Welcome
I’m Dr. Samantha Munson
Licensed Psychologist, PhD, DipACLM
I am deeply invested in the health and growth of my clients because I understand that change takes commitment, uncertainty can be frightening, and sometimes we simply feel stuck. At times, we may need professional support to help us call upon our strengths, improve our mindsets and perspectives, and choose healthier behaviors.
My own journey has taught me that periods of uncertainty and change can also become opportunities for deeper self-understanding and life-changing transformation. It was through one of these seasons that Grow True Psychology was born, inspired by the belief that we can navigate hardship while remaining connected to joy, purpose, and the parts of ourselves that are most important to us.
Today, my work is centered on providing support to adults during these seasons; to help others move beyond simply coping and toward living with greater intention, clarity, and fulfillment.
As a Licensed Psychologist and Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional, I take a whole-person approach to mental health. My approach is grounded in evidence-based psychological treatment, and I’m passionate about how mental health is connected to the habits and routines of daily life—our relationships, movement, sleep, stress management, nutrition, and engagement with community. My beach therapy offering is a demonstration of my commitment to the importance of lifestyle.
My goal is to help clients better understand themselves, develop practical skills, and create meaningful, sustainable change. When we know how to help ourselves feel well, life can be filled with more vitality, purpose, and joy—even during hard chapters. I want to help my clients connect to their truest, most authentic selves. It is my privilege to join clients in a space that is dedicated to their growth.
Credentials & Experience
The Foundation of my Work
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California Licensed Psychologist (PSY 31513)
Florida Licensed Psychologist (PY 10598)
Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional (DipACLM) -
APA-Accredited Postdoctoral Residency,
James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, Florida, 2019APA-Accredited Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology,
Washington State University, 2018Master's Degree in Counseling,
Washington State University, 2015 -
APA-Accredited Postdoctoral Residency (focus in Psychology-Oncology & Pain Rehabilitation), James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, Florida, 2018-2019
Predoctoral Internship Externship (focus in Spinal Cord Injury Psychology),
James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, Florida, 2018APA-Accredited Predoctoral Internship,
University of South Florida Counseling Center, Tampa, Florida 2017-2018 -
American College of Lifestyle Medicine, 2024-Present
American Psychological Association, Division 38,
Society for Health Psychology, 2024-PresentAssociation for Contextual Behavioral Science,
Cancer Special Interest Group Board Member, 2024-2025Association for Contextual Behavioral Science Board Member,
Member-At-Large, Diversity and Equity Inclusion Focus, 2023-PresentAssociation for Contextual Behavioral Science, 2019-Present
The Heart of my practice
My Philosophy
I believe that our wellbeing is shaped by more than our thoughts and emotions. The way we move, rest, connect, work, and care for ourselves each day plays an important role in how we experience life.
The principles I discuss with clients—like mindfulness, growth mindsets, stress management, community, self-kindness, and movement in nature—are things that truly matter to me in my life as well. When we nurture our whole selves, we can be better equipped to get through difficult chapters and show up more fully in our lives, our relationships, and for the things that matter most to us.
One of the clearest expressions of this philosophy is my beach therapy offering. No matter if we’re in a traditional therapy room or on the beach, it brings me joy to walk alongside clients as they adaptively navigate change, discover new possibilities, and connect with the most authentic version of themselves.
Professional Endorsement
"I have known Dr. Munson as a colleague since 2017 and have the utmost confidence in her as a psychologist. She brings warmth, integrity, and deep clinical insight to her work, helping clients navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, self-compassion, and confidence. Samantha possesses a rare ability to create understanding where there is uncertainty and to help people reconnect with their strengths and values."
Shaina Smith, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
turn Toward Growth
Choosing a therapist is an important decision. If you feel that my approach and philosophy resonate with you, I'd be honored to explore whether we're a good fit to work together.