Therapy care in Oakland and online across California
Serving Black, BIPOC, pregnant and postpartum women, and new parents.
You don’t have to carry it alone.
If you’ve been feeling stretched thin by the demands of parenting, the changes of pregnancy or postpartum, or just the weight of everything, you’re not alone. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, isolated, or like you’re holding the weight of the world on your shoulders.
Meet Samantha
My journey into therapy began with the desire to help others find strength through life’s hardest challenges. I recognized the stigma and lack of accessibility with the Black community and I wanted to contribute to making a difference. I believe that everyone has the potential for positive growth and change. Seeing my clients gain confidence or find peace makes my work incredibly rewarding. I have experience serving children and families within the child welfare system in the Bay Area for over 5 years. I earned my Master's in Social Work at San Francisco State University and Bachelors in Science from Cal State East Bay in Sociology. I became a fully licensed Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2025.
“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” - Maya Angelou
I specialize in working with
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Pregnancy and Postpartum
Navigating new parenthood can feel overwhelming. Therapy offers space to process the changes, release guilt, and build tools to feel more grounded and supported.
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Anxiety and Depression
Whether it shows up as constant worry or emotional exhaustion, we’ll work together to understand what’s underneath and find ways to bring more calm into your daily life.
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Black & BIPOC Support
Holding space for the unique experiences of Black and BIPOC women — including family pressures, identity, and the weight of generational trauma.
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Relationship Conflict
Whether it's with a partner, family member, or friend — we’ll explore patterns, communication, and boundaries to help you feel more clear and connected.
My hope is for you to feel more confident, supported, and steady with healthier coping skills, clearer communication, and stronger relationships.
My approach is warm, empowering, and direct. I listen deeply and meet you where you are with care, curiosity, and no judgment. I use a strengths-based, client-centered lens, which means I focus on your unique experiences and inner resilience rather than trying to “fix” you.
We'll work together to identify what’s working, what’s not, and where you'd like to grow. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps you notice and shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to anxiety, stress, or low self-esteem. We’ll build practical coping tools to help you feel more in control and aligned with the life you want.
If you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you at your pace, in your way.
What therapy looks like with me
How I can help you
Individual Therapy
A space to explore your personal challenges and strengths, where we work together to navigate life’s transitions, heal from past wounds, and build a stronger sense of self.
Couples Therapy
Support for partners seeking a deeper understanding, clearer communication, and renewed connection, guiding you both toward healing and growth within your relationship.
Family Therapy
A collaborative space for families to address conflict, strengthen bonds, and create healthier patterns that nurture everyone’s well-being and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s normal to have questions before getting started.
Here are answers to some of the most common ones I’m asked. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help.
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1. Initial conversation
I offer a free 15-minute consultation to start. This is a chance for you to share what’s been weighing on you and ask any questions about therapy, so you can see if this feels like a good fit.2. First session
The first session will be an intake where we gather important information about your background and the challenges you’re facing. This helps me understand how best to support you and begin setting goals for your therapy.3. Ongoing sessions
After that, we’ll proceed with weekly sessions, meeting regularly until you feel your therapeutic goals have been met. Throughout this time, I’ll support you as you work through what’s coming up and build the skills you need to thrive. -
Therapy services are individualized for each client according to their specific needs and goals. Our first session will be an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We’ll discuss your background and what brings you to therapy. Together, we establish agreements to ensure that your therapeutic environment feels safe, healing, and mutually respectful. It is normal to feel nervous or anxious about your first appointment. No need to worry, I’m here to guide you through each step of the process.
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Individual therapy sessions are $180.
Couples or family sessions are $250.I offer sliding scale spots for those experiencing financial hardship. Please feel free to reach out to see what’s available.
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Yes. I’m in network with:
Anthem Blue Cross California
Blue Shield of CA
Magellan
Quest Behavioral Health
Aetna
Carelon Behavioral Health
Cigna
Kaiser Northern CA
Kaiser Southern CA
Plus others like Allegiance, Allied, Health Net, Meritain, and more.If you’re unsure whether your plan is covered, I’m happy to check with you.
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Yes. If you're not using insurance, you're entitled to a Good Faith Estimate under the No Surprises Act. This outlines the expected cost of services, so there are no surprises. I’ll provide one upon request or before we begin therapy.
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Please give at least 24 hours’ notice for any changes. Late cancellations or missed sessions will be charged a $50 fee.
I’m here to support you
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to explore how we might work together, I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. It’s a simple way to see if this feels like the right fit for you.