Frequently Asked Questions

No. Our Educational Advocacy services are open to all families, whether or not you receive other services at FMHW. You do not need to complete testing with us to work with our advocate. Whether you need help with an IEP, a 504 plan, school placement, or navigating the school system, we’re here to help.

Educational advocacy can benefit families of children and adolescents who are experiencing academic, learning, developmental, behavioral, social-emotional, or other challenges that affect their educational performance. This may include students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia or other learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, or executive functioning difficulties. Advocacy can also be helpful when a family has concerns about school evaluations, services, accommodations, placement, or whether their child’s educational needs are being appropriately addressed.

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) provides specially designed instruction and related services to students who meet eligibility requirements for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). A Section 504 Plan provides accommodations and supports designed to ensure that a student with a disability has meaningful access to their education. We can help you understand the differences and determine the appropriate level of support for your child.

No. An evaluation is not needed to receive advocacy services. However, evaluations can provide important information about a student’s strengths, needs, and learning profile and can help inform educational planning. If your child has been evaluated through FMHW, we will use those results as part of the advocacy process.

Yes. We can participate in IEP, 504, eligibility, reevaluation, multidisciplinary, and other school meetings, either virtually or in person. We will also help you prepare beforehand so you understand the issues being discussed, know what questions to ask, and feel confident participating in the meeting.

This is a common concern, but our goal is to strengthen communication and collaboration, not create conflict. We work with families and school teams in a professional, solution-focused manner, keeping the student’s needs at the center of the discussion.

No. An educational advocate and an attorney have different roles. An advocate doesn't provide legal advice or legal representation. We have extensive experience collaborating with attorneys and can help families recognize when consultation with a Special Education attorney may be appropriate.

We work with families in public and private schools throughout Virginia, as well as in several other states. Stephanie has extensive experience supporting families across Northern and Central Virginia, including Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William, Arlington, Alexandria, Fauquier, Culpeper, Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania, and can help families understand their options within their child’s particular educational setting.

No. Educational Advocacy is not a medical service and is not covered by insurance. During your free consultation, we’ll review our fees in detail and answer any questions so you know what to expect before moving forward.

You can speak with your FMHW clinician about educational advocacy, contact the FMHW office directly to schedule a free consultation or email Stephanie directly at stephanie@fairfaxpsych.com.