a clinical diagnosis such as, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, others want clarification whether their child may have an identifiable learning disability, and others are concerned their child may be symptomatic of an emotional disturbance. Early detection can have a tremendous impact on a young person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being and we want to facilitate your child getting the support they need. Life can be very difficult under the best circumstances. We can appreciate the frustration your child may be experiencing because they are not consistently successful in school. We understand why concerned parents are hesitant to put their child on medication without a clinical diagnosis. We know the struggles of peer relationships can be debilitating to any child. The scope of any assessment or referral is based on individual needs and concerns of your child and the complex reasons for seeking assistance. We work with a wide range of professionals and will be glad to help you find a pediatrician, psychologist or child psychiatrist that fits your child’s needs and family finances. We want to help you put the pieces of the puzzle together so you can make informed decisions and your child can begin playing to their strengths.