Question 1

Do you take insurance?

Accepted Answer

I do not participate in any insurance plans. However, you may be eligible for some reimbursement from your insurance company by using your out-of-network benefits. At your request, I can provide receipts that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

You can also use your Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)​ to pay for the cost of therapy or testing.

Question 2

How do I talk to my child about psychological testing?

Accepted Answer

Start by explaining that everyone has unique strengths and areas where they need a little extra help. You can say something like, "Everyone has things they are really good at and things that are harder for them. Testing will help us understand all of your amazing skills and talents so we can focus on those. It will also help us learn how to make the harder things easier for you."

Emphasize that the testing is a positive step towards making school and learning more fun and rewarding. You might say, "The the things we learn from  testing will help us (or your teachers, tutor, or therapist) find ways to make school less difficult and more fun for you."

If your child is already aware of some of their challenges, acknowledge their feelings and explain how the testing can help. For instance, "I know reading can be tough for you, and that's okay. We're going to do some testing to understand why it's hard and find ways to make it easier."

It's also helpful to prepare your child for what to expect during the testing sessions. Explain when the sessions will take place and how long they will last. You can say, "You'll be meeting one-on-one with Dr. Howard, who is like a teacher. You'll be doing a lot of different activities—some will be fun and interesting, and others might be a bit challenging, but that's okay. Each activity will only last a short time." Let your child know that they will also have a chance to talk about themselves, including their friends, feelings, likes, and dislikes.

Reassure your child that it's normal to have questions about the testing. Let them know they can ask Dr. Howard anything during their sessions, especially about the activities they're doing. Dr. Howard is there to make them feel comfortable and answer their questions.

Also, tell your child they can always come to you with any questions or concerns outside of the sessions. You might say, "Feel free to ask me anything about the testing. If I don't know the answer, we can find out together." Lastly, remind your child that this process is all about understanding and supporting them so they can feel confident and successful.

Question 3

Are therapy sessions in person or online?

Accepted Answer

It’s up to you! I see clients in-person at my Reston, Virginia office. I am also available for online therapy for clients living in Virginia and throughout most of the country. I have Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) granted from the PSYPACT Commission, so I can treat clients who live in any of the PSYPACT-participating states. To see a full list of states that participate in PSYPACT, follow this link: https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap (https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap)

Question 4

How do I prepare for an online therapy session?

Accepted Answer

It's important to find a private space in your home so you don't need to worry about being overheard. A reliable internet connection is also essential. I use SimplePractice, a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, for online therapy sessions. Before each session, you'll receive an email with a unique link for your appointment. If you're using your computer, there's no need to download any app or program; simply click the link at your appointment time and access the session through your web browser. If you're using a phone, you'll need to download the "Telehealth by SimplePractice" app.

Question 5

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I understand that plans change and you might need to reschedule or cancel an appointment. I am happy to accommodate these changes, but I require at least 48 hours' notice. The full fee will be due for therapy sessions canceled with less than 48 hours' notice.

Question 6

Do I need a Good Faith Estimate?

Accepted Answer

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who do not have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. If you do not have insurance OR you do not plan to use your insurance plan’s out-of-network benefits for services you receive from Dr. Christine Howard at Evermay Psychology, please read the following information:

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any nonemergency services, including an initial consultation, therapy, and psychological testing.

• Dr. Howard will give you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your scheduled service. You can also ask Dr. Howard, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.

• If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.

• Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

Question 7

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. During this call, we will discuss your concerns and see if I am the right fit for you or your child. Schedule your free phone consultation here.  (https://christinehoward.clientsecure.me/request/service)

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