Gina M. Taffi, Ph.D., Psy.D., MACC
858-699-8011
Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Relational Psychoanalyst
FAQs
How do I know if we are a good fit?

Every relationship is unique since the two participants have different backgrounds, experiences and perceptions. We discover together if we are "a fit" by way of a phone conversation and then an initial appointment.
What happens in our first session?

We meet and I develop a better sense of you, and you do the same with me. You tell me your story and I ask questions. Typically, after the end of our first session, I will know more fully if I believe I can be of help to you; this is also your opportunity to assess if you think I'm the right person to work with you.

How long does it take?

I provide both short and longer-term counseling tailored to fit your specific needs. For some people, one or two appointments are helpful. For others, meeting consistently for a longer duration is more useful.
"We do not heal in isolation, but in relationship to another. I can provide support to bear what might feel unbearable. It’s important to have a calming influence and steady presence to facilitate healing."

Gina M. Taffi, Ph.D., Psy.D., MACC
What is unique about you, when it comes to your practice?

I'm willing to be present with suffering. There are things in life we must endure, but hopefully we find that we can survive them while discovering a path forward to something beyond our current circumstances.

I also don't presume to know what you're going through because each person has his or her own unique perceptual filter. This is where my training as a Psychoanalyst is helpful.


Will what I share be kept private?

All of your conversations with me are completely confidential (except where mandated otherwise by law, as in the case of child abuse and/or elder abuse or imminent danger to yourself or others).

What is a Psychologist?

A Psychologist is a licensed professional who has completed a graduate program in Psychology that includes clinical training and internships, and who provides care for individuals with mental and emotional problems. Psychologists typically have a doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and have undergone postdoctoral training; however, they are not physicians and cannot prescribe medication. Psychologists are trained in a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques rather than in one particular school or theory. I draw on the disciplines of psychology with a Christian worldview orientation.

What is the added benefit of you being a Psychoanalyst?

As a Psychoanalyst educated in contemporary theory and practice, I have been trained to listen on multiple levels; to simultaneously listen while picking up on family of origin issues and how they might be manifesting in your life today. Therefore, I bring an extra element to the practice of psychology since my approach facilitates an added depth to the work in which we are endeavored together.
Will my insurance company pay for counseling and what are your fees?

My fees are commensurate with other psychologists with a similar level of training and education. For a percentage of individuals who cannot afford my standard rate, I do offer a reduced fee.

Many insurance plans reimburse for counseling sessions. Some of my patients elect not to use their insurance for privacy reasons since a third party is involved and confidentiality is compromised by default. Furthermore, insurance companies require a mental health diagnosis for reimbursement.

If you have a health plan that is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), I will provide billing information that will allow you to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider should you choose to do so.


What is the difference between a patient versus a client?

The origin of the word “patient” means “one who suffers” whereas “client” means “one who pays,” or depends. In my experience, those who seek psychotherapeutic assistance are those hoping to experience relief from emotional distress and holistic change. Furthermore, I do not want to a foster dependence and do not view a therapeutic relationship as a mere financial transaction. Therefore, the use of the descriptor, “patient” seems to connote respect for a person’s humanity and dignity.

How do I begin?

Contact me online for an appointment or by phone at 858-699-8011.
Visit me on Instagram       Bookmark and Share
Copyright © Gina M Taffi, 2023. All Rights Reserved.
Gina M. Taffi, Ph.D., Psy.D., MACC
Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Relational Psychoanalyst
FAQs
How do I know if we are a good fit?

Every relationship is unique since the two participants have different backgrounds, experiences and perceptions. We discover together if we are "a fit" by way of a phone conversation and then an initial appointment.
What happens in our first session?

We meet and I develop a better sense of you, and you do the same with me. You tell me your story and I ask questions. Typically, after the end of our first session, I will know more fully if I believe I can be of help to you; this is also your opportunity to assess if you think I'm the right person to work with you.
How long does it take?

I provide both short and longer-term counseling tailored to fit your specific needs. For some people, one or two appointments are helpful. For others, meeting consistently for a longer duration is more useful.
What is unique about you, when it comes to your practice?

I'm willing to be present with suffering. There are things in life we must endure, but hopefully we find that we can survive them while discovering a path forward to something beyond our current circumstances.

I also don't presume to know what you're going through because each person has his or her own unique perceptual filter. This is where my training as a Psychoanalyst is helpful.
Will what I share be kept private?

All of your conversations with me are completely confidential (except where mandated otherwise by law, as in the case of child abuse and/or elder abuse or imminent danger to yourself or others).
What is a Psychologist?

A Psychologist is a licensed professional who has completed a graduate program in Psychology that includes clinical training and internships, and who provides care for individuals with mental and emotional problems. Psychologists typically have a doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and have undergone postdoctoral training; however, they are not physicians and cannot prescribe medication. Psychologists are trained in a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques rather than in one particular school or theory. I draw on the disciplines of psychology with a Christian worldview orientation.
What is the added benefit of you being a Psychoanalyst?

As a Psychoanalyst educated in contemporary theory and practice, I have been trained to listen on multiple levels; to simultaneously listen while picking up on family of origin issues and how they might be manifesting in your life today. Therefore, I bring an extra element to the practice of psychology since my approach facilitates an added depth to the work in which we are endeavored together.
Will my insurance company pay for counseling and what are your fees?

My fees are commensurate with other psychologists with a similar level of training and education. For a percentage of individuals who cannot afford my standard rate, I do offer a reduced fee.

Many insurance plans reimburse for counseling sessions. Some of my patients elect not to use their insurance for privacy reasons since a third party is involved and confidentiality is compromised by default. Furthermore, insurance companies require a mental health diagnosis for reimbursement.

If you have a health plan that is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), I will provide billing information that will allow you to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider should you choose to do so.
What is the difference between a patient versus a client?

The origin of the word “patient” means “one who suffers” whereas “client” means “one who pays,” or depends. In my experience, those who seek psychotherapeutic assistance are those hoping to experience relief from emotional distress and holistic change. Furthermore, I do not want to a foster dependence and do not view a therapeutic relationship as a mere financial transaction. Therefore, the use of the descriptor, “patient” seems to connote respect for a person’s humanity and dignity.
How do I begin?

Contact me online for an appointment or by phone at 858-699-8011.
"We do not heal in isolation, but in relationship to another. I can provide support to bear what might feel unbearable. It’s important to have a calming influence and steady presence to facilitate healing."

Gina M. Taffi, Ph.D., Psy.D., MACC
Visit me on Instagram

Bookmark and Share