
Accepting New Clients
In-Person and Telehealth
Dr. Charmaine Samuda, DSW, LCSW
Owner and Lead Therapist
I am the founder of Best Practice Psychotherapy and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Connecticut.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, I have worked in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and intensive outpatient programs. This diverse background enables me to support clients with warmth and depth, especially when they are navigating emotional stress, life changes, or complex personal and family challenges.
Throughout my career, I have assisted clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, family stress, relationship concerns, identity development, and major life transitions. I understand that many individuals seek therapy after carrying their burdens alone for a long time. My goal is to help clients feel less isolated while fostering greater clarity, emotional stability, and practical tools for moving forward.
In addition to my work as a therapist, I am a part-time faculty member in the Department of Social Work at Southern Connecticut State University, where I teach clinical practice. I have also served as a co-instructor and guest lecturer on topics such as cultural humility, mandated reporting, and virtual therapy engagement.
As the owner of Best Practice Psychotherapy, I am deeply committed to thoughtful client matching, ethical care, and creating a clinical environment where clients and clinicians can engage in meaningful work together.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy interior design, exploring different cultures, and creating spaces that are calm, intentional, and welcoming.
Focus Areas
Anxiety, depression, emotional stress, and life transitions.
Approach
My style is thoughtful, structured, and individualized. Drawing from evidence-based approaches to help clients better understand their experiences, strengthen coping skills, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
Populations Served
Children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families
Education
Doctor of Social Work
Focus Area: University Teaching
Southern CT State University, New Haven, CT
Master of Science in Social Work
Focus Area: Clinical Practice with a Concentration in Family, Youth, and Children Services
Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
Southern CT State University, New Haven, CT
Teaching Experience
Part-Time Faculty, Southern Connecticut State University, Department of Social Work
Teaches clinical practice with individuals and groups; previously served as a co-instructor and guest lecturer.
Licensure
License in Clinical Social Work (CT DPH)
License No. 007334
Clinical Training
Extensive Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Extensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Depression and Anxiety Psychotherapy Interventions
Motivational Interviewing | Crisis Intervention | CPR
Psychotherapy with Individuals | Family Therapy | Group Therapy
Case Management
Adult ADHD Specialist Certificate (pending)
Location
In person: Woodbridge, CT
Telehealth: Anywhere in Connecticut
