Samantha Parsons

Growing up in apartheid South Africa brought me face to face with how social discourses and policies impact people. Raised in a time of volatility and violence, I not only experienced the power of racism, language, and colonialism over native peoples, but I also observed the power of movement and the body (the toyi-toyi) as a potent political tool in the fight against apartheid.

My passion for social change and activism was further fostered in feminist and gender studies where it became clear how patriarchy and oppression continue to be fostered and enforced through language and the body. This led me to integrate both somatic movement therapy and cognitive psychotherapy to my approach which offers my clients a unique integrative approach. I hold a Master Degree in Women and Gender Studes from SUNY Empire State College, and a Master Degree in Clinical Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University. I am a registered Somatic Movement Therapist and am a certified Laban Movement Analyst

I love integrating different modalities in unique ways and plan to continue my trainings in Internal Family Systems and EMDR. My passions for somatic work continues through research and trainings in somatic psychotherapy and trauma work. I'm also an avid researcher and like to stay current on relevant topics that impact my work and my client's lives.

Research indicates that success of therapy depends on the therapeutic relationship between client and clinician. Therefore, intake is paced over the course of 3 sessions to make it less overwhelming and an opportunity to assess if we're a good fit. At the end of the 3rd session we assess our fit and either move forward together or work to find you a better fit. In term's of progress, every client's process and progress is unique. I take a very organic, integrative, playful approach. I utilize all tools at my disposal to help align my approach with your progress and goals. I love working with women, especially women going through life changes, divorce, menopause, questioning their roles, or who might be feeling stuck in their lives.