FAQs: Mental and Behavioral Health Services

Navigating the mental and behavioral health services system can feel daunting. As a parent or caregiver of a child in need of support, we know you will have questions. We’re here to help guide you through the process.

Q: For what age range do you offer behavioral health services?
A: Watson’s outpatient therapy services are offered for children and young adults ages 5 to 18.
Q: Does my child need to be a student at the Watson Institute to receive outpatient therapy services?
A: No, your child does not need to attend a Watson Institute school to receive outpatient therapy services. Some Watson students will utilize outpatient behavioral health services at the recommendation of their educational team.
Q: Do I need an evaluation or referral from a doctor for my child to receive outpatient therapy?
A: No, you do not need an evaluation. You can schedule therapy services for your child by requesting an appointment.
Q: What is the intake process at Watson?
A: Once you submit a request for a behavioral health services appointment, our Intake Coordinator will contact you to obtain additional information about your child(ren). You can expect to hear from our Intake Coordinator within 72 hours of submitting the request. 

The Intake Coordinator will request additional information, such as your insurance. The Intake Coordinator will connect you with one of our therapists to schedule a clinical assessment. A clinical assessment will take approximately 90 minutes. Upon completion of the assessment, you will be able to schedule individual therapy appointments.

Q: How long will I have to wait for my child to have an appointment?
A: We are experiencing a high volume of requests for therapy at this time. We will schedule your child’s appointment as soon as we are able. You may call 412-749-2889 to get an updated time frame.
Q: Can my child receive services through telehealth? If so, what platform do you use and can it be done on a mobile device?
A: Yes, we can provide telehealth appointments. During your child’s clinical assessment, the therapist will provide a recommendation for the frequency of appointments, any potential barriers, and whether or not telehealth is the best option for your child’s treatment. 

We use Zoom Health for telehealth appointments. Zoom Health can be accessed either from a desktop or laptop computer or from a mobile device. Our Zoom platform meets all applicable HIPAA standards. If your child participates in telehealth visits, you will be provided with login information prior to your child’s appointment.

If you or your child encounters any difficulty logging in, technical assistance is available.

Q: What should I bring to my first appointment?
A: Please bring your insurance card and any documentation that may have been sent home. We ask that you arrive 15 minutes early to your first appointment to complete new client paperwork. 

All behavioral health services guests at our Sewickley, PA location are welcome to use the facilities in our Austin’s Playroom while they wait. The Playroom includes comfortable seating, beverages, a sink, tables, internet access, and charging stations for devices. It also has toys and child-appropriate technology for use by siblings.

Q: Can my child's medication be managed by Watson's mental health team?
A: Yes, we provide medication management for children who receive therapy through the Watson Institute. You can meet with a psychiatrist who will review medication options and add that to your child’s treatment plan if needed.

If your child is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988 Lifelife.

Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.