Alex Shink
August 30, 2023

Galina Thomas, MS LMFT.

1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?

I mostly work with couples though I do have individual clients as well. My typical client is a couple in their late 20-ies and 30-ies. Individuals range from 15 years old to 75 years old! In addition to couples work, I deal with trauma, depression, anxiety, existential issues and spirituality. I use a lot of somatic and mindfulness approaches.
And in addition to traditional therapy I facilitate monthly Systemic Family Constellations workshops.

2. Tell us about yourself. 

When I was in my 20-ies I became aware of how miserable I was. That set me on a life-long path of figuring out myself and my life. Eventually, I came to realize I learned so much that I have to pass this knowledge to others. That’s when I went back to school and got my Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling. And that’s what I’ve been doing for the last 15 years. I am constantly learning new and more effective ways to help my clients.

3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.

I am proud of a lot of my clients! I love it when they become more aware of their patterns and beliefs, their contribution to their relationship and the quality of their lives. And it makes me very happy and proud of them when they start “doing the work” and engage in their own healing. I had people stop using substances, progressing from constant fighting to peaceful living and healing trauma.

4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?

Paperwork! :-) Also, the fact that I can only see so many clients and then I have to say “no” to potential clients because I am fully booked. And it’s kinda hard not to have paid vacations.

5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\

The top three tips I would give anyone looking to start, run, and grow their private practice is to:


  1. Believe in yourself! You can do it! It’s one of the cheapest businesses you can start on your own in terms of initial financial investment.
  2. Don’t rent your own office from the beginning, sublet it from someone else.
  3. Learn the marketing and business side of things. It’s not as difficult and intimidating as it seems from the beginning.There are plenty of wonderful and FREE resources on the net!

6. Where can people find you?

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