Frequently Asked Questions for Psychotherapy, Art Therapy & Counseling with Tamara Galinsky.

How do I know if I’ve found the right therapist for me?

Finding the right “fit” is essential! Many of my clients come to me through word of mouth, but Psychology Today and good old Google are both effective means of finding a therapist, too.

There are lots of things to consider when evaluating whether a therapist is right for you: Training, theoretical orientation, experience with certain populations, number of years in practice. However, insight and change can only happen when you feel comfortable, and most clients report that the connection they feel with their therapist is the biggest marker of success.

I love what I do, and it’s evident in the relationships I form with my clients and their tangible growth and improved self-awareness. I tailor my approach with each client, based on your individual interests, responses, and feedback, so each session is planned and executed according to your specific needs.

Are you a member of one or more marginalized communities? Read this great article on finding a good therapist!

Are you taking new clients?

Yes! I am currently accepting new clients for individual and couples psychotherapy, counseling, and art therapy. Additionally, groups are forming now for early 2016.

When can I expect to hear back from you?

My typical response time is 24 hours or less, and I am usually able to schedule an initial appointment within 3-5 business days.

What are your hours?

I ask new clients to commit to at least one month of weekly meetings. This helps us establish a rapport, develop trust, and lay a solid foundation from which you may work towards your personal goals. After the first month, we will decide together how to continue our course of treatment, but most clients benefit most by coming in at least once a week.

Do I need to be artistic?

Absolutely not! Art therapy is for everyone, and no technique or skill is required, just an open mind.

What kinds of art will we do?

I will provide you with a range of art materials to create in a 2- or 3-dimensional format, and offer some guidance in selecting the right supplies. However, the decisions are ultimately up to you…and there’s no wrong way to do it!

How long is a session?

Individual sessions range from 50-55 minutes. I often recommend that couples plan to spend 90-120 minutes in session, but each client is different and every treatment plan unique.

How long will I be in therapy?

This is a complicated question with an answer to match. Some people come to see me in order to work through something very specific, and resolution may be relatively quickly. Others seek therapy in order to deep-seated feelings of sadness, restlessness, unworthiness, or a lack of fulfillment. In these cases, treatment may last longer, as the work tends to go a little deeper in order to enact lasting change. Every client is different, and my approach is carefully constructed according to your specific needs.

How can I get the most bang for my buck?

I always say that what you put into therapy is a good indication of what you’ll get out of it. With that in mind, I recommend the following to make the best use of your time and money spent on therapy:

  • Keep your appointments. If you need to cancel, please do so as soon as possible (more on my cancelation policy below). Making progress in therapy is partially contingent on consistency, as well as commitment to growth and personal change.
  • Start a journal! It helps to hash out what you might like to work on prior to each session. Many people also find it useful to make notes during session, and similarly, jotting down a few notes immediately following your appointment can help solidify insights uncovered therein.
  • Communicate! With me, that is. I’m here to help, so it’s essential that you let me know how you think our work is progressing.
  • Ask for homework! Many people find that receiving additional exercises or reading assignments can enhance their experience in therapy.
  • Trust the process! I can’t stress this enough. You are choosing to embark on a journey, but nobody ever said it would be easy. The biggest gifts you can give yourself are patience, compassion, and a belief that things will unfold as they should.
Is therapy confidential?

Every thing you say or do in session with me is confidential. The only exception to this is if you threaten to harm yourself or someone else, or if there is reason to suspect abuse or neglect, in which case I am required by law to break confidentiality. If you would like me to be in communication with another member of your medical or treatment team, I will have you fill out and sign a Release of Information form so that I have your explicit permission to share your information.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash or check is due at the time of each visit.

Will my insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Most insurance companies will reimburse for sessions with me. However, each program and plan is different, so I recommend that you contact your insurance provider directly to find out more.

What is your cancellation policy?

I understand that things come up and sometimes you can’t make your appointment. I require 48-hour notice to avoid being billed for the full session.

You got all that? Ready to make an appointment with Tamara? Call her at 202.579.9567 or email her.

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Tamara Galinsky

Expressive Therapist, Workshop Creatrix, and Badass Agent of Change.

I support highly curious, successful people on their journey to find the next level of fulfillment. In the work that we’ll do together, you can feel safe and supported as you heal, grow, discover, and learn about your true self.

Learn more about the work that I do, read more about me, or set up a free 20-minute phone consultation to see how we might vibe together by calling 202-579-9567 or emailing.