About Dr. Calvillo
I’m Dr. Samantha Calvillo, a Latina Doctor of Social Work and licensed psychotherapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and second-generation Latino mental health. I provide culturally grounded, evidence-based care that honors the identities, stories, and lived experiences of each client I serve. My work is rooted in the belief that healing happens when we feel safe, understood, and seen not just as individuals, but within the cultural worlds that shaped us.
I’m a second-generation Latina of Mexican descent, and was born and raised in rural Central California, where I lived until the age of 22. I appreciated all that my hometown had to offer, but longed to live near the ocean for as long as I can remember, so that’s where I went! I currently live in a lovely beach-town community within Los Angeles with my partner and our two Siamese rescue cats, Jupiter and Skye. You are sure to meet one of the kitties if you meet with me virtually :) When I’m not working, I find joy in gathering rocks and shells on the beach, reading, and listening to podcasts (think UFOs and Jung).
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Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
University of Kentucky (2025)
Master of Social Welfare (MSW)
University of California, Los Angeles (2019)
B.A. Sociology
California State University, East Bay (2017)
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UCLA Health - Rape Treatment Center (2019 – Present) | Therapist & Crisis Counselor
For years, I have served as a therapist and crisis counselor at UCLA’s Rape Treatment Center, where I provide trauma-focused, short-term therapy and crisis intervention to survivors of sexual assault. I accompany clients through medical/forensic examinations and interactions with law enforcement, offering immediate support during critical moments. This work has deepened my understanding of the complexities of trauma and strengthened my commitment to advocacy and compassionate care for survivors.
UCLA Health - Emergency Department (2018 – 2021) | Clinical Social Worker
In my role as a clinical social worker in the emergency department, I completed crisis assessments and facilitated care for patients in acute mental health crises. I gained extensive experience conducting suicide-risk assessments, managing mandated reporting, and connecting individuals with community resources, honing my ability to provide grounded, solution-focused support in high-stress situations.Additional Therapy and Case Management Experience
I have worked as an associate therapist with Inspire Therapy, providing telehealth psychotherapy, and as a clinical case manager with Project 180, where I led therapeutic groups focused on anger management, trauma recovery, and empowerment. These experiences have enriched my approach to therapy, allowing me to bring flexibility, empathy, and a deep commitment to client well-being into my practice.
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Attachment Regulation and Competency Therapy (ARC)
The Center for Trauma Training in Massachusetts
August 2022
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
PESI
May 2024
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Humanitarian Assistance Programs (HAP)
Part 1: March 2025
Part 2: May 2025
Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)
Trauma Resource Institute
Level 1: May 2022
Level 2: November 2023
How Culture Influences my practice
I believe in the healing power of connecting with our cultural strengths and the resilience of our ancestors. I understand firsthand the complexity of navigating personal values alongside traditional Latino beliefs, having had to find my own middle ground. My journey to explore and embrace my culture truly took shape during graduate school, and I love guiding others in discovering the role culture plays in their lives.
I am especially passionate about working with Latinas who want to celebrate and embrace the parts of our culture that empower them, while thoughtfully letting go of the parts that may no longer serve them. Together, we can honor both our heritage and our personal growth in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling.
