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SAMANTHA DUNLAP, AMFT/APCC

Pronouns: she/her
Title: Associate Therapist
Email: samantha@tendriltherapy.com
Location: Virtual - California
& In-Person - San Diego, CA
Client Focus: Teens, Adults, & Older Adults
Areas of Focus: Grief and Bereavement, Women's Issues, Sexual Health, Fertility, Life Transitions
Modalities: Attachment, CBT, DBT, IFS, Narrative, Person-Centered, and
Solution Focused
GET TO KNOW SAMANTHA.
“Just because you carry it well, doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy.” - Unknown
Even the strongest individuals benefit from a safe space to set their burdens down from time to time. I aim to offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space to process, gain clarity, and find meaningful relief from the mental weight you may be carrying.

In the therapy space, I use a variety of ACT, attachment, Gottman, IFS, and Narrative therapy models, catered to your goals. I enjoy collaborating with clients to determine the treatments that provide effective results and I am prepared to adapt based on your input and clinical necessity. Session themes may frequently include exploring self-awareness, boundaries, values embodiment, communication skills, coping tools, and so much more.
Grief and bereavement is a particular branch of counseling that I hold near and dear to my heart. I have received specialized training in grief and bereavement therapy, which includes work within areas such as caregiving, depression, anxiety, and trauma. In my ongoing work, I have diversified my knowledge to cover several varieties of grief, including infertility, pets, relationships, health, and more.
When I am not in the therapy space, I enjoy connecting with my friends and family, reading fantasy novels, creating hand embroidery, running, and spending time with my beloved dog, Lucy.
Personally and professionally, I prioritize the nurturing of meaningful connections with others, fostering a healthy relationship with oneself, and living in alignment with one’s personal values.
Taking steps to invest in your mental health can refine and enrich these areas of reality. If you are ready to take the first step, I invite you to reach out and schedule an initial consultation.
licenses & certifications
California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist 151220
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California Board of Behavioral Sciences, Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor 18188
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Supervised by Robyn Buresh, LMFT 91826
education
Point Loma Nazarene University, Aug 2024
M.A. Clinical Counseling​​
University of Colorado, Boulder, Aug 2020
B.A. Environmental Studies
trainings
1. Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1, 2025 2. Cognitive Processing Therapy, May 2025 3. Adult Protective Services Workforce Innovations Reporting Certification 4. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network Psychological First Aid Certification 5. California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Certification
memberships & achievements
1. Guest Lecture on Grief and Bereveament, Bastyr University, July 2026 2. Grief and Bereavement Group, Co-Facilitator. The Elizabeth Hospice, 2024 3. Grief 101 Psychoeducation Course, Co-Presenter. The Elizabeth Hospice, 2024
blogs
find us
11590 W. Bernardo Ct.
Ste 230
San Diego, CA 92127
760.652.9680