Samantha Kennedy, LCP — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Samantha!

I build authentic relationships with those I serve, treating each person as the expert of their own story. We all desire to be truly seen, heard, and accepted for who we are. When this occurs within therapy, healing happens and you're better able to apply the skills you learn.

My focus

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders; IVF and infertility mental health; Major life change-related stress and adjustment difficulties; Communication difficulties; Substance use difficulties; Teens with ADHD or ASD; Difficult family dynamics and unmotivated teens; OCD and hoarding disorders; Anxiety; Depression

My approach

I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help you pursue your values despite difficult thoughts and feelings, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to shift how you interpret events, and Psychodynamic Therapy to recognize patterns and defenses. These approaches work together to create lasting change.

My communication style

Feeling better comes down to a good fit. I view myself as a mental fitness instructor, balancing your autonomy with the question, 'What if you can?' We may be a good fit if you're ready to dive into what's most concerning, like being supported and sharpened, are comfortable being pushed sometimes, and favor transparency.

My journey to mental healthcare

My joy is watching people foster meaningful, worthwhile lives, taking painful moments we all encounter and finding strength, purpose, and direction.

My goals for you

From the first session, it has been ongoing. I often use the analogy that while traveling together and seeing the sights might be enjoyable for a time, it can later be disorienting, something we all yearn for, if we do not know our destination or at least the direction we are heading.

Our first session

Our first session is interactive, collaborative, experiential, and thoughtful.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White
Spiritual

Expertise

Specialties

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

+ 11 more

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Attachment-based

Mindfulness-Based

Motivational Interviewing

+ 4 more

Focus populations

Aviation Professionals

Police/Fire/First Responders

Single Mother

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

United Medical Resources (UMR)
Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 32 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Forensic Studies, Fresno and a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Samantha Kennedy