Today we’d like to introduce you to Samira Dewidar.
Hi Samira, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist specializing in teens and adults who on the surface have it “all together” but struggle with self-doubt, worry, and not feeling “good enough.” My practice is dedicated to helping clients heal from childhood trauma by providing a safe space to process their experiences, supporting them in developing self-compassion and confidence, and empowering them to see their strengths and resilience. I utilize a combination of Attachment-Focused EMDR, an evidence-based trauma treatment for childhood trauma, and client-centered talk therapy. I encourage a holistic approach to healing so I partner with trauma-informed acupuncturists, nutritionists, doctors, and yoga instructors since trauma impacts not only our emotions but our bodies as well.
I never dreamed of being a business owner or a therapist. I was originally drawn to public education work and considered being a teacher as well as an advocate for public education reform. I ultimately decided I wanted to work 1:1 with young people in schools as a school social worker which I did for many years both in Los Angeles and New York City public schools. My path to being a trauma therapist feels unexpected but also completely right. As a 1st generation kid growing up in NYC, I faced a lot of challenges growing up and it was often my teachers who motivated and encouraged me. I always felt grateful for those adults in my life, and I always knew I wanted to give back in a similar way. Social work has allowed me to do deeply meaningful work.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I moved to Los Angeles in January 2020 from my hometown, New York City, and was very excited. Then the pandemic hit two months later, and the entire world shifted. My new job became virtual overnight, and I was quarantining in a new city I wasn’t familiar with. It felt very hard to be so far away from loved ones during such a scary time and to not know when I would see them again. Both personally and professionally it felt like the pandemic set me back about two years in terms of transitioning to Los Angeles. Like many therapists, I struggled during the pandemic with all the changes while trying to support clients who were experiencing the same thing.
Starting a private practice as a therapist is always tough because, unlike other businesses, potential clients don’t know you exist since you don’t have a storefront the way a restaurant or pilates studio does. It’s definitely by word of mouth from other therapists and your local network. Being in a new city where I didn’t have many local colleagues or connections, starting my practice felt especially hard because of the pandemic. I have really worked hard to put myself out there, professionally and personally, in order to build my presence and business. It would have been much easier to have stayed in New York and opened up shop there. I was definitely thrown a curveball and wouldn’t have chosen this way but I learned so much about myself. It was a tough but necessary reminder of my own resilience and strength which I often help my clients see but sometimes have a hard time noticing in myself. I’m really proud of the business I have built and the wonderful people I have met here in Los Angeles who have embraced me.
As you know, we’re big fans of Therapy With Samira. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I offer individual psychotherapy in person in Silver Lake, Los Angeles for teens and adults. I specialize in providing attachment-focused EMDR, which is an approach for healing the impact of childhood trauma. Most of my clients identify as high achievers who struggle with self-doubt and anxiety. I offer weekly sessions and intensives for clients interested in diving deep in the work.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I try to balance activities that spark joy, curiosity, and playfulness with activities that help me slow down and relax. I regularly check in to see what I am needing more of, sometimes it’s something fun that shakes up my routine, and other times it’s something relaxing.
It’s also about savoring the little things. Today, that was enjoying a good chocolate chip cookie in between sessions from my favorite bakery.
Some of my favorite things are spending time with my dog, traveling to new places, enjoying good food, connecting with people I love, moving my body (running and dancing usually), and being cozy at home with a good tv show or book.
Pricing:
- $200 50-minute sessions
Contact Info:
- Website: www.therapywithsamira.com
