Getting Started
The intake process is designed to be comfortable and supportive for children, teens, and their families. We know that every age comes with its own needs, and these first two intake sessions are structured to meet your child or teen where they are.
Intake Session #1
In the first session, Dr. Perez typically focuses on listening to parents or caregivers while also getting to know your child or teen in a way that feels natural. Younger children may warm up through play or light conversation, while teens often prefer to observe at first and gradually join in. Both approaches are welcome and encouraged.
Intake Session #2
The second session provides more time for direct interaction. For children, this may involve play-based observation or practicing small steps toward comfort. For teens, the focus may shift to more open conversation about their thoughts, feelings, and goals. Older clients may choose whether to attend this session with or without a parent, depending on what feels right.
What to expect in an intake (tailored by age + referral concern):
Parent
Interview
We review your concerns, developmental history, daily routines, and what’s getting in the way right now.
Measures
(As Needed)
When helpful, we use brief screeners for things like anxiety, mood, attention, sleep, and feeding to sharpen the plan and track progress.
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Records & Coordination
With your permission, we review relevant school/medical information to understand patterns and avoid repeating work.
Family
Patterns
We look at what happens before, during, and after the tough moments—so we can reduce stuck cycles like avoidance, reassurance loops, or power struggles.
Play-Based Observation
For younger kids, we watch how they engage, transition, communicate, and regulate during play and interaction.​
Clinical
Formulation
We connect the dots across development, learning profile, nervous system, and environment to understand why the concern is showing up.​​
After the Intake:
At the conclusion of the intake process, Dr. Perez provides a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child or teen.
This plan is collaborative and may include:
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Recommendations for individual, family, or group therapy
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Guidance for supporting your child or teen at home
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Coordination with schools, pediatricians, or other providers
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For older clients, strategies that support independence and self-advocacy
The goal is always to design a plan that feels realistic, supportive, and aligned with your family’s values—so you leave feeling clear and confident about the path forward.