Samantha Waldman, LMHC · New York
Asian American Therapist in NYC
Culturally-attuned therapy for biracial, multiracial, and adoptee identity, trauma, and the relationship patterns that shape us. In-person in Midtown or virtual across New York.
Welcome
A Space Created Just for You
I'm Samantha, an Asian American therapist in NYC. If you're feeling lost, stuck, or off-course, I'm glad you reached me. Here, your identity - your culture, your family, being biracial or adopted - belongs in the room, not on the sidelines. We start where you are, name what's already working, and make room for humor and joy alongside the harder things.
Who I work with
Therapy for Asian American, Biracial & Multiracial Clients
Asian American and second-generation clients navigating family expectations and belonging
Biracial and multiracial folks who don't fit neatly into one box
Transracial and international adoptees exploring identity and origins
Anyone tired of over-explaining their culture to a therapist
Focus areas
What We Work On
- Identity & cultural belonging - the through-line of my work
- Trauma & complex PTSD - single-event and cumulative
- Codependency, relationships & dating patterns - my top specialty
- Life transitions & self-esteem - reconnecting with who you are
- Anxiety - quieting the noise so you can breathe
My approach
A Creative, Whole-Person Approach
I draw on EMDR, sandplay therapy, and DBT, and I bring a creative, expressive lens - art, imagery, play - into the room. The work is warm and collaborative, built on your strengths, and never one-size-fits-all.
Why it matters
Why a Culturally-Attuned Therapist Helps
When your therapist gets the cultural nuance, you spend less time translating and more time healing. That shared understanding - around family duty, biculturalism, or being adopted - is often where the real work can finally begin.
"I welcome clients of all genders, races, countries of origin, sexual orientations, religions, abilities, and body sizes."
Sessions & fees
In-Person in Midtown or Virtual Across NY
- Office at 286 5th Ave (NoMad), Midtown Manhattan - in-person Mon-Tue
- Virtual sessions the rest of the week, for anyone in New York
- Individual $225 · Couples $250 · Free 15-min phone consult
- Out-of-network; I provide superbills for possible reimbursement
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you only work with Asian American clients?
No. Identity is central to my work, but I welcome anyone who wants a culturally-attuned, creative space to heal.
What is sandplay therapy?
A gentle, hands-on way to explore what's hard to put into words, using a tray of sand and small figures.
Can you be a supplemental therapist if I already have one?
Yes. I offer short-term, adjunct EMDR (roughly 3-12 months) for clients who keep another therapist as their main support.
Do you take insurance?
I'm out-of-network, and I provide superbills you can submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes, for anyone located in New York. In-person is available Mon-Tue in Midtown.
Reaching Out Is the Hardest Step
The most difficult step in the healing process is often the very first one. Book a free 15-minute consult and let's see if we're a fit.
