Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right therapist?
There are several things to consider when choosing a therapist. You want to consider the therapist’s training and experience with the types of problems you are facing, availability, and scheduling compatibility. Just as important are things that are less easy to quantify, such as personality and communication style. While engaging in an evidence-based treatment greatly enhances the odds that treatment will be successful, research has shown that having a good fit with your therapist can account for as much as 50% of the gains you see in treatment. The best way to determine if a therapist is a good fit for you is to meet with them a few times. It is not uncommon to have some doubts after the first meeting or two. Your relationship with your therapist is exactly that—a relationship. It needs a few interactions to create a foundation of shared understanding and trust.

As a psychologist, I am supportive, direct and non-judgmental. My approach to therapy is collaborative and interactive, and also directive when needed. I listen and observe carefully, ask questions, and give direct feedback to clients to help find solutions and make progress. Clients can expect that after listening, I will hold myself and clients accountable for taking a proactive approach to addressing negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Why? Because research has shown that simply venting without changing our perspective or doing something differently can actually make problems worse. Just as importantly, I often see the humorous side of life and encourage my clients to do so as well. After all, one of the ultimate goals of therapy is helping clients experience the positives in life, like calm, joy and fun.

Do you take insurance?
The Center for Specialty Behavioral Health Services does not contract with any insurance company. This ensures that you receive high quality treatment without limits, restrictions or delays that could impact its effectiveness. If your insurance plan has an out-of-network (OON) coverage benefit, you may be eligible for reimbursement for some portion of the cost. You are encouraged to contact your plan directly to determine what coverage you have. The Center will provide you with detailed receipts that include all the information your plan will need to process your request. We do not guarantee any reimbursement or coverage by your insurance plan.

What are your fees?
Fees will be discussed during the consultation call and the assessment and feedback sessions, as they vary by service. Payment is due at the time of service. Your credit card number will be taken when you schedule your assessment, and will be kept on file and automatically charged at each appointment for your convenience. You will be able to access your invoices and balance through the secure client portal.

What is your cancellation and no-show policy?
If you cannot make a scheduled appointment, you must cancel at least 24-hours before the beginning of the appointment or you will be charged the full fee for that appointment. If you do not show for an appointment, you will be charged the full fee for the appointment.

Keeping appointments regularly is necessary for a treatment to work. Missing more than two scheduled appointments in a quarter (3 months) often has a detrimental effect on progress. If you miss more than two scheduled appointments over three months, we will have a discussion about discontinuing treatment until you are able to commit fully to treatment.

Where and how are services offered?
Services may be in-person or via telehealth, depending on the person.

Is telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?
“It depends,” says Dr. Gajee. Experience during the pandemic has shown that many clients and problems can be treated as effectively via telehealth as in-person treatment. Additionally, clients have reported valuing the time they save in busy schedules by not having to commute to and from weekly appointments. Dr. Gajee has found that therapy for children ages 8-12 generally works better in-person. For children younger than 8, therapy is usually family- or parent-based and works very well via telehealth. For clients who are 13 and older, telehealth and in-person therapy are equally effective for most clients, but some may benefit more from one or the other. That is decided on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the client and family.

In what states does Dr. Gajee provide therapy?
In-person psychotherapy services are available only to Massachusetts residents. Telehealth psychotherapy is available to residents of Massachusetts and Vermont.

How long does therapy last?
On average, most clients will be ready to move from therapy within 20-26 weeks. That said, some clients may see improvement faster, and some may take longer. It depends on a variety of factors, including how much you practice skills between sessions, how severe your symptoms are, and how many and what kinds of problems you are facing.