LCSW, 5 years of experience
New to Grow
Hi, I’m Samantha Czaja, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy for children, teens, and adults ages 5 and up. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University and have been practicing since 2019. I have worked in diverse settings including schools, community clinics, an Extended Day Treatment (EDT) program, outpatient care, and crisis work. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals and families from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. My trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is a collaborative space where your voice guides the journey. I specialize in helping clients manage ADHD, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, substance use, and family-related challenges. Whether you are navigating difficult family dynamics, processing loss, or seeking support for yourself or your child, I tailor our work to your unique strengths and goals. My approach combines warmth, honesty, and practicality. I use evidence-based methods including solution-focused therapy, strengths-based work, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. Through skill-building in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness, we work together to develop tools that promote resilience and lasting change. Having supported families extensively, I understand how relationships impact well-being and strive to create a safe and respectful environment for healing and growth. Reaching out for support is a brave step. I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, insight, and encouragement.
In your first session, we’ll start by getting to know each other and understanding what brought you to therapy. I’ll ask about your goals, challenges, and any background information that’s important to you. This session is a safe space for you to share at your own pace, and I’ll explain how I work so we can decide together how to best move forward. My goal is to create a comfortable, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and supported from the very beginning.
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is the combination of evidence-based methods with a practical, strengths-focused style that emphasizes collaboration and real-life application. I tailor interventions to each client’s unique needs, helping them develop skills they can use daily to manage emotions, improve relationships, and overcome challenges. Clients often appreciate the balance of validation and active skill-building, which supports lasting, meaningful change.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are motivated to make meaningful changes in their lives, whether they are navigating life transitions, coping with stress, managing difficult emotions, or healing from grief and trauma. I work well with individuals who value practical tools, open collaboration, and a safe, supportive space to explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach is especially helpful for those seeking to improve relationships, build coping skills, increase self-awareness, and create lasting, positive change.
I have extensive experience using CBT in both individual and group settings to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, challenge cognitive distortions, and build healthier coping skills. I integrate CBT with practical, real-life tools such as mindfulness, conflict resolution, and stress tolerance so clients can apply skills outside of sessions. My approach is active and collaborative, tailoring interventions to each client’s unique needs and goals.
I have experience providing trauma-informed care by creating a safe, supportive environment that prioritizes trust, choice, and empowerment. I recognize the impact trauma can have on thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and adapt interventions to each client’s needs and readiness. My approach integrates safety, collaboration, and skill-building to promote healing and resilience.
I have experience facilitating family therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and address patterns that contribute to conflict or stress. I use a collaborative approach, helping family members identify shared goals, practice active listening, and develop problem-solving strategies. Sessions focus on creating a safe space where each voice is heard and constructive change can take place.
I have experience providing grief therapy to support clients through the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral challenges of loss. My approach integrates validation, psychoeducation, and coping strategies to help clients process their grief at their own pace. I focus on creating a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore their feelings, honor their loss, and find ways to move forward while maintaining a continued bond with their loved one.
I have experience using solution-focused approaches to help clients identify strengths, clarify goals, and develop practical steps toward desired outcomes. I focus on what is working, encourage small, achievable changes, and use targeted questions to help clients envision and move toward their preferred future. This approach fosters hope, motivation, and a sense of empowerment in the therapeutic process.