Laura Samalya (she/her)

LPC
Accepting Clients

Congrats on taking this first step towards finding a therapist! I hope to make the experience one that is warm playful fun and insightful.

Licensed Professional Counselor in Norfolk, VA

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Family
  • Child
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

I am here to work with you whether you are struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Moods, parenting, co-parenting, family issues, career issues, school or relationship issues. I am here to work with you if you have undergone trauma or are going through something unique to being a woman. I am an LGBTQ alley and am here for you if you are struggling with your orientation or gender identity. I love working with children of ALL ages, and adults too! Whatever the issue, I am here for it

My Background and Approach

I have my Bachelor's from James Madison University with a major in Psychology & Theatre/Dance and a minor in Communication Sciences & Disorders. I have my Master's from Lesley University and studied Expressive Therapies with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling. My past experiences include working in an acute residential unit for children and adolescents, intensive in-home therapy, as a military life and family counselor, and as a clinical director of a mental health agency. I often use creative interventions during my sessions in order to approach therapy with not just talking but also using art drama or play. I have training in play therapy and I have a sand tray that I use with both children and adults. I have training in trauma for children and adolescents. I have training in all creative therapies, specializing in play and drama therapies. I also have background working with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and Intellectual Disabilities.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I grew up in Virginia Beach with a brother who is diagnosed with High-Functioning Autism. Seeing my parents find as many resources as they could for him inspired me to also help others. Looking back I see how it was challenging at times being the older sister of someone with a disability, and I hope to help other siblings as well. Not to say I have not experienced my own struggles. I am diagnosed with ADHD myself and I currently am a mother of 3 boys ages 7, 4 and 2! The everyday struggles that come with ADHD and Motherhood are very real for me and I am passionate about helping others in similar situations. Often, us Neurodivergents go through life being told what we cannot do, but I want to help you find what you can do as I know it is possible to achieve whatever it is you desire out of life. All are welcome in my virtual and physical office. I am a fierce ally of the LGBTQ community and a strong supporter of the Black Lives Matters movement.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Oscar
  • Anthem
  • Oxford Health Plan
  • United Healthcare
  • Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield
  • Evernorth
I have experience with the following
  • Christianity

At A Glance

  • Experience: 12 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $45 - 120/session

Info

7574061716 Email Laura
9321 Sloane ST
Norfolk, VA 23503

Reach out to Laura