Chronic Illness Therapy
Hoot & Holler
Hoot & Holler is a 6-Week Therapy Program for Children with Long-Term Limitations Associated with Medical Conditions
What is Hoot & Holler?
Hoot & Holler is a six-session program for kids ages 8–17 who are living with a medical diagnosis. Families often feel overwhelmed during this time. The program gives clear steps, skills, and support so that children and parents know what to expect. Every family follows the same path, making the program steady and reliable.
Why is it called Hoot & Holler?
Owls “hoot” to share wisdom. To “holler” is to speak up and be heard. Our program helps children gain insight, use their voice with confidence, and celebrate their strengths.
Why was it created?
Hoot & Holler began when doctors at Lurie Children’s Hospital asked for help supporting children with new diagnoses. Families told us they needed structure in the middle of many medical appointments. We welcome children at any stage to work on their relationship with their illness. The program was designed with clear goals so parents feel grounded and kids gain tools to cope right away.
Where and when do sessions happen?
Sessions are held in our office once a week. Families book all six sessions at the start. If you miss a week, the program continues until all six sessions are complete. Most families finish within 8–10 weeks.
Are parents involved?
Yes! Parents join for the full time at the first session and the final session. For the middle four sessions, parents just join in the last 10-15 minutes. The rest of the time is a one-to-one class with your child and the therapist. They will do the warmup activity, the lesson, and the skill practice. Parents join in the last 10-15 minutes. That’s when your child will tell and show you what they learned. You’ll go over the family homework, and the therapist will point to the parenting tips that week. But! If you and your child prefer, parents are welcome to stay the full time for any/all sessions! Just talk to the therapist.
Should I bring my other kids to sessions?
No. The program is designed to focus only on the child with the medical condition. We know it can be stressful to be the sibling of a “high-needs” child. If your other child could use support, we encourage you to consider individual therapy for them. When possible, we can even schedule sessions at the same time to help your family.
Are there other ways my child can get support through Plum Tree?
Yes! Plum Tree offers many services. Individual therapy is always available, as well as family therapy, group therapy, and parent coaching. Our diagnostic team can complete evaluations to answer questions about ADHD, depression, anxiety, autism, learning disorders, and more. We also have nurse practitioners who can review health needs and consider medication, while staying in touch with your child’s doctors. In addition, we provide access to a reading tutor and a special education advocate who can help your family work with schools to get the right supports.
