Hello there! My name is Samantha Tallon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), currently providing telehealth counseling services to clients in California. I have experience in managing relational issues and challenging family dynamics while working with adults, teenagers, couples, and families. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
My approach
I believe that it is important for my approach to therapy to vary based on the needs and experiences of the individual. I primarily utilize Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These approaches to treatment allow me to join you in exploring your history, identifying patterns, recognizing strengths, and building coping skills and strategies to move forward into increased well-being.
My focus
While I've had experience working with teens, families, couples, and groups my primary focus is adults that are being impacted by challenging or painful current, and past life experiences. I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, healing during periods of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relational issues or challenging family dynamics.
My communication style
My goal as your therapist is to create an environment that allows you to feel connected and safe. I believe that true growth and progress happen when you feel heard, respected, and free to explore your story, without fear of judgment. I work to communicate in a calm and open manner, while also asking questions to deepen my understanding of your perspective so that I can offer encouragement and practical feedback throughout our work together.
My journey to mental healthcare
I believe that the experiences and circumstances that we are faced with throughout life play a part in our story, but do not define who we are. As a therapist, it is a privilege to have the opportunity to join others in their stories, and I am always humbled and excited to witness the moments of growth, confidence, and healing as we navigate through this process together.
My goals for you
Goals are an important part of treatment, as they allow both of us to see progress and areas of growth. You are the expert in your life, and I believe the most effective goal-setting occurs when we collaborate and develop a plan together to address what you would like to accomplish in our time.
My first session with you
I recognize that coming to therapy for the first time or starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming or stressful, so my priority is exploring your comfort level and giving opportunities for you to ask questions. During this session, I would also like to explore your reasons for choosing therapy, your recent experiences, and any goals you may have in mind. This allows me to get to know you better so that I can begin gaining an understanding of how I can best support you through this process.