In person
In TelehealthSamantha Merse, LAC, ATR-P
Therapist
Locations:
New Jersey
Insurances
About
Samantha is an Art Therapist who has worked with a range of different people, from substance use to depression to personality disorders and more. Samantha has experience working at an intensive outpatient and partial hospital program where she worked closely with individuals who were more high-risk. While there, she was able to develop her skills as a clinician, honing her skills using art therapy, DBT/CBT skills, coping skills, and more under a more person-centered approach. As an art therapist, Samantha encourages clients to utilize more creative ways to express themselves, especially for those who might find it harder to communicate their feelings using words.
Samantha also has worked closely with individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community and emphasizes the importance of giving those individuals a space to be heard.
When not working, Samantha enjoys creating art, watching anime, and playing video games. Samantha also loves watching movies, going to walk around the zoo or antique malls, or just spending time with her family.
Locations:
New Jersey
Credentials, Qualifications and Languages
-
Caldwell University, Masters in Mental Health Counseling with Art Therapy Specialization, 2022
-
Montclair State University, Bachelors of Fine Art with Studio Concentration, 2015
As a student, Samantha found a passion working with clients within the LGBTQ+ community. It became important to continue her education regarding the community, one that she was also a part of and constantly learning from, and use that knowledge to better engage with clients and fellow students. While getting her Bachelors in art, Samantha was introduced to the world of Art Therapy and from there knew that was her passion and found her calling.
Why Healthcare
When in college getting her bachelor's, Samantha felt lost in who she was and what she really wanted to do. After taking an Intro to Art Therapy course and being introduced to Therapy and Counseling, a spark ignited within her that was missing. From that moment, Samantha felt like she found herself and, since then, wanted to help others find themselves as well. Being able to help others in their times of need and giving them the support and tools to get to a better mental headspace is an honor that Samantha does not take for granted.
Similar Providers
In Person
Telehealth
Cassaundra Bracken, LSW
Therapist
Cassaundra is passionate about supporting people on their journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Cassaundra utilizes a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach.
In Person
Telehealth
In Person
Telehealth
Shani Muhammad, LCSW
Therapist
Shani Muhammad is a licensed clinical social worker offering behavioral health services to adults. Shani prefers a holistic approach to therapy.
In Person
Telehealth
In Person
Telehealth
Tricia L Colbert, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Intake & Assessment Therapist
Tricia Colbert is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years in the clinical setting. Her mission is to help individuals and their families become healthier in order to have a better quality of life.
In Person
Telehealth