OUR TEAM
About Dr. Samantha Hoffman, Ph.D.
Dr. Samantha Hoffman (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist based in San Diego, CA. She treats adults navigating trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and related emotional concerns. Dr. Hoffman approaches therapy with warmth, curiosity, and compassion while actively helping clients explore how their experiences have shaped them, practice new ways of navigating challenges, and reconnect with the parts of life that matter most to them. Grounded in evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies, she works collaboratively with each client to establish clear goals, monitor progress, and tailor treatment to their individual needs, identities, and values. At the heart of her work, Dr. Hoffman believes in the healing nature of human connection and in meeting people with openness and respect as they work towards their goals. In her personal time, she enjoys discovering new cafes and restaurants, adding to her houseplant collection, and spending time with loved ones.
Background & Experience
Dr. Hoffman received her Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Neuroscience from the University of California San Diego, and her Master of Science and PhD in Clinical Psychology from the San Diego State University/University of California San Diego Joint Doctoral Program. She completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship at the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where she received specialized training in trauma-focused care, with a particular focus on women’s mental health. She has continued work through the San Diego Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, with a specialized focus in trauma, PTSD, women’s mental health, and evidence-based treatments. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Hoffman is an active clinical researcher and has contributed to more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications. Her research has examined trauma, anxiety and depression, emotion regulation, social connection, positive emotional functioning, and psychotherapy outcomes. Her work has appeared in journals including the Journal of Affective Disorders, Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and the Journal of Psychiatric Research.
Education
Specialties
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief
• Stress and difficulty managing emotions
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
• Prolonged Exposure (PE)
• Interpersonal and sexual trauma
• Childhood trauma
• Reproductive and perinatal trauma
• Military and combat-related trauma
• Use Accidents, natural disasters, and other traumatic events
• Generalized anxiety
• Social anxiety
• Panic disorder/agoraphobia
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder