Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Bridge Center's approach different?
We specialize in a developmentally appropriate approach that meets children where they are—through play. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which relies heavily on verbal expression, using play based methods allows children to communicate their thoughts and emotions in the way they naturally do best: through play, creativity, and connection.
Rather than focusing solely on changing behavior from the outside, we look deeper—at the why behind the behavior. While behavioral interventions often aim to manage or modify specific actions, our work focuses on helping children understand and express underlying emotions, build internal coping strategies, and heal from past experiences. This creates long-lasting growth, not just temporary fixes.
Our clinicians are trained to notice the messages behind a child’s play, using evidence-based techniques to guide the process gently and effectively. It’s a relational and emotionally attuned approach that respects each child’s unique pace and needs.
We’re not just looking to reduce symptoms—we’re here to build resilience, strengthen emotional health, and create a safe space where lasting change can begin.
How are parent's informed about their child's progress?
At The Bridge Center, we believe that meaningful parent involvement is essential to a child’s therapeutic success. That’s why regular parent check-ins are built into our session rates—so caregivers stay informed, supported, and connected to their child’s progress.
These brief updates create a consistent bridge between the work happening in the therapy room and the realities of home life. In addition, many of our clinicians offer monthly parenting sessions, providing space for deeper conversations around challenging behaviors, emotional struggles, and strategies to support your child more effectively.
Our goal is to empower caregivers with insight, tools, and encouragement—so you feel equipped not only to navigate difficulties, but to see and support your child with greater clarity and confidence.
Do you accept insurance?
We choose not to accept insurance to prioritize the quality of care we provide. Insurance companies often impose limitations on the duration and frequency of sessions, as well as dictate the types of treatment deemed appropriate. Additionally, insurance typically requires a formal diagnosis, which we believe can be limiting and unnecessary for many children. By not diagnosing, we focus on the child's overall well-being rather than labeling them. This allows us to maintain a more personalized and flexible therapeutic approach tailored to each child's unique needs. In some cases we are able to provide a super bill for out of pocket reimbursement. We do also accept HSA or FSA.
How many sessions will it take and how often?
Every child is different, and so is their journey through play therapy. We recomend weekly sessions to optimize progress. Some children show progress within a few sessions, others may benefit from longer-term support depending on their individual needs, history, and the challenges they’re working through.
This is not a quick fix—it’s a process built on trust, safety, and connection. In the early stages, our focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship and helping your child feel safe and understood. As sessions progress, children begin to explore and process their experiences at their own pace, often through play, storytelling, and symbolic expression.
For some families, we may work just a few months. For others, particularly when challenges are more complex or ongoing, a longer duration may be recommended. Your clinician will keep you informed every step of the way, checking in regularly to discuss your child’s growth and help you decide what’s needed moving forward.
Ultimately, our goal is to support your child in developing lifelong emotional skills—not just short-term change. We’re here for the whole journey, however long it may be.
How does this work to reduce unwanted behaviors?
We don’t just focus on surface-level behaviors—we look deeper to understand what’s underneath. We believe that all behavior is a form of communication, especially for children who may not yet have the words to express what they’re feeling.
Whether it shows up as big emotions, defiance, withdrawal, or worry, these behaviors often signal something deeper going on. Our goal is to uncover those root causes—like stress, fear, frustration, or unmet needs—and help children feel seen, heard, and truly understood.
Through the safety and connection of the therapeutic relationship, children begin to develop healthier ways of coping, new emotional skills, and a stronger sense of self. Real, lasting change starts when we listen to what behavior is trying to say.
Do you offer sliding scale or financial assistance?
We believe every child deserves access to high-quality mental health care, regardless of a family’s financial situation. At The Bridge Center for Play Therapy, each of our therapists—regardless of experience level—offers a limited number of sliding scale slots based on financial need.
In addition, we’re proud to have a team of carefully supervised graduate-level interns who provide low-cost counseling services. This allows us to expand our ability to support more families while maintaining the same level of care, compassion, and professionalism that define our center.
If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to talk through your options and help you find the best fit for your child and family.