My name is Dr. Samantha Welsh (she/her), and I hold a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) and I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach in order to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Additionally, I utilize an individualized approach in order to ensure that each client’s treatment is tailored to their needs and is optimal for their success. I believe that YOU are always the expert when it comes to knowing yourself. I am here with skills, support, and techniques to help you along your therapeutic journey in life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During your first session with me, we will review your initial paperwork and complete an assessment as to why you are seeking therapy. Once complete, I will talk to you about what your expectations are for sessions, the best way you learn (written, visual, oral, etc.), your previous experiences with therapy (what you liked, what you didn’t like, etc.), the goals that you would like to work on, and what current coping skills or hobbies you utilize in order to manage stressors. I will also ask about your interests and anything that you think that I should know in order to better get to know you. Lastly, I will briefly explain my therapy style and give you a chance to ask any questions and note any concerns that you may have regarding therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I feel that I try my best to create a safe and judgement free space for clients. I always tells clients that I am not easily offended and encourage clients to let me know if they want to change things about the way the sessions are going, or if they feel like the therapeutic alliance is not a good fit for them. I think self-advocacy is extremely important, and I want my clients to practice utilizing their self-advocacy skills by voicing their needs and concerns to me during their therapy sessions. I also try to be flexible during sessions, meaning that I will usually have a plan for the session, but if the client would like to change the focus of the session, I try my best to accommodate the client’s needs, since it is the client’s session.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and participate in my town’s yearly pride celebration. I have worked with clients who identify as transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual. Additionally, I have years of experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, panic, and adjustment related disorders. I have also provided academic and vocational counseling to clients.