frequently asked questions
Do you accept insurance?
At this time, Constellations Psychological Services accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield Massachusetts plans and Medicare. We accept self-pay methods of check, cash, all major credit cards, and Health Savings or Flex Account cards.
At what age do you accept children for evaluations?
Dr. Tracey will accept children who are of school age (usually ages 6+) for evaluation.
How long does the evaluation process take?
The length of the testing sessions can vary depending on the testing that needs to be completed, the age of your child, and how they approach tasks. In general, testing for younger children takes less time than testing for older children and adolescents. On the whole, testing will involve 2 to 4 in-person (or telehealth as COVID safety guidelines dictate) 2 hour sessions. The evaluation formulation period can take up to 2-3 weeks depending on the scope. When the evaluation is complete, a feedback session is scheduled. The entire process can take 4-8 weeks from start to finish.
How do I best prepare my child or myself for the evaluation?
We advise the following:
Try to ensure a good night’s rest and a good breakfast before any test days.
Keep to normal bedtime and morning routines as much as possible – avoid staying up late, caffeine, heavy breakfasts, etc.
Bring any glasses, hearing aids, communication devices, etc.
Take medications as usual unless otherwise discussed with Dr. Rocha Phelon.
There will be breaks to rest and relax between tests.
You can bring a water bottle and/or snacks to sustain energy throughout the day.
Please DO NOT tell your child how long testing will last. Anticipating a certain time can be distracting or frustrating for some children, especially if the session goes long.
You can explain to you child that they are working with a doctor who helps with school, friends, and feelings. They will talk with the doctor and answer questions about school, family, and favorite things. They will also do activities like completing puzzles, answering questions about what they know, drawing and building designs, and memory “games.” They might do some reading, writing, spelling, or math. Please let them know, they do not need to study or prepare.
Who should plan to come to a feedback session?
It is generally best if parents attend the feedback session without their child. It allows parents to ask questions, feel open to express emotions, and freely discuss their concerns. If you have an adolescent who wishes to attend this meeting, then talk about it with them and determine if this is appropriate and will allow you both to have your questions answered.
What happens if we have questions after our feedback session or we want to have you explain the outcome to our older child?
An expanded feedback session can be scheduled as a family consultation to address any additional questions as they relate to your child’s behavior, diagnosis or recommendations.
We can plan for a second meeting for older children and adolescents to attend with their parents. At this meeting, the focus is on providing positive feedback on the child’s performance and areas of strength rather than a discussion of weaknesses or diagnoses. This meeting is typically brief and takes around 30 minutes.
Simply call our office at 508.470.1505 to schedule.
Do you evaluate for adult ADHD or other psychological conditions?
Yes! We welcome referrals for adult evaluations. Dr. Tracey will work closely with you and your physician to gather pertinent information related to your concerns. The process is very similar for adults as with children (mentioned above) with some variations in methods.
Can you provide ongoing therapy for my child?
Unfortunately, no. Dr. Tracey does not provide individual or family therapy for children. Our office can help provide resources to providers who would be able to assist. Currently, however, she is accepting clients for individual adult therapy.