This essay describes for Gillespie Approach providers an outline for a child’s first visit at my office. Take what you find useful. I book an hour which includes the intake, exam, consultation, and therapy.
Intake
I want to find out the number one reason why they are here. I also list the other conditions to monitor progress as therapy continues. Patients tend to forget their issues when they start to feel better.
I want to know if the child is on medication. If there is also a history of Lyme disease, the bacteria can live and create chaos in the fascial web, preventing a successful outcome.
I want to ask if the child has had orthodontics or wisdom teeth extractions. I also inquire about all surgical procedures including circumcision.
I want to find out about any trauma from the pregnancy to the present day. With diet, the better their eating habits, the better their chance for success.
Exam
I always check the brain cycle first, and a zero-second brain cycle tells me a lot. I then feel the fascial web for tightness. I always examine the oral tissues.
I start with the feet and work my way up the body. Toddlers can be afraid just because of the unknown. If I am holding their feet and legs first in mom’s lap, they will usually be OK.
Consultation
Everyone gets the tight-loose concept. A photo of the cranial meninges can show how fascial tightness can create pressure in the head and a zero-second brain cycle. I also explain how body tightness can create their child’s issues. Questions are welcomed.
Therapy
Parents need to see on the first visit what therapy is, that it is safe, and that it will possibly work. I tell them that I am listening to their child’s body, helping it to release the invisible tightness. Sometimes I will do a quick demo on a parent to feel what their child is experiencing.
After the visit, the family decides whether or not to continue treatment. My golden rule: I do not tell anyone what to do.
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