What to Expect from a Parent-Only Intake Session
11 July 2026 · Hunter Children's Clinics
If your child's care with our psychology, occupational therapy or speech pathology team begins with a parent-only intake session, you may wonder what it involves and why your child does not attend. This article explains what to expect.
What a parent-only intake is
A parent-only intake is the first session, held with the parent or carer without the child present. It gives the clinician time and space to hear your history, understand your concerns, and ask detailed questions. This is the usual starting point across our psychology, occupational therapy and speech pathology services. For occupational therapy, a parent-only intake is the standard approach for children under 12, and for those aged 12 and over it is at the parent's discretion. For younger children in particular, meeting with parents first is a helpful way to gather background before any work with the child begins.
What happens in the session
During the intake, the clinician gathers background information about your child's development, strengths and needs, and about what is happening at home and at school. You will have the chance to explain what you are hoping to achieve. By the end of the session, the clinician can recommend the most appropriate next steps, whether that is therapy, an assessment, or another form of support.
Why it is held without the child
Meeting with parents first means you can speak freely and share information that shapes everything that follows. It also means the plan for your child is well informed from the start. The information you provide early on is genuinely valuable in tailoring support to your child.
What happens next
After the intake, the clinician will discuss the recommended plan with you. On occasion, where a child has been referred internally and the team already holds the relevant background, the intake may be waived, and your clinician will let you know if this applies. You can read more on our psychology, occupational therapy and speech pathology pages.
How to prepare
You do not need to prepare anything formal, but a little thought beforehand can make the session more useful. It can help to note down your main concerns, a brief history of your child's development, and any questions you would like to ask. If you have reports from school or other professionals, bringing them, or sending them ahead, gives the clinician helpful context.
Common questions from parents
Parents often ask whether they can speak openly, and the answer is yes. The purpose of the parent-only intake is precisely to give you that space. Others ask what happens if more than one of their children needs support, in which case a separate intake is usually needed for each child so that each receives individual attention. If you are unsure about anything, the admin team is happy to explain the process when you book.
Talking to your child about it
Because the intake is with parents only, you do not need to prepare your child for this first session. When your child does begin to attend, it can help to explain in simple, honest terms that they are going to meet someone whose job is to get to know them and help them. Keeping the tone calm and positive, and avoiding language that suggests something is wrong, can help your child feel at ease. Your clinician can also suggest ways to talk about it that suit your child's age and understanding.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. If you have concerns about your child, please speak with your GP or paediatrician.
