Frequently Asked Questions
DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?
We do take insurance for therapy and some brief testing. We do not take insurance for comprehensive psychological testing.
In New York, we accept: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Oscar, United Healthcare, and Oxford. To request an appointment with one of these coverages, please use the following link:
Request an Appointment via Headway
In Texas, we accept Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), and Cigna.
We are also able to provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement, whereby your insurance may reimburse you for a portion of your cost. We also accept direct payment via credit card, Zelle, and Health/Flex Spending Accounts.
WHY IS TESTING PRIVATE PAY?
Most insurance companies do not cover psychological or neuropsychological testing for developmental delays, learning disabilities, or giftedness. These are often considered “educational” rather than “medical” services, even when provided by an in-network psychologist. Insurance plans that say they “cover testing” usually mean only for serious medical conditions such as brain tumors, traumatic brain injury, or multiple sclerosis.
Insurance reimbursement also requires a mental health diagnosis that must be shared with the insurance company. This can be unethical if your child does not actually meet criteria for a disorder, and it unnecessarily creates a permanent record of a diagnosis that may not be appropriate.
Additionally, insurance companies often require pre-approval for every single test we administer. Because our assessments are individualized and evolve as we get to know your child, this rigid process does not fit with high-quality, personalized evaluations.
By remaining private pay, we are able to:
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Use the best test battery for your child, without insurance restrictions.
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Provide accurate results and recommendations, without being forced to assign unnecessary diagnoses.
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Deliver timely reports, instead of waiting for insurance approvals or denials.
We are happy to provide a detailed superbill after testing that you can submit to your insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Many families also use HSA/FSA accounts to cover costs.
HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?
Please use the button below to submit an appointment request or email the office at: info@metrochildandfamily.com
New York patients may also schedule therapy appointments online through Headway.co.
Only parents or legal guardians may schedule initial appointments. For minors whose parents share legal custody, both parents must provide written consent prior to treatment or testing.
CAN I TALK WITH SOMEONE BEFORE DECIDING TO SCHEDULE?
Yes. You may call, text, or email our office with any questions. Our intake coordinator can explain the therapy and testing process before you commit to scheduling.
WHAT TYPES OF TESTING DO YOU PROVIDE?
We provide a wide range of psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, including:
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ADHD and learning disability testing (including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia)
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Autism evaluations (children, teens, and adults)
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Giftedness and school accommodations testing
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Pre-adoption or fertility-related evaluations
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Forensic evaluations (Parental Reunification/Fitness)
HOW DO I KNOW IF TESTING IS RIGHT FOR ME OR MY CHILD?
Testing may be recommended if:
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Teachers, doctors, or therapists suggest an evaluation
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You or your child are struggling in school, work, or relationships despite support
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There are concerns about attention, learning, social skills, or mood that are not fully explained by therapy alone
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You need documentation for school accommodations, legal matters, or medical treatment planning
HOW LONG DOES TESTING TAKE?
Evaluations generally take two to six weeks to complete, depending on the complexity.
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Brief screenings may take a single appointment with results in about 2–3 weeks.
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Comprehensive evaluations typically require multiple testing sessions, followed by a feedback session. These are generally completed in 4-6 weeks, assuming the patient is cooperative with scheduling and completion requests
Reports for comprehensive testing are provided at the feedback appointment and can be shared with schools, physicians, or attorneys as appropriate.
WHAT IS THE COST FOR TESTING?
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A non-refundable $250 deposit is required to secure the interview appointment.
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50% of the remaining balance is due before the first testing session.
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The balance is due at the feedback session when results and the written report are provided.
Please note: Comprehensive testing is not covered by insurance, though you may use HSA/FSA benefits or request a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Brief screenings may be covered by insurance depending on your plan benefits.
WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE AND WHAT FORM OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
For therapy, payments and copays are billed automatically after sessions by the method on file.
For evaluations, payment follows the staged schedule above. We accept credit cards, Zelle, and HSA/FSA accounts. We may decide to assess a credit card fee due to increasing costs.
HOW LONG AND WHEN WILL I FEEL BETTER?
Therapy sessions are typically weekly and last 40–55 minutes. Many patients notice improvement within 8–12 sessions, though this varies.
Evaluations are not treatment but instead provide answers, diagnoses, and recommendations. Families often report relief and clarity once testing results are explained and individualized plans are provided.
DO YOU PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?
No. We do not prescribe. However, we provide referrals and collaborate with physicians and psychiatrists as needed.
CANCELLATION/NO SHOW POLICY: WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?
Please cancel at least 48 business hours in advance (Mon–Fri, 8–4pm CT).
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Less than 48 hrs: $50 administration fee
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Less than 24 hrs/no show: full session fee (minimum $150)
Repeated cancellations may be grounds for discontinuation.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS?
We offer morning, afternoon, and early evening sessions for therapy.
Testing is generally scheduled during daytime hours when focus and accuracy are highest. School excuse notes are provided.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THERAPY AND COUNSELING?
Therapy uses structured, evidence-based methods (CBT, ACT, etc.) to identify and change patterns that cause emotional distress. Therapy approaches require years of training and practicum, often in university clinic settings. It is much more than simply 'talking and listening'. Counseling is often more general support or advice.
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