Licensed clinical psychologist
Dr. Christine Howard
Psychological testing and therapy in Reston, VA
Whether you are seeking help for yourself or your child, you have come to the right place.
I offer psychological testing and therapy that helps things finally make sense.
You’ve known something was off for a while. Maybe your child is working twice as hard as other students and still falling behind. Or maybe you’ve spent years feeling like you’re not smart enough, not focused enough, or just not enough. You’ve tried to fix things on your own, but nothing has made a real difference.
When you don’t fully understand what the problem is, it’s hard to know what will make things better.
you deserve real answers
I’m here to help you understand what’s getting in the way so you can overcome it.
As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I help clients get to the root of their problems so they can make real, lasting change.
Clients often tell me that I help them put words to experiences they’ve always had but didn’t fully understand or couldn’t explain. That sense of being truly understood and of things clicking into place is something I work hard to create for every person I see.
We won’t just look at what’s hard. We’ll look at the whole picture: your strengths, your story, and the reasons behind your challenges. You’ll feel heard, get real answers, and finally have the tools to make things better.
How I work
My Approach to Psychological Testing & Evaluations
I offer comprehensive testing for children, teens, and adults who may have learning disorders (such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia), ADHD, autism, and mental health conditions. I frequently work with individuals who are twice-exceptional (2e), meaning they are gifted and also have learning or developmental differences.
Psychological testing is powerful because it helps you see yourself more accurately. When children, teens, or adults struggle with learning or focus, they often blame themselves. They tell themselves they're not smart enough or good enough. My evaluations give you real data to replace false beliefs. Finding your strengths matters as much to me as uncovering the root causes of your challenges. For kids and teens, getting accurate and empowering information early can protect their self-esteem. For adults who have spent years criticizing themselves or feeling inadequate, it can be a long-overdue relief.
Once testing is complete, I’ll explain the results clearly to everyone involved. If there is a diagnosis, I’ll make sure you understand exactly what it means. I’ll also connect you with the right tools and resources so you won't have to do your own research or guess what will help. You can get started right away with services and strategies that actually work.
My Approach to Therapy
I specialize in helping teens and adults overcome challenges with self-esteem, people-pleasing, anxiety, and depression. Therapy can help you feel more confident and secure in who you are so you can stop second-guessing yourself and start enjoying life again.
I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I use psychodynamic therapy to help you understand how your past experiences are affecting you now. You will recognize unhelpful patterns and develop healthier ways to take care of yourself and connect with others.
I also incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to give you practical skills to manage worries and difficult emotions. This integrated therapy approach gives you the insight to understand your patterns and the practical tools to create meaningful, long-lasting change in your life. Together, we can work toward a life where you feel calm, confident, and capable.
What you can expect when working with me
01 inclusive
I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming. I will help you feel at ease so you can be completely yourself, without filtering or holding back. Clients say that I help them feel truly seen and heard.
02 insightful
I help things make sense. I listen for what's underneath, make connections, and put words to experiences you've always had but could never quite explain.
03 thorough
I don’t rely on quick screenings or rush to conclusions. I take the time to understand your complete story. You’ll get support that is customized to you.
04 responsive
I answer questions quickly and keep you informed throughout the process. You won't be left waiting for answers or wondering what comes next.
specializing in:
ADHD
Neurodivergence
Autism
Learning Disorders
Self-Esteem
People-Pleasing
Depression
Anxiety
My background
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia, 2013 to present, License #0810004757
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology, George Washington University, 2012
Master of Psychology (M.Psy.) in Clinical Psychology, George Washington University, 2010
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology (Magna Cum Laude), Christopher Newport University
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American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology
American Psychological Association
International Dyslexia Association
Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists
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I have Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) granted from the PSYPACT Commission. This allows me to offer online therapy to clients who live in any of the 40+ states that participate in PSYPACT.
