Question 1

What is a psychologist

Accepted Answer

A psychologist is a specialist that has earned a doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. The process of earning this title typically takes 10-12 years, including undergraduate and graduate studies. Often, one’s full discipline encompasses a separate master’s degree, obtained prior to graduating with a doctoral degree. The training to become a psychologist includes extensive academic coursework, supervised guidance and development in psychotherapy, research conducted in the field of psychology, and education in psychological assessment. Many psychologists will choose areas of focus or specialty to complement their core training.

Psychologist is a legally protected term. Therapist, counselor, psychotherapist and other related terms are not legally protected terms, and therefore various professional groups also use these designations. For example, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LFMT), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and others may be referred to as a therapist.

A licensed psychologist has completed all requirements listed above to earn the psychologist designation, including a year-long pre-doctoral internship prior to graduation.  In addition, a licensed psychologist has completed 1+ years of a post-doctoral fellowship after graduation and passed all required testing by the state licensing board in order to independently practice.

Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Psychologist with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TX#34738), and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TX#71229).

For information on how to verify a license, please go to Online Search/Verify a License – Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council

Question 2

What are your counseling fees?

Accepted Answer

Initial Diagnostic Intake: $300                                                                                  
Hourly Rate: $250
Weekend Appt: +$25 per hour

For additional information, please contact our office.

Question 3

What are your psychological assessment fees?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Stewart’s fee for the Initial Intake for Assessment is $300.

Dr. Stewart’s hourly rate is $250, and a full comprehensive psychological assessment is generally 12 hours. Fees are determined at the initial intake based on the assessment battery and the amount of time needed to complete testing.  The average cost for a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation is $3,000.

Payments can be made in full, or divided into 4 payments of $750.  The parents pay $750 when booking the testing, on each of the two days of testing, and at the feedback session.

Question 4

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

No, we are a self-pay practice. We do not accept insurance and are considered out-of-network with all insurance companies. We are happy to provide you with the documentation you need to so you can file your claim directly for out-of-network reimbursement. However, please be aware that in order to submit a mental health claim we are required to provide diagnosis and some information about the treatment you are receiving.

Question 5

How do I know what my insurance will cover?

Accepted Answer

Plans vary particularly with regard to mental health coverage. Many insurance policies will reimburse for out-of-network providers after a deductible has been met. Please contact your insurance company to determine your out-of-network benefits.

Question 6

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due at the time services are rendered. We accept cash, check, credit cards, HSA (Health Savings Accounts) cards, and FSA (flexible savings accounts).

Question 7

Do you offer evening and/or weekend appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our office offers evening and weekend appointments. Saturday appointments are an additional $25 per hour.

Question 8

How do I initiate services?

Accepted Answer

Please fill out a contact form, email, or call our office to schedule a complementary phone consultation to ensure we can meet your needs and guide you through the next steps. 
 
Parents will attend the initial 60-minute intake appointment without their child so they can speak freely about their concerns, get to know their therapist, and explore what is bringing you/your child/your family in for counseling and/or assessment.

Question 9

How long are therapy appointments?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are generally 45-50 minutes long, however, for young children, the sessions may be shorter. Some sessions may need to be extended depending on your need.

Question 10

How long do I need to come to therapy?

Accepted Answer

It is hard to predict the length of time it will take you to meet your goals. A number of factors impact this process including motivation and the severity of the struggle. At your initial appointment, we will work to understand your needs and concerns, discuss recommendations regarding the frequency of session and appropriate approach for your situation.

Question 11

If I bring my child during the day, what do I do about school?"

Accepted Answer

Most schools are flexible and understanding of the counseling and evaluation process. We will work closely with your child’s school and provide an excuse note so your child is not penalized.

Question 12

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Please notify us as soon as possible when you know you cannot attend your appointment and we will work to provide options for rescheduling. Any appointments that are not canceled within 24 hours or no-showed will be charged a full session fee.

Question 13

Who do I contact in case of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

We do not have an answering service and do not provide emergency services. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or need immediate care, please use the following resources or go to your nearest emergency room.

Emergency Services & Fire Department: 911

Suicide & Crisis Hotline:  988

FEES & FAQs