Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Villalobos
Samantha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Like many therapists, I got into mental health because of my own struggles. I have what used to be known as “double depression” which is essentially major depression and persistent depressive disorder.
Growing up, I had no access to mental health support and I wanted to become the type of person that I needed when I was in the thick of my depression as a young girl.
Now, I’m able to use my own personal journey to empathize with and help guide my clients to a place of mental and emotional well-being.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely been a bumpy road, both personally and professionally. Personally, I had to do my own “work” (therapist jargon for dealing with your issues). I’ve gone through several losses and life changes that have deepened my ability to understand and empathize with a variety of experiences.
Professionally, I’ve paid my dues. I started working in a methadone clinic right out of my undergrad program. I was tossed into the water of substance abuse treatment and had to learn how to swim on the spot. I transitioned into community mental health, which was disheartening because of the emphasis on quantity of services over quality. I worked with children and families that dealt with extreme behavioral issues and trauma. Despite being a “good” case manager there, I was fired for not meeting my “billable hours” after 5 years. Then I went into a special education setting where I provided therapy for children labeled as Emotionally Disturbed. The pay was less than great and between dealing with school and county politics and trying to provide therapy to kids who were over therapized (desensitized to therapy), it was discouraging. And extremely stressful.
It’s only now, working in private practice, with children, adults, couples and families that I feel I’ve arrived at the point in my career that I’ve always wanted to be in.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. As I said before, I currently work in private practice, under the management group called Soultenders. What sets me apart is that I work with all ages, children, adults, couples and families. Most therapists choose one or two populations that they are most comfortable with. I enjoy the variety and find that it keeps my skills from falling into a rut.
I’m known for my understanding of and support of the LGBTQ community, as well as being trauma informed and trained. Because of my eclectic experience and practice, I’m quite knowledgeable in treating and understanding depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and substance abuse. I also have a soft spot and special understanding of people with high functioning autism and their struggles.
What’s next?
I’m happy with staying where I’m at for now. I’m grateful for private practice and the freedom it provides for me to practice the way I see fit. But I would be interested in teaching at the collegiate level, if possible, in the future. I believe I have some valuable experience and knowledge that I could pass on to future therapists.
Pricing:
- I take most most medical insurance plans
- Cash pay is $130 per session
Contact Info:
