Frequently Asked Questions

GROUPS

Do you accept insurance for groups?

We are considered out of network providers, so it is up to your specific insurance policy as to whether or not you have out of network benefits.

If you are unsure, it is best to call your insurance company and ask:

1. “Do I have out of network benefits?”
2. If so, “what is my deductible?”
3. If so, “what percentage does insurance pay once my deductible has been met?”
4. Insurance codes used for the group:

• 90791-assessment
• 90853-group therapy
• 90846-parent session without client (child participating in a group)

How many children are in a group at one time?

A minimum of 4, and a maximum of 6. We like to keep the groups small, for several reasons:

1. Each child gets very individualized attention.
2. A therapist is aware of what is going on, and able to observe the group as a whole, as well as individual members, at all times.
3. No possibility of a child “getting lost” in a larger group of children.
4. The small group requires that each group member is an active participant.

What are the criteria for placing children in a group together?

We will not place children in a group simply based on age, gender or diagnosis, although these are all factors that go into the decision making process. We are very careful of who is placed in a group together. A child’s emotional age and maturity level are always taken into consideration.

On the one hand, we try and place children together who are similar, in the hopes of fostering connections, friendships, and building self-esteem. On the other hand, we make groups similar to that of a typical classroom, or extracurricular activity. More often than not, there are all different types of children within these settings. Children need to learn to get along with all types of people. We don’t like or get along with everyone, but our children need to learn to co-exist. We strive to make our groups a balance of similarity as well as diversity.

When do groups start?

Typically groups begin in the fall (mid to late September), winter (mid to late February) and summer (beginning of July).

Assessments are conducted throughout the year, and oftentimes groups are started at times other than the above stated.  This is a result of making sure that each child is in a group that is appropriate for them.  For example, a nine-year-old girl will be on a waitlist until the “right” group can be formed.  She is too mature for the 7-8-year-old group and too young for the middle school girls group.

How many group sessions are in each cycle?

Fall and Winter groups are 12 sessions

Summer groups are 8 sessions

Girls Group for Family Addiction is 14 sessions

How long is each weekly group?

Younger children – Social Skills, 45 minutes

Adolescents – Social Skills, 60 minutes  

Girls group, 75 minutes

How many sessions is my child allowed to miss?

Each participant is permitted to miss one group without a fee. Group cohesion is extremely important for group dynamics. If group members are repeatedly absent, the group as a whole will feel this, and may not come together as completely as they would if members were consistently present.

In addition, your child will benefit from a group the more times they are present. Aside from the one missed group, you will be financially responsible for the remainder of the groups, as well as the parent session, regardless of attendance.

Can my child begin attending the group after the first session has started?

Once a group has begun, it is a closed group, and no other members are permitted to join until the next round of groups. Again, this is to foster group cohesion. Children know on the first day, this will be the same group of children they will meet weekly for this cycle.  Similarly, it is difficult for a child to join a group that has already begun working together.

How can I get further information about groups?

Please call or email Heather at 732-380-1575 ext. 305 or Heather’s Email.

How do I proceed if I am interested in having my child participate in a group?

Please call or email Heather at 732-380-1575 ext. 305 or Heather’s email to schedule an assessment.  An assessment is necessary for every child prior to participating in a group. The composition of children placed in a group together is done with very careful consideration. An assessment also allows the child and parent to see the center and group room, and meet Toni before going into the group.