Resident in Counseling
Hi, my name is Samreen. I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Resident providing counseling for ages 12 and up. I earned my M.S. in clinical mental health counseling from New England College, and I hold a B.S. in psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University.
I know therapy can feel intimidating or overwhelming, and reaching out for support is such a significant and brave step. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the principle that we cannot make positive changes in our lives until we feel safe in our own bodies. I have a deep respect for the nervous system and the ways our bodies carry our story. I work collaboratively with clients to explore patterns, navigate life transitions, manage anxiety or overthinking, and gently address experiences that may feel stuck or unresolved.
I integrate evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and especially somatic techniques, always adapting my work to each person’s goals and comfort level.
My background in crisis-based, community, and multicultural settings has given me the privilege of working with diverse individuals and families, allowing me to understand how interconnected different parts of our identities can be. Many people move through life without ever pausing to breathe, tune inward, or feel safe in their own bodies. From the very first session, I strive to create a space where clients feel safe and empowered to grow at their own pace.
As a Resident in Counseling, Samreen is involved in Virginia’s state licensure process to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She works under the supervision of Carolyn Alvarado, LPC, at Healthy Minds Therapy. For any questions or concerns related to Samreen’s work, Carolyn can be reached at calvarado@healthyminds-therapy.