Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
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Constellation Psychiatry specializes in treating children, adolescents, and young adults, typically ages 5-35. As a pediatric and adult psychiatrist, I welcome patients outside of this age range on a case-by-case basis. As patients grow older outside this age range, I can continue to see them.
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Constellation Psychiatry provides care for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, and behavioral challenges. If you're unsure about a specific need or condition, please reach out to discuss your needs.
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Constellation Psychiatry can support you with both medication management and therapeutic interventions. My approach is comprehensive, combining psychiatric expertise with therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness practices when appropriate. For some patients, I may also recommend additional dedicated therapy with a psychologist or therapist.
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No, Constellation Psychiatry provides ongoing psychiatric care and does not offer crisis intervention services.
If you or your child are experiencing any of the following mental health emergencies:
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Severe medication side effects
Acute psychosis or loss of touch with reality
Any situation requiring immediate attention
Please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), 911, or go to your nearest emergency room.
For established patients, after any crisis situation, please reach out to coordinate your ongoing care appropriately.
Appointments & Sessions
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Initial evaluations are comprehensive assessments designed to understand your concerns and background. For adults, these last 60 minutes. For children and adolescents, these last 90 minutes and typically include time with both the patient and parents/guardians. We'll discuss your concerns, personal situation, background, and goals to begin developing a personalized treatment plan.
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The frequency of appointments varies based on individual needs. Initially, we may meet more frequently (every 2-4 weeks) as we establish care and find the right approach. As treatment progresses and stability improves, appointments may become less frequent.
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All appointments are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. You'll receive a link before your appointment, and you'll need a private space with reliable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and approximately 5-10 minutes to set up before the appointment.
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At least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling is requested. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours) may incur a fee as outlined in my policies.
Billing & Payment
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No, Constellation Psychiatry is a direct-pay boutique practice that does not accept insurance. Superbills can be provided after each appointment for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.
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Constellation Psychiatry accepts all major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and electronic payments through our secure patient portal.
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Yes, mental health services are typically eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
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Reimbursement varies widely depending on your specific insurance plan. I recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to ask about their out-of-network mental health benefits.
Medication & Treatment
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No. While medication can be an important tool, it's not always necessary or appropriate for everyone. I take a comprehensive approach that considers all available options, including non-pharmacological approaches. If medication is recommended, I'll thoroughly discuss the benefits, potential side effects, and alternatives.
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Prescriptions are sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy.
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The duration of treatment varies widely depending on the individual's needs, the condition being treated, and response to treatment. Some patients may benefit from shorter-term care focusing on specific issues, while others may need longer-term support. We will regularly review progress together and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Privacy & Confidentiality
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Yes, your privacy as a patient is protected by law. Constellation Psychiatry adheres to all HIPAA regulations and maintains strict confidentiality. Your information is not shared without your written consent, except in specific situations required by law, such as when there is risk of harm to yourself or others.
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Constellation Psychiatry takes a developmentally appropriate approach to confidentiality.
For patients under 18, I balance respect for your child’s age and privacy while keeping parents appropriately informed. General treatment progress and safety concerns are always shared with parents. Specific details of conversations with minors may remain confidential.
Once a patient turns 18, they have legal control over their health information. I cannot share information with parents without an adult patient's written consent. However, I often encourage family involvement when clinically appropriate, and can discuss the benefits of limited information sharing with family members.
Getting Started
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Please click the “get started” button on our website to request a free consultation. This brief 15-minute phone call lets us connect, discuss your goals and questions, and explore how we can work together. There is no pressure to commit. If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule the initial evaluation session.
For established patients, please utilize the online patient portal to schedule or contact me for assistance.
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After scheduling your initial evaluation, you'll receive access to the secure patient portal where you'll complete the intake form and other required paperwork. The intake form will request more information on your concerns, health history, and personal background.