Frequently Asked Questions | Child & Adolescent Psychology

How to ensure you are getting an excellent assessment

Many times people wonder why psychological testing requires such a commitment of time and financial resources. In order to ensure appropriate diagnosis and generate a useful treatment plan several steps are required. Many of these steps are minimized or skipped when clinicians are forced to work under the constraints of managed care. Though doing so saves money for the company and family initially, it often results in inadequate treatment. As a result, problems continue for longer and, eventually, more time and money are wasted on extended treatment. The family also experiences greater stress as the result of failed interventions. A thorough evaluation documents the diagnoses and provides a roadmap for treatment.

Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about educational and psychological testing and the MindWell approach to testing.

Are assessments covered by medical insurance?

Often, insurance will indeed cover some level of psychoeducational/neuropsychological testing. MindWell, however, does not accept insurance directly. This frees us to do the right thing for your child as efficiently as possible. This doesn’t mean that insurance won’t pay some – or even most – of the cost when you file a claim. It just means we can help you move forward now, instead of making you wait weeks while we negotiate with the insurers one test or therapy session at a time.

MindWell assessments are very thorough – do they take longer to complete?

No. In fact, we deliver detailed, custom assessments monthssooner than with other testing providers. Although we invest many hours in creating truly comprehensive, completely custom assessments, we still deliver reports within about a month – compared to 4 months for Children’s or other assessment sources. This means that a minimum of time (including the school year) is lost waiting for answers. Often, in about two weeks from the assessment, you can be learning what’s going on and what interventions you can begin making immediately.

Why does testing have a reputation for being expensive?

Actually, our assessments also have a reputation for being a good value. That’s because we repay your investment with a comprehensive report that is not just on target in terms of the diagnosis, but immediately useful in beginning to work toward a solution. Unlike assessments done with templates or “Scantron” check-offs, you can be confident that the MindWell Assessment has covered the right bases and that the MindWell Action Plan you receive empowers you to focus on the right interventions, right away. That’s much better than finding out your results were “off,” you’ve lost a year and you have to start over to get it right.

How should I prepare my child for an assessment?

Make sure your child has a good night’s sleep before his/her assessment. If your child wears glasses, a hearing aid, or any other device, make sure to bring it. If your child has special language needs, please alert the psychologist to these.

Should my child take his/her medication on the morning of the assessment?

If your child is on a stimulant medication, such as Ritalin, or other medications, check with the psychologist beforehand about coordinating dosage time with testing.

What should I tell my child about the assessment?

What you tell your child about this assessment depends on how much he or she can understand. Be simple and brief and relate your explanation to a problem that your child knows about such as “trouble with spelling,” “problems following directions,” or “feeling upset.” Reassure a worried child that an assessment involves no “shots.” Tell your child that you are trying to understand his or her problem to make things better. Do not tell a young child they are coming for a play date.

Should I bring anything to the assessment?

If your child has had previous school testing, an individual education plan, or has related medical records, please bring or send this information and records to the psychologist for review.

Can I observe my child’s assessment?

Parents are not usually permitted in the room during an assessment, although they may be present with very young or anxious children. The time required depends on the child’s age and presenting problem.

At other clinics they use students or techs to do the testing. Who does the testing at Mindwell?

At Mindwell, we believe that only a doctoral level psychologist should be conducting your child’s assessment. Unlike other practices, we do not shuttle your child from person to person, instead, we believe it is critical that the psychologist spend time observing your child, getting to know him, and putting her at ease. We believe that this investment of the psychologist’s time is the foundation of a quality evaluation.

When is the right time for a child to begin therapy?

The right time is when there is a concern that is getting in the way of the child’s development, school work, socializing, being happy, or coping with stress. There is no age too young to benefit from psychotherapy–children of all ages can need help. It is also important to realize that children and families often wait until a situation becomes a crisis before seeking help. Problems are easier (and less expensive) to fix when they are addressed promptly. At Mindwell, we work with children as young as two, teens, and adults.

What are your therapists' qualifications?

Our therapists have exceptional qualifications and are independently licensed. We do not use students or unlicensed technicians to provide therapy services. Not only do we look for the ‘best and the brightest’ we also insist that our staff have the warmth and compassion to make clients feel good about coming to therapy.

What do you do with children in therapy?

Children come to therapy to learn new ways of coping with stressors in their lives and to develop new skills. At Mindwell. we believe in evidence based treatments that have been well supported by research. Our clinicians integrate cognitive behavioral techniques with play therapy to ensure that a child makes progress towards treatment goals. We also make sure that therapy is a special place where a child feels cared for and has fun.

What can an adult expect from therapy?

You can expect your therapist to work with you towards achieving your personal goals in a safe, nonjudgemental environment. Our therapists integrate cognitive behavioral treatment, mindfulness training and insight oriented techniques. We focus on symptom relief and long-term resilience. Since the research shows that the best predictor of your progress is the relationship with your therapist, our clinicians are warm, down to earth, and optimistic.

How will psychotherapy benefit our family?

Quality psychotherapy helps people address problems that are getting in their way of achieving their potential. Psychotherapy has been shown to change how the brain functions, making clients more resilient for the rest of their lives. Just like treating a medical problem, good psychotherapy brings symptom relief and a return to health. Psychotherapy is also a safe place where we can come to understand what is troubling us.


Phone: (703) 378-7998 14110 Robert Paris Ct., Chantilly, VA 20151