> FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1.  How is an evaluation conducted?
The first step during the assessment process involves a diagnostic and comprehensive intake with the client and family or parents of the client, depending on the client's age. During this intake and history session, the presenting areas of concern or diagnostic goals are discussed and explored. Records, work samples and previous evaluations are reviewed and discussed. Pertinent information regarding progress, family history,  frequencies of behavioral concerns and previous interventions are some of the topics discussed. Depending on the outcome of this intake, the next step in the assessment process is decided, which could be a school observation, a packet of forms to fill out, or these components  in addition to a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation.  Sometimes, services only involve an educational assessment or a school consultation.   Decisions of services depend upon the needs of each client and their unique profile. Each assessment and recommendations are uniquely structured to meet the needs of a client. 
2. Do you only work with children?
No. I serve preschool age children through adults.
3. What is an intervention plan?
An intervention plan is developed from all the information and data that is attained throughout the assessment process. The plan is individually structured for each client to address areas of concern, develop levels in intervention strategies, and/or specify approaches and suggestions to meet the needs of each client, keeping in mind their gifts as well as their challenges. This plan can include other mental health service providers, other specialists, tutors and the school. The plan is communicated verbally and in writing to the family, and sometimes the client.
4. Do you meet with the child to go over the plan?
I prefer to have a meeting or meetings with each child or adolescent. I review their gifts, strengths and effective strategies. I focus first on their abilities and their progress. Then we discuss other strategies and recommendations.  Sometimes several sessions are conducted to work on skill practice or understanding concepts, such as what AD/HD is and is not.
5. Are you available to present the results or recommendations to schools?
I am available for special meetings, such as 504 or IEP development meetings, and to advocate for each child’s placement or services. I am also available to consult with teachers and staff regarding questions or recommendations.
6. How do I know if therapy with Dr. Garver is the right therapy for me?
A brief screening will be conducted on the phone during the initial contact. Dr. Garver can identify cases and situations in which other therapists or therapeutic interventions might be a better fit, and that will be communicated. Also, if questions remain by the end of the first diagnostic intake session, recommendations will be made, as well as the possibility that a different kind of intervention might be a better fit.
7. What are some client concerns that benefit from Dr. Garver’s supportive services?
Dr. Garver works with latency-age children, adolescents, adults, and families. When working with children and adolescents, there is an ongoing parenting component.

Dr. Garver’s approach in therapy is integrative, as she determines the goals of families and clients and implements appropriate approaches and strategies, such as CBT, trauma-focused CBT, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy. As an experienced evaluator and diagnostician, Dr. Garver uses this knowledge to ascertain case conceptualization and prioritize therapeutic goals. Additionally, networking with other connected professionals to help guide a client or family through a crisis, trauma, or mental health issues is continually utilized.

She also works with families and children that are experiencing separation and divorce, helping them through consultation, mediation, and working as a coach and child specialist in the collaborative process. The focus is to assist and help the individual or family through this grieving process and guide them through adjustments to different family configurations or living/life situations.

8. How can therapy help me?
One of the most important benefits of psychotherapy is to provide a place and space in which a person or a family can receive support and help toward resolving familial, personal, and/or interpersonal conflicts, learn coping strategies addressing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and grief, address stress management, develop healthier communication skills in relationships or within a family, and cope with change of life experiences. Therapy can provide opportunities to examine conflicts, re-examine them in a different perspective, and help find healthier ways to address them.
9. Do you accept insurance?
I am not an in-network provider, but will gladly work with you to submit appropriate paperwork for reimbursement.
"Professional
care is
designed
according to
each person's
unique needs,
qualities and
gifts
."

Dr. Garver draws upon her extensive mental health career to help individuals, children, and families navigate the stressors of divorce. She is partnering with other mediators and a multidisciplinary team to provide mediation services through Divorce Mediation Associates, Ltd.

You can learn more at: DivorceMediation
AssociatesVA.com

2915 Hunter Mill Road
Suite 21
Oakton, Virginia 22124
6858 Old Dominion Drive
Suite 302
McLean, Virginia 22101
703.281.6058
703.938.6203 - Fax
drpatricegarver@drpatricegarver.com
© 2009 - 2017 Patrice Garver, Ph.D.
designed by: AA&T Graphics