Laura Samalya (she/her)

Sand tray therapy is an approach that uses small figurines and sometimes water to build scenes and stories that represent a person's inner world within a sand-filled tray. It can help one become more aware of current challenges or become aware of something unknown. I often offer it as an intervention to all my clients, whether a child adolescent or adult. It is an incredibly relaxing activity in itself, but it is amazing what insights can be discovered. It is a great compliment to talk therapy.

I very much value the Humanistic and Rogerian person-centered approach. I believe through unconditional positive regard; a person can build the confidence to accomplish their goals. While using a humanistic approach, I am merely a guide reflecting back patterns, observations, or simply what my client is saying to help them come to their own self-discovery. Another aspect of this theory is giving your authentic self as a therapist, and I believe this is essential to inspiring change.

As written above, I attended Lesley University for my master's degree in Expressive Arts Therapy. Expressive Arts includes all art forms from writing, visual art, performance, dance, drama, music, and play. I have experience and training in each of these modalities and often combine them to help a client process the intervention. My favorite modality is play and drama therapy. Expressive Therapies can be a great compliment to talk therapy, especially if a topic is too painful to talk about.

I have extensive experience working with children and adults with ADHD. Personally, I have been diagnosed with ADHD most of my life and so this is an issue I am very passionate about helping others with. I have found numerous techniques to help common symptoms of ADHD such as time blindness, forgetfulness, and rejection sensitive dysphoria. It is my belief that people with ADHD have many talents/gifts as they can see the world differently than others. I want to help you find those gifts!

As an in-home therapist as well as working at an acute care residential unit, I have often worked with families of foster children. The experience of being a foster child is such an incredibly difficult experience to go through. I have helped both children and parents reunite with each other and have also helped foster families transition towards adoption.

As an in-home therapist as well as working at an acute care residential unit, I have often worked with families of foster children. The experience of being a foster child is such an incredibly difficult experience to go through. I have helped both children and parents reunite with each other and have also helped foster families transition towards adoption. I am able to provide the needed support and empathy that such a grueling and challenging experience requires.

As an in-home therapist as well as working at an acute care residential unit, I have often worked with families of foster children. The experience of being a foster child is such an incredibly difficult experience to go through. I have helped both children and parents reunite with each other and have also helped foster families transition towards adoption. I am able to provide the needed support and empathy that such a grueling and challenging experience requires.

As an in-home therapist as well as working at an acute care residential unit, I have often worked with families of foster children. Being a foster child is such an incredibly difficult experience to go through. I have helped both children and parents reunite with each other and have also helped foster families transition towards adoption. I am able to provide the needed support and empathy that such a grueling and challenging experience requires.

As a parent myself, I am able to recognize what a challenge it is! I hope to help those who are struggling with being a parent as it requires so much support. I am able to relate and validate the experience of parenthood, but I can also provide solutions to behavior management. I have developed numerous behavior plans in my work with families. I can help you find more effective parenting techniques as well as find ways to cope with the common struggles of parenthood

I have extensive experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, including children and adults on the autism spectrum. My expertise is both professional and personal. I strive to create a safe and understanding environment where clients can explore their strengths, navigate challenges and embrace their authentic selves. I focus on helping individuals and families address sensory sensitivities, social communication and emotional regulation while celebrating your unique perspectives and talents.