Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Potthoff LMFT, Claire Summers LCSW, and Klara Knypinski LCSW
Hi Samantha, Claire, & Klara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As therapists, we’ve always believed that real healing happens in relationships grounded in trust and honesty—not just for our clients, but for clinicians too. In many of our previous roles, we felt unsupported and disconnected from the kind of care we wanted to provide. We weren’t being recognized, and the environments didn’t foster the kind of collaborative work we value. We started our practice because we wanted to show up for clients in a way that felt real—where we could be direct, attuned, and fully present. That meant creating a work culture that supported us as therapists so we could support others from a place of authenticity and strength.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like many therapists, we left grad school equipped to support others emotionally—but with little guidance on how to actually build or run a sustainable practice. Over time, through roles in treatment centers, group practices, and community mental health, we experienced what didn’t work—lack of transparency, burnout, and a one-size-fits-all approach to care. We used those lessons to build something different: a practice rooted in clarity, collaboration, and individualized care. We created the kind of experience we’d want as clients—one where therapists are responsive, invested, and willing to have honest conversations that lead to meaningful change.
We’ve been impressed with Therapy Collective of California, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our work is guided by core values that prioritize honesty, collaboration, and deep respect for the individual. We create a space where clients feel safe to be seen and challenged—with therapists who are fully present, transparent, and attuned. We believe therapy should feel like a working relationship: you bring your experiences and goals, we bring our training and perspective, and together we figure out what works. Every session is grounded in intention, realness, and the belief that change happens when you feel truly supported in being yourself.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
We believe therapy should feel like a collaborative process—where you’re not just being listened to, but truly met. Our style is warm and supportive, but also direct and engaged. We’re here to build real relationships with our clients, grounded in trust, mutual respect, and clarity. Everything we do—from the modalities we use to the pace of our work—is personalized. In addition to traditional talk therapy, we also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as a powerful tool for clients seeking deeper access to emotional processing and healing. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter care. We show up consistently, ask thoughtful questions, and help clients move forward with insight, agency, and real tools for change.
Pricing:
- Sessions Range $150-300 depending on therapist and specialty
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.therapycollectiveca.com
- Instagram: @therapycollectiveca
