Samantha Shepherd (she/her)

MSW, LICSW
Accepting Clients

The stories we tell ourselves are powerful, they are ongoing and shape how we see ourselves and the world. I look forward to hearing yours!

Clinical Social Worker in Golden Valley, MN

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples

About My Clients

I appreciate working with a variety of folks! I especially enjoy young adults (early 20's-30's), and older adults (mid 60's and up). I love to help folks find their way in the world, cope with life changes, and connect with their own wisdom. My clients are often creatives, grievers, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and meaning makers.

My Background and Approach

I provide both individual and relational work, utilizing an eclectic approach that draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Gottman Method for couples. My clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, and trauma. I received my Master’s of Social Work from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Prior to that, I received my Bachelor of Music in Piano Pedagogy from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. My practice is part of the Counseling department at Jewish Family and Children's Service of Mpls. We see clients of all backgrounds and religious affiliation. We also offer both in person and telehealth options. Our intake and referral team can be reached at 952-546-0616.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

While pain is inevitable, I believe that suffering is not. My hope as a therapist is to create a warm and open space for folks to show up as they are and find new ways to cope. I enjoy supporting my clients in deconstructing unhelpful narratives while creating a life aligned with their values. Along with this, I support integrating mindfulness and mind-body practices into session and have completed a graduate certificate in holistic health studies through St. Catherine’s University. I believe that we are all meant for connection and yet often we have experiences that rewire us for protection. I hope to provide space for folks to build trust again, both with others and themselves while reconnecting with their own inner "magic". In the words of Yung Pueblo, "do the earth a favor, don't hide your magic".

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Cigna
  • Optum
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
  • United Healthcare
  • Healthpartners
  • UCare
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 5 years of practice

Info

(952) 546-0616 Email Samantha
Jewish Family and Children's Services
5905 Golden Valley Rd
Golden Valley, MN 55422

Reach out to Samantha